• 4 months after I was born, my mom went back to University to get her degree. I'm her third child.

    She left me and my siblings with our Dad and paternal grandma and came home only weekends for three years until she finished her degree. She left 3 under-5 and went to pursue her career.

    At 28, she was doing her NYSC and pregnant with her 4th child.
    At 40, she already had her master's degree.

    She has been a civil servant since 1993.

    Now, at 61, she is at the peak of her career. A level 17 officer, Permanent Secretary grade.
    (Edit - Note: in 2023, Delta State increased retirement age from 60 to 65.)

    My aunty who was my mother's secondary mate and got married same year my mother got married, didn't continue with her education like my mom did. She had three children and tried to go back in her 40s when her last child was in secondary school, but she was only able to acquire tc2 (or whatever they call it).

    At the long run.
    My mom raised four successful biological children.
    My aunty raised three successful biological children.

    No, my aunty's children did NOT turn out better just because she gave up career and dreams to raise them.

    If you are measuring success based on wealth and quality and level of education, we are far ahead.

    There are no studies, research or statistics that indicate that children of stay-at-home mothers do better.

    If I could be asked to choose between an illiterate mother who stayed at home throughout my childhood and gave up career just to watch me VERSUS my mother who is a top/senior civil servant at the peak of her career, a boss in the office and boss at home, I would DEFINITELY choose the latter, and I'm glad that the latter is my reality.

    My father told me that he had opportunity to travel to the US or UK when I was just four. He was to travel there for research and enroute into becoming a university lecturer/professor. But he turned down the opportunity because he wanted to be there to watch his children grow every minute.

    Do you know what I told him?
    I told him that he should have gone. Some of my siblings also told him he should have gone. Imagine the children he stayed for telling him that he should have gone.
    My father's colleague who also got same offer went and came back for his family one year later. So, I told my father that leaving his family for a year or two would have been a worthwhile sacrifice to pay for a better future. He should have gone and come back for us a year or two later.

    My father was a very successful man, more educated than my mother and also got to the peak of his career, but not half as successful as he would have been if he had taken some risks, including leaving his children for a year or two.

    Why am I writing all these?

    For those women who abandon their dreams, careers and aspirations because of their children.
    Someday, your children who you abandoned your career for will ask you WHY? They will tell you that you should have pursued your career.

    Like I said, my father sacrificed career progression for us his children.
    My mother did NOT sacrifice career pursuit for anybody.
    While I understand the sacrifice my father made, as a grown adult, I still think my mother made the better choice.

    So, my dear women/mothers, I can tell you that at the long run, your children would be most proud of you if you pursue your career and achieve great career heights.

    I went back to full-time studies January to December 2024. I had my daughter in-between in April 2024. I got an extra degree and with that, I'm applying for jobs and negotiating salaries more than twice my salary in my last job.

    It wasn't easy doing that while nursing a baby, but I did it.

    My children would grow up seeing a strong mommy who didn't abandon her dreams. I want my daughter to know that she should never abandon her dream or chosen career for any reason or anyone.

    I don't want my children to ask me WHY?

    It's not easy combining academic/career and family. But nothing good comes too easily. Just do your best within your power and the opportunity and resources available to you.
    Copied
    4 months after I was born, my mom went back to University to get her degree. I'm her third child. She left me and my siblings with our Dad and paternal grandma and came home only weekends for three years until she finished her degree. She left 3 under-5 and went to pursue her career. At 28, she was doing her NYSC and pregnant with her 4th child. At 40, she already had her master's degree. She has been a civil servant since 1993. Now, at 61, she is at the peak of her career. A level 17 officer, Permanent Secretary grade. (Edit - Note: in 2023, Delta State increased retirement age from 60 to 65.) My aunty who was my mother's secondary mate and got married same year my mother got married, didn't continue with her education like my mom did. She had three children and tried to go back in her 40s when her last child was in secondary school, but she was only able to acquire tc2 (or whatever they call it). At the long run. My mom raised four successful biological children. My aunty raised three successful biological children. No, my aunty's children did NOT turn out better just because she gave up career and dreams to raise them. If you are measuring success based on wealth and quality and level of education, we are far ahead. There are no studies, research or statistics that indicate that children of stay-at-home mothers do better. If I could be asked to choose between an illiterate mother who stayed at home throughout my childhood and gave up career just to watch me VERSUS my mother who is a top/senior civil servant at the peak of her career, a boss in the office and boss at home, I would DEFINITELY choose the latter, and I'm glad that the latter is my reality. My father told me that he had opportunity to travel to the US or UK when I was just four. He was to travel there for research and enroute into becoming a university lecturer/professor. But he turned down the opportunity because he wanted to be there to watch his children grow every minute. Do you know what I told him? I told him that he should have gone. Some of my siblings also told him he should have gone. Imagine the children he stayed for telling him that he should have gone. My father's colleague who also got same offer went and came back for his family one year later. So, I told my father that leaving his family for a year or two would have been a worthwhile sacrifice to pay for a better future. He should have gone and come back for us a year or two later. My father was a very successful man, more educated than my mother and also got to the peak of his career, but not half as successful as he would have been if he had taken some risks, including leaving his children for a year or two. Why am I writing all these? For those women who abandon their dreams, careers and aspirations because of their children. Someday, your children who you abandoned your career for will ask you WHY? They will tell you that you should have pursued your career. Like I said, my father sacrificed career progression for us his children. My mother did NOT sacrifice career pursuit for anybody. While I understand the sacrifice my father made, as a grown adult, I still think my mother made the better choice. So, my dear women/mothers, I can tell you that at the long run, your children would be most proud of you if you pursue your career and achieve great career heights. I went back to full-time studies January to December 2024. I had my daughter in-between in April 2024. I got an extra degree and with that, I'm applying for jobs and negotiating salaries more than twice my salary in my last job. It wasn't easy doing that while nursing a baby, but I did it. My children would grow up seeing a strong mommy who didn't abandon her dreams. I want my daughter to know that she should never abandon her dream or chosen career for any reason or anyone. I don't want my children to ask me WHY? It's not easy combining academic/career and family. But nothing good comes too easily. Just do your best within your power and the opportunity and resources available to you. Copied ✍️
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  • Who Truly Benefits from Sex? Man or Woman?

