Wednesday, October 3, 2012

International Tennis Champions, Serena and Venus Williams Hit the Lagos Court this October


From Tuesday the 30th of October to Friday the 2nd of November, international Tennis sensation Serena and Venus Williams will be in Lagos as part of the ‘Break The Mould‘ campaign. Break The Mould is a women’s empowerment initiative aimed ‘to help women at various life stages of their lives – embark on a journey of self-belief so that they can know they can achieve anything
As part of the Break The Mould mission statement and their desire to acknowledge African women and the importance of their role in society, the Williams’ sisters will be attending ‘a gala dinner, a tennis clinic and an exhibition match’. According to the press release issued by Connect Marketing Services, the match “will also be the first time the sisters will pit their strengths against one another on the tennis court anywhere in Africa”

Help! I Have Pinched, Pressed, Popped & Scrubbed But Acne Wont Let Me Be

I’ve had a protracted battle with acne and it feels like no matter what I do, I can’t get rid of it. I have have peeled, pressed, popped, scrubbed, lotioned, moisturized and ignored it in the hope that I’d wake up one day and find my mirror mirror on the wall telling me that I’m fairest of them all
This is the story of thousands of people living with acne and it can be really frustrating.  However, I think that knowing about acne and how to deal with it is a step in the right direction.
There are two types of acne scars: depressed and raised (suitable names if you ask me). The depressed acne is the type of acne that goes into the skin.  They look like little pits or depressions on the skin and occur mainly when there is a loss of fat or muscle underneath the skin surface.
Raised acne scars on the other hand, are those that appear above the skin surface.
Acne, comes in different variants and  includes papule (pimple), boils, cysts, whiteheads and blackheads. The first hints of acne appear at the puberty. Usually, sebaceous (oil) glands attached to the hair follicles on the face, back and chest are stimulated at the time of puberty because of the elevated levels of hormones. Sebum (oil) is produced (Sebum is a natural substance which lubricates and protects the skin) and with the increase in oil production, there is a change in the manner with which the skin cells mature so they are predisposed to clog the follicular openings or pores (the pore for your hair follicle). These clogged follicles gradually enlarge causing a bump on the skin. As the follicle enlarges, the wall may rupture, allowing irritating substances and normal skin bacteria access into the deeper layers of the skin, ultimately producing inflammation.
Inflammation near the skin’s surface produces a pustule; deeper inflammation results in a papule (pimple); deeper still and it’s a cyst. If the oil breaks though to the surface, the result is a “whitehead.” If the oil accumulates melanin pigment or becomes oxidized, the oil changes from white to black, and the result is a “blackhead.” It is therefore safe to say that Blackheads are therefore not dirt and do not reflect poor hygiene.
There are varied factors that cause acne in its entire ramification. Some of them include; too much exposure to the sun, pressure from collars, chin straps, tights hats, helmets and the like can aggravate acne. Medications may kickstart or worsen acne such as those containing iodides, bromides or steroids. Your occupation could also have a hand in it as you could be exposing yourself to industrial products and fumes. Then, there’s also the use of cosmetics.  I know the ladies might not be happy to read this part but it’s a bitter truth. Some cosmetic products are pore clogging and using too many products for your face may cause more damage than good.
It is important to read the ingredient description on the overleaf to ensure that you are not, as my granny would say it, pouring sand in your garri. Water based products and those definitely containing glycerin are usually safe.
After all this the question you should be asking by now is: how do I get rid of it? The answer? You can’t!
Acne is bound to come up, either in the form of raised pimples or boil. Your body needs to produce oil. But, there is a way out! There are many ways to treat and prevent acne. Here are some non-surgical ways to get your skin L’Oreal worthy. Remember that nothing is cast in stone and bear in mind that results for different skin types. Find what works for you and stick with it!
 Natural:
Vinegar — Vinegar acts like a mild chemical peel to remove the top layer of skin, and it promotes a turnover of old skin cells, which are replaced with new cells.
Lemon or lime juice — Applying lemon or lime juice to acne scars will help lighten the color of the scars so they’re less noticeable.
Cosmetic:
Dr. Dennis Gross tells us that we should “look for ingredients with skin lightening and anti-inflammatory benefits, such as retinol, vitamin C, bearberry, mulberry, licorice root extract, and azelaic amino acid.” He also warns you to stay out of the sun: “UV rays in sunlight can cause acne scars to darken and may even slow down the healing process,” this is a major reason why we should wear sunscreen 365 days a year (even though Naija people feel they have extra protection.)
 Glow by dr. brandt (with light transforming skin illuminators): It works to illuminate the skin and smooth out any unwanted textures.
 Dr. Dennis Gross Skin Care: Gross’ eponymous line and his new Ferulic Acid + Retinol Brightening Solution is developed just for the treatment of acne. “Together, ferulic acid and retinol are proven to decrease the hyperactive production of pigment, which will lighten red or dark acne scarring.
Clinique’s even better clinical dark spot corrector: It is a serum that works to improve the clarity and evenness of your skin over time.
The ultimate tool needed to make this a sure banker is PATIENCE. There are no overnight miracles so be diligent to whichever treatment you’ve chosen and you’re acne scares are sure to fade away.
Please share your acne tales and your tried and tested treatments.
Photo credit: redmart.com | mypinktasticlife.com | shopmasc.com | completedisbelief.co.za |123rf.com

