Nature can be wonderfully whimsical, and some plants take on forms that resemble animals, making them stand out in any garden. Here are a few incredible examples:

1. Monkey Orchid (Dracula simia)
   This unique flower looks strikingly like a monkey’s face, with petals shaped to mimic facial features. Found in the cloud forests of Ecuador and Peru, the monkey orchid is rare but captivates many with its lifelike appearance.
2. Duck Orchid (Caleana major)
   Native to Australia, the duck orchid features petals that form the shape of a duck in flight. This clever design attracts pollinators, particularly wasps, which help the plant reproduce.
3. Parrot Flower (Impatiens psittacina)
   Resembling a tiny parrot in flight, this vibrant flower from Thailand showcases a stunning mix of pink and purple colors. Due to its rarity and protected status, it’s illegal to pick or export this captivating plant.
4. White Egret Orchid (Habenaria radiata)
   Named for its resemblance to a bird in mid-flight, the white egret orchid features long, wing-like petals that evoke the elegance of a soaring egret. This orchid is appreciated for both its beauty and unique shape.
5. Dolphin Succulent
   With leaves shaped like tiny dolphins leaping from the water, this playful succulent is a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. Its charming design makes it a delightful addition to any plant collection.

These fascinating plants highlight the creativity of nature and remind us of the intricate connections between flora and fauna. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply love unique plants, these specimens are sure to inspire awe!

In celebration of the 2024 Global Handwashing Day, Dettol, Nigeria’s leading hygiene brand, reaffirmed its commitment to promoting hand hygiene and public health. Partnering with the Federal Government, The Wellbeing Foundation Africa, and local social enterprises, Dettol aims to address the critical hygiene challenges facing the nation.

Addressing a Vital Need

According to the UNICEF WASHNORM report, a significant portion of the Nigerian population lacks access to basic water and sanitation services—23% without a basic water supply and only 10% with combined access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services. This deficiency contributes to the spread of preventable diseases, making the promotion of handwashing and hygiene education crucial.

Commemorative Event Highlights

The event, held in Abuja on October 15, 2024, featured key speakers including Honourable Minister Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who emphasized the importance of hand hygiene in preventing infectious diseases. He noted recent cholera outbreaks as a stark reminder of the urgent need for proper sanitation.

Cassandra Uzo-Ogbugh from Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa also spoke about Dettol’s ongoing efforts through its Hygiene Quest Curriculum, which has reached over 300,000 individuals since its inception in 2021. The program aims to provide education and essential hygiene tools, fostering healthier communities across Nigeria.

Collaborative Initiatives

Dettol’s partnership with the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) under the Clean Naija initiative continues to promote hygiene education in various states, including Lagos, Abuja, and Kwara. The collaboration aims to drive awareness and influence positive health behaviors.

Additionally, Dettol has strengthened ties with social enterprises Kiddies ‘n’ Brands and Alora Pads, focusing on educating school children about handwashing techniques and providing essential hygiene products.

A Shared Responsibility

Dettol believes that promoting hygiene is a shared responsibility and is dedicated to fostering a future where clean hands and proper hygiene practices are accessible to all Nigerians. Through these strategic partnerships and educational initiatives, Dettol is making significant strides toward a healthier nation.

It’s a common routine: plugging in your phone before bed for a full charge by morning. While this may seem convenient, it might not be the best practice for your phone’s battery health. Here are some reasons to reconsider overnight charging and tips for better battery maintenance.

1. Battery Life

Modern smartphones use lithium-ion batteries that perform best when kept between 20% and 80% charge. Keeping your phone at 100% for extended periods can degrade the battery over time, reducing its capacity to hold a charge. By avoiding overnight charging, you can help prolong your battery’s lifespan.

2. Heat Risks

Charging generates heat, and excessive heat is detrimental to battery health. When left plugged in overnight, your phone may become warmer than normal, potentially damaging internal components. To mitigate heat-related issues, try charging your phone during the day when you can unplug it shortly after it reaches full charge.

3. Energy Waste

Leaving your phone plugged in overnight can lead to unnecessary energy consumption. Even when fully charged, chargers can still draw power. Unplugging your charger when it’s not in use is a simple way to save energy and lower your electricity bill.

4. Safety Concerns

While rare, there have been incidents of phones overheating during overnight charging, leading to fires or other damage. Although most devices have safety features to prevent overcharging, it’s best to be cautious.

5. Better Charging Habits

To extend your battery’s life, develop good charging habits:

• Charge between 20% and 80%: Avoid letting your battery drop too low or stay at 100% for too long.
• Use short bursts: Charge your phone in intervals instead of overnight to reduce stress on the battery.

