Commlink #59
Weekly Review
In the end, what we are building in the DAO space is a type of self-actuating machine. By focusing on certain key principles and building a community upon those, we hope to encourage an organization or an organism that begins to respond automatically and equitably to interactions based on the structure of decentralized blockchains. The organization ought to be “trustless” in that it does not require reliance on human integrity in order to continue its automatic processes.
New technology offers a wide variety of innovative tools for connecting people from across the world, better enabling communication, voting options and economic transactions by cutting out unnecessary 3rd party monitoring, regulating, or scrutinizing agents, as it is usually the 3rd party wherein corruption unfolds, historical experiences would suggest. By maintaining the integrity of distributed, decentralized networks and authentic consensus mechanisms made possible by computer innovation, provenance and direct p2p interactions between buyers and sellers is preserved on a digital currency, where inflation is totally negated. All else is fluff.
This week at Community DAO we must make a difficult announcement. After much thought and discussion between our editor, Dr. Alina Okun, and myself, we have decided to suspend the publication of Commlink and all design contests and payouts at the end of Week 60. This seems an opportune moment to shift gears and refocus. I myself have more responsibilities in my physical area requiring my time and attention, as well as personal creative projects needing more attention. In addition, market conditions are such that I can no longer support and sponsor efforts at CommDAO in the way that I have been doing. However, this is not the end, just a change in focus.
We have engendered incredible growth recently, especially from Nigeria, and have an active Ravencoin wallet address book with almost 170 active addresses, about 120 added in the past 2 months alone.
We have also supported the artistic and writing development of a considerable cross-section of young people seeking guidance and new opportunities through Ravencoin and the potential it offers for worldwide connections and interactions. In all of this, we have succeeded grandly!
Periods of sponsorship for any sort of DAO needs must be somewhat transient and perennial. A space must exist for new voices to emerge as well as attempts for various protocols to drive the organization in new directions. This is the nature of decentralization and the implementation of a general no single point-of-failure methodology in contrast to centralized systems that rely on 1 primary control node.
For my part, I have tried to serve the greater community in the best way that I could see possible. Early on, in 2022, I sensed that the best way to design, foster and project the long-term mission of such an organization as Community DAO, was to describe and build it out as a type of shifting “Protocol Generator,” away from any one specific theme other than “Community” and towards a type of machine always making new themes. That is what we have done with Commlink as a think tank receptacle for all sorts of ideas and reports through the shifting sands of the cryptocurrency markets over the past year and a half. It is also what we developed with the weekly bids for designs: https://commdao.org/gallery/ .
With the appearance of our County Fair, we have also initiated a micro-internal economy that will require more and more attention as it grows as a circulation mechanism for C0MM tokens and assets. This is such an exciting development, and I look forward to running my own booth eventually, and continuing to visit and interact with the other booths as they grow.
In addition, we have been fostering the growth and self-reliance of emerging artists and developers worldwide by sponsoring Ravenocin NFT minting tokens and teaching the ins and outs of NFT creation, sales, and marketing practices. We will continue to do this selectively to those who continue to grow here and show promise.
It is also time to begin a review process of our considerable databases we have built over the span of the past year. There are many works that need to be minted and put up on marketplaces or published in books that are currently in development.
The work goes on.
Let’s hear from the rest of the Community!
Best,
Dow
Stats
Twitter Followers: 1,394
Discord Members: 616
Ambassador Report
In our daily activities, we come across things worth noting down in text or graphical illustration. At CommDAO, we believe that design is intelligence made visible. Our minds are focused on the core values, goals, and objectives of being members of one of the three departments in our project. During the week, we were able to publish over 500 designs on Twitter. Some of us were flagged by bots, but the rest continued with their regular tweets.
Meanwhile, the County Fair is thriving and growing stronger. The number of players is encouraging, and the rewards are impressive. Keep in mind that the COMM Whiteball is in circulation, and you can earn some of it by playing games at the County Fair. Lastly, here is the Leaderboard for week 59, which summarizes the activities carried out by the marketing team members and their rewards points.
Leaderboard/Ranking
Multiverse Rebels, the game I created, just received a major upgrade that's sure to leave players excited! I added the COMM/1 token as the primary in-game currency, which opens up a world of possibilities. Earn COMM tokens by defeating enemies and explore a treasure trove of NFTs created by members of the COMMUNITY DAO. I will also showcase some NFTs within the game map, so keep an eye out for exclusive drops that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Don't miss this groundbreaking update in Multiverse Rebels, taking gaming and community experiences to a whole new level.
