BSB INTERVIEW: Interview with Adeyemi Onayemi

Adeyemi Onayemi is a young graduate of biochemistry from Yaba college of technology. He is an upcoming script writer and film maker. Apart from the fact that he is passionate, resilient and talented , he is a determined and hardworking script writer who is set to impact his generation and bring a new dimension into the world of script writing.
He recently filmed his first short film "Twisted" having just concluded his youth service. Read his interview by brownySays blog (BSB) below:

BSB :What was growing up like?

Adeyemi :   It was fun. I'm from an average family. Life was not difficult. I had everything I needed to get to where I am at the moment.


BSB:  Tell us how you ventured into script writing

Adeyemi: I started scriptwriting class on my phone with Google in the 2010. Then 2013, I went to study the course at pefti film institute.

BSB : Why script writing?

Adeyemi:Not just script writing. I love film making. Well, script writing for me is important. It is a tool for me to express myself, pass out message and influence my society positively.

BSB : Challenges so far

Adeyemi :Wow! So, many downs I must say. Because, many directors/producers are not interested in unsolicited scripts. Also, many people don't want to work with a starter. The industry is very tough for writers. They aren't well paid and they are underrated. I see them as the playmaker like in sport but no they're the least respected.

BSB: Let's talk about your film , TWISTED, what inspired it?

Adeyemi : I lost a female friend early January 2013. She was an intellectual and a modest girl. At that young age when many of us where having the urge for relationship and other vices, She was not into all that. She was always with her dad, she was pure in heart. But unfortunately, she died on her way  home from a tutorial class . She was hit by a commercial bus.

Majorly , the film hints on some of the fundamental misfortunes that befalls good people.

BSB: Sorry about your friend.....tell us more about the film

Adeyemi: Twisted is a short film talking about how life can be unfair to people with pure and good heart. But also encouraging them not to be discouraged. Telling them that life can be unfair but God is good. That one can have fear and faith at the same time but the faith should overcome the fear.

BSB: Wow...when shoukd we expect this?

Adeyemi: March 2018.

BSB: What more should we expect from you before next year runs out?


Adeyemi : Before the end of 2018, I would release another short-film. God willing. And maybe by 2019, I would come out with my TV series titled Two-Faced.

BSB: Thats really great.....what do you think about the Nigerian film industry abd script writing?

Adeyemi: like I said earlier, script writers are not given the respect/recognition they deserve. And for film production, I think we are getting there. There have been improvements but still we don't have a structure. People just come out and do their thing.
 It's not easy making it as an upcoming act..I don't even know if there is room for upcoming acts, the chances are slim. That's why you see people with different talents (acting/comedy) coming on Instagram. Because, the industry has taught us that it's every man for himself.

BSB: Who are your role models in the industry?

Adeyemi: Niyi Akinmolayan and Yemi Morafa. I love Niyi Akinmolayan because he gets better with every work. He is real and very factual. I just love Yemi Morafa. Though, he has just one feature length film for now. But I believe so much in his quality scripts.


Some scenes from the production of "twisted"

BSB: How did you raise money for this project?

Adeyemi: It hasn't been easy, I have out together my savings for this.

BSB: Final word for now
Adeyemi : Hmm...to other upcoming scriptwriters, I will say from my experience being a script writer is not enough in this part the world. You need more than that to make it or to be fulfilled. Script writing plus directing/editing or producing is a better option.

BSB BOOK REVIEW : Better tomorrow by Dotun Famoriyo

Dotun Famoriyo is a young and enthusiastic writer. I met him earlier this year at an African students for liberty hangout.

One thing I admire about him is the fact that he believes so much in his dreams and he keeps putting in his best to achieve them.
He has published his first book" Better tomorrow " and here is a review by MSC Okolo.

Book Review
Title: Better Tomorrow
Author: ‘Dotun Famoriyo
Publisher: Quantum G Concept
Year: 2017
Pages: 39
Reviewer: MSC Okolo
There is, perhaps, no phase that determines what someone becomes in life as the youth stage.  The attitude developed at this stage, parental direction and societal input all come together to determine either a great future or a wasted one.

In Better Tomorrow, Dotun Famoriyo presents the attributes necessary for achieving a great future.  Through the experiences of the main character, Dayo, the author reveals the cardinal principles of making it in life.  These include having a mental disposition that change is possible, paying attention to one’s studies, working hard, taking to the counsel of parents and responsible elders and developing a deep relationship with God.
The book reminds us of a value that is becoming extinct: ultimately what one achieves in life should be through honest labour.  For, Dayo (and one suspects as well as for the author) ‘Distinction is the product of Devotion.’

Delightful December

There is something special about the last 10 days of the year. The weather changes, the atmosphere changes, excitement fills the air, people begin to prepare for holidays even private companies and conglomerates are forced to give holidays to their workers.

It’s a season that naturally strives to prevent sadness, restrictions and dull moments.

It’s a period of giving, sharing, meeting, reuniting, spending time with family and loved ones.

What makes this season so special? Is it purely scientific? Is it the fact that we celebrate Christ, is it because of the geographic calendar? Or is it just meant to be?
Image source

Another fact to consider is stepping into the New Year. Could the fact that one is stepping into a new year be the reason for the season's turnaround and excitement?

According to Brian W. Carter, the word to describe this season is ‘joyful’. It is one of the busiest times of the year as well for store owners especially as people flock into stores to take advantage of sales and bargains, besides a lot of people want to shop for family and friends. People travel far and wide to be with loved ones throughout the nation and the world at this point in time.

