I I - Year Old Nigerian App Developer met with Founder of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg

Tayo and Mark 

Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder of social networking website, Facebook, has expressed his pleasure at the creation of Tayo, an 11-year-old Nigerian developer.

In a post on his Facebook page, Zuckerberg said he is looking forward to future projects by Tayo.

He said: “This is Tayo. He’s 11 and he recently showed me a game he built called Spike Rush.

“I got my first computer when I was Tayo’s age, and just like him I started out coding games. I’ve always thought building simple games was the gateway to building more complex apps.”

Zuckerberg, the world’s 5th richest person, also said the games developed by Tayo were more complex than the games he first built.

“My first games were simpler than Tayo’s, but no matter your level, there’s nothing like playing something you built yourself.

“Spike Rush is available in the iOS App Store. I’m looking forward to seeing what Tayo builds next!”.

In September, Zuckerberg visited Nigeria and got meet young developers, entrepreneurs and entertainers.

He left the country for Kenya and returned to meet President Muhammadu Buhari and participants of the Aso Villa Demo day, an event where startups pitched ideas to the Presidency.

Both visits to Nigeria by Mark Zuckerberg were unannounced and this left fans in awe of his simplicity.

Congratulations Tayo, team NigerianEchoes celebrates you

PAID content @ClovisCasuals 08133499050 #makeAFRICANimpression 

Obama Receives and Honours 19-year old Nigerian, Saheela Ibraheem a final year Student of Nuerobiology in Harvard at the White House

Nigerian genius, Saheela Ibraheem, 19, made history when she was honoured with an official reception in the White House by the US President, Barack Obama and the First Lady, Michelle.

Saheela and Obama at white house 

Saheela Ibraheem got into the Ivy League Harvard at the age of 15, where she is currently studying neurobiology — a branch of science that studies the brain — and has been listed among the “World’s 50 Smartest Teenagers.” She was also accepted for admission by 13 other top colleges in the United States, including the MIT, Princeton, Columbia, and six Ivy League institutions, choosing Harvard, she became one of the youngest students to ever attend the university. She will be graduating in May this year.

Speaking after an introductory speech by Ibraheem at the White House, President Obama stated that “there are a lot of teenagers in the world. Saheela is like one of the 50 smartest ones. That’s pretty smart. And she’s a wonderful young lady. She’s like the State Department and the National Institute of Health all rolled into one. And we are so proud of your accomplishments and all that lies ahead of you. And you reflect our history. Young people like you inspire our future.”

Ibraheem, who skipped two grades in school, said the key to success is figuring out what you love to learn as early as possible, which she did at the young age of five.

“If you are passionate about what you do, and I am passionate about most of these things, especially with math and science, it will work out well,” she told CBS 2s Cindy Hsu. In addition, Ibraheem speaks four languages that include Arabic, Spanish and Latin.

Her mother, Shakirat Ibraheem, said her daughter has been way ahead of the academic game since kindergarten — never cutting corners and trying to do everything on her own. “She’s like always independent,” she said. “I never get to help with her homework because she’d say ‘it’s my work mommy, not yours.’”

Ibraheem’s recognition and reception was part of the “Black History Month” celebration in the US, which comes up in February. The “Black History Month”, takes root from the activities of the “Association for the Study of African American Life and History.” Every year, Americans set aside the month of February to celebrate the central role that African-Americans have played in every aspect of American life especially the march for freedom and equality, jobs and justice, the Civil Rights Act, the Voting Rights Act, and some profound contributions African-Americans make in the American culture.

Present at the evening event were members of the US Congress, including Leader Nancy Pelosi, and members of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Congratulations to her from us at team NigerianEchoes 

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AY‘s 30 Days in Atlanta makes it to Guinness World Records

Congratulations are in order for popular comedian Ayo Makin. His film 30 Days in Atlanta has made it into the Guinness Book of Records.  It has been recognized as the highest grossing film in Nollywood

Comedian AY has added another feather to his already full cap. The popular comedian revealed via Instagram that his movie 30 Days In Atlanta has been officially recognized by the 2017 Guinness World Records as one of the films with the highest domestic gross in Nollywood.

The movie has been officially recognized by the 2017 Guinness World Records as one of the films with the highest domestic gross in the territories of Bollywood, Nollywood and Hollywood. The record breaking movies listed are ‘PK’ from India, ’30 Days In Atlanta’ from Nigeria and ‘Star Wars’ From The United States of America.

According to Wikipedia, the film 30 Days in Atlanta grossed over N137 million in Nigeria. Even though this figure has been disputed by some, this is an enviable record for AY who is already putting plans in place to release another movie A Trip to Jamaica on September 25th.

This film also features a mix of Hollywood and Nollywood stars like Eric Roberts, Dan Davies, Jamaica acts Paul Campbell, Rebecca Silvera, Chris Attoh Funke Akindele, Nse Ikpe Etim, Patoranking, Cynthia Morgan and Ras Kimono.

NigerianEchoes congratulates once again this star comedian

Nigerian orphan Islamiyat Oluwatoyin emerges Sudan's best medical student

Islamiyat Oluwatoyin 

A Nigerian orphan named Islamiyat Oluwatoyin Abdulkadir has emerged the best graduating medical student at the International University of Africa in Khartoum, Sudan in yet another accolade to the country.

Orphaned since the age of six, Abdulkadir said her outstanding achievement looks like a miracle to even to her.


In a telephone interview from Sudan that not just her academic achievements but also her life in general is a massive miracle since her father died when she was around three years old and her mother when she was six years old.


“My academic achievements so far, till today, seem like a miracle to me. Not only that, my life as a whole is a pack of miracles,” she said.

With no hope of going further in her education after her mother’s death, Abdulkadir was saved by helper called Alhaja Sekinat t



A Nigerian orphan named Islamiyat Oluwatoyin Abdulkadir has emerged the best graduating medical student at the International University of Africa in Khartoum, Sudan in yet another accolade to the country.