My Visit to Kwame Akoto
During my visit to Ghana, a neighboring country to my own in Africa, I heard of Kwame Nkrumah and decided to view some sculptures in his garden.
Kwame Akoto-Bamfo is a Ghanaian sculptor. His outdoor sculpture dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Transatlantic slave trade is on display at the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which opened in 2018 in Montgomery, Alabama.
Kwame Akoto-Bamfo's first significant exhibition took place during the 60th Independence Day (Ghana) Celebration when he displayed Nkyinkyim Installation sculptures of over 1,200 concrete portrait heads of people of African descent at the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in an exhibition titled 'Faux-Reedom.' Kwame questioned Ghana's independence and drew international attention to Ghana's neocolonial legacies by employing the powerful imagery of life-sized sculptured skulls. The work of Kwame straddles the boundary between public art and activism.
His writings include references to colonial legacies, racial justice, racial equity, reconciliation, and restorative justice. Kwame's traveling exhibition Blank Slate Palimpsest Monument, also known as the Blank Slate Monument, was unveiled in Ghana in 2019 and toured the United States, visiting places of historical significance to the 'African American Experience' such as Selma, Harlem, and New York City's Times Square, where it was unveiled during Derek Chauvin's sentencing for the murder of George Floyd. Other noteworthy destinations include Louisville, Kentucky; Motown Museum in Detroit; DuSable Museum in Chicago; and the King Centre in Atlanta.
Behold, it was a very nice experience visiting one of the legendary museums in Africa.
Pyramid Art Center
I decided to go to the Pyramid Art Center on my most recent vacation. I was looking forward to seeing the various exhibitions and learning more about the local art scene as an art enthusiast.
I was immediately taken aback by the bold designs and vibrant colors of the artwork in the gallery. Local and international artists created paintings, sculptures, and installations, each with its own distinct style and point of view.
I spent hours admiring the splendor and complexity of each exhibit as I walked through it. I was particularly attracted to a progression of representations that caught the feelings and battles of individuals from various foundations.
I felt motivated and inspired as I left the gallery. I was inspired to pursue my own artistic endeavors as a result of my lasting impression of the artists' creativity and passion.
There was more to the Pyramid Art Center than just a gallery. It was a place where people could come together to appreciate art's beauty. I came away with a new appreciation for creativity's power and the significance of supporting local artists. I will never forget it as an experience.
Odu'a Museum
Last week, I took a tour of the Odu'a Museum, a cultural institution that aims to preserve and celebrate Yoruba heritage and history. I was struck by the museum's beautiful and intricate artifacts, which included traditional clothing, jewelry, sculptures, and paintings.
Our aide drove us through the various segments of the gallery, giving definite clarifications of each display and sharing accounts of Yoruba history and folklore. The section on Ifa divination, which described the intricate system of spiritual guidance that is deeply ingrained in Yoruba culture, particularly captivated me.
I also learned about Nigeria's struggle for independence and the effects of colonization as we continued our tour. The Yoruba people's struggle to preserve their culture and traditions in the face of centuries of oppression was eye-opening.
I was overwhelmed with pride and admiration for Yoruba history and culture at the tour's conclusion. It was an honor to learn more about the Yoruba people's rich and vibrant heritage, and the Odu'a Museum is a testament to their resilience and creativity.
Emir of Kano State
I had the privilege of visiting the Palace of the Emir of Kano, one of the city's most famous and historic landmarks, on my most recent trip to Kano. I was immediately struck by the complex's grandeur and beauty as I entered the palace gates.
We were led through the various courtyards and halls by our guide, who talked about the history and significance of each area. From the vibrant tiles to the ornate carvings, the intricate architectural details fascinated me.
We also learned about the Emir's role in the community and the significance of traditional leadership in Nigerian culture as we moved through the palace. Witnessing the reverence and respect that people had for the Emir and his family was humbling.
A private meeting with the Emir was the visit's highlight. We sat in his elaborate throne room and listened as he told stories and offered insights into Kano's culture and history. The spirit of the Nigerian people was truly reflected in his warmth and hospitality.
I left the palace with a profound admiration and respect for the Emir and the Kano people. The trip brought to mind the diverse cultural practices and heritage that make Nigeria such a special place.