    The first thought that likely came to your mind was—man. Right? Most people instinctively assume that men derive more pleasure from sex, while women merely endure it. But you might be surprised to learn that reality is quite the opposite.

    Whether the act lasts five minutes or fifty, a man’s pleasure is condensed into the final five to ten seconds. In contrast, a woman can experience ****** up to ten times in a single sexual encounter. That means a woman has the potential to enjoy ten times more pleasure than a man. Moreover, the duration of a woman's ****** is typically twice or even three times longer than that of a man.

    Of course, not every woman reaches this peak every time. Some may rarely experience it, while others, on average, enjoy it three times per encounter—which is still significantly more than men. Less effort, more reward. This is an undeniable fact.

    But There’s More to the Story…

    ****** is simply the peak. The journey leading up to it is filled with pleasurable moments, intimate sensations, and deep emotional connections that keep both partners engaged. Both men and women derive enjoyment throughout the experience, but the ultimate climax marks the grand finale.

    Wise lovers understand that sex is not just about reaching the peak—it’s about savoring every moment of the journey.

    But If Women Benefit More, Why Are Men Always the Ones Pursuing It?

    The answer is simple: instinct.

    God designed sex as a reward system to encourage reproduction. Since women bear the greater burden of pregnancy—carrying a child for nine months—they were naturally endowed with a greater pleasure incentive to ensure they willingly partake in the process. Smart women embrace this natural gift, while the unaware may deprive themselves of it.

    Let’s be honest—if childbirth pain was the only reward, no woman would ever want to go through it again. But two things keep her coming back:

    The innate maternal instinct God has placed within her.

    The unparalleled pleasure and emotional fulfillment that comes with sex.

    Funny But True…

    It’s often said that during labor, women curse their husbands, blaming them for the unbearable pain they are experiencing.

    But can you deny the reality that the same woman, after delivering her child, willingly prepares for another pregnancy within a year?

    No man forces her into it. There’s no gunpoint coercion.

    It’s instinct.
    It’s pleasure.
    It’s God’s divine system at work.

    But Then, Why Do Men Chase Women If They Get Less Pleasure?

    Again, instinct and dominance.

    God has naturally instilled in men a desire to dominate and lead. A man's greatest pleasure in sex is not just physical—it’s the satisfaction of knowing that he has "conquered" his woman, pleased her, and fulfilled his natural role.

    Men don’t chase sex just for a few seconds of pleasure. They do it because it reaffirms their strength, their power, their ability to satisfy their woman, and ultimately, their role as a protector and provider.

    This dominance-driven pleasure fuels their willingness to bear responsibilities, raise children, and provide for their families.

    If Sex Is About Reproduction, Why Do Humans Continue Even When Pregnancy Isn’t the Goal?

    Good question. Other creatures mate solely for reproduction. But humans are the only species that enjoy this pleasure beyond just procreation.

    Why? Because God designed sex not just for reproduction, but also for bonding, stress relief, and maintaining emotional harmony between partners.

    This is why, even when pregnancy is not the goal, a couple continues to engage in intimacy regularly.

    Without this constant cycle of pleasure, emotional connection, and intimacy, relationships would suffer. A woman, after experiencing the pain of childbirth, might never want to go through it again. A man, burdened with responsibilities, might lose his motivation to work and provide.

    But sex keeps the system running.

    The Divine Balance

    God, in His wisdom, has allowed couples the freedom to experience intimacy whenever they desire, with no legal or religious restrictions, as long as it happens within marriage.

    Both man and woman receive their fair share of pleasure:

    The man experiences intense gratification, emotional release, and dominance satisfaction.

    The woman enjoys profound, long-lasting pleasure—up to ten times more than the man.

    Less effort, greater reward.

    Sex is not just a biological act. It is a divine gift, a system of balance, and an eternal bond between two souls.