Help! I Have Pinched, Pressed, Popped & Scrubbed But Acne Wont Let Me Be

I’ve had a protracted battle with acne and it feels like no matter what I do, I can’t get rid of it. I have have peeled, pressed, popped, scrubbed, lotioned, moisturized and ignored it in the hope that I’d wake up one day and find my mirror mirror on the wall telling me that I’m fairest of them all
This is the story of thousands of people living with acne and it can be really frustrating.  However, I think that knowing about acne and how to deal with it is a step in the right direction.
There are two types of acne scars: depressed and raised (suitable names if you ask me). The depressed acne is the type of acne that goes into the skin.  They look like little pits or depressions on the skin and occur mainly when there is a loss of fat or muscle underneath the skin surface.
Raised acne scars on the other hand, are those that appear above the skin surface.
Acne, comes in different variants and  includes papule (pimple), boils, cysts, whiteheads and blackheads. The first hints of acne appear at the puberty. Usually, sebaceous (oil) glands attached to the hair follicles on the face, back and chest are stimulated at the time of puberty because of the elevated levels of hormones. Sebum (oil) is produced (Sebum is a natural substance which lubricates and protects the skin) and with the increase in oil production, there is a change in the manner with which the skin cells mature so they are predisposed to clog the follicular openings or pores (the pore for your hair follicle). These clogged follicles gradually enlarge causing a bump on the skin. As the follicle enlarges, the wall may rupture, allowing irritating substances and normal skin bacteria access into the deeper layers of the skin, ultimately producing inflammation.
Inflammation near the skin’s surface produces a pustule; deeper inflammation results in a papule (pimple); deeper still and it’s a cyst. If the oil breaks though to the surface, the result is a “whitehead.” If the oil accumulates melanin pigment or becomes oxidized, the oil changes from white to black, and the result is a “blackhead.” It is therefore safe to say that Blackheads are therefore not dirt and do not reflect poor hygiene.
There are varied factors that cause acne in its entire ramification. Some of them include; too much exposure to the sun, pressure from collars, chin straps, tights hats, helmets and the like can aggravate acne. Medications may kickstart or worsen acne such as those containing iodides, bromides or steroids. Your occupation could also have a hand in it as you could be exposing yourself to industrial products and fumes. Then, there’s also the use of cosmetics.  I know the ladies might not be happy to read this part but it’s a bitter truth. Some cosmetic products are pore clogging and using too many products for your face may cause more damage than good.
It is important to read the ingredient description on the overleaf to ensure that you are not, as my granny would say it, pouring sand in your garri. Water based products and those definitely containing glycerin are usually safe.
After all this the question you should be asking by now is: how do I get rid of it? The answer? You can’t!
Acne is bound to come up, either in the form of raised pimples or boil. Your body needs to produce oil. But, there is a way out! There are many ways to treat and prevent acne. Here are some non-surgical ways to get your skin L’Oreal worthy. Remember that nothing is cast in stone and bear in mind that results for different skin types. Find what works for you and stick with it!
 Natural:
Vinegar — Vinegar acts like a mild chemical peel to remove the top layer of skin, and it promotes a turnover of old skin cells, which are replaced with new cells.
Lemon or lime juice — Applying lemon or lime juice to acne scars will help lighten the color of the scars so they’re less noticeable.
Cosmetic:
Dr. Dennis Gross tells us that we should “look for ingredients with skin lightening and anti-inflammatory benefits, such as retinol, vitamin C, bearberry, mulberry, licorice root extract, and azelaic amino acid.” He also warns you to stay out of the sun: “UV rays in sunlight can cause acne scars to darken and may even slow down the healing process,” this is a major reason why we should wear sunscreen 365 days a year (even though Naija people feel they have extra protection.)
 Glow by dr. brandt (with light transforming skin illuminators): It works to illuminate the skin and smooth out any unwanted textures.
 Dr. Dennis Gross Skin Care: Gross’ eponymous line and his new Ferulic Acid + Retinol Brightening Solution is developed just for the treatment of acne. “Together, ferulic acid and retinol are proven to decrease the hyperactive production of pigment, which will lighten red or dark acne scarring.
Clinique’s even better clinical dark spot corrector: It is a serum that works to improve the clarity and evenness of your skin over time.
The ultimate tool needed to make this a sure banker is PATIENCE. There are no overnight miracles so be diligent to whichever treatment you’ve chosen and you’re acne scares are sure to fade away.
Please share your acne tales and your tried and tested treatments.
Photo credit: redmart.com | mypinktasticlife.com | shopmasc.com | completedisbelief.co.za |123rf.com