My Birthday at Bawa's Tower
It was my birthday, and I decided to celebrate it in a special way. I gathered my female friends, and we headed to Bawa's Tower, a famous tourist spot known for its stunning view of the city.
As we climbed up the winding stairs of the tower, we couldn't help but feel the excitement building up. When we finally reached the top, we were awestruck by the breathtaking view of the city skyline. We took plenty of pictures and shared some laughs as we admired the scenery.
But the real fun began when we decided to explore the tower. We discovered hidden rooms and secret passageways, and each one was more exciting than the last. We even stumbled upon an old telescope and took turns peering through it to see the city up close.
After we had our fill of exploring, we settled down for a picnic on the rooftop. We brought our favorite snacks and drinks and enjoyed a relaxed and leisurely time together. We chatted and joked around and sang happy birthday to me as we cut the cake.
As the sun began to set, we made our way back down the tower, tired but happy after a fun-filled day. It was a birthday celebration that I will never forget.
IWA JI- The New Yam Festival in Igbo Land
I am a born and raised Igbo girl from Anambra. I love my culture so much, thanks to my parents who take me home every festive season to learn about it and its food.
The Yam festival still holds many fond memories for me. In Nigeria, we all know that yam is a very healthy food. Yams are an excellent source of fiber, high in potassium and manganese, which are important for supporting bone health, growth, metabolism, and heart function. Yam tubers also provide a decent amount of other micronutrients such as copper and vitamin C.
Among my Igbo tribe in Nigeria, West Africa, the most cherished and respected crop is the yam, which is not taken lightly.
Chinua Achebe, in his highly regarded novel, "Things Fall Apart," described yam as the "king of all crops," emphasizing the Igbo's preference for it.
The culture of yam cultivation and preservation has been an age-old attribute of the Igbos and has been passed down from our ancestors to this day.
The New Yam Festival, also known as "Orureshi," "Iwa ji," "Iri ji," "Ike ji," or "Otute" (depending on the dialect), is an annual cultural festival held by the Igbo people at the end of the rainy season, typically in early August to October.
It is one of the traditional and cultural festivities that the Igbo people take seriously. Without performing this festival, either as individuals or in groups, no full-fledged or matured man is allowed to eat new yam in Igbo land.
The festival is first celebrated at the community level. Then, individuals in their own families and with their friends celebrate in their own way and capacity, marking the beginning of eating new yams in these families that participated in the community ceremony, regardless of their financial status.
In most families in Igbo land, wives and children can start eating new yams without the men or heads of the families joining them, because the men consider it an abomination to eat new yams without first celebrating with the ancestors.
For example, the Afikpo New Yam Festival, "Ike Ji," is one of the top festivals in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, in the South-Eastern part of Nigeria. It begins with a series of activities several weeks before the final ceremonial day.
There is usually great excitement for this dance, especially among young men who see it as an opportunity to find brides.
These festivals symbolize a fruitful year and bountiful harvests.
My Perfect Vacation
During my secondary school days, I had the opportunity to visit Niger State, which is located in the north-central region of Nigeria. It was one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences of my life. The state is endowed with natural attractions, a rich cultural heritage, and historical significance that make it an ideal destination for tourists.
My perfect vacation in Niger State started with a visit to the Gurara Waterfalls, which are located in the Gurara Local Government Area. The waterfalls are known for their breathtaking views and the refreshing mist that emanates from the cascading waters. The Gurara Waterfalls are a perfect spot for picnics, hiking, and adventure-seeking activities like rafting and kayaking.
After exploring the Gurara Waterfalls, my next stop was the Kainji National Park, which is situated on the banks of the River Niger. The park is home to various wildlife species, including elephants, baboons, antelopes, and leopards. It was a thrilling experience to see these animals up close and in their natural habitat. The Kainji National Park also has a beautiful lake, which is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming.
My vacation in Niger State also included a visit to Zuma Rock, which is one of the most famous landmarks in Nigeria. The rock is located in the Suleja Local Government Area and is said to have spiritual significance to the local people. Zuma Rock is also a great place for hiking and rock climbing.
Another highlight of my trip was a visit to the Gidan Kwano, which is a historical monument in Niger State. The monument is a traditional palace that was built in the 19th century and served as the headquarters of the Nupe Kingdom. Gidan Kwano is an impressive example of traditional Nupe architecture and is now a museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Nupe people.
