PROMISE WRITES OUTLET

By Promise Odejide  Success is a word that many people aspire to, but few achieve. It is often measured by external factors, such as wealth, fame, power, or recognition. But what if success is more than that? What if success is also about how you impact the lives of others, how you inspire them to pursue their dreams, how you leave a legacy that transcends your own existence? One Nigerian writer who embodied this idea of success was Chinua Achebe, widely regarded as the father of modern African literature. Achebe was born in 1930 in Ogidi, a town in southeastern Nigeria. He grew up in a culture that was rich in oral tradition and Igbo folklore, but also exposed to the influences of Christianity and Western education. He developed a love for reading and writing at an early age, and went on to study English literature at the University of Ibadan. Achebe's first novel, Things Fall Apart (1958), was a groundbreaking work that challenged the stereotypes and misconceptions of...

By: Promise Odejide  Diversity is a term that describes the variety of human differences, such as culture, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, and more. Diversity is often seen as a source of conflict and division in society, as people tend to favour their own groups and discriminate against others. However, diversity can also be a source of strength and opportunity, as it can enhance creativity, innovation, empathy, and social cohesion. I want us to focus on some of the benefits of diversity for society and how we can elevate more universal and respectful environment for all. One of the main benefits of diversity is that it can boost creativity and brainchild. A diverse group of people can bring together a wide range of perspectives, ideas, and experiences, which can lead to more creative and brainchild solutions to problems or challenges. For example, research has shown that diverse teams tend to outperform homogeneous groups, as they can dr...

My People, My Everything. Olufadi Balarabe Teniola Ayuba Appreciates✍🏽 On the eve of Wednesday 30th of August, my phone received loads of best wishes SMS from the Four Angles. Guess something? It was my birthday. Alhamdulillah! I'm not a King, but unimaginably people celebrate me beyond my expectations.  Olufadi Family. Babaalaro Family. Salient Communicators, Offa. Play With Kwara Youth Ambassadors. Kwara State Polytechnic Staff and Students. Mass Comm Dept, Al-Hikmah University. Ilorin Anchor Youth Wing. GSS Ilorin Set '09. ASKOMP. MACOKA, UCJ Forum, YAFC. KWASU Communicators' House. Intellect Youth DF, Akata. Alanamu Youth Ambassadors. Volunteer Ambassadors in U.S, Dubai, Japan, France and London. Oyo State House of Assembly Service Commission Staff. SWOT Team Org for Educational Dev, Ilorin. PLACY Club Initiative. Apete Muslim Community in Ibadan. Itaadu Youth Forum. Erudite Team. Pensmith Crew. Editors' desk Forum. Teniola really appreciates the all p...

By: Obanla Ridwan Olawale  In the journey of education and personal growth, there are those exceptional individuals who play roles far beyond their titles. Olufadi Balarabe Teniola is undeniably one of these extraordinary souls. A mentor, a teacher, and a brother, his influence reaches far beyond the confines of a classroom. As one fortunate enough to be under his guidance, I find myself filled with gratitude for his unwavering dedication and inspirational words that have shaped my path. In the realm of academia, Olufadi assumes the role of a teacher with remarkable finesse. His lessons are not mere lectures; they are experiences that captivate hearts and minds alike. His depth of knowledge, combined with his passion for imparting wisdom, creates an environment where learning is not a chore but a privilege. The clarity with which he conveys complex concepts and his ability to spark curiosity are testaments to his teaching prowess. Beyond the classroom, Olufadi seamlessl...

By Promise Odejide  One of the most important aspects of being a student in a higher institution is the ability to form and maintain healthy and influential relationships with your coursemates. These are the people who share your academic interests, goals, and challenges. They can also become your friends, mentors, collaborators, and supporters. Having good relationships with your coursemates can benefit you in many ways, such as: 📌 Enhancing your learning experience: You can learn from each other's perspectives, insights, and feedback. You can also exchange ideas, resources, and information that can help you with your studies. You can also form study groups, peer tutoring, or project teams that can improve your academic performance and skills. 📌Expanding your network: You can build connections that can open up opportunities for your future career or further education. You can also access different communities, organizations, and events that can enrich your personal a...