Although there are people who do not celebrate the holiday due to their practices or beliefs but it is a proven fact that people naturally become happier at this time of the year. With individuals having different plans for the new year, new year resolutions some people even make it an obligation to enter into the new year as newly wedded couples, landlords or landlady, new car owners or new job owners. Everybody sees this period as a time to shed off the old and wear a new present or attitude.

I know that in years to come, if I have to write about this season again at this period, I would have interesting stories and testimonies to share, more interesting facts and they will all be pointers to the fact that this season naturally encourages love, gladness and sharing. It’s a season that one wishes lasts forever.
Season greetings everyone, merry christmas!

The second sex story

You must have read my first sex story here, if you haven't, you still can below. Here is another one....

Heads turned, hearts skipped and time seemed to stop whenever Dotun was near. Dotun was the representative of his department and everyone loved him, he wasn't only handsome, he was brilliant. So you can imagine how i felt the first time our paths crossed, it was at a tutorial. I had, had to approach him for "proper" explanations.

I was not good in calculations and i simply adored those who were good in it. I had also finished from an all females school and believe me when i say my knowledge about guys and their ways really sucked. The things i found embarrassing wasn't embarrassing to other girls and more annoying was the fact that I had a serious crush on Dotun.

I was angry at myself for feeling light headed and somewhat special the day Dotun asked us to study together. I was happy that we could be together for some time without any interference. Dotun must have seen in me that I was more than interested in a relationship as he asked me out some days after. I was overjoyed, my constant thoughts of can he be mine? Does he feel the same way? was over .

Our relationship blossomed and a lot of people felt we were a perfect match, we went home together, visited friends together, I was the envy of many and it felt really good.
But on valetine's day, it happened. Before then, Dotun and I had done every other thing, from kissing to touching, necking and carressing but we didn't have sex. We had promised each other to wait till we were married, I had strong beliefs then that the relationship was going to lead to marriage.

So on valentine's day, Dotun invited me to a special get together organised by some of his friends whom i didnt really know. We left for the venue which was a house belonging to one of them. i was a bit comfortable because i trusted Dotun and his other friends were there too with their girlfriends. After drinks, chats and lots of laughter, it was getting late and i decided it was time to leave. But Dotun urged me to stay , he promised to see me off. Suddenly everyone dissappeared into different rooms with their partners and Dotun and I were left alone. We started kissing and carressing each other. I couldn't resist, my memory got blur and the feelings of desire and pleasure took over. So much had happened during the day, lots of sweet declaration of love and the position i was at that moment with him felt just right. I lost control and i remember pulling off my last piece of clothing myself.

As we walked to my place together because i insisted i couldn't spend the night, a part of me was angry, a part felt empty, a part felt happy that i had pleased my lover but a part felt worried. We just had sex, what next? What if Dotun changed? What if he had just gotten his most desired gift from me? What if it was a bet? What if pregnancy comes? There was no protection! Dotun said goodbye when we got to my hostel and as he left i felt lonely...what was on his mind?

These series is fiction and its from my "I just had sex" series...an awareness towards the ills of sex before marriage.

I just had sex!

It was few days to Valentine, I already had an odd feeling, something different was  going to happen this particular Valentine. I could feel it considering the fact that I just recently said "yes" to Yanju. My heart skipped even at the thought of him.

7 PROVEN WAYS TO DEAL WITH PAIN

Pain has never been easy..it has always been a difficult pill to swallow. Writing about pain itself has made me realise that no amount of words can fully express how pain feels and what pain is. If you doubt me,  ask a Lady who just lost her baby or a man who just got robbed.
Yes, pain comes in different forms.

The longer you stay alive, the more you realise that pain is a phenomenon that virtually everyone on earth has to undergo at some points. It  doesn't only mean physical pain but psychological and emotional. Physical pain hurts less. 

Anyway nothing lasts forever, this is why from experience I have been able to summarize how I believe one can get over pain in this 7 points:

1. Accept that something happened to you and you are not the only one having to deal with pain.

It is usually good when one accepts bad situations and pain instead of denying or pretending it never occurred. Accepting helps you to heal faster.

2. Talk about it but only when you are ready. Do not rush things or allow yourself to be rushed, take your time.

3.Let yourself be vulnerable. Be open and allow friends to help you. Worthy and reasonable friends I mean, there has to be someone you can trust and if there isn't , well talk to God 

4. Do not mask the pain

I know a friend who goes into the bush or open space to scream out loud each time she is angered , pained or vexed. She comes back feeling better, that works for her. Find out what works for you. Alcohol is not and has never been an option!

5.  Do what you love , keep yourself busy

This helps you occupy your mind and you think less of your sorrows. There has to be something productive you love doing which also gives you joy.

6. Cherish memories

You don't have to forget  or mask memories, cherish your good memories and bad memories, sometimes this helps you  to reflect and improve.

7 Finally, give yourself time to heal

Don't rush it, but have it at the back of your mind that you have to heal.

Do not live in a fantasy thinking life is smooth and rosy for everyone. No it isn't and when hitches or challenges come you should face them head on and deal with it.

October 1 : Does 57 look good on Nigeria?

A land of great resources, a land birthing talents and greatness, a land upheld by God despite her flaws. Blessed beyond measure, a land of heroes and intellectuals coupled with rogues.
Nigeria at 57, how far? Its not wrong to say Nigeria has improved in some areas especially infrastructures although we are not there yet. Looking at some of the states of Nigeria there have been more industrial constructions, roads and bridges although  some roads are still left unattended to. Federal government declared recently that our economy has improved and government has been able to keep Nigeria as 1, no major wars against all odds, well that is an achievement in a way but some situations have not changed.

