Lifestyle
Chief Ladipo Solanke: The Nigerian Nationalist Who United West African Students in the Fight for Freedom
Chief Ladipo Solanke was a pioneering Nigerian nationalist, lawyer, and activist who played a vital role in shaping the early consciousness of African unity and anti-colonial struggle. Born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, Solanke emerged as one of the most influential figures among West Africans studying in Britain during the early 20th century. His intellectual depth, organizational skill, and pan-African ideals made him a bridge between colonial Africa and the diaspora community in Europe.
After completing his early education in Nigeria, Solanke traveled to London to further his studies in law. While in the United Kingdom, he observed the challenges faced by African students who were often isolated and lacked communal support. Determined to create a network of solidarity, he co-founded the West African Students’ Union (WASU) in 1925 alongside Sierra Leonean doctor and politician Herbert Bankole-Bright. The union served not only as a social and cultural hub but also as a political platform that advocated for the rights and unity of West Africans under colonial rule.
WASU became a powerful voice for anti-colonial activism, offering lodging, support, and a sense of community to African students in Britain. It also became a training ground for future African leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana and Nnamdi Azikiwe of Nigeria, both of whom later acknowledged Solanke’s influence on their political awakening.
In 1929, Solanke embarked on a fundraising tour across West Africa that lasted until 1932. The tour aimed to secure financial support for the expansion of WASU and the establishment of a permanent hostel for African students in London. His campaign was met with enthusiasm across the continent, drawing support from traditional rulers, politicians, and intellectuals who recognized the importance of his mission.
Throughout his life, Solanke’s vision centered on African unity, education, and self-determination. He believed that the liberation of Africa depended on the enlightenment and cooperation of its young intellectuals. His legacy continues to inspire scholars and activists across Africa, especially in the fields of pan-Africanism and student mobilization.
Chief Ladipo Solanke’s work with WASU laid the foundation for later movements that led to African independence. His enduring impact is reflected in the continued reverence for his name in discussions of Nigerian nationalism and pan-African thought.
Sources:
Oxford Reference: Ladipo Solanke (1886–1958), Nigerian Nationalist
Britannica: West African Students’ Union (WASU)
African Activist Archive: Records of Pan-African Movements in London, 1920s–1950s
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A new charity foundation dedicated to assisted conception has called on the Nigerian government to prioritise fertility support programmes within the national health agenda, highlighting the emotional and financial burden faced by millions of couples.
The Circle Mom Fertility Foundation, launched in Abuja, immediately offered full and partial sponsorships for In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment to ten couples. Founder Dr. Charles Ojeabuo stated the initiative was created to restore hope, arguing that assisted conception is a “divine tool” that allows families to achieve parenthood.
VF Sponsorship and Accessibility
The foundation confirmed that five couples received full IVF sponsorship, five others were granted a 50% subsidy, and every attending couple received a 20% discount on treatment. To ensure wider access across Africa’s most populous nation, the foundation is partnering with fertility centres across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, reducing the need for families to travel long distances for care.
The launch event received a significant boost from a celebrity endorsement: visibly pregnant actress and comedienne, Anita Asuoha (Real Warri Pikin), paid tribute to the founders, praising the initiative for restoring hope to families. She joined the foundation’s patron, Dr. Rose Anthony-Orianran, in advocating for the work, with Dr. Anthony-Orianran describing the foundation as a “beacon of hope.”
A Public Health Issue
Mrs. Victoria Ojeabuo, the foundation’s National Director, who has personal experience with secondary infertility, stressed that the struggle is a significant public health issue. She noted that infertility affects millions globally, and the emotional and psychological toll is often overlooked, calling it a “silent pain.”
Mrs. Ojeabuo also provided demographic details on the challenge in Nigeria, citing that infertility cases are roughly 30% male-related, 30% female-related, and 30% a combination, urging philanthropists to collaborate and strengthen this “circle of humanity.”