Lastly, I visited the Baro Port, which is situated on the banks of the River Niger. The port played a significant role in the economic development of Niger State during the colonial era. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the port and its contribution to the development of the state.
In summary, my perfect vacation in Niger State was an adventure-filled experience that I will never forget. The state is blessed with an abundance of natural attractions, historical monuments, and cultural heritage that make it an ideal destination for tourists. I would recommend Niger State to anyone looking for a unique and memorable vacation experience.
My Service Days at Thought Pyramid Art Centre Abuja
My service days in Abuja were eventful due to the places I visited. As we all know, Abuja is a very expensive city, and there are many nice places to visit, but you need funds to get around.
While I was trying to settle down and become familiar with the city, my roommate and I were posted to serve at the Thought Pyramid Centre. At first, I was not comfortable with the posting due to the distance and transportation.
My first day at the Thought Pyramid Centre was amazing, and I never wanted to leave because of the warm welcome I received and the beautiful displays of art. We were told that our job there was to make the social media page active.
I roamed the building and checked out some art pieces created by well-known artists in Abuja. My supervisor informed me of the year each piece was made and how much it cost.
Before I learned how expensive art pieces could be, I had little interest in them, but my opinion changed after I became aware of their cost.
The Thought Pyramid Centre is also a hub for art collectors, providing a platform for them to connect with both emerging and established artists and acquire contemporary African art. They offer advisory services and collection management for individual and corporate collectors, with a focus on growing the Nigerian art market.
My supervisor informed me that one of the Centre's most notable projects is the "Artville Academy," a youth art program that aims to equip young artists with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the art world. The program offers art classes, mentorship opportunities, and access to art supplies and studio space.
I met some of the artists and workers as I was going to be working on their social media page. My stay in Abuja exposed me to life and art from different parts of Nigeria.
Calabar Carnival Hope to Visit There Soon
Ever since I was a child, I have watched the Calabar Carnival on TV during the December period until the first of January when it ends. My favorite band was the GOVERNOR'S BAND because they were filled with creative dance steps and had beautiful costumes, along with their humanitarian displays on the streets of Calabar.
The colorful display of culture and beautiful costume attire, as well as the way they dance in the streets, made me love the event.
The Calabar Carnival takes place in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Thousands of tourists from all over the world attend one of the largest street carnivals in Africa, showcasing music, dance, drama, and visual arts, honoring Nigerian culture and heritage.
Calabar Carnival was first held in 2004 and has since grown to become a major cultural event in Nigeria. It takes place in December each year, and the festival lasts for a period of one week. The carnival features a colorful parade of costumed performers, known as the "Calabar Carnival Band," who dance through the streets of Calabar to the beat of African music.
In addition to the parade, the festival also includes other events such as cultural presentations, music concerts, and culinary markets. The festival gives performers and artists a stage on which to display their abilities and engage with viewers from all around the world.
Calabar Carnival has played a significant role in promoting Nigerian culture and tourism, helping to showcase the country's rich cultural heritage to the world. It has also provided economic opportunities for local businesses and residents, helping to stimulate the local economy.
Also, the Carnival gives a stage for upcoming artists to showcase their talents on stage and has brought out many celebrities from different parts of the world to Calabar.
I believe that this year, I will attend the Calabar Carnival with my friend. We are already saving up money for our travel tickets and hotel bills for the duration of our stay in Calabar.
First School in Nigeria
In my first year in university, we took a course titled "The History of Education in Nigeria." The course taught us about the role of missionaries in bringing education to Nigeria and West Africa as a whole. Methodist missionaries established the first primary school in Nigeria in 1843.
Thankfully, they introduced formal education in Nigeria. A few years later, in 1854, some Christian missionaries started the CMS Grammar School in Lagos, which became the first secondary school in Nigeria.
So, we went on a field trip to Badagry, where the first school in Nigeria was established. It was a 12-hour journey from Akwa Ibom State to Lagos State, so we were exhausted and had to stay overnight at a hotel in the mainland.
The first known school in Nigeria was established by Mr. and Mrs. De Graft and was named "Nursery of the Infant Church" in 1843. The school was later moved to its permanent site in 1845 and was renamed "St. Thomas Primary School" in Badagry.