 

 Spoken Words poetry 

PC: Sanni Abdullahi By Promise Odejide  Last week, I was privileged to attend a two-day skill acquisition program organized by Sho Pen Online and sponsored by Hon. Maryam Yusuf Aladi. I realized how important it is for youths to brace up and acknowledge that the world is fast becoming globalized, and all the former jobs or skills will not be relevant as time goes on unless one equips oneself with technological skills. Nigeria is a country that faces many challenges, such as poverty, unemployment, insecurity, corruption, and poor infrastructure. These challenges make it difficult for many Nigerians to achieve their full potential and live a decent life. However, some Nigerians have found a way to overcome these challenges by acquiring skills and using their creativity to empower themselves. These are the people who have learned how to do something that sets them apart from the rest, such as sewing, baking, carpentry, photography, graphic design, programming, or writing. ...

DAY 2 Absolutely, no knowledge is a waste whether you are familiar with the knowledge before, you either learn more or you relearn it. Earlier today, I attended the two-day skill acquisition organized by Sho Pen Online and sponsored by Hon. Maryam Yusuf Aladi, deputy whip of the Kwara State House of Assembly and member representing Ilorin South Constituency. Today's enlightenment focused on three important skills that will be relevant and worthwhile as the technology advances. We were taken through social media management, digital marketing and content creating. The three tutors are well grounded in their respective skills. Each of them shared with us from the ocean of knowledge and the truth is, every individual present there must be equipped and empowered to be their own CEO and manage it well without stress. Having this kind of knowledge without appreciating those who are worthy of appreciation is not complete. Starting from my very good friend and sister, Mosunmola ...

 As the world becomes more globalized, there are certain skills that are needed to be added to the skills you might have acquired. Earlier today, I was at a two-day skill acquisition workshop organized by Sho Pen Online and sponsored by Hon. Maryam Yusuf Aladi, deputy whip of the Kwara State House of Assembly and member representing Ilorin South Constituency.  Today, Three prominent individuals took us through the process of creating and editing a good picture, video and graphics designs with our mobile phone. The first lecturer, Mr Aliu Kehinde Zakariyah, took us through how he was trained and how he exposed himself to be grounded in videography. While teaching us how we can use our phones to edit videos, he explained the stages of videography, starting from pre-production to post-production, and he delved into the qualities an individual who aspires to be a good video editor must have.  The second lecturer, Mr Sanni Abdullahi, is a br...

1. *ABIA* : On your way to Umuahia, come down at Bus stop gate in Umuahia, take a cab going to Ohafia via Igbere. Tell the driver you are going to Igbere before Abriba. Once you stop at Igbere which is just about 400 - 500 naira from Umuahia. Cross to the other side of the road and walk straight to camp. Please, on no account should you tell the driver that you're going to Bende, because Bende Town is a bit far from Igbere where your camp is located. 2. *ANAMBRA* : Coming from Onitsha, go to upper iweka and enter a bus going to Awka, as soon as you'd enter the bus, don't forget to remind the driver or conductor that you'll be stopping at Amawbia junction. When u get there, look for a bike man or keke that'll take you into the camp at Umuawulu. The distance from Onitsha to Amawbia is from 20 to 40 minutes and the total price might range from 400 to 500. Coming from Awka, go to unizik junction and enter a bus going to Onitsha, as soon as you'd enter the bus, don...

When the world seems wicked and weary, And your troubles are too tough to take, Don't despair or drown in your dreary, But believe in your bright and brave break. When the odds are stacked against you, And your chances are slim and slight, Don't give up or give in to the blue, But fight for your fair and faithful right. When the road is rough and rocky, And your journey is long and hard, Don't quit or question your lucky, But strive for your strong and smart start. When the pressure is high and heavy, And your stress is too much to bear, Don't panic or pout in your levy, But breathe in your bold and balanced air. When the critics are harsh and hateful, And your confidence is low and lost, Don't listen or lament in your grateful, But speak in your sweet and sincere voice. When the failures are frequent and frustrating, And your success is far and faint, Don't regret or resent in your rating, But learn from your lively and lasting paint. When the goals...