Nigeria has remained a middle-income, mixed economy and emerging market, with expanding manufacturing, financial, service, communications and entertainment sectors. For purchasing power parity comparisons, the US dollar is exchanged at 1 USD to within 314.27  to 350 Nigerian Naira as of 2017.

We still incure debts , importing crude oil into the country and striving to sell it at subsidized rates when we can develop our own refineries.  We are also still selfish and inconsiderate as 85 percent of our oil blocks are owned by notherners and there is still struggle over the remaining 15percent.  We are still at a far cry from equity and inflation is still on parade.
Due to inflation, per capita GDP today remains lower than in 1960 when Nigeria declared independence and about 33% of the population still lives on less than 500 naira  per day.
The socio-economic quagmire being experienced by Nigerians, has undermined many aspirations, dampened the spirits of many and made them feel less as Nigerians.
Lack of social amenities such as water and electricity, costly fuel, and lack of money have jointly exacerbate bearable condition and made people crazy and desperate in Nigeria.

In the recent data on corruption released by NBS, Nigerians stressed that after high cost of living and unemployment, corruption is third most important problem facing the country. What works in Nigeria? No good roads, hospitals are bad and this accounts for Mr. President’s medical tourism, Education is comatose and ASUU  still goes on strike fighting for the ruling class to release money for public education and not their pockets  alone
 Families are facing terrible moments as many breadwinners can not get bread for themselves let alone for their families.  Organisations are laying off workers. Over 29million Nigerians are unemployed increasing the rate of the jobless to about 14.2 percent.


But  political office holders, seem to have all they need and still manipulate the minds of the masses to actualise their goals. Some have started preparing for 2019 elections, preparibg to announce promises they can not keep. We cannot pretend that things are totally right in this land at the moment. But we know that this land will soar higher as always. We know that this land will stand tall as always. We know that the labours of our heroes past will not be in vain. We believe in this land,

This land is NIGERIA, the giant of Africa! Happy birthday Nigeria.

5 INTERESTING FACTS THAT MAKES ABEOKUTA AWESOME

Abeokuta, the state capital of Ogun state in southwest Nigeria is one of Nigeria’s most industrious cities and is home to several caves and tourist attractions. Abeokuta is known for her peaceful nature, although in time past history tells the story of how war and battle rocked the land hence the story of the legendary Olumo rock and how the name Abeokuta came to be.

In this article, I will be mentioning in no particular order 5 things that makes Abeokuta awesome. Apart from the fact that it is the home of former president Olusegun Obasanjo , an influential being in Nigeria, it is also the home of Olumo rock and Ake palace, great historical places in the history of Nigeria. The first woman to drive a car in Nigeria , Funmilayo Ransome Kuti also hails from Abeokuta. If you have been referring to Abeokuta as a village and boring place to be, think again, Abeokuta might just be more important than you think it is

1.The first newspaper in Nigeria was started in Abeokuta.

Iwe Irohin newspaper was the first newspaper in Nigeria. It was started in 1859 by Henry Townsend in Abeokuta and it was produced for years, touching news on happenings , deaths, and other activities in the land. It is also the first indigenous language newspaper in Nigeria; it was published bi-weekly for 8years. Today, Iwe irohin house is still in Abeokuta.

2.It is the home of the first presidential library in Africa.

The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential library (OOPL) in Abeokuta is the first presidential library in Nigeria and Africa. The multi billion naira library complex is owned by former president Olusegun Obasanjo. The library is historic and academic.

3.The Hilltop Golf Resort

The resort has a large beautiful and technical golf course which has hosted a number of national golf tournaments. It is in Abeokuta and  the scenery is beautiful and delightful.

4.The first church in Nigeria was built in Abeokuta

Yes! Although Christianity according to history was first taken to Benin in Nigeria, the first church ever built by missionaries in Nigeria is the St Peters cathedral Ake Abeokuta. The foundation was laid by Andrew Desalu Wilhem.
The Church is still there till today although a bigger Cathedral has been built beside it.

5.Abeokuta is the home of Adire, Batik and indigenous wears.

Ever seen beautiful adire, tie and dye or batik wears worn ? Abeokuta is its home. European textile merchants started importing these designs as shirting materials outside the Country years back, thereby strengthning the efforts and business of the Yoruba women in Abeokuta. Till today, if you want the best adire designs , get to Abeokuta.

ITS RESUMPTION TIME..

Now that the holidays are over, are you prepared for the new session? Or would you rather extend your holidays? I remember years back when I was in secondary school, I used to anxiously wait for holidays to end majorly because I was missing most of my friends but when it's Sunday night, a night to resumption I begin to wish I can re-start the holidays. Funny isn't it? But isn't that how we sometimes live our lives? We prepare for success , study, plan and acquire knowledge but when its time to further, move ahead or launch into the next level we grow weary, lazy or even take it for granted.

As a student, no matter how much you hate the idea of resuming you find yourself resuming this Is because one way or the other you don't want to be left behind. You don't want your mates to leave you in the same level. So you move, against all odds you rise, no matter how tired, weary or uninterested you get you don't stop moving you take tests  and you write exams to enable you get promoted.

So why are you still stalling over that great move or idea you have? Why are you afraid to do that one thing you know will launch you into your next stage? We all have a discerning spirit that tells us when something is right or wrong. Prepare to resume to the next level, even if you don't see it yet ,you are going higher!