Orphaned since the age of six, Abdulkadir said her outstanding achievement looks like a miracle to even to her.



She narrates her touching story  in a telephone interview from Sudan that not just her academic achievements but also her life in general is a massive miracle since her father died when she was around three years old and her mother when she was six.

“My academic achievements so far, till today, seem like a miracle to me. Not only that, my life as a whole is a pack of miracles,” she said.

With no hope of going further in her education after her mother’s death, Abdulkadir was saved by helper called Alhaja Sekinat Adekola.

“Thinking that was the end of schooling for me, my grandmother withdrew me from the school but the founder, Alhaja Sekinat Adekola, gave me scholarship for my primary and secondary education.

“I emerged best student in my primary and secondary schools and even in my WASC, and I had a high score of 274 in my UTME examination.

“I have always had passion to be a medical doctor, but because I was not sure of my chances I filled Bio-Chemistry in my JAMB form and came out with a high score of 274.
“This score was high enough to get me into the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan and with the hope of changing to medicine later. I had to jettison this dream because of the financial commitment involved in studying medicine.


“It was at this time that an admission team from International University of Africa, Sudan, came to recruit Nigerian students into their school of Nursing.

“I presented myself for the written and oral interview and luck once again smiled on me as I emerged the best student and a scholarship was awarded me for my admission in their school of nursing.

“After the end of the first semester examination I emerged the best student, and the opportunity I had been waiting for presented itself. I approached the School’s Faculty of Medicine for a cross over from Nursing Faculty to Medicine, and the request was granted.

“So through thick and thin of financial difficulties, culture shock, hunger and loneliness, I braved it through and emerged the best graduating student of the medical school on September 2, 2016.

“For me to clinch the overall best student, I had a CGPA of 3.37/4.00, making a groundbreaking record in the history of the faculty by scoring above 3.24, the last highest grade.”

“One certain thing I know about myself, which cannot be disputed, is that I am a living miracle of Allah,” she continued.


“If you have searched for a proof of miracle but to no avail, look no further as I am here to testify to the miracles of God.

“I want to seize this opportunity to thank my God-sent angels, Alhaja Sekinat Adekola, founder, Proprietress of AD-din International Group of Schools, for the good background I got in the school.”

Nigerian Student, Oluwafunke Ajayi wins Agribusiness Competition in Denmark

From left: Mateusz Ciasnocha (Poland), DJ (Dhananjay) Apparao (New Zealand), Clementina Oluwafunke Ajayi (Nigeria), Sheng Leslie (Sweden), Niran Thompson (Nigeria).




A Massey University PhD student has taken out a student competition at an agribusiness conference in Denmark.

PhD student DJ Apparao of the Institute of Agriculture and Environment, represented Massey in a team that took out first place in the student case competition, held at the International Food and Agribusiness Management Association’s (IFAMA) annual conference in Aarhus, Denmark.

Mr Apparao competed in team against students from across the world through preliminary rounds, before advancing to the final round where they presented a case study to a panel of industry professionals and academics.

The undergraduate and graduate winners of the competition were awarded cash prizes.

Mr Apparao says the conference overall provided an “invaluable opportunity to meet industry representative from across the world and identify and understand the key issues in agri-food business”.

Mr Apparao also presented a paper at the conference entitled, Future Scenarios for the New Zealand Dairy Industry.

25-year-old Nigerian, Fathia Kareem breaks record at Ghana Medical School winning 13 of 15 awards

A Nigerian, Fathia Kareem, has set a record at the School of Medical Sciences of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana, breaking its academic history.


A Nigerian, Fathia Kareem, has set a record at the School of Medical Sciences of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana, breaking its academic history.

For her feat, she received 12 out of 15 awards presented during the oath-swearing and induction ceremony for fresh doctors of the institution last Saturday.

Kareem, 25, is an alumnus of the Wesley Girls High School.

It was a happy and proud moment for family and friends when she took several turns to receive the awards in the 55-year-old ivory tower.

When asked if she expected to get the number of awards, she said, “Yes and No. Yes because I worked hard by studying and no because I did not expect to receive so many awards.”

Of late, many Nigerians have distinguished themselves in many overseas universities, with some of them emerging as valedictorians of their schools.

Meet 33 - year old Aliu Sabiu, youngest Nigeria's Speaker, House of Assembly

Aliu Sabiu 

Aliu Sabiu, 33, is the Speaker of Katsina state House of Assembly and he is one of the youngest speakers of legislative house in Nigeria. The law maker divulged on several issues with youths digest magazine which includes his involvement in politics, youths and women empowerment and also the recent controversial goats for ruler women in the state

 Can we have a peep into your background?

My name is Aliyu Sabiu Ibrahim. I was born in Muduru village, Mani Local Government Area of Katsina State on January 5, 1983. I had my primary education at Muduru Model Primary School from 1988 to 1994 and then proceeded to the Usman Dangogo College of Arabic and Islamic studies, popularly called Arabic Teacher’s College. I learnt English and Arabic Languages and interestingly I memorized the whole Quran in SS1. I participated in the Quranic Competition representing Katsina and Nigeria.



What are the institutions you have attended?

I attended Hassan Usman Polytechnic where I obtained a Diploma in Sharia from 2003 to 2006. I got an admission into a Malaysian University, Al-Madinah International University where I studied Computer and Information Technology for my first degree. I took up a part-time job in the office of the Dean of Admission and Registration where I served as a Personal Assistant. The university saw potential in me so they gave me the opportunity to work. I graduated with upper credit.

We learnt you taught in primary school before your sojourn to Malaysia?

Yes, It was after my polytechnic education that I became a class room teacher under the Primary Education Board and I taught for three years from 2006 to 2009 in my local government. It may interest you to note that I have developed interest in imparting knowledge that I initiated an Islamic school in my village called Ta’afizul Qur’an L’arabiya in 2002 and now has over 300 students.

How did you venture into politics?