Dear sorrow, thou bittersweet muse Whose somber symmetry doth amuse Thou paintest my world in shades of despair Yet with each stroke, my heart's burden I bear. Thy touch, like icy tendrils, seeps deep A melancholic melody thou dost keep Thou art the poet's ink, the artist's pain Thou drivest my spirit to depths insane. Thou writhing serpent, twisted and cruel Thine love, a torment, cruel and undue Thou pourest forth waters from life's gaping wound Yet every tear, with fervor, is consumed. Thy countenance is like storm clouds that loom Thou withereth every blossom in bloom In thy shadow, I am a hollow vessel Yet within me, thy darkness doth nestle. Thou melodramatic sorceress of gloom With each sigh, thou pullest me toward my doom In thy presence, sorrow engulfs my soul Yet within me, a flame of hope struggles to roll. Dear sorrow, thou inexplicable flame Thou art both my enemy and my only claim Drowning me in liquid tears of distress Yet stringing me along l...

Life is vanity, a fleeting breath That soon will vanish in the air We chase the shadows, not the light And fill our days with empty cares. Life is vanity, a fading flower That withers in the sun's harsh rays We seek the beauty, not the root And waste our time in vain displays. Life is vanity, a passing cloud That drifts away with every wind We follow the currents, not the course And lose our way in endless bends. Life is vanity, a sinking sand That shifts beneath our feet We build our castles, not our homes And find no place to rest or sleep. Life is vanity, a broken glass That shatters with a gentle touch We hold the fragments, not the whole And cut ourselves with every clutch. Life is vanity, a restless wave That rises and falls with every tide We ride the crests, not the depths And drown ourselves in shallow pride. Life is vanity, a fleeting dream That fades away when we awake We chase the visions, not the truth And live our lives in false mistakes. Life is vanity, a...

When asked about the meaning of "hypocrisy," I offer different definitions based on my learning. However, one particular story stands out, involving a young man who once occupied a leadership role within an institution – specifically, he served as the president of a certain department. Despite projecting an image of purity to others, he secretly struggles with a sex addiction. His proficiency as a motivational speaker and mentor, especially for select individuals, contrasts with the fact that his own adherence to his teachings is lacking. I learned about his story from various girls with whom he engaged in unlawful relationships. He manipulated them with deceitful words, undermining their emotional strength, and leveraging their vulnerability for his personal pleasure. This individual, much like numerous others, preaches and writes about ideals that his own inner self refuses to adopt. He guides people to take actions he himself cannot reconcile, driven by his des...

Free time is meant for relaxation, but I prefer to immerse myself in knowledge and build castles of words through various forms of writing. However, lately, I find myself trapped in the clutches of four formidable horsemen of procrastination. They pay me a visit whenever I pick up my book or pen, making it difficult for me to do what I know I do best. That's why I decided to join this writing challenge. But wait, how do you think I can find it easy to participate in this challenge? Before I let the cat out of the bag, let me introduce you to these Four Horsemen of Procrastination: Nap, snacks, Social media, and Other distractions. When I succumb to their inspiring temptations, my productivity suffers, and I struggle to focus on my passions and goals. HOW I DEAL WITH THIS HORSEMEN  🧠 Nap: While rest is important, I try to set a specific time for a short nap to avoid overindulgence. I create a daily schedule that incorporates dedicated study or writing time, allowing for...

I'm living solitary in an unseen worlds,  Place solo shadows cry and dies silently  I walk willy-nilly, my soul difficult and imbued Grieving's worlds, the pressure of despair, I pant after peace, but happiness was crushed to death. I rumored and cries that nobody hears, I'm drenching in a lake of fears. Each tear that falls, a understood defense, For dignitary to notice, to set me free, But no one sees my pains! I wear a mask, an appearance so powerful, To conceal the pain that continues long. But within, I'm divided and separated, Desire without charge to fix my soul. In the isolation, hope appears far, Still I beg stars and moonlight. To lead me through this never-ending midnight, And show me skilled's a habit to find the light. In this unseen worlds, I long to feel, A touch of generosity, warm and evident. To experience that I am more than one, What my pain maybe ousted. When you see me on the road, Know that I'm lost in darkness Far from the lus...

The game of Chess offers diverse lessons to all who engage in playing it. From decision-making to political insight and personal development, each move imparts a valuable lesson. I could vividly remember one day while I was teaching my alter ego, Woru, how to play chess. I made him understand that the king leads, supported by the queen, bishops, ready knights, and fortified by rooks.  As we continue the game, he curiously asked about the pawns, prompting me to explain, "These pieces symbolize individuals in society; at times, we become footmen used by selfish leaders against adversaries." I likened these footmen to the youth, often positioned to set traps and protect kingly honor. However, only the sharpest among them ascend to royal soldiers. But, I added, before a soldier attains royal status, their journey is akin to iron passing through fire. As we progress, I laid an emphasis on the king's relationship with his queen, highlighting that a king without a qu...