Atelophobia

There is this thing about feelings of self respect and regard, this same thing is what makes it possible for praise singers to make money from singing praises of individuals, this same thing makes it possible for beggars or party drummers (Alagbe) to get tokens. This feelings appeal to that emotional side of the human mind, that part of the brain connected to self worth and of course it makes you feel good, having a feeling of importance, self worth makes one feel really good. I wouldn’t necessarily call it self esteem but then it is something like it. This same feeling must definitely be responsible for the constant urge to succeed and be perfect. So yes we all have the tendency to be atelophobic but of course at different levels and intensity.
The first time I learnt about atelophobia, I realized this is a phobia that can affect anybody no matter your class or status. It’s the fear of failure or being imperfect, funny how one can have an extreme or irrational fear of or serious aversion to imperfection. The idea of imperfection is subjective in the sense that sometimes only the sufferer can detect imperfection in a situation while those around may not see it. Why should anyone feel obliged to be perfect at all times?  Sufferers of this phobia become anxious when they fail at something or don’t do a task well, they are constantly faced with fear of criticism , not matching up to expectations and they think that not being perfect will make them unhappy. When faced with thoughts of imperfection the individual experiences physical symptoms, headache, elevated heart rate, increased respiratory rate, sweating and generalized muscle tension. Believe me this is real. Unfortunately sufferers are mostly known to be intelligent and smart but the perfectionist and obsessive nature of their personality dominates thereby making them susceptible to this phobia. Worse still is the fact that this phobia is majorly born out of the sufferer’s thoughts and the symptoms and effects appears when these thoughts of not having a perfect idea or not being able to act perfectly in a situation appears.
Psychologists have traced its causes and roots to childhood and parent upbringing in some people. Most of us that were born in the 80s and 90s will bear witness of the fact that our parents always drive us to do more to ascertain perfection. Some parents keep comparing their children with others who seem like the perfect model, sometimes at occasions when it seems we’ve not acted ‘well behaved or perfect enough’ our mothers make faces at us or call us names or in some cases beat us when we get home.

All these are recorded in the cognitive domain and psycho motor domain. This increases the feelings of self consciousness in some people and the unnecessary quest to be perfect at all times. Truly our mothers had good intentions but then the brain works in funny ways. For other people its criticism, have you ever been terribly criticized such that you cried? Yes constant negative criticisms can be a fertile ground for atelophobia. It’s like a personal flaw which the sufferer battles secretly.


Having said all these, we all have personal flaws; no one is perfect or seemingly angelic. We all are human beings and we do not always know which way to go.  I am not saying we shouldn’t seek perfection in the things we do, but we must not make it an obsession, even patience is regarded as a Godly virtue. Things do not always happen the way we want it, but atelophobic or not, if we can just take life easy and calmly, setting priorities and achievable goals as well as practicing consistency against all odds or challenges, we will overcome and definitely reach our desired goals..

Taking bold steps...

Sometimes even when we’ve done our best, our best appears not enough. Not because it is our fault, not because we are not good enough but because some situations require more: more wisdom, more hands on deck, more courage and so on. But then we can only try, we still sometimes get it wrong. One of the mistakes we make as individuals is remaining in an unpalatable situation for too long. Especially when it's a sadistic employment. Let me tell you a bit about this type of employment which is of course typical in Nigeria today.
 Most  Sunday evenings are dreaded even if one wasn’t due for work until monday evening, that short time of rest which was rare and only on occasions could never compensate for the rigour of the job.  This type of job that causes female workers to suffer miscarriages at different times. Workers get sad and worried because they know it's going to be another week of harrowing experience at work, it was nightshift and everyone was expected to be active all night, no matter what you’ve gone through during the day. If you mistakenly bat your eyelids and any mistake or error occurs on the job, you will be queried and insulted. Not that day shift was any better, one thing is certain and general in this workplace, you had to work and work till you could no longer do tangible work for that day. The salary? Not commensurate to the job, incentives? They do not exist.  The way things are at this workplace, no one can  get management to fix things crucial and essential to the operations and functioning of the production company. It had taken them over months to get a clinic fixed to take of sick workers and emergencies which of course occurred daily at that workplace. Infact some workers whose job description don't even match medical aids are converted to first aiders and amateur nurses, there is virtually no good heath care for workers.
But the question is how easy is it to take a leap into the unknown? How many times have we remained in our gloomy dark days because of fear of the unknown? How many people can forgo their salary and take a dive into starting their own business? Not that as individuals we all have resources to stand on our own but then taking a leap of faith is better than remaining in the same level or meandering on the same point. If we begin to think of what to do to make more money or earn a living worry might set in. Handcrafts are good, one can make money from them or do it to occupy time but this is Nigera where almost everything hardly works, this things  couldn’t of course fetch  enough money which is why most individuals remain addicted to salary. Trying their best to cope, adapt and survive with all they face on the job. What of unnecessary termination of appointment? These kind of workplace sack workers without notice and for no particular reason. With a management that is epileptic and unreliable how does one expect or ex progress? A management who just like Nigerian politicians they were after the money.

perience

 In one organisation I once worked in, one of the executive directors had been in the factory , claiming to be monitoring and observing things. You know all these ‘money miss road’ semi illiterates who really didn’t know what was going on but claimed to do because one way or the other they have the money to call to the shots. So yes, money miss road executive was around in the factory, he had seen me and my partner on duty and he had asked the human resource manager who was also always in the factory because he was doing more than his job description as well, ‘who are they? , ‘what are they doing?” “can’t one of them do the work for all the lines?” Is their job so important’? lest I forget (I was a quality control officer). I didn’t quite get the HRM’s response, I had pretended not to be aware of what was going on really.

Almost a month after, three people from the department were told to go home. Several claims of customer complaints and errors during production were rumored as reason but of course you and I know why they were really sent home.