The next morning, we went to Badagry and headed straight to St. Thomas School. We were welcomed by the principal and the students. I had never encountered students with such a high level of self-assuredness. They all screamed, "Welcome to the First School in Nigeria!"
The historical structures, blackboards, and blocks in the school showed us how brilliant the early missionaries were and how they used various teaching methods, such as drill and apprenticeship, to achieve their educational goals of teaching a new and foreign language to uneducated Africans.
LVI Art Gallery
My trip to Victoria Island in Lagos, Nigeria, where there is a modern art gallery called LVI Art Gallery. Azu Nwagbogu, a well-known curator and art critic from Nigeria, established the gallery in 2012, and it has since grown to become one of the top spaces for contemporary art in the country.
The exhibition program at the gallery includes a wide variety of modern works of art from Nigeria and other African nations, including sculpture, painting, photography, and video art. Among other well-known artists, in the LVI Art Gallery, I saw displayed work by Nnenna Okore, Yinka Shonibare, and Bruce Onobrakpeya.
LVI Art Gallery is dedicated to promoting African art and culture through educational initiatives and open forums in addition to its exhibition schedule. In addition to routinely hosting lectures, seminars, and talks by artists, the gallery has worked with other galleries to plan significant events, including the LagosPhoto Festival and the Art X Lagos art fair.
The LVI Art Gallery has made a significant contribution to the growth of Nigeria's contemporary art scene by giving both up-and-coming and established artists a venue to exhibit their work and by linking Nigerian artists to the international art scene. For anyone interested in modern African art and culture, a trip to the gallery is a must whenever you are in Lagos.
Marshall Cave
My trip from Lagos to Katsina State was an eye-opener. During this eight-hour journey, I saw many magnificent natural rocks and artifacts in the northern part of Nigeria. The most eye-catching place was the Marshall Cave in Bauchi State. The passengers had to ask our vehicle driver to stop so that we could take a closer look at the cave.
I remember running towards the cave, putting my head through one of the dwellings, and peeking inside. I found other people coming to witness this dynamic work of art.
The Marshall Cave is located in Bauchi State. According to history, it was discovered in the early part of the 20th century by a British historian named P.J. Marshall in 1980. The Cave has fifty-nine dwellings dug into sandstone escarpments, each with a length of 200 meters, a depth of 10 meters, and widths of 30 to 80 meters.
The caves feature rock paintings and engravings in various lines, presumably created by their original inhabitants.
No one knows who used the caves, but it is clear that they were once inhabited by humans and served as a settlement many centuries ago, sheltering communities from wild animals and invaders. Some speculate that during the slave trade, local indigenous people used the caves to hide from slave raiders associated with the Emir of Bauchi and/or Arabic slave raiders coming down from the Sahara region.
In case of another slave trade in the future, we will all know where to hide in the great Marshall Cave. (wink)
Omenka Gallery
A brief write-up about Omenka Gallery, which is a contemporary art gallery located in Lagos, Nigeria. The gallery is one of the leading art institutions in Nigeria, showcasing the works of some of the most prominent contemporary African artists.
The gallery is well known for its dedication to promoting African art both locally and globally. It is located in a 5,000-square-foot area in the center of Lagos. The collection at Omenka Gallery consists of paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media pieces. The gallery maintains a dynamic exhibition schedule that includes a variety of solo and group shows.
Bridging the gap between current African art and the international art scene is one of the gallery's main goals. Omenka Gallery has developed significant connections with collectors, curators, and institutions throughout the world by taking part in a number of international art shows, such as Art Basel Miami Beach, Frieze London, and 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair.
Omenka Gallery also provides a variety of educational and cultural programs in addition to its exhibition schedule. The gallery offers a forum for artists and art aficionados to have critical dialogues about contemporary African art by hosting artist talks, seminars, and panel discussions.
Omenka Gallery has represented several notable African artists, including Ndidi Dike, El Anatsui, Yusuf Grillo, and Ben Enwonwu. The gallery has also supported emerging artists, providing a platform for them to showcase their work and develop their careers.
Guys, whenever you visit Lagos, make sure you try to visit the Omenka Gallery. You will really enjoy every moment.
Karuju Castle of Kaduna
Good day everyone, it's nice to share with you about the Karujue Castle of Kaduna and why it is my favorite local spot. This lovely castle was built far back and is located in southern Kaduna. The castle is so beautiful that when I asked how it was built, I was told that the government then had to pay the Germans to come and build it. The castle is located far from the Ajure Mountain top. When you stand at the mountain and look at the castle, you'll see how beautiful it is.