My Dearest generation, I'm sure you're curious about the whereabouts of the wealth mentioned in the previous letter, along with the locations of the property and documents needed for redemption. Hmm... Here I am, addressing you for the third time. Remember, in my first letter, I mentioned inheriting valuable virtues from my parents. These virtues shaped me into a prominent figure within society. My wealth is exceedingly precious and meticulously preserved. Neither moth nor rust can tarnish it. Even if fire were to consume it, it would continue to shine like newly minted gold, it never reduced to ashes. It perseveres and endures for eternity. My wealth is liken to life and serves as the key to unlock a prosperous lifestyle. It embodies truth and enlightenment, elevating you to a pinnacle amongst your peers. It surpasses even the riches of King Solomon. Beloved children, my wealth comprises the words that will uplift you in moments of despair. It encompasses actions t...

Dear peculiar generation, With enthusiasm and unfathomable joy, I write this to you, hoping that my words will be as clear as the crystal waters of paradise. The purpose of this letter is to uplift your weakened hearts during challenging times. Although circumstances might be as hard as rock, remember that giving up is never a solution. In my lifetime, I once attempted to take my own life due to the overwhelming depression that consumed me. Sorrow seemed like the sweetest bread to feast upon, and sadness became the water that aided digestion. There were moments when I wished for the world to end, but nothing happened. I longed for a sudden reversal of fortune between the rich and poor, yet not even a hint of change emerged. Even when I believed that the clouds were gathering to bring forth a shower of blessings, instead, they unleashed havoc, turning homes into shelters for the homeless. Farmers became beggars. Still, I persisted in tilling the soil for greens. My wealth mi...

Dear beloved generation, I believe this letter finds you in ocean of good health and elevating spirits. How are your brethrens faring? Have you gathered them to hear these words of mine? Let the youngest children listen as the reader conveys this message, they should take it in like nourishing milk. For countless years, I've kept this letter in the same place where you found it. It encapsulates what I've wished to convey to you, even when I was alive. I implore you to grasp and make the most of every word that falls from the reader's lips. For countless years, you have been the driving force behind my diligent efforts, much like a bee's hard work, aimed at providing you with the opportunities I never had as a child. My goal was to ensure you enjoy what was once beyond my reach. The purpose of this letter is to impart the core values and fundamental qualities instilled in me by my humble parents, who lacked gold or silver to bestow upon me. They, however, imp...

While watching TV last night, I noticed a particular NGO running a charitable foundation. Whenever they conduct their charitable activities, they bring along a camera to showcase their recipients on screen. I couldn't help but wonder why they do this. In a book I read some time ago, Jim Carrey was quoted on a particular page, mentioning, "Imagine struggling with homelessness and someone shoves a camera in your face as they offer you a meal... imagine that feeling." Sadly, this scenario has become commonplace, where many charity givers seek recognition for their acts of generosity towards the less privileged. This behavior is contrary to the teachings of both the Bible and the Quran. In Matthew 6:3-4 (NIV), it is stated, "But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Likewise, the Quran, in Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:...

We are not rich by what we possess but by what we can do without." - Immanuel Kant Truly, Our generation is consumed by materialism and the relentless pursuit of possessions, I stumbled on the timeless wisdom of the German philosopher Immanuel Kant while flipping through a philosophical book in the library. Kant offers a thought-provoking viewpoint on the true essence of wealth, resonating with my soul like a gentle reminder that genuine prosperity lies not in the abundance of my belongings, but in my ability to find contentment and fulfillment in simplicity. On this planet, our beliefs often revolve around acquiring the latest gadgets, luxury cars, and opulent mansions, yes they are good but what else do they contribute to humanity? The idea of finding wealth in relinquishing the unnecessary might seem paradoxical. Yet, upon closer analysis, Kant's philosophy serves as an invaluable guide to a more meaningful and gratifying life. As human beings, possessing a sens...