In Nigeria, asides from the fact that we have corruption as a background problem, some supporting problems we have are selfishness, greed and insensitivity. How on earth do we expect to belabor a worker with the job meant for three or more people yet expect perfection? Especially in a factory where almost every process is manual and not automatic? Yes your guess is right, new workers weren’t employed to replace the ones that left. Rather corp members were expected to work in the same capacity.

Unfortunately, as much as we have terrible leaders and inconsiderate people at the top, we have ass kissers who would rather suffer, accept evil and punish others people as well than face the truth.

Probably because Nigeria is such a scary place to live in, a place where even if you know the truth it doesn’t necessarily set you free rather it torments you and in most cases it puts you in danger.  But then some people are daring and allergic to evil against all odds.. Which is why you would believe me if I told you I had a few confrontations with so called bosses and ass kissers at some points. I would spare you details but one thing is certain, speaking the truth, confronting that which is wrong and unacceptable has never been a step to regret. No matter how slim the chances of you proving a point easily is, you would have at least sent a message across and sincerely keeping quiet and cowering away has never been a better option.

Having a boss or a leader who lies,  lacks wisdom and knowledge, tries to manipulate, verbally abuses, pretends to know what’s going on but has no single clue, a leader who likes to shift blame, insist on things done in his own way is also a common phenomenon in private organisations where most people find themselves. You definitely know things can never be right in such an environment.

I mustn’t forget to mention immorality which is usually at its peak. It is actually the norm in most factories and organizations today. You are either sleeping with the bosses as a junior worker whether willingly or by force or you are sleeping with your co worker, such that promotions, work benefits and ease at work came with this price. More irritating is the fact that if you are not one to dance to such tunes you would not only be angry and frustrated at work you will be cheated and treated with hatred.  Even if you know what you are doing and you are good at your work, your efforts might still get frustrated and of course they try as much as possible to overshadow your efforts with that of the one who rubs their back.

 Highlighted in this article is a few true life experiences. I do not intend to bore you with too many words, I have written this article to encourage someone out there never to remain in a sad and stagnant situation because of the little benefit attached.

Starting afresh, trying something different  is more  rewarding, even if you have to forgo your salary,  and you are not where you want to be yet, you will be glad that you are not where you used to be.

Been long you saw me

I  know right, why haven't i posted here in a while? well I've been busy attending to some of  the responsibilities God gave me. I also had a wonderful time speaking to the students of my great Alma mater "ST BIRGITTAS NUR and PRY SCHOOL. I should of course share the wonderful  experience and some pictures here on the blog soon.
In recent times I've come to realize that we all get to certain points in our lives, where we are expected to take bold steps, which are of course orchestrated by God above just like every other step we find ourselves taking. nothing happens without God's prior knowledge.. and so in my next article TAKING BOLD STEPS , I will be revealing some of the bold steps i took and some real life occurrence that happened to me... watch out

Uncertainty....

Uncertainty is an unknown information, unsure situation and a dicey circumstance. It's a condition in which most of us find ourselves in, in our journey through life. How often we experience Uncertainty depends on how daring, withdrawn or complacent we are. If we give in to uncertainty, we may make wrong decisions, taking the wrong turn and it may ruin things.

For every action there is an equal opposite reaction and for every challenge or unpleasant situation there is a solution. How do we act and overcome when faced with uncertainty?

* Since the reason you are uncertain in the first instance is because you do not know what to do, then do nothing... WAIT and be PATIENT. Do not make hasty decisions

* Weigh the situation, decide the things you can control and those you can't control in the circumstances.

* After separating them, put aside the things you can't control and focus on those you have control over.

* Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of making each decision appearing to you concerning the things you can control.

* Avoid being Paranoid, choose the wisest option

*Breathe and relax, in the end situations  are not as hard and complicated as they first appear.

* if you believe in Prayers, please pray.

This is a practical step that eventually works in different ways for different people, but it is my believe that taking gradual steps to solving issues eventually help get solutions faster and easier.

Sango to Abeokuta ( The estranged driver)

I  knew I had to go home that day but time wasn’t on my side at all.My then workplace was one where you hardly got permission to get away from work, whether you had genuine reasons or not you have to be at work till closing hours, except of course you lie.

As at six thirty pm I had no means of transportation from work to the park. I was beginning to worry, anxiety had set in. But not long after , I saw a free bike coming towards passengers on the road not minding the amount that was likely to

be charged I got on the bike to the nearest bus stop. From there I took a bus to the Sango bus park. I boarded another bus to Sango by then it was few mins to 8pm and I knew it was going to be very dark before I get home. At Sango I was desperate to get a vehicle fast , I saw cars but there was no passenger in it so I took a bus which had space for one left. I felt lucky and got in thinking the bus would move in a twinkle of an eye. On sitting down I realized I had made a wrong choice, the seat was so uncomfortable and worst of all the bus refused to move. They kept sorting out dues to transport workers as is their usual practice. As I shifted and tried to feel a bit comfortable on the seat a voice in my head told me "wouldn’t you get down and find another vehicle?" As I contemplated on getting down the young man beside me , as if reading my thoughts adjusted and accommodated me, he even took the pain to enjoin others to make room for me I was grateful so I readjusted on my seat . The conductor came and I thought he was one of those young kids who had no tfare and wanted to manage as a stowaway in the bus. But “kekere” as he was called started demanding money from passengers. He was truly small like the name implied and I began to wonder what manner of human being makes a kid his conductor? It was sort of too late for me to get down the bus had already moved and kekere totally forgot to collect money from me, rather he offered me change. I looked at him and said “kekere, you haven’t collected my tfare and you are offering me change” as I handed him my transport fare the other passengers of the bus began to call him all manner of names and they thanked me for being honest. All these while the driver said nothing, kekere tapped him and called “kowope, take your money” he spoke in Yoruba and handed all the money to the man. “kowope” I thought within me what a name…..