    #nakupenda
    #Utom58
    #De_NextVerYou
    #Relationship/Sex
    Who Truly Benefits from Sex? Man or Woman? The first thought that likely came to your mind was—man. Right? Most people instinctively assume that men derive more pleasure from sex, while women merely endure it. But you might be surprised to learn that reality is quite the opposite. Whether the act lasts five minutes or fifty, a man’s pleasure is condensed into the final five to ten seconds. In contrast, a woman can experience orgasm up to ten times in a single sexual encounter. That means a woman has the potential to enjoy ten times more pleasure than a man. Moreover, the duration of a woman's orgasm is typically twice or even three times longer than that of a man. Of course, not every woman reaches this peak every time. Some may rarely experience it, while others, on average, enjoy it three times per encounter—which is still significantly more than men. Less effort, more reward. This is an undeniable fact. But There’s More to the Story… Orgasm is simply the peak. The journey leading up to it is filled with pleasurable moments, intimate sensations, and deep emotional connections that keep both partners engaged. Both men and women derive enjoyment throughout the experience, but the ultimate climax marks the grand finale. Wise lovers understand that sex is not just about reaching the peak—it’s about savoring every moment of the journey. But If Women Benefit More, Why Are Men Always the Ones Pursuing It? The answer is simple: instinct. God designed sex as a reward system to encourage reproduction. Since women bear the greater burden of pregnancy—carrying a child for nine months—they were naturally endowed with a greater pleasure incentive to ensure they willingly partake in the process. Smart women embrace this natural gift, while the unaware may deprive themselves of it. Let’s be honest—if childbirth pain was the only reward, no woman would ever want to go through it again. But two things keep her coming back: The innate maternal instinct God has placed within her. The unparalleled pleasure and emotional fulfillment that comes with sex. Funny But True… It’s often said that during labor, women curse their husbands, blaming them for the unbearable pain they are experiencing. But can you deny the reality that the same woman, after delivering her child, willingly prepares for another pregnancy within a year? No man forces her into it. There’s no gunpoint coercion. It’s instinct. It’s pleasure. It’s God’s divine system at work. But Then, Why Do Men Chase Women If They Get Less Pleasure? Again, instinct and dominance. God has naturally instilled in men a desire to dominate and lead. A man's greatest pleasure in sex is not just physical—it’s the satisfaction of knowing that he has "conquered" his woman, pleased her, and fulfilled his natural role. Men don’t chase sex just for a few seconds of pleasure. They do it because it reaffirms their strength, their power, their ability to satisfy their woman, and ultimately, their role as a protector and provider. This dominance-driven pleasure fuels their willingness to bear responsibilities, raise children, and provide for their families. If Sex Is About Reproduction, Why Do Humans Continue Even When Pregnancy Isn’t the Goal? Good question. Other creatures mate solely for reproduction. But humans are the only species that enjoy this pleasure beyond just procreation. Why? Because God designed sex not just for reproduction, but also for bonding, stress relief, and maintaining emotional harmony between partners. This is why, even when pregnancy is not the goal, a couple continues to engage in intimacy regularly. Without this constant cycle of pleasure, emotional connection, and intimacy, relationships would suffer. A woman, after experiencing the pain of childbirth, might never want to go through it again. A man, burdened with responsibilities, might lose his motivation to work and provide. But sex keeps the system running. The Divine Balance God, in His wisdom, has allowed couples the freedom to experience intimacy whenever they desire, with no legal or religious restrictions, as long as it happens within marriage. Both man and woman receive their fair share of pleasure: The man experiences intense gratification, emotional release, and dominance satisfaction. The woman enjoys profound, long-lasting pleasure—up to ten times more than the man. Less effort, greater reward. Sex is not just a biological act. It is a divine gift, a system of balance, and an eternal bond between two souls. #nakupenda #Utom58 #De_NextVerYou #Relationship/Sex
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  • Nakupenda a community, where genuine love thrives.

    #Happiness #Nakupenda #Ini
    Nakupenda a community, where genuine love thrives. #Happiness #Nakupenda #Ini
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  • Give your children another head-start with new tech skills this April holiday.

    Prepare them to learn more tech skills and solve new challenges while being top of their career.

    Courses:
    • Games/App development
    • Animations
    • Design websites
    • Build/program robots

    Duration
    14th – 30th April

    Venue:
    1. Online
    2. Physical office: Keffe house, 80 Ikwerre Road Mile 2 Port Harcourt.

    20,000 early bird is available

    To register:
    Call Technoid coach: 08033650660

    #holiday #skills #childDevelopment #TechEducation #initechnoidservices #CodingClasses #AI #robots #games #TechSkills #animations #websites
    Give your children another head-start with new tech skills this April holiday. Prepare them to learn more tech skills and solve new challenges while being top of their career. Courses: • Games/App development • Animations • Design websites • Build/program robots Duration 14th – 30th April 📍 Venue: 1. Online 2. Physical office: Keffe house, 80 Ikwerre Road Mile 2 Port Harcourt. 💵20,000 early bird is available To register: Call Technoid coach: 08033650660 #holiday #skills #childDevelopment #TechEducation #initechnoidservices #CodingClasses #AI #robots #games #TechSkills #animations #websites
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  • A Barrow Pusher Became Rich After Public Insults and Abandonment

    Episode 1

    The sun was merciless that afternoon, pouring its heat down like punishment on the busy streets of Onitsha. Chijioke’s skin was browned from years of exposure, his hands calloused from pushing his barrow through tight markets and uphill roads. He had just finished delivering a load of yams to a woman in Ose Market and was making his way back, tired but hopeful. Business had been rough, but today, he had made a little more than usual. It was enough to buy garri, sugar and a little amount to send to his mother in the village.

    As he paused by a roadside kiosk to buy pure water, he heard a voice he hadn’t heard in years — sharp, familiar, and once dear.
    “Is that not Chijioke?” the voice echoed.
    He turned, and his heart thudded. Ada. Beautiful, proud Ada. The same Ada he had once given his heart to in their village school. Now she stood radiant in makeup and fancy clothes, flanked by two other girls.

    He smiled awkwardly, lifting his hand in greeting. “Ada, long time—”
    She cut him off with a mocking laugh. “Chijioke! You still dey push barrow? Haba! Na wa o. Look at your mates! They drive cars, they wear suits. And you?” Her friends burst into laughter. One even took out her phone to snap a picture.

    A small crowd began to gather. Traders stopped. Bus conductors paused their chants. People stared. Chijioke’s heart sank. He felt like the ground should open and swallow him.
    “I used to like you before,” Ada continued, “but now I thank God I said no to you. See your life!”

    He stood rooted, too stunned to speak. The bottle of water slipped from his hand. His eyes burned with unshed tears, but he wouldn’t let them fall. Instead, he picked up his barrow slowly, nodded once, and pushed it forward. Each step felt like a hundred lashes to his pride. People whispered, others laughed, some just watched. It was the longest walk of his life.