I actually started my masters in the same university when I came to Nigeria on holiday not knowing I will be dragged into politics. Elders and members of my constituency advised me to join politics but I was reluctant. But when the pressure became too much, I finally succumb. I contested under the best party, All Progressives Congress APC alongside five others in the primaries and I won.Then I contested with other opposition parties, especially PDP, APGA and others in my local government. My local government is one of the oldest in Katsina state since Katsina was under the old Kaduna. I won with the will of Almighty Allah with over 12,000 votes over that of the candidate of the then ruling party.



 How did you eventually become the speaker of the Assembly in the midst of other elderly legislators?

In fact, to be sincere, for various reason and the fact that I was relatively young, I refused to contest for the post of speakership. Surprising, some of my distinguished colleagues asked me to contest for the position. I was also reluctant but after due consultations with elders and friends, especially the youths, I humbly accepted the nomination and contested with five honourable members.

Some of them willingly stood down for me. On the day of the election for the speaker, I contested with one person and won with 28 of 36 votes on the 9th of June 2015.

Some might suspect you were influenced or selected by the power-that-be like in other states where governors select their speakers?

Well it could happen in other states. In my own case I was elected by my distinguished colleagues even some previous administrations in the state, governors selected people for the post. My governor was a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, so he never interferes; he always wants people to learn by example so they can lead by examples.

As a young leader how do you relate with your colleagues?

We are all cooperating peacefully. In my first speech as a speaker I asked for their cooperation, telling them I cannot do it alone. We need to work as a team to develop our state. Being a speaker doesn’t mean I can do it alone. People call me “Dan-Auta”, meaning Last Born in the assembly. I do seek advice from returning members in the house because I know I am not perfect.Our legislative house is the most vibrant in Nigeria. I challenge other states. We never pass bills without consultations. We engage so many people, we call for public hearing before passing bills so Katsina people understand the law we are passing.


What are your plans for youth in the state?

The Nigerian youths are always looking up to some of us that could be tagged the youthful politician and office holders. I am glad to represent the youth and must exhibit sterling leadership qualities exemplifying youths’ embodiment. APC mixes elders with youths.

I will continue to ensure youth empowerment programme succeed in the state and also encourage their active participation in politics by making sure leadership are accountable. The legislature will also ensure any law that will protect their right is strengthened.

 Katsina state just bought goats for women empowerment and some have ridiculed the government for this. What is your take?

Some people misunderstood the idea behind the purchase of the goats for women empowerment. The goats were bought to encourage husbandry rather than just giving them money for any business. With focus on diversification of the economy to agriculture, even on low scale can boost their purchasing power.

The beneficiaries were giving male and female goats for reproduction and mass production. You should know that rural women will take care of the goat they will never go and sell it, and it will be useful to them.

Is that the idea behind the rumoured goat purchase?

That is the idea, but some people outside might not understand our peculiarity; we bought those goats to cater for these type of women and keep them busy. The last administration helped literate women in Katsina Central so we want people to know they voted for change; I grew up in the village where I used to buy sheep while I was in secondary school; I would then give to my brothers and cousins who would rear them for me and when anyone delivers, they take one, next year I take one and that was how we used to do it.

I repeat, all women must benefit from democracy, our allocations and revenue are meant for all Katsina citizens not certain groups, not for the governor or legislators.


Before giving out the goats, the state empowered so many youths, we obtained about N2 billion loan from the central bank. We gave out N20, 000 and N10,000 to youths.

When you do something new you face challenges, since people have not been doing that before, our government is on the table not under the table so we face a lot of challenges.

 Can you tell us about the state’s 2016 budget?

The Katsina state budget comprises five sectors. Education, Health, Water Resources, Agriculture and Youth empowerment/Human Development. We did a diligent defense exercise that was meticulously scrutinized and every item was considered for its merit and appropriateness. In fact some institutions commended our efforts in that regard.

You talked about doing your masters before coming for holiday then politics, do you plan to further your education?

I love reading, if I have the opportunity to continue I will. I am presently pursuing my masters at Ahmadu Bello University under the Faculty of Social Sciences, International Relations to be specific. I am currently working on my thesis.


What is your advice to your fellow Nigerian youths?

They should always do the right things. They should avoid drugs they should go to school; education has many benefits. They should join politics to move the nation forward not buy and display flashy cars, mansions and move around with motley of girlfriends.

During my campaign I never met anybody older than 45 unless you were in the party. I never consulted people older than 45. I was with the youths, my major constituency. My advice once again, work hard and complain less.

Can you talk about your passion for agriculture?

It is the area I really love. I own a very big farmland about 20 hectares for maize, 14 hectares for rice. I am happy to remain a farmer because you get many things. As a youth, if you are thinking only about what to eat or wear then you are in trouble that’s why I said youths should work hard and complain less.

If I tell you about my experience in school abroad, you will be surprised. I led prayers and the rich people dashed me money. I have rich friends but I don’t care because I believe one day it is going to get better.

I learn you have many Arab friends. How do you intend to bring their influence to bear on the Nigerian economy?

Yes there are many Arab and Arab-speaking foreigners in my university in Malaysia. The VC loves me. He took me as a son and he is from a royal family. I also have a good relationship with the son of the King of Saudi Arabia. They love me because I understand their language. We communicate very well. I hope I will be able to persuade some of them to invest in Katsina if not in Nigeria.

MEET NIGERIA'S IDENTICAL TWIN BROTHERS WHO BOTH BAGGED FIRST CLASS THE SAME DAY

Taiwo and Kehinde Abiodun

Taiwo and Kehinde Abiodun are not just the regular twins. They are 21 and very identical in appearance, speech and even laughter. But beyond these, they both graduated with first class from Covenant University, in the 2015/2016 academic session. While Kehinde, from Accounting Department, led the College of Business and Social Sciences with 4.93 CGPA, Taiwo had 4.86 CGPA in Economics. In this interview with TUNDE AJAJA, they share how they helped themselves to succeed

You have a striking resemblance, are there times people mistake you for each other?

