Nigerians in Russia celebrate Independence Day    On Sunday, 30 September, 2007, as part of the activities organized to mark the 47th Anniversary of Nigerian Independence Day, the Nigerian Community Russia (Moscow, Headquarters) invited Nigerians and Friends of Nigeria to the Conference Hall of the Embassy of Nigeria in Moscow – to a Symposium & Quiz event on Nigeria and her history. In attendance at the symposium themed “Nigeria at 47: Socio-economic and scientific-technological perspective” were a lot of Nigerian dignitaries, including His Excellency, the Charge D’Affaires of the Embassy of Nigeria in Moscow, Ambassador Z.O. Ojo, as a Guest speaker. The Moderator at the event was Dr. Ayo Ojajune, the Interim Chairman of NIDO Russia. Also present at the event were: Mr. O.Y. Atanze (Embassy of Nigeria, Minister - Economic, Trade & Investment), Mr. S.O. Ajala (Embassy of Nigeria, Minister – Consular & Immigration), Dr. M. Omiwale, Dr. J. Andura, Engr. G. Udeh, Mr. A.R. Oluroumbi, Mr. C. Kenneth (Editor-in-Chief, Russian Business World), Dr. Chris Ugbalo and even high level team from Nigeria, representing the Nigerian-Russian Chamber of Commerce, led by Alhaji Hassan Momodu (the Chamber president) and Ambassador E.T. Okpo, as well as many other invited Guests-of-honour. Papers were presented by Dr. Cyril Ohiara (a business consultant & entrepreneur), who spoke on Moral sensitization of Nigerian Community; Mr. Yusuf Makarfi (a PhD student of Fine Chemicals), spoke on Ethanol as a possible source of Energy supply in Nigeria; and Mr. Bode Eluyera, who spoke on the need for a total overhaul of the Nigerian statehood to encourage competition amongst federating states/regions. There were also interesting contributions from the floor, including some delegates from the Nigerian Chamber of Commerce, who accidentally were in Moscow for business talks. The second session of the program was a Quiz competition tagged the “Nigerian Brain of the Year” 2007/2008, in which the lion share of the questions were on Nigeria and Nigerians. For the first time in the annals of The Nigerian Community Russia, such program is being organized and aimed at encouraging Nigerian youths living or studying abroad to know more about Nigeria past and present. This year’s prizes were sponsored by Arch. Kehinde Banwo (a Nigerian, who takes special interest in Education and Business). A trophy, that will be competed for yearly was donated by The Nigerian Community Russia (Moscow, HQ). The following student associations took part in this year’s competition: Association of Nigerian (Federal) Schorlarship Students in Russia (ANSSIR), represented by Misters Onyinye Ahiakwo, Eric Okhiria and Ikechukwu Amadi; Nigerian Students Union of Russian Peoples’ Friendship University, represented by Misters Okoh Emeka, Eze Kenneth and Emmanuel Abiola; and the Bayelsa State Schorlarship Students Union, represented by Misters Igodo Somze Emmanuel, Joshua Perewei and Adu Etulan. At the end of competition, which was keenly competed for, the Association of Nigerian (Federal) Schorlarship Students in Russia (ANSSIR) emerged the winner and took home the trophy. The trophy was received on behalf of the Association by its President, Miss Rosemary Chiejina Nneka. All the participants were also presented with personal prizes and Certificates of Excellency. In his vote of thanks, Dr. Bashir Obasekola, the President-General of The Nigerian Community Russia, expressed his happiness and thanked every one for coming and most especially all those that contributed financially towards the successful organization of the event: Arch. Kehinde Banwo, Dr. Cyril Ohiara, Mr. Rex Essenowo (Secretary General), Dr. Sunday Emenka (Project Manager, Gallaher Tobacco Russia), Mr. Willy Awili, Dr. Maurice Okoli, Mr. Bode Eluyera and Mr. Kenneth Eziashi. He also thanked Dr. Joshua Olaseinde and Mr. Benjamin Majekodunmi for preparing the food for the occasion; and Mr. Nosa Odiase for his logistics assistance to the President-General. The Independence Day celebrations continued the following day, October 1st at a Reception organized by the Embassy of Nigeria in Moscow, to which every Nigerians were invited. The occasion was also used by The Nigerian Community Russia to showcase Nigerian cultural dance and play. The students performed a play, sang and danced to the delight of everyone present in the after-the-diplomatic session of the Reception. It was fun, enjoyment, music, food and drinks galore. Hurray, Nigeria at 47! We wish her well and pray for her