The arrogance of Zlatan Ibrahimovic

There’s A Zlatan In All Of Us

Sports10 Comments

One of the traits the typical Nigerian (and to a larger extent, Africans) adores is humility. We talk about it—actually, we pontificate about it—a lot. We are obsessed with people who appear to have means or recognition yet are self-effacing. And when we come across those who do not care to be particularly modest, we are gutted by their arrogance. We can never fathom why anyone would not deign to make light of their genius or success. It’s entertaining to watch, really. More so when one remembers that Nigerians aren’t exactly famous for a being docile, meek bunch who are contained in their ways.

5 Lessons I Learnt From 5 Years Of Blogging

Essay, Stories4 Comments

I am in a state of wavering disbelief right now. I am having a hard time believing I have actually blogged for five whole years! Every week, every Wednesday, I have shared my thoughts, feelings and opinion on wide-ranging subjects—when I was excited—and when the last thing I wanted to do was write. I have battled the imposter syndrome; written essays that barely got a hundred views and been misunderstood for my blogging intentions. But I have also enjoyed unbelievable goodwill from strangers: people who overestimated my talent and called me a genius.

Between Independent Thinkers And Clout Chasers

Essay2 Comments

I find the bandwagonism that pervades the virtual space annoying. It only takes one influential social media personality to say something and their horde of followers are quick to lap it up. The dearth of independent thinking—the ability to analyse an issue dispassionately—and put forward a personal opinion is a reality of these times. Whether it pertains to more serious issues like police brutality, ethnic or racial profiling, gender discrimination, or matters of less importance such as the debate regarding who’s the greater legend between Michael Jackson and Beyonce, people are often inclined to pitch their tent where the greater population leans. But things have begun to change.

I Hope You’re Growing

Inspiration4 Comments

It’s the six-letter word everyone aspires to. The evidence that we are not where we used to be. Proof of our progress. The desire for growth is embedded in the human psyche; there’s hardly anyone who, for instance, would not have it listed as a new year resolution—either overtly—or covertly. The quintessential human aspires to…

The Art of Surviving of Nigeria

Lifestyle4 Comments

The month of March has been a difficult one for many people. The number of deaths recorded from a tragic combination of natural disasters, negligence and terrorism is enough to leave anyone in a disconcerting loop of light-headedness and despondency. Every day, there seems to be some terrible news; something that makes one shudder and…

The Better Way To Tell

Lifestyle2 Comments

“I’m the best in this field, no one does it better.”

“I may not have any hits or even put out any music, but I know I’m better than Davido and Wiz Kid put together.”

And the most common of them?

“I have made six figures every week since I started this business. If you’re interested in being like me, comment ‘Yes’ below.

More often than not, people who make these sort of pronouncements are noisemakers and nothing more. 

4 Stars Of The Past Week

Essay, Stories4 Comments

The past week was an interesting one. And while an event such as the 50th anniversary of the Asaba Massacre could have dampened the mood of some section of people, it’s safe to conclude it was a largely happy week for most Nigerians. We often find ourselves lamenting one situation or the other, and it’s not because we are a people who are naturally wont to dwell on the unpleasant. No. It’s a function of the myriad of problems we are plagued with. But sometimes…sometimes, the stars just appear to align to our favour, and in those instances, we must never fail to celebrate our little victories.

We Should All Be Teachers

Essay, StoriesLeave a comment

 

It’s something that has been playing around in my mind for a while, but became more ensconced this past week. I was part of the judging panel in a writing competition, and last Thursday, there was an event to celebrate the winners. It was a privilege and honor to see young literary geniuses in the making. Teenagers from various secondary schools in Lagos who wrote brilliant fiction stories about the menace of terrorism in the world today.  Beyond the giving of prizes, there were talks to encourage the students about the numerous advantages of reading and writing, and generally having a good head on one’s shoulders.