It wasn’t long before my fears of having  boarded a wrong bus was confirmed. Kowope began to drive extremely slow, he was so slow such that people in the bus began to complain , a lot of comments were passed. Suddenly he stopped at a point near a bush, Kowope still didn’t say anything he got down from the driver seat,  poured water into the radiator which was already over heating. As much as people lamented , kowope said nothing. We got back in and continued the journey in the same sluggish manner despite time wasn’t on our side. Kowope still didn’t utter a word. I began to think he was dumb. kekere tried to warn the passengers in the bus silently , he looked at me and said to me in a hush hush voice in Yoruba” kowope isn’t well, he was overspeeding in the last journey we made” I looked at him as he was seating almost opposite me and I wondered what was he saying… this so called kowope guy is obviously a dumb sluggish man. I ignored the warning even though I wasn’t part of the complaints team. Then suddenly, Kowope got to a bend and he engaged the gear and only God knew where the speed came from.

He began to overspeed, it was already few minutes to 9pm and every where was dark there were a few  cars also ahead and kowope nearly ran into them. Everyone’s song changed in the bus, we began to plead with kowope to slow down . we were no longer in a hurry but kowope as usual heard nothing.

I began to say prayers in my heart , kowope started overtaking cars recklessly on the express, the young man seated beside me held on to his bag and kept mute.  He had a very stern look on his face such that I didn’t know if he was afraid or . The lady next to him was screaming Jehovah ! Jehovah !!  there was all manner of screaming from behind in the bus and just within a twinkle of an eye a miracle prevented Kowope from colliding with a trailer. Kekere sat there in front  of me,  a bit shaken but not a shaken as other passengers. It was dark but I saw that he had this “I told you so face”. He gently stood stretched across towards driver Kowope and rubbed his arm , he spoke in yoruba “ Kowope, its okay, we will soon be home.” Kowope was calm for the rest of the journey.

As each passenger got down at their bus stops they gave thanks to God for life. No one uttered any complaints again. Kowope uttered not a single word all through the journey. I got down at the final bus stop and said to myself, I have to write about this.

Note: This is a true life story, not every driver on the road is sane.

Let the kids play

Being around kids lately, I’ve come to realize how much this generation is missing  . At first when dozens of memes suggesting how much fun the kids in the 90s and 80s  had compared to today’s kids (the computer age) started trooping out on social media, I felt Nigerians were at it again and this was just overrated and mere exaggeration. But spending more time around kids in their schools of recent made me realize how much today’s kids have been denied the ability to really play and have fun. These kids have been brought up in such stereotyped ways which only gives room for school, church/mosque then home. For some few social parents , once in a while outings or visitations are allowed.  The advent of smart phones, smart computers and other advanced technological gadgets has worsened the issue as some kids would rather play with their phones or computers than go out to play.
A teacher was trying to teach her kids to play a particular game during sports and recreation time, unfortunately the kids just couldn’t get the logic behind the game. It was one of the games that made waves during the 90s, very popular and easy to understand but the kids just couldn’t play it. The teacher was surprised and a bit frustrated. She immediately burst out ‘these kids can’t play!”
Psychomotor learning is the relationship between cognitive functions and physical movement. Psychomotor learning is demonstrated by physical skills such as movement, coordination, manipulation, dexterity, grace, strength and speed. Actions which demonstrate the fine motor skills includes sports and physical games as well as use of precision instruments or tools. Other examples include driving a car , throwing a ball and playing a musical instrument . In psychomotor learning research , attention is given to the learning of coordinated activity involving the arms, hands, fingers and feet.
Cognition is the mental action or process

of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience and the senses. Human cognition is conscious and unconscious, concrete or abstract as well as intuitive. Asides from the fact that outdoor play aids psychomotor and cognitive learning in kids, it also promotes well being and wholesome physical development in them thereby enabling them the ability to develop muscle strength and coordination as well as gain self confidence .It reduces kid’s stress as well and then improves their intellectual development as well as their social and emotional development.


Dear parents why do you stop your kids from playing outside the house with friends during leisure time? I know that outdoor playing comes with its disadvantages too but what on earth doesn't have a disadvantage? Why do you stop your kids from playing with sand, leaves and other natural things we all grew up playing with? I remember we used to play mummy cooking in the kitchen with leaves and sand and some funny leaves that looked like spices.  I remember playing with mud , I remember playing with sand as eba , I remember baking sand as cake. I remember roasting cocoyams, I remember climbing fences and jumping staircases.

Why do parents of today restrict their children to the house and books alone? Have you forgotten that outdoor play is part of growing up for every kid? You can allow outdoor play within close range to the house and with well known kids to avoid casualty, watch their surroundings and vicinity then allow them for few hours. Do not raise dysfunctional kids, raise kids who will have happy memories and good psychological growth. Raise smart kids, raise kids who can play and have fun. Raise happy children.

African Youth Peace Call (AYPC's press release

African Youth Peace Call (AYPC), Nigeria, set to host CoinFest Nigeria, an international gathering of BitCoiners, Crypto-Enthusiasts, Programmers/Developers, (eCommerce) Entrepreneurs, Merchants, and Traders, as a way of incentivize Cryptocurrency acceptance while educating the public on the importance of Cryptocurrencies, and the use of Decentralize Technologies.