Kehinde: Since when I knew myself, people make that mistake daily, and I’m used to it. Daily, we were asked the same question, ‘Are you Taiwo or Kehinde?’ Sometimes, I just answer as Taiwo to avoid further questions.

Taiwo:  Yes, I get that at least once daily and it happens mostly when we walk together. People are always amazed when they see us and they don’t stop staring at us. We are used to it.

Do you remember any event that is remarkable?

Kehinde: While in school, there was a time a man wanted to pay some money to my brother, then he came to meet me, and this was someone I had never met before. He said ‘take, this is the money I’m meant to give you.’ I was shocked, but I told him I had a twin and he must have mixed us up. There was also a time we were about to sit for an exam. I was in the hall and Taiwo’s lecturer saw me when we were about to start. She exclaimed, ‘Are you not meant to be in the other class where Economics students are!’ I just smiled and I had to explain to her. She was amazed and said we should come and see her together after my exam. There are so many other experiences.

Taiwo: There was one when we were in primary school. We were playing football and we were in different teams. It was the finals of a competition. Unknowingly, his goalkeeper threw the ball to me, giving me a one-on-one opportunity. Of course I scored the goal, which made my team to win the competition. I thanked the goalkeeper for making such a profitable mistake.

It’s amazing both of you had first class, and one of you led his department. Was it a joint decision?

Kehinde: Yes, we both aimed to be tops in our department, and not just to have a first class. So, I will say it was a joint decision. Some people have first class without stress probably because they are naturally smart. But, I believe mine was just the Grace of God, coupled with reading at nights several times and, very importantly, planning my day.

Taiwo: We talked about it at some point on how it would be if we both led our departments. I won’t say it was easy, neither will I say it was difficult. Mainly, it required a lot of sacrifice and dedication. I have always envisioned having a first class right from a very young age and when I entered Covenant University, I put it in God’s hands and He brought around me the right people who encouraged me. Thank God for His grace and mercy.

Was it also deliberate you were in the same College (faculty)?

Kehinde: It was my personal choice to study Accounting. In secondary school, it was common for students in commercial class to aim to be accountants. So, that was what I wanted. Although, I developed some interest in Finance after my second year in the university, I have no regrets studying Accounting.

Taiwo:  Well, initially I was planning to study Law and I was even in Arts department in secondary school. But then, I always knew I had a deep interest in the stock market. I wanted to know how to appraise the market and analyse stock report, and that started from a very young age. So, I decided to study Economics.

Were there times you chastised yourselves to study?

Kehinde: Yes, and that happened several times. I wouldn’t say he chastised me, I think he just motivated me to read, especially while he was reading and I wasn’t. At such times, I would have to plan to read by force. We didn’t see ourselves as competitors and I believe that was healthy for our relationship as twin brothers. I believe we helped ourselves to succeed by motivating each other towards our end goals, especially our career goal to become investment bankers. But I also believe we would still have achieved the same feat even if we were in different schools.

Taiwo:  Well, I can’t remember chastising him to study, I trusted him to know what he needed to do per time and be fully conscious of the goals he wanted to achieve. Like he said, we always motivated ourselves towards success, especially on our career goals to be successful investment bankers. It would have felt awkward if we were not in the same school, but that wouldn’t have stopped either of us from having excellent result.

Does this performance date back to your previous schools?

Kehinde: I was a good student but maybe not very outstanding; I wasn’t the type who scored all As except in my preferred subjects, although I was close to being an excellent student. Things changed for the best when I got to the university.

Taiwo: In secondary school, my performance can be regarded as good. It was not as excellent as I would have loved it, but I was one of the best three in my set and my name entered the school’s hall of fame. We both had outstanding results in the O’level exams and Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

What was your growing up like?

Kehinde: I grew up in a Christian home and my father, Rev. Bankole Abiodun, my mother Mrs. Titilayo Abiodun, a banker, and my four brothers were all of great help. They brought us up in the way of the Lord and their counsel and advice played a key role. We were not deprived of having video games, but when it was time to study, we were not expected to be playing.

Taiwo:  Growing up was alright. I believe God placed the right people around me per time. We are the last children of a family of five boys. My parents and siblings have always been extremely supportive right from when we were young. They almost always rewarded us for good performance. We went to two primary schools and two secondary schools.

People believe there is a strong bond between twins that when one is sick, the other would be feeling feverish. Did it happen to you?

Kehinde and Taiwo: We experienced that when we were in junior school in secondary school. When one person recovers from a sickness, the other person would start. We couldn’t even explain it. At a point I (Taiwo) tried not to be sick after his, but it would always happen. But, there was no such thing when we got to the university. There was a time I (Taiwo) was sick in our second year and I only struggled to write the exam, but he wasn’t sick.

What worked for you that you think other students can adopt?

Kehinde: They should be close to God and have faith, be diligent; they should detest procrastination and they should network with people, have a possibility mentality, and finally believe in themselves. Also, they should never compete with anyone and know what works best for them.

Taiwo: Students should learn to discipline themselves, learn to delay gratification, work hard, be dedicated and have study partner(s). You are not an island on your own. I don’t think I would have made it this far without my study partners, and they all finished with first class as well. Like a great inspiration to my life, Bishop David Oyedepo would say, for every star, there is a scar and the scar of every star is sacrifice.

Were you in a relationship throughout?

Kehinde: No I wasn’t in a relationship. I didn’t have the time to commit at that moment.

Taiwo:  I wasn’t in any relationship as well. I had a lot of responsibilities and I wouldn’t have had time for her. There was a time I almost did, but when I weighed it, I had to drop the idea.

Where would you like to work?

Kehinde: I would like to work in any of the global investment banks, preferably Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse or Nomura Securities.

Taiwo:  I would like to work in a global investment bank.

How would you have felt if both of you didn’t have first class and it was only you?