fast development to be a proud place for all us and our generations to come. Below are some of the pictures of the events: The occasion was also used to draw the attention and commiseration to the plight of a member of the Nigerian community who underwent a very expensive brain operation to remove a tumor and now undergoing series of other expensive therapies. An aid-box was placed on a podium. The vote-of-thanks address was also given by the President in view of the absence at the occasion of the Vice-President of the organization, Dr. Almighty Ironnah, MD (who could not make the event due to his urgent professional commitments at the hospital – Oath of Hippocratic supersedes). During his vote-of-thanks speech, Dr. Obasekola thanked all the people present at the party and most of all the dignified members of the Nigerian community, whose financial and physical participation helped to make the event a successful one. He expressed his profound gratitude to all the girls that helped prepare the food for the day, most especially Ms Gladys Osazuwa, who coordinated the cooking process. He also singled out the immense efforts of Prince Kingsley Shiweobi, Mr. MacMarcel Onuora and Mr. Kenneth Eziashi (Welfare Officer) to seeing to the day’s successful party. “I say good job and more grease to your selfless elbows!” Using the opportunity to remind all Nigerians and persons of Nigerian descent in Russia that they are naturally members of the organization, but nevertheless, they still have to formally register their membership to the organization by filling out the required Membership forms and paying the required membership fees. He also reminded members of the upcoming General Elections to the Executive Council of the organization in early 2007. He implored them to actively take part in the elections as voters and candidates. Generally, the party was a very successful one, despite the lateness and some little skirmishes and occasional non-attentiveness of the people. Of course this could be understandable given the fact that people are there to have fun and enjoy themselves without giving damn for much official speeches. The event provided us the opportunity to see each other physically, for some it might be just quite a while, exchange words of best wishes for Christmas and New Year seasons. It also helped to take our minds off the daily struggle to survive in a foreign land far away from our relations in our home country – Nigeria. The party lasted till 6.00 am December 25. It was fun, enjoyable and full of impressive memories. Now that the occasion has come and gone and everyone is now engrossed in his/her daily activities, one thing that must continue to re-echo in our minds is that all Nigerians are ambassadors of Nigeria in their host countries and whatever we do effect on the image and the way other people perceive all Nigerians irrespective of tribe, gender, social status and religious belief. We should therefore continue to remain united and be our brothers’ (sisters’) keepers and be law-abiding. Remember in unity and brotherhood we can be better off! Register your membership today and attend General meetings!                                                         Finally, the Nigerians In Diaspora Organization Europe – Russian Chapter (NIDOE – Russia) took-off. It was business-like and fun atmosphere on Sunday, 27 May 2007 at the premises of the Embassy of Nigeria in Moscow, where a meeting of Nigerian Professionals and entrepreneurs in Russia was held to give a new impulse to the establishment of a Chapter of Nigerians In Diaspora Organization in Russia. The occasion that started and ended with refreshments and various Nigerian music, was considerably well attended by invited Nigerian professionals residing in Moscow and other towns of Russia. The meeting also saw in attendance the out-going Minister (Education & Consular) at the Embassy of Nigeria in Moscow, Mr. Abdulahi Zango. After a long analysis of the past attempt at establishing a Chapter of the NIDOE in Russia and open discussions and exchange of ideas on the best way forward, the meeting finally resolved to take the bull by the horns. It was unanimously agreed that we in Russia need NIDO and therefore determined to partake, just like our other compatriots in other parts of the world, in the process of finding viable solutions to the socio-economic development of our home-country – Nigeria. The meeting also resolved to participate in the forthcoming 2nd Diaspora Day/3rd Science & Technology Conference