    By the time he reached the edge of the market, his legs were shaking. He veered off the main road, found a quiet spot behind an abandoned shop, and sat on a broken cement slab. For the first time in years, he let the tears come. He cried for his dreams, for his shame, for his father who had died too soon, for the mother whose body was fading from sickness. He cried for being mocked, for being poor, for being helpless.

    But somewhere in the middle of the tears, a thought began to grow. What if this was not the end? What if her insult was a mirror showing him who he’d become — and who he could still be? The pain turned into fire. A quiet vow formed in his heart: They will never laugh at me like this again.

    #worldwide
    #africanfolktales
    #Discipline
    #nakupenda
    A Barrow Pusher Became Rich After Public Insults and Abandonment Episode 1 The sun was merciless that afternoon, pouring its heat down like punishment on the busy streets of Onitsha. Chijioke’s skin was browned from years of exposure, his hands calloused from pushing his barrow through tight markets and uphill roads. He had just finished delivering a load of yams to a woman in Ose Market and was making his way back, tired but hopeful. Business had been rough, but today, he had made a little more than usual. It was enough to buy garri, sugar and a little amount to send to his mother in the village. As he paused by a roadside kiosk to buy pure water, he heard a voice he hadn’t heard in years — sharp, familiar, and once dear. “Is that not Chijioke?” the voice echoed. He turned, and his heart thudded. Ada. Beautiful, proud Ada. The same Ada he had once given his heart to in their village school. Now she stood radiant in makeup and fancy clothes, flanked by two other girls. He smiled awkwardly, lifting his hand in greeting. “Ada, long time—” She cut him off with a mocking laugh. “Chijioke! You still dey push barrow? Haba! Na wa o. Look at your mates! They drive cars, they wear suits. And you?” Her friends burst into laughter. One even took out her phone to snap a picture. A small crowd began to gather. Traders stopped. Bus conductors paused their chants. People stared. Chijioke’s heart sank. He felt like the ground should open and swallow him. “I used to like you before,” Ada continued, “but now I thank God I said no to you. See your life!” He stood rooted, too stunned to speak. The bottle of water slipped from his hand. His eyes burned with unshed tears, but he wouldn’t let them fall. Instead, he picked up his barrow slowly, nodded once, and pushed it forward. Each step felt like a hundred lashes to his pride. People whispered, others laughed, some just watched. It was the longest walk of his life. By the time he reached the edge of the market, his legs were shaking. He veered off the main road, found a quiet spot behind an abandoned shop, and sat on a broken cement slab. For the first time in years, he let the tears come. He cried for his dreams, for his shame, for his father who had died too soon, for the mother whose body was fading from sickness. He cried for being mocked, for being poor, for being helpless. But somewhere in the middle of the tears, a thought began to grow. What if this was not the end? What if her insult was a mirror showing him who he’d become — and who he could still be? The pain turned into fire. A quiet vow formed in his heart: They will never laugh at me like this again. #worldwide #africanfolktales #Discipline #nakupenda
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  • No girl runs faster than a girl with make-up when it's raining
    #PeaceOfMind
    No girl runs faster than a girl with make-up 💄 when it's raining #PeaceOfMind
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  • PUNCH Newspaper

    *The unseen crisis facing Nigerian men (moment Otunba Kunle Akinyele collapsed)*

    *Message not just for Men alone, but for everyone*

    5th May 2025.

    Ganiyu Olowu


    *When Otunba Kunle Akinyele, a respected hotelier in Lagos, slumped and died at his wife’s 60th birthday thanksgiving, the nation gasped in disbelief. One moment, he was celebrating life and love; the next, he lay lifeless at the altar of joy*. The video is haunting — *a man gesturing, gasping, reaching for help in a sacred space, surrounded by those he loved but alone in his final battle.*

    This was not just a death. It was a metaphor of silent suffering, buried exhaustion, and what men have come to normalise in the name of strength.

    Akinyele’s case is not isolated. It is one of many chilling examples of how Nigerian men, particularly in their mid- to late years, are collapsing under the weight of responsibilities, unspoken pain, and undiagnosed illnesses.

    According to the World Health Organisation, men in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, are 2.4 times more likely to die prematurely from preventable causes than women. This alarming disparity is fuelled by cultural and behavioural factors: men are less likely to seek medical help, more likely to suppress emotional turmoil, and often glorify suffering in silence. In Nigeria, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and untreated mental health conditions are among the leading causes of sudden deaths in men.

    So This Happened (215) Reviews Death Of Lagos...

    In 2019, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya—admired for his strength and spiritual leadership—passed away quietly after years of enduring deep emotional losses and reportedly ongoing health complications. His resilience was legendary, but it masked what many now see as untreated grief, intense stress, and likely silent medical conditions.

    Then came the sudden death of veteran broadcaster Ayo Oduleye, better known as MC Loyo, who slumped while compering an event in Ibadan. His charm and humour lit up stages, but in the blink of an eye, the microphone fell silent. Just like that.

    Similarly, the passing of Mr Ibu (John Okafor) in early 2024, after months of battling illness, reminded the country of how many male entertainers struggle financially and physically behind the scenes, putting on a show while their bodies deteriorate.

    Masculinity, when warped, can become a silent weapon—not just against others, but against oneself.

    *ENDEAVOUR TO TAKE GOOD REST PLEASE*

    Globally, the story remains the same. In 2014, beloved comedian Robin Williams died by suicide, a victim of masked depression. And in 2022, cricket legend Shane Warne died suddenly of a heart attack, a casualty of silent coronary disease and an overstretched lifestyle.