Friends, they say, are like the siblings God placed in another family, but whom you meet through fate. These companions traverse the chapters of your life, leaving indelible marks on your heart. However, the compass of friendship points in two directions – one guided by the wisdom of Jonathan, offering steadfastness support and enlightenment, and the other influenced by the cunning ways of Jonadab, leading down treacherous paths of deception and temptation.  Hmm, when I vividly recall the type of advice Jonadab gave to Amnon because he desired to be with his sister, I am reminded of those friends who aim to lead me astray, deter my shining goals, and steer me away from the right path. These friends are strategists, always prepared to entice you onto the road of demise while cloaking it in the illusion of purity. They might say, "Aiye nshe iru e men," which translates to people behaves in that manner, while they watch as you commit wrongful actions. Yet, they will ...

  By Promise Odejide   Yoruba way of life is richly blessed with enthralling philosophies and actions, in one of an historic Yoruba proverb accurately states, "Ẹni tó ńrọ ẹ̀wù ò, á nra igbó" which interprets to "Whoever needs to tread cautiously need to thread the forest." This Yoruba pronouncing profoundly captures the magnitude of the strength of words. Throughout human history, the energy of language has been evident, shaping destinies, nurturing connections, and leaving memorable marks on the world. Words possess the uncanny ability to create or destroy, to heal or harm. They elevate a weight that transcends their bodily form, as they can kindle flames of inspiration, bridge the gap between cultures, and deliver revolutions of change. The historic sages of Yoruba diagnosed this power, and their knowledge nevertheless reverberates throughout generations. In each factor of life, be it private or professional, the phrases we pick undergo amazing consequences. In re...

  By Promise Odejide   In my village, there is an extraordinary well that serves both the villagers and neighboring villages. It never dries up unless everyone is well served, and when it does, it refills overnight, almost to the brim. Similarly, as a writer, you are like a source of ideas, inspiration, and motivation for everyone. People expect you to continuously fill yourself with new ideologies and be a reservoir of inspiration. Like a skilled woodcarver in the forest, you are expected to search for the finest woods to uphold the castle and marvel everyone with your craftsmanship. Your ideas should have the power to cleanse readers of their weariness and invigorate their minds with renewed enthusiasm. It is a must for you to always renew and energize your ideas to refresh readers and rejuvenate their minds. Some readers are thirsty for knowledge and understanding, and your words satisfy their thirst, quenching the minds of eager readers wandering in the desert of ignorance...

  By Promise Odejide  I was once asked why I don't want to have an office in student unionism. I took my time to think about the question, and within myself, I knew this was a test of my faith. Instead of saying it's because I don't want to become a puppet to some group of individuals who call themselves "STAKEHOLDERS," I responded by explaining that I currently have a full plate of responsibilities and commitments. I believe I don't need a specific title or position to effectively fulfill my role in the Students' leadership. My actions and contributions speak for themselves, and I'm confident in my ability to make a positive impact without any added nomenclature. This response left the person who asked me speechless. Many people might think that a specific title is necessary to make an impact, but in reality, there are various individuals who didn't hold an office or a specific title and yet made a positive impact in society. These individuals sta...

  "If God be for you, who can be against you? Brethren, you can be against yourself... Because you are yet to discover your true self." I could recall during the election period in Kwara State Polytechnic, a friend of mine, Alex Obajiwa, was persuaded to run for the position of student union president. Despite being uncertain about the role, he succumbed to the pressure, hoping that it might boost his popularity. However, as the responsibilities piled up, Alex found himself devastated and unable to make a noteworthy impact on his fellow students. It was only through a period of deep self-discovery that Alex learned to understand his true passions and abilities. Eventually, he stepped down from the position, but the experience created a newfound sense of purpose within him. Alex went on to become a passionate advocate for student mental health, creating positive change that resonated throughout the entire institution. Self-discovery is a deep idea that holds the key to knowing...

  A month ago, a dear friend and I were engrossed in a thoughtful dialogue on how to attain success in life without resorting to unlawful activities. As we talked about developing skills and putting them to good use, I emphasized the challenging reality of living in Nigeria by saying "Bro!! We are in Nigeria fa!!" using the Ilorin suffix 'fa' to emphasize the uniqueness of our country. I reminded my friend about the dilemma of workers whose salaries can hardly afford a bag of rice in Nigeria and those burdened with responsibilities that outweigh their monthly salaries. I pointed out that these very individuals would be potential customers for his services if he pursued a skill-based profession. However, my friend had already charted his plans. He shared his ambitious plan of obtaining a visa to a European country, emphasizing that as a skilled welder, he possessed the energy and mastery to outshine even European welders. He said he intended to work diligently for year...