Legal Guidelines for Assisted Reproduction
The legal aspects of Assisted Reproductive Treatment (ART) were also addressed. Guest speaker Babayemi Olawole, a legal expert, advised couples seeking surrogacy to “always choose gestational surrogacy,” warning that traditional surrogacy grants the surrogate mother biological rights to the child.
Olawole reassured attendees that while Nigeria lacks a specific statute governing ART, the practice is supported by the Constitution’s provision for private and family life. He advised couples to ensure consent forms are signed with the surrogate mother at multiple stages of the process and to avoid the temptation of knowing the surrogate personally.
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From lending her voice to one of Nigeria’s most iconic love songs to becoming a Nollywood powerhouse, Shaffy Bello continues to inspire with grace and glamour.
A Star with Many Faces and Talents
Shaffy Bello (born 8 October 1970) is a Nigerian actress and singer whose influence in the entertainment industry has spanned more than two decades. Known for her captivating presence both on and offscreen, she embodies a blend of artistry, elegance, and resilience. Her journey began not as an actress, but as a singer — her soulful voice helping to define Nigerian pop culture in the late 1990s.
The Voice That Captured a Generation
Bello first gained public attention in 1997 when she lent her vocals to Seyi Sodimu’s chart-topping hit “Love Me Jeje.” The song became an instant classic, beloved across generations for its romantic rhythm and heartfelt lyrics. Her contribution not only introduced her widely to Nigerian audiences, but also marked a defining moment in the evolution of contemporary Nigerian music.
Education, Upbringing, and Background
Shaffy Bello was born in Nigeria in 1970, but she spent much of her early life in the United States, where she completed her formal education.
Though details about her specific schools and degrees are not widely published, her time abroad shaped her outlook — particularly in terms of style, discipline, and ambition. She has spoken in interviews about returning to Nigeria to pursue her career, despite the challenges of separation from her children and family while abroad.
Family, Marriage, and Sacrifices
Shaffy Bello is a mother of two children — a son and a daughter — who have spent parts of their lives abroad.
She was married to Mr. Akinrimisi from 1995 until around 2020. The marriage ended in divorce, which she has said was by mutual agreement. She’s spoken openly about the sacrifices made: leaving her children and husband in the U.S. to relocate to Nigeria to pursue her acting career. That meant periods of separation and difficult decisions, but she has expressed that she does not regret the choice because it enabled her to follow her passion.
Transition to Acting and Nollywood Stardom
After her musical breakthrough, Shaffy moved into acting. Her first major film was Eti Keta, a Yoruba‐language film, which helped solidify her presence in the Nigerian film industry.
In 2012, she landed roles in television series including Tinsel (as Joanne Lawson) and Taste of Love (as Adesuwa). Since then, she has featured in numerous productions in both Yoruba and English — titles like When Love Happens, Gbomo Gbomo Express, Chief Daddy — showing her versatility across genres.
A Fashion Icon and Role Model
Shaffy’s style is often praised for its elegance and boldness. Her red-carpet looks, mastery of vibrant colours, and graceful presentation have made her a fashion icon. She often combines traditional African aesthetics with contemporary fashion in a way that reflects her personality and roots.
Mentorship and Impact
In recent years, Shaffy Bello has taken on a master-class role, sharing her experience with younger actors and creatives. During her “What I Know” masterclass, for example, she spoke about integrity, purpose, consistency, and her journey — including hardships and triumphs.
She often frames her work not simply as performing, but as impacting people — using her platform to encourage others to hold fast to their dreams and to understand the costs and rewards of creative careers.
A Legacy of Grace and Artistry
Today, Shaffy Bello is not just a veteran actress and singer; she is a symbol of reinvention, perseverance, and authenticity. Her journey challenges stereotypes about age, relevance, and what a creative woman can be. Whether through voice, film, fashion or mentorship, she continues to evolve and inspire.
References:
1. Shaffy Bello — Wikipedia.
2. “Shaffy Bello: Acting is not my purpose but impacting people” — The Guardian Nigeria, January 2024.
3. Ripples Nigeria, “Actress Shaffy Bello reveals how she sacrificed her family in pursuit of fame.”
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