By making these small adjustments to your charging routine, you can keep your phone’s battery healthy and enhance its longevity.

The Tolu Odugbemi Hall of the University of Lagos became a vibrant showcase of creativity as Dufil Prima Foods, the makers of Indomie Noodles, hosted the Grand Finale of the 9th season of the Indomie Team Yourself Up arts competition on October 18.

This event celebrated the culmination of a two-month project in which students aged 4-12 collaborated with their teachers and parents to create exceptional artworks from repurposed Indomie packaging. Over 30 schools participated, resulting in more than 50,000 entries, with the top 200 artworks displayed at the event.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as attendees gathered to honor the achievements of the young artists. The competition, spearheaded by the Indomie Fan Club, promotes creativity and teamwork among children and their families. Engaging activities, including dance competitions and quizzes, highlighted the talents of participants, with Diagold School kicking off the performances with an electrifying dance show.

WINNERS ANNOUNCED

The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the winners. Eight talented children were recognized for their creativity and teamwork, receiving cash prizes and Indomie products. The grand prize went to Fifehanmi Feyisitan, who received ₦500,000 and a year’s supply of Indomie Noodles.

Other notable winners included:

• 1st Runner-Up: Mildred Kalu – ₦100,000
• 2nd Runner-Up: Oluchi Elenedu – ₦75,000
• 3rd Runner-Up: Gloria Bamisaiye – ₦50,000

Regional awards were also presented, with Adebowale Onakoya, Samson Banibose, and Felix Nwosu each earning ₦35,000 as Best in Lagos, Best in Abuja, and Best in the East, respectively.

ENGAGING YOUNG MINDS

Temitope Ashiwaju, Group Corporate Communication and Events Manager, expressed the initiative’s goals: “We engage children in their schools over two months, encouraging them to team up with their parents or art teachers to create artworks. We teach them that waste can be transformed into wealth.”

Fan Club Coordinator, Faith Joshua, emphasized the program’s focus on bonding and recycling, stating, “We encourage children to keep their Indomie cartons, create something from them, and win prizes! It’s about recycling, team bonding, and creativity.”

The event also featured the Indomie Mobile Kitchen, which served delicious bowls of steaming Indomie Instant Noodles to all attendees. As a token of appreciation, Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Sales and Marketing at Dufil Prima Foods, announced that every child whose artwork was displayed would receive five cartons of Indomie.

The event was a resounding success, showcasing the artistic talents of young Nigerians while promoting teamwork, creativity, and sustainability.

China’s National Health Commission has unveiled its first set of guidelines aimed at standardizing the diagnosis and treatment of obesity. Over the past years, the country has seen a rising trend in obesity rates among its population, highlighting the urgent need for a structured approach to tackle this public health issue.

Obesity is now recognized as an independent disease and a significant risk factor for various chronic illnesses, ranking as the sixth leading cause of death and disability in China. The guidelines outline comprehensive strategies for managing obesity, including:

• Clinical Nutrition: Detailed recommendations for dietary management.
• Medication Therapy: Guidelines for the use of pharmacological treatments.
• Surgical Treatment: Protocols for bariatric surgeries when necessary.
• Behavioral and Psychological Interventions: Support strategies to encourage lifestyle changes.
• Exercise Intervention: Emphasizing the importance of physical activity.

Zhang Zhongtao, the director of the guideline drafting committee, noted the necessity of ensuring safe and high-quality medical care while protecting patients’ health rights.

Experts stress that most cases of overweight and obesity stem from unhealthy lifestyles. The key solution lies in adopting a healthy lifestyle, which encompasses a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

In today’s digital world, putting yourself out there can feel overwhelming, especially with concerns about judgment, negative comments, or privacy. Whether you’re an aspiring content creator, entrepreneur, or someone wanting to share a moment with friends, it’s important to express yourself confidently. Here are five practical tips to help you overcome that fear.

1. START SMALL AND STAY AUTHENTIC

Posting online might feel intimidating, but you don’t need to start with a grand gesture. Begin by sharing small, authentic moments—like a photo of your favorite meal or a fun activity. The more you practice being real, the easier it becomes. Social media trends celebrate authenticity, allowing you to connect with the “real you.”

Actionable Tip: Start with close friends or a private audience. Once comfortable, gradually open up to a larger public audience.

2. SHIFT YOUR MINDSET: IT’S ABOUT CONNECTION, NOT PERFECTION

Many fear posting because they worry about not looking perfect. Instead of focusing on potential judgment, think about the value you bring. Social media thrives on realness and connection; your story could inspire others. Embrace your uniqueness.