Kehinde: Obviously, I would not have felt good, but I may not be disappointed. As much as it is good and desirable to have a first-class, it is not a determinant for success in life.

Taiwo:  Well, I would be sad if he didn’t make a first class, but I won’t be disappointed, because I know there are better things to achieve in life other than having a first class.

Did you operate joint account or your parents sent you money separately?

Kehinde: we had separate accounts. I wouldn’t even have considered a joint account. There were days we didn’t see. And there were times we didn’t live in the same hall, coupled with the fact that the time of lectures were different.

Taiwo:  That is very funny. We operated different accounts and our parents sent us money separately.

When going for your National Youth Service programme, would you like to be posted to the same state or you like to explore separately?

Kehinde: I would want to serve in the same state with Taiwo.

Taiwo:  Well, we would want to be in the same state.

GROUND-BREAKERS :Meet Roye Okupe who quits a web designing job to found comic book company YouNeek Studios in Nigeria

Roye Okupe 

Roye Okupe didn’t read comic books growing up in Lagos, Nigeria. Comic book shops weren’t around. Instead, Okupe was introduced to superheroes through Saturday morning cartoons such as “Transformers” and “X-Men.”

So when he set out to create his own Nigerian superhero, he thought animation was the way to go. That idea led Okupe on a journey that culminated in him debuting a new universe of African superheroes. Just not in the way he originally planned.

Okupe, now 31, arrived in the United States in 2002, attending George Washington University and earning a bachelors and master’s degree in computer science in 2007 and 2009. In between those degrees he took a class in animation at the Art Institute of Washington. After college, while working as a web developer for International Software Systems in Greenbelt, Md., Okupe was able to put together an eight-minute animated trailer featuring his first superhero creation, Wale Williams, a young, 20-something Nigerian who suits up in high-tech armor to become the African superhero E.X.O. (Endogenic Xoskeletal Ordnance).

Okupe shopped his trailer to distributors, television networks and investors for a year and got nowhere. One movie producer even told him that E.X.O. looked interesting, but he should think about changing the race of the character.

“That was a down period for me. I really had to dig into believing in myself that I could actually get this done,” Okupe told The Washington Post’s Comic Riffs. “Hearing that from someone who was in the [entertainment] industry, I almost took it for the gospel. But if you have a dream, it’s your responsibility to make it happen and then people will join the bandwagon once you start to get some recognition.”

Okupe decided to take inspiration from another superhero medium: live-action movies. He was impressed with Marvel’s ability to satisfy both hardcore fans and the general public alike with its movies. But Okupe concentrated on the format so many movie superheroes originally came from: comic books.

Comics were much more affordable to produce. Okupe had never written a comic before, so he ruled out trying to take his ideas to mainstream comic companies. And when he didn’t hear back from “lower-tier” publishers, he decided to produce E.X.O. independently.

So in the summer of 2015, he cashed out his 401(k), resigned from his job and founded YouNeek Studios, the company that would debut his first comic book, “E.X.O. The Legend of Wale Williams.”

It’s a very big change and a particularly scary one,” Okupe said of the moment he quit his job. “But I knew that to make the impact that I want to make in the comic book industry, I couldn’t do it with a 9-to-5.

“I was working as a web developer and making good money. But this has always been a dream of mine and I always tell people if you have a dream, no one’s going to make it happen for you.”

Okupe recruited four artists in Nigeria to help him produce his first E.X.O. comic. Ayodele Elegba would edit his writing. Sunkanmi Akinboye would be his interior pages artist. Raphael Kazeem worked on coloring and Godwin Akpan did cover art. Not counting the two times a year he returns home to Nigeria, Okupe does all his communicating with his art team from his apartment in Rockville, Maryland. It was important for him to have a team that could capture the cultural essence of his homeland, as E.X.O.’s fictional city of Lagoon City takes inspiration from Lagos.

“[The artists] are there on a day to day basis. They can feel the vibe,” Okupe said. “I wanted people that were close to home but I also really wanted to prove that Nigerian/African artists as a whole can do stuff that’s comparable to what you would see in Marvel or DC and I think I’ve been able to accomplish that.”

Marvel of course, is home to perhaps the most famous African superhero of all, The Black Panther, who is a king ruling over a fictional African paradise (Wakanda). Okupe’s tales are also fictional but he aims for a more authentic African feel. The book features Nigerian colloquialisms (translated in captions), traditional clothing and monuments.

“The country of Nigeria and the continent as a whole, you always see war, famine, terrorism — we touch on those points,” Okupe said. “But I try to pump up as much positivity as I can, because I feel that’s lacking when it comes to Nigeria and Africa as a whole in the mainstream.”

The first E.X.O. comic debuted on Aug. 31, 2015, and a second will arrive Wednesday. Instead of publishing monthly like many comics, YouNeek Studios produces chapters as graphic novels, a format Okupe hopes gives potential new readers an easy jumping-on point without having to worry about catching up on back issues. In the future, Okupe hopes YouNeek Studios will publish two graphic novels a year.

Okupe worked with printing company Print Ninja to get his comics printed and into select comic book shops, but they can also be purchased digitally via the YouNeek Studios website, ComiXology, Amazon and Apple Books.

Okupe used personal savings and family support to fund YouNeek Studios. Two successful Kickstarter campaigns, which Okupe promoted via blogs and social media, helped cover the cost of printing. He puts “every dime” he makes from the comics back into YouNeek Studios and supports himself via freelance web design work.

I haven’t been kicked out of my apartment yet,” Okupe joked. “So I guess I’m doing something right.”

Okupe is now ready to focus on expanding his YouNeek universe with new characters, including Fury, a female character introduced in the E.X.O. books, Malika, a warrior queen based in pre-colonial Africa, and Windmaker, a hero who the ability to control the wind.

 

Creating superheroes is a thrill, but Okupe is most proud of the self-built, diverse fanbase that he hopes will stick around for more adventures.