Help! I Have Pinched, Pressed, Popped & Scrubbed But Acne Wont Let Me Be

I’ve had a protracted battle with acne and it feels like no matter what I do, I can’t get rid of it. I have have peeled, pressed, popped, scrubbed, lotioned, moisturized and ignored it in the hope that I’d wake up one day and find my mirror mirror on the wall telling me that I’m fairest of them all
This is the story of thousands of people living with acne and it can be really frustrating.  However, I think that knowing about acne and how to deal with it is a step in the right direction.
There are two types of acne scars: depressed and raised (suitable names if you ask me). The depressed acne is the type of acne that goes into the skin.  They look like little pits or depressions on the skin and occur mainly when there is a loss of fat or muscle underneath the skin surface.
Raised acne scars on the other hand, are those that appear above the skin surface.
Acne, comes in different variants and  includes papule (pimple), boils, cysts, whiteheads and blackheads. The first hints of acne appear at the puberty. Usually, sebaceous (oil) glands attached to the hair follicles on the face, back and chest are stimulated at the time of puberty because of the elevated levels of hormones. Sebum (oil) is produced (Sebum is a natural substance which lubricates and protects the skin) and with the increase in oil production, there is a change in the manner with which the skin cells mature so they are predisposed to clog the follicular openings or pores (the pore for your hair follicle). These clogged follicles gradually enlarge causing a bump on the skin. As the follicle enlarges, the wall may rupture, allowing irritating substances and normal skin bacteria access into the deeper layers of the skin, ultimately producing inflammation.
Inflammation near the skin’s surface produces a pustule; deeper inflammation results in a papule (pimple); deeper still and it’s a cyst. If the oil breaks though to the surface, the result is a “whitehead.” If the oil accumulates melanin pigment or becomes oxidized, the oil changes from white to black, and the result is a “blackhead.” It is therefore safe to say that Blackheads are therefore not dirt and do not reflect poor hygiene.
There are varied factors that cause acne in its entire ramification. Some of them include; too much exposure to the sun, pressure from collars, chin straps, tights hats, helmets and the like can aggravate acne. Medications may kickstart or worsen acne such as those containing iodides, bromides or steroids. Your occupation could also have a hand in it as you could be exposing yourself to industrial products and fumes. Then, there’s also the use of cosmetics.  I know the ladies might not be happy to read this part but it’s a bitter truth. Some cosmetic products are pore clogging and using too many products for your face may cause more damage than good.
It is important to read the ingredient description on the overleaf to ensure that you are not, as my granny would say it, pouring sand in your garri. Water based products and those definitely containing glycerin are usually safe.
After all this the question you should be asking by now is: how do I get rid of it? The answer? You can’t!
Acne is bound to come up, either in the form of raised pimples or boil. Your body needs to produce oil. But, there is a way out! There are many ways to treat and prevent acne. Here are some non-surgical ways to get your skin L’Oreal worthy. Remember that nothing is cast in stone and bear in mind that results for different skin types. Find what works for you and stick with it!
 Natural:
Vinegar — Vinegar acts like a mild chemical peel to remove the top layer of skin, and it promotes a turnover of old skin cells, which are replaced with new cells.
Lemon or lime juice — Applying lemon or lime juice to acne scars will help lighten the color of the scars so they’re less noticeable.
Cosmetic:
Dr. Dennis Gross tells us that we should “look for ingredients with skin lightening and anti-inflammatory benefits, such as retinol, vitamin C, bearberry, mulberry, licorice root extract, and azelaic amino acid.” He also warns you to stay out of the sun: “UV rays in sunlight can cause acne scars to darken and may even slow down the healing process,” this is a major reason why we should wear sunscreen 365 days a year (even though Naija people feel they have extra protection.)
 Glow by dr. brandt (with light transforming skin illuminators): It works to illuminate the skin and smooth out any unwanted textures.
 Dr. Dennis Gross Skin Care: Gross’ eponymous line and his new Ferulic Acid + Retinol Brightening Solution is developed just for the treatment of acne. “Together, ferulic acid and retinol are proven to decrease the hyperactive production of pigment, which will lighten red or dark acne scarring.
Clinique’s even better clinical dark spot corrector: It is a serum that works to improve the clarity and evenness of your skin over time.
The ultimate tool needed to make this a sure banker is PATIENCE. There are no overnight miracles so be diligent to whichever treatment you’ve chosen and you’re acne scares are sure to fade away.
Please share your acne tales and your tried and tested treatments.
Photo credit: redmart.com | mypinktasticlife.com | shopmasc.com | completedisbelief.co.za |123rf.com