Actionable Tip: Remind yourself that your goal is to connect with those who resonate with your message, not to impress everyone.

3. MANAGE YOUR ONLINE SPACE

Fear of negative comments can be daunting. Remember, you control your online space. Most platforms allow you to manage comments, block users, and filter harmful content. By taking control, you create a safer, more positive environment.

Actionable Tip: Use platform tools to filter out offensive language and don’t hesitate to block anyone who disrupts your peace.

4. FOLLOW INSPIRING ROLE MODELS

If you’re unsure about posting, find inspiration from those confidently sharing their lives online. Follow content creators and influencers who post authentically. Many started small and built their brands by staying true to themselves.

Actionable Tip: Engage with online communities that promote positivity and authenticity, allowing their experiences to inspire your journey.

5. ACKNOWLEDGE THE FEAR, THEN TAKE ACTION

Fear is normal but shouldn’t hold you back. Acknowledge your anxiety and challenge it by gradually taking action. The more you post, the less control fear will have over you. Each time you hit “post,” you’ll likely find more support than you imagined.

Actionable Tip: Write down what scares you about posting, then challenge each fear with small, progressive steps. Celebrate your wins along the way.

Overcoming the fear of posting online isn’t something that happens overnight, but with practice and the right mindset, it becomes easier. By staying authentic, managing your space, finding inspiration, and acknowledging your fears, you can confidently express yourself and connect with others in meaningful ways. Remember, every post is a step toward building your personal brand and owning your narrative in the digital world.

When you see a car with a plate number, it might not seem significant. However, verifying a car’s plate number can be essential for security reasons. Whether meeting someone for the first time or spotting a suspicious vehicle, checking the plate number ensures the car is registered correctly and belongs to the person driving it, protecting you from potential dangers such as stolen vehicles, unregistered drivers, scams, or even kidnapping.

WHY VERIFYING A PLATE NUMBER IS IMPORTANT

1. Proper Registration: Ensures the vehicle is registered and belongs to its driver.
2. Criminal Activity: Criminals may use fake or stolen plate numbers to carry out illegal activities.
3. Safety in Transactions: Confirms vehicle details match records, providing security when using rideshare services or meeting online sellers.

WAYS TO VERIFY A CAR’S PLATE NUMBER

Verifying a car’s plate number in Nigeria is easy and can be done through several methods:

1. Visit the FRSC Website

The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) website is one of the most reliable ways to verify a car’s plate number. Access it at FRSC Verification Portal. Input the plate number to view details like the vehicle’s model, year, and owner’s information.

2. Use Third-Party Websites

Several third-party websites also offer plate number verification services.

3. Visit the Nearest FRSC Office

For those preferring an offline method, visiting a nearby FRSC office can provide assistance in verifying a car’s plate number. Carrying the vehicle’s documents is advisable.

4. Download the FRSC Mobile App

The FRSC mobile app allows you to verify a car’s plate number conveniently from your phone, available on both Android and iOS platforms.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

• Be Discreet: When checking a car’s details in person, avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
• Use Trusted Websites: Stick to official government or trusted third-party sites to avoid phishing scams.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If the plate number doesn’t match the vehicle details or appears suspicious, contact the authorities.

By staying cautious and using these tools, you can keep yourself informed and protected in any situation.

Discovered in 1506 by Portuguese admiral Tristão da Cunha, this island is part of the British overseas territory. First settled in 1817, the main island is officially known as Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, named after a visit in 1867 by HRH Prince Alfred, the Duke of Edinburgh.

ISLAND LIFE

Tristão da Cunha is known as the loneliest place on earth, with no airfield or airport, making it five to six days away by boat from the nearest land. This remote archipelago, encircled by an active stratovolcano, offers unparalleled seclusion, stunning landscapes, and a small but resilient community of 238 residents.

ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES

The island’s economy relies mainly on traditional subsistence farming and fishing. The commercial crawfishing industry, along with the sale of coins and postage stamps, also contributes to foreign revenue. Limited tourism provides additional income through accommodations, guided tours, and local crafts. However, outsiders cannot purchase land, making it nearly impossible to gain citizenship.

COMMUNITY DYNAMICS

Almost all residents can trace their ancestry back to the original settlers. Inbreeding (marrying relatives) is quite common, though it has not led to a significant increase in birth deficiencies. Despite many applications to join this tight-knit community, known informally as “Utopia,” maintaining the island’s unique culture and heritage remains a priority.