African Youth Peace Call (AYPC), Nigeria, is an independent nonprofit, research and educational organization devoted to the principles of individual liberty, private property rights, free markets, the rule of law and limited government.


 Since 2015, AYPC Nigeria has being on the vanguard of promoting Economic Freedom, with support from Amagi Centre, African Students For Liberty,Omojuwa.com, Initiative for Public Policy (IPPA),AfricanLiberty.org, Heritage Foundation, Atlas Network, and Bastiat Society, Nigeria.

Nigeria is one of the seven (7) countries across the world hosting this convention. CoinFest Nigeria promises to be exciting with exhibitions, networking, and talks, led by seasoned speakers in Cryptocurrency, Trading, Blockchain Technology, and Regulations. Above all, participants get to WIN BitCoin! Tim Tayshun, founder of New Africa Radio, will spin BitCoin Wheel for a lucky player.

CoinFest Nigeria holds on Friday, April 7th, 2017, in Lagos, by 10AM. The convention activities are highly packed with interesting activities, led by speakers on decentralize system, Cryptocurrenciew, Blockchain Technology, and BitCoin, discussing immediate local issues with global relevance.

Attendance is strictly by registration at. http://bit.ly/2mFU3Ye 

For sponsorship, partnership, and exhibition:aypcnigeria@gmail.com, 09034873881

The challenges of liberty in Nigeria (part 1)

One of the many barriers to the propagation of liberty in our country is Ethnicity which of course is a mother to some other barriers.

Ever wondered why Nigeria has over 200 ethnic groups? Why there is so much strife and hatred within? Why the rights to liberty and freedom of individuals seems to be infringed upon? Ever wondered what the barriers are to free speech, free movement, free participation in activities, norms and traditions?

Ethnicity is the fact or state of belonging to a social group that has a common national or cultural tradition, an ethnic group is a social group that shares a common and distinctive culture, religion, language and beliefs. Without doubt, one should realize that the existence of several ethnic groups in Nigeria may keep posing  disadvantages and barriers to individual, economic and social growth. If we begin to examine how much lives and properties has been lost to tribal wars and ethnic group disagreements one wonders how we got to this point . A state alone may contain several ethnic groups,  asides the dominating ones, it is not as if having ethnic groups in the first place is a bad idea, infact one of the major purposes, goals and aims of ethnic groups is to preserve language and culture.
Certain languages which came to be from the time of forefathers and early settlers are often promoted by the descendants of the clan in the name of upholding their ancestors and ancestral image as well as the drive for power and importance. Unfortunately all of these as created more diversity and differences in people such that we find members of the same state belonging to different tribes warning their own not to marry from the other tribe even within the same state!


In as much as I wouldn’t condemn ethnic laws, cultures and values since I believe no matter the level of liberty metted out or that individuals are entitled to it is still sane to say that a line needs to be drawn and a limit to going overboard morally, I would still say that  there are more pressing issues Nigeria needs to focus on. This country isn't as organised, disciplined and principled as other developed countries. This is why so much diversity is more of a challenge rather than a beauty to our system .Laws such as sharia laws present in about 12 Nigerian states in the northern states, child marriages and forced marriages, treatments metted out to widows in some eastern states as well as the forced manner in which some people make the wives of their late brothers marry the next brother in line in the family are issues that have caused more sorrow, bondage than the opposite.

Another issue and form of restriction common in the eastern states is the issue of osu (outcasts) some group of individuals are regarded as outcasts based on the fact that their descendants were slaves during the slavetrade regime. These set of people are even debarred in marriage. The implementation of most of these laws and rules have led to the loss of lives and properties, Unjust treatments, Lack of freedom , gender bias and discrimination, female illiteracy, economic crisis and lack of growth in the country. Its funny how the prevention of liberty and implementation of human rights can cause a country so much imbalance. More surprising and eye opening is the fact that the existence of too many ethnic groups have caused us more issues and problems than growth.

I wouldn’t say ethnic groups be scrapped as it is what most of us regard as the basis of our existence but it is wise and important that various laws (popular and unpopular) emanating from these groups be reviewed , amended or even scrapped.

BSB INTERVIEW : Interview with Seun Adebajo Osigbesan

It wasn't so easy getting to interview her because of her busy schedule and all, she was recently nominated for the best actress in a comedy for the AMVCA 2017... thanks aunty Seun for granting this interview...

Seun Adebajo Osigbesan is  a nollywood actress, known for her impeccable role in the t.v series THE JOHNSONS she tells  us about her journey so far…..

Tell us about yourself

I am Oluwaseun Adebajo Osigbesan, am the 3rd child of 4 children. I studied “performing Arts” at olabisi Onabanjo University. I am a lover of God. I have a
 strong passion for acting, I also dance and sing. I love fashion most especially Ankara fabrics design. I love to be unique and I love to be real.

How did you get into acting?

I started acting professionally in 2010 with Kamsons and neighbor by Tunji Bamishigbin (the producer of PALACE) old hit series. Kamsons and neighbours stopped in 2011 even though I was a replacement for one of the major characters in the family. Kamsons and neighbor was a family series , I played the first daughter there. In march 2012, I went for tinsel audition , I got calls to come back 3 different times but wasn’t chanced because I was in my final year then in school. It was a sensitive period then in school. I graduated and luckily I got a 4th call and to God be the glory it was for a new production entirely
by Mnet “The Johnsons”.

How did you know you can act?

I discovered acting talent in me since childhood. I grew  with it, I had a burning passion for acting in me, Then as a child  I used to write a page story, 2pages story and would go call friends to act out the stories I wrote.