In Protest of the Student Massacre at the Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa State

The very sad news of how over 20 students of Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa were shot dead yesterday has left us in shock. While some news reports say 25 students were killed, others say the figure was as high as 40.
The spokesman of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Yushua Shuaib told Channels TV “Definitely there are casualties but we don’t yet know how many dead or injured,” he said.
What makes the news even more sad is the manner in which these students were killed. According to the BBC:
Reports suggest men in military uniform entered a hall of residence outside the main campus shortly before midnight and gathered the students outside their rooms. Some were shot dead and others stabbed with knives, and their bodies left in lines outside the buildings. Most victims were students called out by name by the gunmen, police said. A resident said the attackers went from door-to-door, shooting or stabbing.
Following the attack, the school has been shut down indefinitely. It is unclear who was responsible for the attack. Some have linked it to the radical Islamic sect, Boko Haram, while others say the attack may not be unconnected with the outcome of a students’ union election which pitched northern candidates in a bitter rivalry against students from south east. Some reports say that there was ethnic tension between the mainly Muslim Hausas and predominately Christian Igbos involved in the vote. But it is unclear how a students election dispute would have turned so violent.
Among the dead are Christians and Muslims. The gunmen were wearing solders’ uniforms, and called out the names of individual students before killing them. Some were shot, some were stabbed, some had their throats slit and their mutilated corpses were left lined up in the courtyard.
But whether it was a Boko Haram attack or an outcome of the students’ union election, it gives no excuse to the fact that the attack was said to have lasted for several hours without any form of response from security agents. How is it possible that people would raid a students’ hostel freely for hours and get away without any security response? Not even one of the perpetrators of the dastardly act was caught. Media reports say the police arrived at the scene hours after the attack.
The worsening security problems being faced by students of higher institutions in the northern states leaves little to be desired. Just a week ago, it was reported that gunmen invaded the University of Jos killing one student. As the security agencies continue to show their laxity, the people behind these mindless killings are getting bolder and bolder. How can they explain that innocent and defenseless students were murdered in cold blood and 24 hours later, no progress has been made in identifying the culprits.
Nigerians are tired of hearing of promises of a more secure country. It is high time for the government to wake up and take control of these barbaric killings. The issue cannot be over flogged. We need to keep talking and keep pushing until something is done.

"I’m Scared of Going into Another Relationship" - 23yrs-old Girl Seeks Help

I have a problem I am 23yrs old and I am already a barrister, I am a Yoruba lady and my problem is that I am not in any relationship. Considering that I've had only 2 serious affairs and it all ended because I felt drained and exhausted, I am currently lonely and I need advice from all NCG readers

All my previous relationship ended because:

1. I usually do the spending in the relationship.

2. All my ex guys seems to care less about how I feel. I mean they are usually indifferent about me.

3. As soon as I see the signals I move on and don't waste my time though I go home and cry my eyes out.

Another problem is that my parents want to know who I am dating since I am the last child and I really need a sincere, loving, and comfortable guy who would treat me like the lady I am supposed to be. I am scared of going into any relationship in fact I am confused. I need relationship tips.

Thanks a bunch.