    Yet while statistics shock and headlines haunt, the everyday grind of the average Nigerian man tells an even sadder tale.

    Take Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital—the city that never sleeps, and where many men now barely do. A significant number of working-class men reside on the mainland or in Ogun border towns like Mowe, Ikorodu, Sango Ota, or Ibafo but must commute to the Island for work—a journey that often begins by 4:00 a.m. and ends by 9:00 p.m. on return.

    This is no exaggeration. Studies from the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority reveal that Lagosians spend an average of four to six hours daily in traffic—with many men doing these five to six times a week. That is over 1,400 hours a year lost in gridlock—time stolen from rest, from family, from reflection.

    For these men, the day begins before the rooster crows. They rush into overcrowded buses, endure fumes of frustration, only to return home when their children are already asleep. There is no room for hobbies, hardly any time for checkups, no outlet for pain. Sleep is a luxury. Rest is a myth. And joy is rationed, like fuel in a scarcity season.

    This modern man is constantly running on empty—physically present but emotionally absent, financially committed but spiritually depleted. And society applauds his hustle, without asking at what cost.

    The idiom says, “Heavy is the head that wears the crown,” but what if the crown is invisible, made not of gold but of expectations, bills, unspoken grief, and sacrificial silence?

    Men are praised for providing, for showing up, for being “rocks”. But even rocks erode—silently, slowly, and then all at once. The greatest tragedy is not that they die, but that they are dying unseen.

    Consider the tragic case of a 42 year old engineer in Port Harcourt who collapsed at his workstation after weeks of working overtime to meet project deadlines. His colleagues described him as “dedicated to a fault”, but his sudden death revealed the dangers of ignoring signs of burnout and hypertension.

    Another heartbreaking example is the story of a young entrepreneur in Enugu who passed away in his sleep after complaining of chest pains for weeks. Despite his family’s pleas, he refused to visit a doctor, citing his busy schedule and financial obligations. His autopsy later revealed undiagnosed cardiovascular disease—a silent killer that could have been managed with timely intervention.

    One unforgettable story is that of Samuel Okwaraji, the gifted footballer and patriot who gave everything to his country on the football pitch. In 1989, during a World Cup qualifier against Angola in Lagos, Okwaraji collapsed and tragically died of congestive heart failure at just 25 years old. His life, so full of promises, was cut short under the intense demands of national expectation. The harsh conditions of the game that day, combined with the immense physical and psychological pressures he faced, ultimately proved too much.

    These stories compel us to ask: What are we doing to ourselves in the name of strength? Why does the world celebrate silent suffering but frown upon seeking help?

    Dr Salawu Abiola, a psychiatrist at the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital in Yaba, offers critical advice for men navigating these pressures. He emphasises the importance of prioritising rest, adequate sleep, and regular health checkups. “If you work and die today, someone will replace you at the workplace, but no one replaces you in the family,” he warns.

    Abiola advocates setting realistic goals, managing time effectively, and creating moments of joy and relaxation amid life’s challenges. He also highlights the need for men to engage in positive activities, such as exercise, hobbies, and socialising with supportive people, to release built-up tension and foster mental well-being.

    Check your vitals before you check your wallet. Monthly profit means nothing if your heart gives out unexpectedly. Your strength is not in how much you carry but in how well you manage your load. Therapy is not weakness. It is a repair. Just like a car needs servicing, your mind and soul need realignment.

    Build relationships where you are more than a provider—where you are allowed to cry, collapse, confess. A good name is better than riches, but good health is the foundation of both.

    As Chinua Achebe once said, “When the drumbeat changes, the dance must also change.” The drumbeat of life today is faster, louder, and less forgiving. Men must adjust their rhythm. Health is the new wealth. Silence is no longer golden; it is dangerous.

    *Ganiyu Olowu, a public affairs analyst, writes from Lagos*.