“I’m having people in South America buy my books. People in Europe and Asia buy my books,” Okupe said. “So it’s not just African or African-Americans; it’s pretty much anybody who is interested in a great story.”

Lagos State Youngest Chairmanship Candidate, Dayo Israel trains Lagos Mainlanders in Vocational Skills

...as Mamora, Sosan and Opeifa says he is #Nottooyoungtorun

Dayo Israel, the chairmanship candidate for Lagos Mainland Local Government on Monday, August 15, 2016, flagged off a skills acquisition & mentoring programme for residents of his constituency.

The training opening ceremony took place at Oyingbo in Ebute Metta, Lagos. The three weeks empowerment programme, organised in partnership with A Fresh Start Initiative, GLEEHD Foundation and Double Grace Development Initiative International, is targeted at school leavers, students, artisans, housewives, and unemployed adults who intend to learn to be self-dependent.

The program according to Mr Israel, aims to also promote sustainable livelihood, financial literacy and financial inclusivity as a tool for economic development, particularly in the areas of poverty reduction, employment generation, wealth creation and improving welfare and general standard of living.

Participants are being taught skills in hair dressing, bead making, makeup artistry, interior decoration, computer training, digital marketing, event planning, leather works, fashion design, wire works, chemical works, fish and snail farming, , traditional engagement package, graphic design, photography and video editing.

Speaking on the need for the vocational training, Mr. Israel said that he is not doing this as an electioneering tactics, but rather a continuation of an ongoing endeavour. “Organising training of this nature is what I do on a daily basis. I have been involved in advocacy and development for over 16years since my days at Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) to UNICEF, Save the Children and GLEEHD Foundation. I have only brought it closer to home so my community can benefit. I started a 6weeks vocational training here over 6years ago. With the rise of cultism, hooliganism and insecurity in the local government, it is important to engage residents especially the youth”, he said.

Commenting on the selection criteria for the trainees, Dayo said “the process was an open one for members of the public and not particularly those from Lagos Mainland Local Government. We allowed people pick forms to go for classes they are interested in. Some are still picking theirs presently and the aim is to train 10,000 for a three weeks period”.

He believes that the training is key to the economic emancipation of the residents. “We don't intend to train and dump them. We will teach them branding and how to market their products. They will leave the training well equipped with the needed knowledge and skill to survive on their own. We will expose them. For example, the photography class will attend the world photography week event in Lagos while the cosmetic class will visit leading cosmetic centres and manufacturers in Lagos – this is part of the study visit segment of the program. We want them to be able to commercialise the skills acquired” he added.

He also intends to help them acquire government documentation such as NAFDAC approval for those interested in manufacturing products.

According to Mrs. Josephine Owuye, the President of the Double Grace Development Initiative International, “anyone who takes part in the intensive training will be fully equipped and can make informed decisions on their own based on what they have learnt.”

In addition, Dayo announced 9 (nine) $10, 500 (ten thousand five hundred USD) Red Hat Certification scholarship to young people from the Lagos Mainland Local Government Area by the Fresh Start Initiative. Red Hat training courses such as RHCSA, RHCE, etc. have long been considered to be the best certifications in acquiring skills for the open source Linux operating system. Knowledge of operating and managing a Linux system, helps professionals gain an edge over others.

“The young people will be picked from the 9 wards in the Local Government”, Dayo revealed.

He has also offered 10 scholarships to young entrepreneurs from the Local Government to attend an Entrepreneurs Masterclass at the Lagos Business School.

The training features a daily inspirational session headlining speakers such as Princess Sarah Sosan OFR, Senator Nimbe Mamora, Dr. Hafsat Abiola, H,E Onari Duke, Hon Kayode Opeife, Nike Ogunlesi, Chioma Chukwuka and more.

Speaking at the training, Lagos Former Deputy Governor Princess Sarah Sosan said Mainland was lucky to have produced a Youth like Dayo Israel, while Senator Mamora challenged the participant to use their gift to transform their destiny. On the other hand, Comrade Kayode Opeifa challenged the Youth to rise up and build the future, saying “with 

Youth like Dayo Israel, Nigeria's future is safe.

Asked how his campaign is funded, He said, “Personally and through the support of friends and loved ones and most importantly divine provision. I already created a gofundme account on www.gofundme.com/dayoisrael to promote the cause.”

Dayo was born into the Abdulai Family in Olowogbowo (Agbole Baba Eleran/Baba Dudu) and the Banire Family in Ibita Ofin Lagos Island. His manifesto can be read on www.mainland.dayoisrael.com

MEET DAYO ADENIYI A GRADUATE OF OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY WHO IS A MANDELA WASHINGTON FELLOW AND A MEMBER OF BARACK OBAMA’S YOUNG AFRICAN LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE NETWORK

Dayo Adeniyi 

Credit :RONKE SANYA 

Adedayo Adeniyi is a Mandela Washington Fellow and a member of Barack Obama’s Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) network. He shares his experience at the just concluded leadership training and tour in the US with RONKE SANYA in this interview, revealing his undying love and hope for Nigeria.

 

What inspired the name Dayo Nigeria?

During my days as an undergraduate, I initiated quite a number of projects to show people how we could all be involved in building a Nigeria where everyone would proudly call themselves Nigerians. So back then, my clothes were branded in the national colours. Then, people started calling me ‘Dayo Nigeria’. So when I decided to brand myself, I chose to go with that brand name as a way of also showing how proud I am to be a Nigerian, even when things don’t look like it.

This is who I am and nothing can change it, people see Nigeria when they see me. Nigeria is just a combination of letters; it becomes something visible when they see the ones who are called Nigerians. It is also my way of letting God know that I am proud of who He has called me to be and that I will be faithful in my assignment in the garden (Nigeria) He has given me to tend.