Built with 1-meter-thick granite stone in a fanciful medieval-inspired Romanesque style, it is adorned with turrets, an armory, and a dungeon.
The castle was privatized and it is big enough to accommodate no less than 150 guests. To some people, it is described as the African version of the Bavarian Castle in a grand 19th-century Romanesque revival style.
The castle features a baronial-style hall, along with dungeons and towers lined with crenellated walls. It also has a large “knight's hall” and a landlord (master's) residence, and several other rooms over its three floors.
The castle has a swimming pool and the environment is serene. I heard it was once robbed, but now the place is well-secured and it's a must-visit place for holidays with your family. You'll surely love the place even more than I did.
A Natural Wonder into Ikot Akpa Oso, Ibesikpo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Akwa Ibom State is blessed with numerous tourism attractions and locations that can be profitable if properly nurtured and utilized. One of them is the Ikot Akpa Oso Green River in Ibesikpo Asutan, near Uyo, the state capital.
The purpose of my visit to Ikot Akpaso today was to buy palm oil, but I stumbled upon something even more beautiful: a green river. It was so alluring and mysteriously gorgeous that I couldn't resist taking pictures of it. The Green River in Ibesikpo Asutan was as lovely as its story, one of the most delightful places to spend a sunny day. The sand in this river is white, the river is a beautiful shade of green, and the breeze feels like dew drops.
During the rainy season, such as now, rainwater usually washes soil down the slopes into the river, as it has in the past three days.
So, what makes the river appear green to the eye but white in the bottle? You might be wondering: According to the local residents, the river is green because it reflects the surrounding landscape of green palm leaves. Although this seems unlikely, given that nearly all of the other rivers in Akwa Ibom are surrounded by green trees and plants.
This location has the potential to be a great tourist attraction if it is properly developed and utilized. The green river is a breathtaking natural beauty that is both fascinating and intriguing.
In a time when there have been numerous appeals and suggestions for state governments to rely less on the federal government for monthly allocations, tourism is one of the areas to receive such attention, and the green river should be at the forefront of this effort.
Agodi Gardens
As I walked through the entrance gate of Agodi Gardens, I was immediately struck by the vibrant colors of the flowers and trees. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the sound of birds chirping in the trees was soothing to my ears. I could feel the stress of the busy city life melting away, replaced by a sense of peace and tranquility.
Agodi Gardens is a beautiful park and recreational center located in Ibadan, Nigeria. The park spans over 13 hectares of land and offers visitors a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy. Some of the highlights of Agodi Gardens include a man-made lake, botanical gardens, a children's playground, a zoo, picnic areas, and an amusement park with rides and games.
As a first-time visitor, I had no idea what to expect, but I was ready to explore and see what this beautiful park had to offer.
I decided to start my visit by taking a walk around the botanical gardens. The gardens were filled with a wide variety of plant species, from towering trees to tiny shrubs and flowers of every color imaginable. The neatly arranged flower beds and landscaped pathways made the gardens a photographer's paradise, and I couldn't help but take out my camera to capture some of the beauty around me.
As I walked around the park, I noticed families and groups of friends having picnics on the lawns. Children were running around, playing games, and laughing, and the atmosphere was one of joy and relaxation. The park was bustling with life, and it was clear that everyone was having a great time.
Visitors enjoyed various sports activities, including soccer, basketball, and tennis, as well as horseback riding and pedal boating on the lake. The garden was a popular spot for families, friends, and couples to relax and enjoy the serene environment. There were also food and drink vendors within the park to cater to visitors' needs.
I also visited the amusement park section of Agodi Gardens, where I rode on a few of the rides. I felt like a kid again as I went on the Ferris wheel, the bumper cars, and the roller coaster. The rides were safe and well-maintained, and I could see the excitement on the faces of the other riders. I found a quiet spot to sit and watch the sunset. The sky was painted with shades of orange, pink, and purple. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.
I enjoyed every moment of my visit. Agodi Gardens was more than just a park; it was a haven of natural beauty, fun, and relaxation, and I knew that I would be back again soon.
An excursion to the Muson School of Music in Onikan, Lagos
In Nigeria, the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) School of Music in Onikan, Lagos, is one of the most renowned institutions for the study and performance of classical music. This great institution, which offers a variety of music curricula for students of all ages and skills, has been mentioned to me for years.