    punchng.com 1971- 2025 Punch Nigeria Limited

    *MAY WE ALL LIVE LONG IN JESUS NAME*
    CULLED
    #olufaderomi
    #grace
    PUNCH Newspaper *The unseen crisis facing Nigerian men (moment Otunba Kunle Akinyele collapsed)* *Message not just for Men alone, but for everyone* 5th May 2025. Ganiyu Olowu *When Otunba Kunle Akinyele, a respected hotelier in Lagos, slumped and died at his wife’s 60th birthday thanksgiving, the nation gasped in disbelief. One moment, he was celebrating life and love; the next, he lay lifeless at the altar of joy*. The video is haunting — *a man gesturing, gasping, reaching for help in a sacred space, surrounded by those he loved but alone in his final battle.* This was not just a death. It was a metaphor of silent suffering, buried exhaustion, and what men have come to normalise in the name of strength. Akinyele’s case is not isolated. It is one of many chilling examples of how Nigerian men, particularly in their mid- to late years, are collapsing under the weight of responsibilities, unspoken pain, and undiagnosed illnesses. According to the World Health Organisation, men in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, are 2.4 times more likely to die prematurely from preventable causes than women. This alarming disparity is fuelled by cultural and behavioural factors: men are less likely to seek medical help, more likely to suppress emotional turmoil, and often glorify suffering in silence. In Nigeria, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and untreated mental health conditions are among the leading causes of sudden deaths in men. So This Happened (215) Reviews Death Of Lagos... In 2019, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya—admired for his strength and spiritual leadership—passed away quietly after years of enduring deep emotional losses and reportedly ongoing health complications. His resilience was legendary, but it masked what many now see as untreated grief, intense stress, and likely silent medical conditions. Then came the sudden death of veteran broadcaster Ayo Oduleye, better known as MC Loyo, who slumped while compering an event in Ibadan. His charm and humour lit up stages, but in the blink of an eye, the microphone fell silent. Just like that. Similarly, the passing of Mr Ibu (John Okafor) in early 2024, after months of battling illness, reminded the country of how many male entertainers struggle financially and physically behind the scenes, putting on a show while their bodies deteriorate. Masculinity, when warped, can become a silent weapon—not just against others, but against oneself. *ENDEAVOUR TO TAKE GOOD REST PLEASE* Globally, the story remains the same. In 2014, beloved comedian Robin Williams died by suicide, a victim of masked depression. And in 2022, cricket legend Shane Warne died suddenly of a heart attack, a casualty of silent coronary disease and an overstretched lifestyle. Yet while statistics shock and headlines haunt, the everyday grind of the average Nigerian man tells an even sadder tale. Take Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital—the city that never sleeps, and where many men now barely do. A significant number of working-class men reside on the mainland or in Ogun border towns like Mowe, Ikorodu, Sango Ota, or Ibafo but must commute to the Island for work—a journey that often begins by 4:00 a.m. and ends by 9:00 p.m. on return. This is no exaggeration. Studies from the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority reveal that Lagosians spend an average of four to six hours daily in traffic—with many men doing these five to six times a week. That is over 1,400 hours a year lost in gridlock—time stolen from rest, from family, from reflection. For these men, the day begins before the rooster crows. They rush into overcrowded buses, endure fumes of frustration, only to return home when their children are already asleep. There is no room for hobbies, hardly any time for checkups, no outlet for pain. Sleep is a luxury. Rest is a myth. And joy is rationed, like fuel in a scarcity season. This modern man is constantly running on empty—physically present but emotionally absent, financially committed but spiritually depleted. And society applauds his hustle, without asking at what cost. The idiom says, “Heavy is the head that wears the crown,” but what if the crown is invisible, made not of gold but of expectations, bills, unspoken grief, and sacrificial silence? Men are praised for providing, for showing up, for being “rocks”. But even rocks erode—silently, slowly, and then all at once. The greatest tragedy is not that they die, but that they are dying unseen. Consider the tragic case of a 42 year old engineer in Port Harcourt who collapsed at his workstation after weeks of working overtime to meet project deadlines. His colleagues described him as “dedicated to a fault”, but his sudden death revealed the dangers of ignoring signs of burnout and hypertension. Another heartbreaking example is the story of a young entrepreneur in Enugu who passed away in his sleep after complaining of chest pains for weeks. Despite his family’s pleas, he refused to visit a doctor, citing his busy schedule and financial obligations. His autopsy later revealed undiagnosed cardiovascular disease—a silent killer that could have been managed with timely intervention. One unforgettable story is that of Samuel Okwaraji, the gifted footballer and patriot who gave everything to his country on the football pitch. In 1989, during a World Cup qualifier against Angola in Lagos, Okwaraji collapsed and tragically died of congestive heart failure at just 25 years old. His life, so full of promises, was cut short under the intense demands of national expectation. The harsh conditions of the game that day, combined with the immense physical and psychological pressures he faced, ultimately proved too much. These stories compel us to ask: What are we doing to ourselves in the name of strength? Why does the world celebrate silent suffering but frown upon seeking help? Dr Salawu Abiola, a psychiatrist at the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital in Yaba, offers critical advice for men navigating these pressures. He emphasises the importance of prioritising rest, adequate sleep, and regular health checkups. “If you work and die today, someone will replace you at the workplace, but no one replaces you in the family,” he warns. Abiola advocates setting realistic goals, managing time effectively, and creating moments of joy and relaxation amid life’s challenges. He also highlights the need for men to engage in positive activities, such as exercise, hobbies, and socialising with supportive people, to release built-up tension and foster mental well-being. Check your vitals before you check your wallet. Monthly profit means nothing if your heart gives out unexpectedly. Your strength is not in how much you carry but in how well you manage your load. Therapy is not weakness. It is a repair. Just like a car needs servicing, your mind and soul need realignment. Build relationships where you are more than a provider—where you are allowed to cry, collapse, confess. A good name is better than riches, but good health is the foundation of both. As Chinua Achebe once said, “When the drumbeat changes, the dance must also change.” The drumbeat of life today is faster, louder, and less forgiving. Men must adjust their rhythm. Health is the new wealth. Silence is no longer golden; it is dangerous. *Ganiyu Olowu, a public affairs analyst, writes from Lagos*. punchng.com ©️ 1971- 2025 Punch Nigeria Limited *MAY WE ALL LIVE LONG IN JESUS NAME* 🙏 CULLED #olufaderomi #grace
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  • Adaptation is a life skill everyone should have, and the earlier you embrace technological growth, innovations and transitions the better for you.

    NOW READ THIS,

    Adapting to the Use of AI: Embracing the Future with Awareness and Agility

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept; it’s a powerful tool transforming how we live, work, and interact daily. From chatbots and smart assistants to automated business processes and data-driven decision-making, AI is becoming deeply integrated into nearly every industry.

    Adapting to the use of AI requires a mindset shift. It’s not about competing with machines but about learning how to work alongside them. Individuals must develop digital literacy, understand the basics of AI tools, and be open to continuous learning. Soft skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence also become more valuable, as these remain uniquely human strengths.

    For businesses, adapting means rethinking operations, retraining staff, and exploring how AI can enhance productivity without sacrificing ethics or job quality. Responsible use of AI also involves understanding bias, privacy, and the importance of transparency in automated decisions.

    Ultimately, adapting to AI is about staying curious, flexible, and proactive. Those who embrace change and learn to use AI as a partner will find themselves better prepared for the opportunities and challenges of the future.