 

Tell us about yourself

I attended St Clare’s Nursery and Primary School, Isale-Aro, Osogbo, Fakunle Comprehensive High School, Our Lady and St Francis Catholic College, Isale-Aro, Osogbo and GOF International College. I am a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, where I studied English and Literary Studies. The quest for ideal leadership got me to start Matadors Leadership Institute where we define leadership as service rendered and not titles. I am also the initiator of #TellYourNaijaStory, an online campaign created to showcase the beauty of Nigeria through profiling the giant strides of young people who are changing the world through their projects. I believe this is necessary because foreign media only paint the picture of doom and gloom about us and the best people to retell the story are Nigerians.

One of the criteria for being chosen to participate in Mandela Washington Fellowship program is that the chosen participant must have been involved in some leadership activities in his or her immediate environment.

 

What are those leadership activities that you were recognised for?

I may not be able to identify one in particular because I have been involved at different levels, both religious and secular and in and out of school. However, I am always proud of the fact that every day I wake up, it is with a desire to contribute positively to humanity and my country and you cannot claim to love your country when you are not interested in the plight of the people in the country. Every activity of Dayo Nigeria is deliberately designed not just to consciously address the issue of leadership or self-development, but also to get more people involved in thinking for change. I am very proud of what my team members and I do with Matadors Leadership Institute and Tell Your Naija Story. I must say that all the people who have been with me on this journey are there on a volunteer basis because we are the ones who fund our projects. Without a genuine passion to see a better society, this can never happen.

 

Were you surprised when you got to know that you have been selected? And how did you feel?

I was not really surprised, I was excited that at least the combination of efforts of me and my team members is finally appreciated. It was not just for me or my team members, but for every young Nigerian who despite all the challenges we face still understand that we are the ones who can make the change happen and the country is ours to build, because it shows that as long as we commit to living out the right values and doing the right things, recognition will come, although recognition should not be the motive for us doing what we do.

What was the experience like in the U.S?

It was a great experience for me because it gave me an opportunity to learn different models in comparison to the models I had always used. It also made me appreciate the fighting spirit of young Nigerians and by extension Africans who dream and work for a better society. I was able to tell the story of every young Nigerian who would not just criticise but also think for solutions and how to ensure that through personal sacrifice, the solution is implemented on a daily basis and become the energy and inspiration other young people need to be involved in the process as well.

 

When the programme was approaching its end and it was time for you to start coming back to Nigeria, did you feel sad that you are coming back having experienced the serenity of American communities?

It was mixed emotions for me. What I experienced wasn’t really America’s serenity, but the beauty of humanity through the individuals who made themselves available to offer support just to ensure we had a productive stay in the USA. The faculty members of my host Institution at Staley School of Leadership Studies were really amazing and the community members opened their doors for us all. It was sad to say goodbye to them.

On the other hand, I was eager to come back home because I had missed being involved on the home front contributing my quota to nation building.

 

You had the opportunity of interacting with the President of USA, Barack Obama, how will you describe him?

Honestly I must say I was humbled and emotional when he stepped in because it is just a fulfillment of the scripture that says ‘seest thou a man diligent in his ways, he shall stand before kings and not mean men.’

On the other hand, I was thrilled by the simplicity I saw in him and his blunt responses to certain questions and requests. These are not qualities we see everyday in Nigeria where you have more rulers in the corridors of power without any desire to truly lead.

 

Aside the academic activities, what other extracurricular activity did you participate in during the program me?

I had the opportunity of volunteering at different local and international organisations and we also had the honour of enlightening Americans on the cultural values of different countries in Africa through an ‘Africulture’ event we held. I also met young people from different countries but bound by the same thing, desire and passion to work for a better society. I met amazing youths sacrificing so much in different fields just to see their various countries achieve a lot more.

I found a new home in the city of Manhattan as well because I related well with the city and the people also related well with me. It is therefore not surprising that the city gave a certificate of commendation when I was leaving.

 

What message do you have for Nigerian youths like you who are also involved in various leadership activities in their respective communities but have not been lucky to be recognised?

The message is simple, if you ever want to think of giving up remember your children and the kind of life you want for them. My main motivation in doing what I do is not because of motivation, it is because I want my children to enjoy a better life, I want generations that are not yet born have access to basic facilities that we didn’t have access to. Now is our time to start building the right structures that would give room for the genuine leaders to thrive. If we don’t do it, no one will do it for us.

OUTSTANDING YOUNG ACHIEVERS 'OYA' AWARDS 2016 NOMINATION COMMENCES

The Outstanding Young Achievers OYA award, organized by OYA MAGAZINE, a subsidiary of HOPE ENTERTAINMENT WORLDWIDE, is an event which aims to recognize young people in various spheres of life who are adding values and contributing immensely to the growth and development of the country.

The first of this event was hosted 2016 by the fast rising and award winning Nigeria's and OAU produced comedian,  Woli Arole . Past winners of this awards include YBNL rapper, Chinko Ekun, Ibikunle Issac, Bankeh, Neonater board, and many more who made 2016 worthwhile with their historic feats and achievements in their chosen field. 

This year's event promises to be unusual, taking a theatrical approach which will involve a blend of stage plays, music, dance, and art exhibitions. Participants are urged to expect the best of entertainment and reward for excellence. 

Visit www.oyamag.com.ng/oya-awards-2016 and nominate your outstanding young achiever. You can as well nominate NigerianEchoes (lol) if we've served you well. 

Below are what you can nominate your outstanding young achievers 

MEET MICHELLE EKURO, A FEMALE SHOEMAKER WHO IS A GRADUATE OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS IN ONE OF NIGERIA'S HIGH RANKING UNIVERSITY

MIchelle Ekure 

Michelle Ekure who is a graduate of internationals studies has turned to shoe making in a move that will come as a surprise to a lot of people.

In this period where unemployment is on the rise, the beautiful young lady took up a work that many of her kind would not want to found doing.

In an interview with Lukmon of Wazobia Global Times USA with accepts published on NigerianEchoes blog, Michelle explained how she got about being a shoemaker.

She said: “I graduated from the University six years ago, after which I looked for job, but to know avail. At sometimes I got employed by a company in Lagos, but the boss was owing too much so I left.