In today’s digital world, putting yourself out there can feel overwhelming, especially with concerns about judgment, negative comments, or privacy. Whether you’re an aspiring content creator, entrepreneur, or simply looking to share moments with friends, overcoming that fear is essential for expressing yourself confidently. Here are five practical tips to help you:

1. Start Small and Stay Authentic
   The idea of posting online might seem intimidating, but you don’t need to begin with grand gestures. Start by sharing small, authentic moments, like a photo of your favorite meal or a fun activity. Practicing authenticity helps build confidence, making it easier to share personal content.
   Actionable Tip: Begin with close friends or a private audience. Once comfortable, gradually expand to a larger public audience.
2. Shift Your Mindset: It’s About Connection, Not Perfection
   Many fear posting due to worries about not looking perfect. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on the value you bring. Social media thrives on realness, and your story could inspire others. Embrace your uniqueness.
   Actionable Tip: Remind yourself that your goal is to connect with like-minded individuals, not to impress everyone.
3. Manage Your Online Space
   Fear of negative comments can be daunting. Remember, you control your online space. Most platforms allow you to manage comments and block users, creating a safer environment.
   Actionable Tip: Use platform tools to filter out harmful content and block anyone who disrupts your peace.
4. Follow Inspiring Role Models
   If you’re hesitant to post, find inspiration from those already doing it confidently. Follow creators who share their authentic selves. Many influencers started small and built their brands by being true to themselves.
   Actionable Tip: Engage with online communities that promote positivity and authenticity to inspire your journey.
5. Acknowledge the Fear, Then Take Action
   Fear is normal, but it shouldn’t hold you back. Acknowledge your anxiety and challenge it by taking gradual steps. The more you post, the less fear will control you.
   Actionable Tip: Write down what scares you about posting, then actively challenge each fear with small, progressive actions. Celebrate your wins.

Overcoming the fear of posting online takes time, but with practice and the right mindset, it becomes easier. By staying authentic, managing your space, finding inspiration, and acknowledging your fears, you can express yourself confidently and connect meaningfully with others. Every post is a step toward building your personal brand and owning your narrative in the digital world.

The anticipation is building for the Kennyblaq Reckless Musicomedy Festival, set to take place on December 14, 2024, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (formerly Onikan Stadium) in Lagos. This groundbreaking event is poised to make waves in the African entertainment scene by uniquely blending music and comedy.

The festival will be headlined by the multi-talented Kennyblaq, known for his dynamic performances that seamlessly merge music and comedy. Attendees can expect a lineup of top-tier comedians alongside some of Africa’s hottest musical acts, creating a vibrant atmosphere that promises to redefine live entertainment.

This festival is not just about entertainment; it’s a cultural moment aiming to elevate the appreciation for both music and comedy in the region. Mark your calendars for this exciting fusion of laughter and rhythm, as the Kennyblaq Reckless Musicomedy Festival aims to deliver an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Adesua Etomi-Wellington

• Event: Pregnancy Photoshoot
• Outfit: Adesua looked stunning in a shimmering hooded gown, beautifully showcasing her baby bump.

Temi Otedola

• Style: Temi exuded fierceness in an all-black ensemble paired with a striking smoky eye, making a bold fashion statement.

Tacha Akide

• Event: Wedding Guest
• Outfit: Tacha wowed in a vibrant blue and pink color combination, which was definitely one of the standout styles of the week.

Liquorose

• Style: Liquorose looked like an absolute doll in a blue and pink aso-ebi, accentuated by a lovely scarf that complemented her outfit perfectly.

Tiwa Savage

• Look: Tiwa’s appearance was one of the best of the week, featuring an auburn wig that added to her radiant look, embodying a chic, country vibe.

The fashion scene this week has certainly been vibrant, with these celebrities setting the bar high for style and elegance!

One notable event that has gained significant prominence in recent years is the Akada Children’s Book Festival (ACBF). Since its inception in 2019, this annual festival has been dedicated to cultivating a passion for reading among young audiences and fostering an appreciation for literature within the Nigerian community.

With just one week until the eagerly anticipated festival opens its doors for another year of literary festivities, here’s everything you need to know to prepare for this exciting event.

What is the Akada Children’s Book Festival?

The Akada Children’s Book Festival is an annual celebration focused on children’s literature, promoting reading among young audiences, and showcasing the work of local authors and illustrators. The name “Akada,” derived from the Yoruba language, means “a lover of literacy and books.”

ACBF provides a prominent platform for Indigenous authors while nurturing a love for reading in young minds. It has become a key fixture on the literary calendar, highlighting both Nigerian and international literature.

As the first and largest Nigerian book festival dedicated exclusively to children, ACBF offers a vibrant space for children aged 13 and below to engage with books and storytelling, helping them develop a lifelong love for literature and creativity.

Prepare for an enriching experience filled with activities that inspire, educate, and entertain!