Apart from ‘The Johnsons” which other project are you working on?

Of course while I m still with “the Johnsons” I m working on getting fully into the industry away from t.v series alone.


What kind of roles have you performed so far, are you satisfied with them?

I have only featured in 3 projects and in all I have played the role of a daughter, I m not satisfied with them , compared to my passion for acting. An actor needs to be versatile not stereotyped . I want bigger roles, more  mature roles.


Who are your role models?

My role models are Genevieve Nnaji and Helen Paul, I want to be blessed just like they are even more. Helen Paul seems to me a complete woman in career, family and spiritually she’s got it all and I look up to her a lot.


What have you learnt from the directors you have worked with so far?

Nothing much from the directors and script writers for now, looking forward to more challenging scripts and directors.


Challenges

One of the biggest challenges I have is having to deal with my small stature and my baby face. Even though I am a wife and mother, I don’t get the respect from people because I play a child on the Johsons, so fans, colleagues and people generally address me like a child. The fact that I have a small stature and I play a child role doesn’t mean I’m one or I’m young . I’m old enough to be married and also to have a child.



Advice for upcoming actors

In secondary school I used to tell my friends and classmates that I wanted to be an actress and that my dream course in the university was theatre arts , today I have achieved it and I m practicing by God’s grace. My advice to aspiring actors and actresses is to keep saying their dreams, keep praying about it and keep working at it. It will surely happen. I have also learnt in the industry to be very humble and respectful, most especially senior colleagues even when you know and its obvious you are better skilled than a more famous and experienced actor, just remain respectful and loyal. That’s the fastest way to the top.

How do you combine family with acting
Combining family with work has been God’s grace and thanks to an understanding and loving husband given me by God .

Naive Nancy

She has the common exuberance of a kid, she is friendly, flighty, childish and gullible. She seems to want to know everything yet she lacks knowledge and wisdom.

The mighty God

                                                                                                                                              The Mighty God is a song to chant when trying to explain and experience the unlimiting and endless power of God.The song centers on the greatness,sovereignty and incomparability of God and that makes Him not to be "a mighty GOD" but "The Mighty God".    

                                                                                         

This song is an inspiration from God through this talented brother. May you find joy and peace as you listen to it.


Solomon STEPHEN is an anointed, multi-talented vocalist and instrumentalist.  He started his musical career professionally in year 2008.
Solomon has 6 years experience in music  directing, has featured in quiet a number of other gospel albums and has also ministered powerfully in churches nationwide.

He is the founder of Asaph Musics; an arm of Asaph Media. Solomon is married and blessed with a child.


Album Description

The song describes God as not “A MIGHTY” God but “THE MIGHTY GOD”

THE MIGHTY GOD (Single)
ARTIST & SONG WRITER
 Solomon STEPHEN
Facebook:  thesolomonsteph
Twitter:  @thesolomonsteph
Instagram:  thesolomonsteph


Download here.  
                                                                                     
The Mighty God by Solomon Stephen

iTunes/Apple Music: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-mighty-god/id1206709555     

 Amazon music:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WWLVX8R/

CD Baby: https://www.cdbaby.com/cd/solomonstephen

Tidal: http://tidal.com/ng/store/album/70533043

Shazam: https://www.shazam.com/track/341928710/the-mighty-god

MTN Music plus:
http://musicplus.mtnonline.com/desktop/#albumdetail?albumCode=6010100019355

Tutorial : How to style natural hair

Tutorials are back on brownySays blog. This time around, I've decided to delve into fashion more and this particular post is specially for natural hair lovers.

Its January 26 again!

1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, ,17, 20, 24, 26th!...........sometimes I wonder, why did I come out on the 26th? Why couldn’t my birthday be the 10th, the 5th , the 20th or even the 25th why 26th?

Newness

Change is constant, more constant than Constance herself. Change is the only thing that never changes. Change can come unannounced without notice, no prior information. That is why some changes are referred to as sudden, as unsuspecting as change can be, it sometimes comes announced. Such is the change of jobs, resigning from one job to another, change of name, address and so on.

A lot of people have the believe that once its time to enter into a new year, January again, it is automatically a form of change. As if it is automatic that change occurs as the earth completes a revolution and a new year is welcomed. But have you ever wondered why, January comes and goes and we all still continue with the business of the day?

Hardly no change? Most people resume at the same workplace , same position, students resume to the same school , have you ever imagined why the seeming excitement of an expected form of newness that comes with the new year suddenly dies down leaving everyone to face reality ?

We have so much attributed , great, happy and exciting happenings only to certain events, occasions and periods. Such that we have given ourselves the erroneous belief that we cannot experience any form of newness or derive joy except on certain occasions , just as we have attributed jollof rice and chicken to parties and festive seasons, seeing ourselves as enjoying extraordinarily when we eat it on normal days. Just as married couples have also attributed going on vacation, going shopping, going on dates with special occasions and celebrations. Just as men and women have attributed going to hotels as only for immoral purposes.
Newness, change and starting afresh shouldn’t be attributed only to new years, or new circumstances alone. Our minds should be made to understand that the moment we desire a change and are ready to give it what it takes it happens. We must realize that there is no special time to make resolutions and start afresh, we can decide to start afresh at any points in our lives when we feel we are desiring it. It may be in the middle of the year, middle of the month, middle of the week and middle of the day. What is important is we keep seeking to be better today than we were yesterday. Above all we must realize that it is never too late to make a positive change or impact. We must renew our minds and thoughts to the fact that nothing is impossible, nothing is unachievable especially with God.