    #grace #LilyWealth
    Adaptation is a life skill everyone should have, and the earlier you embrace technological growth, innovations and transitions the better for you. NOW READ THIS, Adapting to the Use of AI: Embracing the Future with Awareness and Agility Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept; it’s a powerful tool transforming how we live, work, and interact daily. From chatbots and smart assistants to automated business processes and data-driven decision-making, AI is becoming deeply integrated into nearly every industry. Adapting to the use of AI requires a mindset shift. It’s not about competing with machines but about learning how to work alongside them. Individuals must develop digital literacy, understand the basics of AI tools, and be open to continuous learning. Soft skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence also become more valuable, as these remain uniquely human strengths. For businesses, adapting means rethinking operations, retraining staff, and exploring how AI can enhance productivity without sacrificing ethics or job quality. Responsible use of AI also involves understanding bias, privacy, and the importance of transparency in automated decisions. Ultimately, adapting to AI is about staying curious, flexible, and proactive. Those who embrace change and learn to use AI as a partner will find themselves better prepared for the opportunities and challenges of the future. #grace #LilyWealth
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  • *UNIVERSITY OF ADULTERY*
    *FINAL YEAR EXAMS*
    *COURSE: MARRIAGEMATICS*
    *Time*: *3Hrs 30MINS*

    *INSTRUCTIONS:*
    1 *_ATTEMPT ALL QUESTIONS_*
    2 *_ALL QUESTIONS MUST BE ATTEMPTED IRRESPECTIVE OF GENDER_*

    *1.* You are a married man and you have dated somebody's wife for *two* years, busy spending on her like there is no tomorrow. eventually she drops you and concentrates on her innocent husband. Calculate the percentage of time wasted. *(20 marks)*

    *2.* You bought a phone for your friend's wife and she gave it to her husband. Using trigonometric identities, derive a general formula for this type of love. *(20 marks)*

    *3. For Men* You're dating around 15 ladies and every lady is demanding for a Samsung Galaxy and an iPhone 16s
    *(a)* Plot a graph of detoothers against prices of phones. *(15marks)*
    *(b)* Use your graph to estimate your future poverty *(5marks)*
    *(c)* Plot the percentage shame against volume of apologies to your family members. *(5 Mks)*

    *4.* You are whatsapping and facebooking other people's wives yet you don't want to see your wife on the social network. Calculate the Percentage Error in your thinking capacity. *(20 marks)*

    *5.* You are a *civil servant*, your wife is a petty trader, your combined household income is less than N1,000,000. Your daughter who is awaiting *WASSCE* result is using iPhone 16s and Samsung Galaxy worth N700,000 . Calculate the Percentage of your Parental Negligence. *(20 marks)*

    *6. *For ladies* You're a married woman and you have dated 20 guys with hard labour, use the law of diminishing Return to calculate the substance that will be left for your husband to enjoy. *(20 marks)*

    *7.* You can't give your wife N10,000 for a pot of soup, but you spend over N50,000 in bars and restaurant.
    Calculate the radius of your 'stupidity', take π=3.142 *(20 marks)*

    8.* You have been in the place of worship for years but your name is not in the book of LIFE because of the secret sin. Calculate the years you will spend in HELL? (30 mark)
    _*BEST OF LUCK!*
    Your Time Starts Now. But remember to share to all your friends because the question papers are not many to go round... Laughing but serious issue: Pls don't laugh alone.
    Hell is Real, Heaven is REAL!
    #Discipline
    #Heavenisreal
    *UNIVERSITY OF ADULTERY* *FINAL YEAR EXAMS* *COURSE: MARRIAGEMATICS* *Time*: *3Hrs 30MINS* *INSTRUCTIONS:* 1 *_ATTEMPT ALL QUESTIONS_* 2 *_ALL QUESTIONS MUST BE ATTEMPTED IRRESPECTIVE OF GENDER_* *1.* You are a married man and you have dated somebody's wife for *two* years, busy spending on her like there is no tomorrow. eventually she drops you and concentrates on her innocent husband. Calculate the percentage of time wasted. *(20 marks)* *2.* You bought a phone for your friend's wife and she gave it to her husband. Using trigonometric identities, derive a general formula for this type of love. *(20 marks)* *3. For Men* You're dating around 15 ladies and every lady is demanding for a Samsung Galaxy and an iPhone 16s *(a)* Plot a graph of detoothers against prices of phones. *(15marks)* *(b)* Use your graph to estimate your future poverty *(5marks)* *(c)* Plot the percentage shame against volume of apologies to your family members. *(5 Mks)* *4.* You are whatsapping and facebooking other people's wives yet you don't want to see your wife on the social network. Calculate the Percentage Error in your thinking capacity. *(20 marks)* *5.* You are a *civil servant*, your wife is a petty trader, your combined household income is less than N1,000,000. Your daughter who is awaiting *WASSCE* result is using iPhone 16s and Samsung Galaxy worth N700,000 . Calculate the Percentage of your Parental Negligence. *(20 marks)* *6. *For ladies* You're a married woman and you have dated 20 guys with hard labour, use the law of diminishing Return to calculate the substance that will be left for your husband to enjoy. *(20 marks)* *7.* You can't give your wife N10,000 for a pot of soup, but you spend over N50,000 in bars and restaurant. Calculate the radius of your 'stupidity', take π=3.142 *(20 marks)* 8.* You have been in the place of worship for years but your name is not in the book of LIFE because of the secret sin. Calculate the years you will spend in HELL? (30 mark) _*BEST OF LUCK!* Your Time Starts Now. But remember to share to all your friends because the question papers are not many to go round... Laughing but serious issue: Pls don't laugh alone. Hell is Real, Heaven is REAL! #Discipline #Heavenisreal
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  • * READY TO GO BIG?*

    This Saturday’s *FREE Virtual Assistant Training* is going to be a game changer — don’t miss it!