Toolz Finally Talks About Her Relationship With Don Jazzy And Marriage


Don Jazzy With Toolz
  Toolz, in a bid to clear the air on so many questions that have been asked on her views on marriage by fans, decided to sum it all up in a well contructed quote which was made available for as many as wanted to hear about her views on marriage. See below:




“Jazzy and Banky are good friends of mine. My relationship status is plain currently, I’m not married. Marriageis absolutely in the cards for me. Right now I’m focusing on finding the right person, it is very important that I find someone who respects the sanctity of marriage like I do.”

DJ Exclusive, Freeze, Ebuka Uchendu, Iyanya & More Celebrate “Arthur Guinness Day” at the Guinness VIP Black Party in Lagos

The Guinness VIP Black Party event that took place on Friday 28th September 2012. It was truly inspiring to see Guinness lovers in Nigeria paying tribute to the father of Guinness Foreign Extra Stout and also joining the rest of the world as they raised their glasses in tribute to Arthur Guinness.
The party which took place at La Mango Restaurant & Bar was a night of remarkable fun and entertainment, with loads of music from sensational DJ Exclusive.
Guests were treated to the best of food, music and lots of free products from the stables of Guinness Nigeria Plc. All in all, the Guinness VIP Black Party was an evening of immense fun and entertainment.
There were a host of celebrities in the house too to celebrate with Guinness, the likes of DJ Exclusive, Freeze, Ebuka Uchendu, Dotun Kayode, Iyanya, Kola-soul and a host of others. Above and beyond all the entertainment, guests were educated on responsible drinking tips which they adhered to.
Check out some of the pictures from the event!
Iyanya
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu
DJ Exclusive

You can log on to www.facebook.com/guinnessvip to be a fan of Guinness or join the ever growing community portal at m.guinnessvip.com or follow Guinness on twitter at www.twitter.com/guinnessvip.

How They Used Handkerchief To Kidnap Me – Redeemed Church Women Leader

Adebusola “Two men among the kidnappers ordered me to call my family. As I called my brother, they were telling me what to say. When I looked at the front, I saw a horrible looking hut. There were two women lying unconscious near it. I don’t know if the women were alive or dead. The whole place looked scary. Mrs. Adebusola Odunaya, women leader, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Cornerstone Parish, Lagos, on Tuesday described her release by kidnappers after six days of captivity as an act of God. It was reported last Thursday that Adebusola had on Saturday, September 21, left home for Lagos to buy beverages and some other items but could not be found for six days. Fortunately, 37-year-old Adebusola resurfaced on September 27. In a telephone interview with The Punch, Adebusola said although she could not recognise the exact spot, she was held in a bush along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and was released after six days. Below is how she captured her experience: “On the fateful day, I was to go to Lagos Island to pick my stock of noodles. It was past 12 noon. When I got to Ishaga area, there was no vehicle there. I decided to go to Agege to board a bus. “When I got to Agege, there was no direct bus going to Idumota on Lagos Island. I had to board an Oshodi vehicle (molue). As we were already in the vehicle, I heard a conductor calling Idumota. I had to alight from the vehicle I was in and went for that. “When I got there, the vehicle was still loading. Three women and the driver were inside. I joined them. As soon as I did, the women then asked the driver to move so that they could carry people along the road. I became happy that the vehicle would be fast. “As we were expecting the vehicle to move, the conductor came and touched me with the handkerchief he was holding. That was when I fell asleep. I did not wake until five days after in a forest along Lagos- Ibadan Expressway.” Adebusola said when she regained consciousness on the fifth day, she found out that her hair had been cut and the money she wanted to use to pay for the items, about N500, 000 had been taken. “They ransacked my bag and saw our General Overseer’s (Pastor Enoch Adeboye) picture and Redeemed wristband. They asked me, ‘So you are a member of Redeemed?’ I said yes. “They said, ‘thank God for your life.’ They now led me through the jungle to Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and left me. That was how I was freed from the kidnappers.”

Tonto Dikeh Fight Fans Dirty On Twitter Over The Release Of Her New Song


Tonto Dikeh is no doubt one of the most controversial actress in the entertainment industry.It was all fun last night on twitter to see Tonto Dikeh and her fans blasting themselves in a very dirty manner.It all started when Tonto made a public announcement of her new song that is set to be released soon....Read the tweets below:

 Within seconds of the announcement, fans attacked her. They didn't want to hear it. Hehe! And trust Tonto (she doesn't back down from a fight), she attacked back...lol. #craziness! See it after the cut...