On how it started, there is this other company I buy sandals in Lagos and resell. They sell nice shoes, so one day I thought to myself that I can tell this people to make sandals for me with my label, so I approached them and they said yes. That was how I got my first set of shoes. Then a friend introduced me to a guy that makes shoes. I watch him make shoes one day and I was amazed then I asked him to teach me and he did.”

She also explained how she goes about selling her shoes.

“I make direct sales, but I drive more sales on social media platforms like instagram, facebook and twitter. Micheleleather sales per week is over 50 pairs”

She advised young ladies not to continue to roam around looking for jobs but try their hands on trade as there was success in being self-employed.

“I always tell people I come in contact with that are looking for job to start something, anything you are good at can bring money to you or just learn a trade.”

See photos of Michelle at work below:

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SEYI AJANI 'JANICUTS', NIGERIA'S TOP FASHION ENTREPRENEUR CHILDREN'S PHILANTHROPIST

Oluwaseyi Jude Ajani 

Ajani Oluwaseyi Jude is the CEO, Janicuts fashion house and convener, Project Let Go Africa

Which university did you graduate from?

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-ife, Nigeria

When and how was JANICUTS fashion house founded?

What did you study in school?
I studied electrical and electronics engineering

When I was an undergraduate.  I didn’t like the idea of collecting Money from my parents from home so I started it. Then the passion grew more
Can you tell us about more JANICUT fashion House?



At Janicuts fashion house we offer exquisite customization and ready to wear outfits to people with unique sense of style.  Our designs are classy, pocket friendly, casual and comfortable to wear. We make t-shirts, bags, shoes, caps, jerseys, uniforms etc. We infuse the African culture into our designs by using fabrics like Ankara, aso-oke, adire.

We believe in making people happy hence our motto. ‘Just be happy’
What was the inspiration behind starting a fashion business?



I believe African fashion is rich and beautiful.  I want to sell African fashion to the world. We need to start exporting African fashion more!
We know you were one of the Elite students in Electrical Engineering, if you were asked to choose between Engineering and Fashion, which would you go for and why?

I love freedom. I don’t like rules. I feel comfortable anywhere am allowed to make my own decisions. As long as am happy and free, both fields are great.
How did you raise capital for JANICUT fashion House?

I didn’t start big like that. I started by making one or two shoes, clothes for friends, then the profit made was re-invested, and any money I received then also went into it
What is JANICUTS unique selling point (what makes your brand standout)?

World class designs and infusion of African designs.
What else are you passionate about asides fashion?

I am a strategic thinker, and I love helping others. This passion birthed “Project Let Go Africa” (www.projectletgoafrica.com).


What is the mission of the initiative?


At PROJECT LET GO AFRICA, we frown at the habit of wastage, and as such we want to encourage the youths to be benevolent by imbibing the habit of giving, empowering the society by uplifting the faces of the needy via material things; clothes, books, food and even with  our knowledge and experiences.

This idea was borne from the present realities of our world belonging to the social classes of the haves and have-nots; where many have too much to use and waste them and in the extreme case, people who have nothing to use and nothing to lose.



Some sides of our society have been marginalized, downtrodden and denied the access to the fundamentals of living. We have many people who are not privileged; who the society sometimes ignore or fail to remember their existence. It also stems from the fact that, people (youths) sometimes hold on to material things without need for them until they are spoilt or no longer usable.

There is also a trend amongst youths where they constantly accumulate new things whilst holding on to their old ones. We believe that that no matter how old these materials may seem, someone somewhere is in need of them and would deeply appreciate having them; hence, our motto “Just Let Go”.

So, we want to encourage the act of giving back to the society; to those that are less privileged. We believe one does not have to be a millionaire to be philanthropic; the little you have will go a long way in meeting the needs of someone, somewhere. We are committed to ensuring special protection for the most disadvantaged children – victims of war, disasters, extreme poverty, all forms of violence and exploitation and those with disabilities.
What has been your major challenge?

Getting sponsors and people that people that believe in the vision. Challenges are everywhere but I believe that with prayer and hard work we shall overcome. I see these challenges as stepping stones, Experiences acquired from solving a problem will easily be used to solve another problem.
Any words of advice for aspiring youths who want to become fashionpreneurs?



Pray, work hard, don’t give up, keep going, just be happy and just let go!

A NIGERIAN LADY, ANU YUSUF GRADUATED WITH A FIRST CLASS DEGREE IN LAW FROM BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY ON HER WEDDING DAY

Anu Yusuf 

Strange but true, a Nigerian Birmingham City University student Anu Yusuf earned two certificates in less than 24 hours.

Yusuf, who was billed to graduate on Wednesday, July, 27, 2016 also got married same day.

Yusuf, aged 26 graduated with a first-class degree in Law (LLB) in a ceremony at Symphony Hall alongside hundreds of her fellow students wearing a traditional cap and gown merely hours after she was dressed in all white as she tied the knot at Birmingham Register Office with her 27-year-old husband Joseph Kolawole.

The two love birds had met four years ago in Gombe while undertaking their mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) but had to prolong their engagement as a result of her coming to study in the UK.

She said: ““My husband often joked that he would whisk me away after my graduation to marry me because he can no longer wait. So, we decided to marry on my actual graduation day!”


Strange we decided to marry on my actual graduation day!”

Yusuf and Joseph’s wedding started at 10.40 am with a civil ceremony at Birmingham Register Office which was later followed by the official wedding photography after which the 50 guests alongside the couple headed for a midday blessing at Anu’s church, VBCI Treasure Sanctuary, located at Perry Barr Methodist Church, north of the City. The service finished at 1 pm.


With just a little time to take a bite, Yusuf got dressed for her graduation with half of the guests that witnessed her wedding which was held at Birmingham city centre for 2 pm to collect her cap and gown before receiving her first-class degree. Half of the wedding party accompanied Anu to Symphony Hall.

Anu Yusuf with her husband