    Plus, *REGISTRATION is now open* for the next *Virtual Assistant Training Cohort starting in June.*

    Learn how to:
    Earn in dollars
    Attract high-paying clients
    Work remotely from anywhere
    Access replays, tasks & mentorship and many more

    *YOUR GROWTH STARTS
    HERE
    FOR COURSE CONTENT, AND PAYMENT DM.

    SECURE YOUR SPOT TODAY!
    *🔥 READY TO GO BIG?* This Saturday’s *FREE Virtual Assistant Training* is going to be a game changer — don’t miss it! Plus, *REGISTRATION is now open* for the next *Virtual Assistant Training Cohort starting in June.* Learn how to: ✅ Earn in dollars ✅ Attract high-paying clients ✅ Work remotely from anywhere ✅ Access replays, tasks & mentorship and many more *YOUR GROWTH STARTS HERE FOR COURSE CONTENT, AND PAYMENT DM. SECURE YOUR SPOT TODAY!
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  • On your journey to winning, bear in mind that fear will try to creep in, but your winning mindset should always be active, it'll keep you going till you get to the finished line.
    #grateful #sarahdalandlady
    On your journey to winning, bear in mind that fear will try to creep in, but your winning mindset should always be active, it'll keep you going till you get to the finished line. #grateful #sarahdalandlady
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  • A man took some loan, bought a house, it was about to be seized, just because he could not repay the loan and interest as agreed.

    He posted his situation on Facebook looking for help, but all he could get was zero comments.

    So he sent 250 messages to his contact list requesting a loan of #2,000,000.

    Unfortunately only 10 people responded. 6 out of 10 said they could not help him. And only 1 out of 4 who promised to help and gave him some money.

    The other 3 gave excuse and never took his calls.

    In the end, he was ejected.
    He did not have a place to sleep. He walked in the dark looking for options and unfortunately, A thief stole his empty purse with his ID.

    The thief was badly hit by a car in high speed as he fled and died without his body being identified.

    Only the bag containing the identity card served as a marker.

    The next day the news spread quickly around that he (the Man) had died.

    2,500 people posted on his Facebook wall how they knew him and how kind he was.

    A committee was formed by his"faithful" friends who raised #7,500.000 to feed people at his funeral.

    His work colleagues organized themselves and brought #11.5m for the coffin, the tents and the chairs.

    He had to be buried in a coffin worth #3,500.000 but as they hastily bouht it there was a man who sold it to them for #2.000,000 saying it was his contribution.

    The family met again, it was a rare opportunity for the family to meet again.

    Then there was a sitting. For the funeral, the family contributed #4,000,000.

    Everyone wanted to volunteer to show that they were participating.

    They printed t-shirts and polos for more than #850,000.

    Now imagine the scene when he decided to show himself up on the day of his burial...

    While everyone run helter skelter thinking they'd seen a ghost, the man felt embittered, seeing how both family and friends that abandoned him at his darkest hours, extravagantly spent all they had, on mere carcass...

    So is life today, A sad reality but part of our daily lives.

    It will surprise you to learn that bulk of all those who talk about how much they love the deceased on burial days, are those who never showed him care and love, when he was alive.

    Yet, they'll talk from Lagos to abuja, how much they loved him.

    When a family member is in dire financial need, nobody will help...but the moment he's dead, money will come from all hidings...

    Help your brother/sister when he/she needs you.

    Do not wait for their death to show them your love. It will not help them.
    #Discipline
    #loveONEanother
    #nakupenda
    A man took some loan, bought a house, it was about to be seized, just because he could not repay the loan and interest as agreed. He posted his situation on Facebook looking for help, but all he could get was zero comments. So he sent 250 messages to his contact list requesting a loan of #2,000,000. Unfortunately only 10 people responded. 6 out of 10 said they could not help him. And only 1 out of 4 who promised to help and gave him some money. The other 3 gave excuse and never took his calls. In the end, he was ejected. He did not have a place to sleep. He walked in the dark looking for options and unfortunately, A thief stole his empty purse with his ID. The thief was badly hit by a car in high speed as he fled and died without his body being identified. Only the bag containing the identity card served as a marker. The next day the news spread quickly around that he (the Man) had died. 2,500 people posted on his Facebook wall how they knew him and how kind he was. A committee was formed by his"faithful" friends who raised #7,500.000 to feed people at his funeral. His work colleagues organized themselves and brought #11.5m for the coffin, the tents and the chairs. He had to be buried in a coffin worth #3,500.000 but as they hastily bouht it there was a man who sold it to them for #2.000,000 saying it was his contribution. The family met again, it was a rare opportunity for the family to meet again. Then there was a sitting. For the funeral, the family contributed #4,000,000. Everyone wanted to volunteer to show that they were participating. They printed t-shirts and polos for more than #850,000. Now imagine the scene when he decided to show himself up on the day of his burial... While everyone run helter skelter thinking they'd seen a ghost, the man felt embittered, seeing how both family and friends that abandoned him at his darkest hours, extravagantly spent all they had, on mere carcass... So is life today, A sad reality but part of our daily lives. It will surprise you to learn that bulk of all those who talk about how much they love the deceased on burial days, are those who never showed him care and love, when he was alive. Yet, they'll talk from Lagos to abuja, how much they loved him. When a family member is in dire financial need, nobody will help...but the moment he's dead, money will come from all hidings...🤔 Help your brother/sister when he/she needs you. Do not wait for their death to show them your love. It will not help them. #Discipline #loveONEanother #nakupenda
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