I recently had the opportunity of visiting the School, and it was an encounter I will never forget as a music aficionado. I was immediately taken by the sense of creativity and passion for music as soon as I entered the building.
The school has state-of-the-art facilities, including rehearsal rooms, a concert hall, and a music library. I was impressed by the level of professionalism and dedication exhibited by the staff and faculty, who were all committed to providing high-quality music education to their students.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to attend a class with a renowned Nigerian pianist who provided valuable insights into the art of piano performance. I was struck by the level of talent and dedication exhibited by the students, who ranged in age from young children to adults.
I was astounded when I saw their ensemble programs, which featured orchestras, choruses, and chamber music ensembles. I had the opportunity to see the MUSON Symphony Orchestra perform, and it was a wonderfully special occasion. The musicians were all extremely talented and devoted to what they did, and it was clear that they had spent countless hours honing their craft.
It was a wonderfully motivating and enlightening experience for me to visit the School. I genuinely had the need to stay at the school because I wanted to attend all of the concerts and events they had going on. Lovely place, and I yearned to return one day.
Rivers State Museum
During the Easter holidays, I visited the Rivers State Museum in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. As an art lover, it was a pleasure to explore the museum's collection of historical artifacts and works of art.
When I entered the museum, I was greeted by friendly staff who explained the history of the museum and the different exhibits on display. I was impressed by the spacious and well-lit galleries, which displayed an impressive array of traditional Nigerian art, from ceramics and sculptures to tapestries and beads.
The highlight of my visit was an exhibition on the history of the Niger Delta region, with rare photographs and documents from the colonial era. It was interesting to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region and the struggles of its people over the centuries.
Another outstanding gallery is the Contemporary Art section, which showcases the work of some of Nigeria's most famous artists. The vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes of these paintings are so pleasing to the eye that I found myself lost in thought, trying to understand the meaning of each work.
My visit to Rivers State Museum was a pleasant experience. The museum's collections are diverse and well-organized, and the staff is knowledgeable and hospitable. It is a really cool place to relax and take a break.
International Mosque Abuja
I was very happy when my Muslim friend Fatimah invited me to Friday prayers at the International Mosque. I have always been interested in learning about different cultures, and this was a great opportunity for me to learn about Islam.
When we entered the mosque, I was overwhelmed by the peaceful atmosphere. The mosque is large and well designed with intricate designs and motifs adorning the walls and ceiling. We took off our shoes before entering the great prayer hall, and the rows of people kneeling and bending in prayer were mesmerizing. Fatima explained to me that Friday prayers are a common duty among Muslims, and it was a joy to see people of all ages and different walks of life coming together to pray. I was surprised when I learned that the prayers were in Arabic, and I was amazed at the beauty of the language.
After the prayer, we were invited to a community meeting where we enjoyed a delicious meal and chatted with the friendly and welcoming congregants. It was an honor for me to be a part of this special moment and learn more about the Islamic faith from such good people and teachers.
When we left the mosque, Fatima thanked me for coming to share her faith. I can't help but be grateful for my experience, my new understanding, and my respect for Islam and its followers.
Bonny Island
My visit to Bonny Island was an unexpected treat. I had never heard of this place before. When I finally arrived, I knew I was in for a lot of fun and adventure.
Bonny Island is a lovely little place with a relaxed atmosphere that makes me feel right at home.
The locals are friendly and welcoming, eager to show off their home and all it has to offer. I was amazed by the beauty of the island: the sparkling blue waters, lush vegetation, and colorful houses all make for an incredible setting.
One of my favorite experiences on the island is a boat trip along the coast. I've seen everything from towering cliffs to hidden coves, and even gotten up close to a few playful dolphins. It's unlike anything I've experienced before: the wind in my hair, the sun on my face, the sense of freedom that comes with being on the high seas.
But it's not just the scenery that makes Bonny Island so special. It's the people. Wherever I went, I felt part of the community. I chatted with market vendors, laughed with a group of kids playing soccer, and even danced a traditional dance with some of the locals.
By the end of the trip, I knew that Bonny Island had stolen a piece of my heart. I left with a new appreciation for the beauty of Nigeria and a sense of gratitude for the hospitality of the people I met. For me, Bonny Island is more than just a tourist destination - it's a place that makes me feel at home.