scheduled for 23-26 July, 2007 at Abuja. Nigerians in Diaspora in Russia are therefore implored to indicate their interest to participate in these events by submitting their names and possible areas of professional and business interests. A new Interim administrative committee to steer the affairs of the re-established NIDOE – Russia was constituted. The members of the Committee are: 1. Dr. Ayo Ojajune 2. Dr. Bashir Obasekola 3. Mr. Rex Essenowo 4. Arch. Olayinka Olatoye 5. Engr. Frank Ibeme The Interim Administrative Committee is tasked with the responsibility of: 1) liaison with other NIDO Chapters; 2) raising awareness of Nigerians residing in Russia about aims and objectives of NIDO; 3) carrying out intensive membership drive; 4) organizing a formal launching of the organization, and 5) compiling & coordinating a befitting participation of Nigerian professionals in Russia in the forthcoming Diaspora Day in Abuja. We wish the new interim officers of the Nigerians In Diaspora Europe – Russian Chapter (NIDOE – Russian Chapter) success in their challenging tasks. _______________________________________________________________________ (Nigerians In Diaspora Organization Europe – Russian Chapter (NIDOE – Russian Chapter) is a sister organization for Nigerians all over the world.)    Executives of The Nigerian Community Russia, Moscow Chapter paid a courtesy call to H.E. Ambassador Dan Suleiman.    On Thursday, 3rd of May, 2007, members of the Executive Council of The Nigerian Community Russia, Moscow Chapter paid a courtesy call on His Excellency, the Ambassador of Nigeria to Russia Federation, Air Commodore Dan Suleiman (rtd). During the occasion in which other members of staff of the Mission were present, a lot of issues concerning Nigerians in Russia were discussed. The Mission promised not only to maintain the current good relationship with the organization, but also to improve on them. The Ambassador and the Grand Patron of the Nigerian Community Russia, H.E. Ambassador Dan Suleiman was officially presented with a newly designed Membership Card of the organization by Dr. Bashir Obasekola, the President-General of The Nigerian Community Russia. Dr. Bashir Obasekola, the President-General presenting H.E. Ambassador Dan Suleiman with a Membership Card of the organization, while Mr. Sunday Ajala (Minister, Consular & Immigration) and Mr. Abdullahi Zango (Minister, Education) look on.  Nigerian Community in Russia celebrated End-of-Year 2006 in Moscow                                           (A report on the event) On Sunday, 24 December, 2006, The Nigerian Community Russia (Moscow, HQ) organized in Moscow the End-of-Year party to which a lot of friends of Nigeria and other respected Nigerian dignitaries were invited. Just as many Nigerian events, our legendary disrespect for punctuality also came to display at the occasion. A party that was scheduled to start at 9.00 pm Moscow Time could not start until 11.30 pm. While the hall was almost been taken over by Russians and other foreigners, Nigerians did not start arriving until around 11.00 pm. The Executive members of the organization including the President-General, Dr. Bashir Obasekola had to stand at the gate to limit the numbers of non-Nigerians entering, as the hall originally booked for 200 people with free drinks and food was already half filled with non-Nigerians. Although the occasion was yet another opportunity for us to promote the image of Nigeria, which is continuously being under onslaught by the western media, hence the extension of open invitation to all and sundry with a token entrance fee of 200 rubles. So, the decision to limit the entrance of non-Nigerians despite the organizations need for fund was necessary to make sure Nigerian community members could still enjoy the free drinks and food. Till now, I still wonder what the outcome would have been if Nigerians had not shown up eventually, or if the whole hall had been filled up with non-Nigerians before Nigerians (the supposed celebrants) arrived. Present at the party was the Consul of the Embassy of Nigeria in Russia, Mr. Sunday Ajala, who also represented HE Air Commodore (rtd) Dan Suleiman, the Ambassador of Nigeria to Russian Federation, as the special guest of honour. When the program of the event was finally set rolling at 11.30 pm, it was atmosphere of apprehension changed for fun and good mood. The master-of-ceremony at the occasion, Mr. Rex Essenowo (the Secretary-General of the organization), started by introducing the high table: Mr. S. Ajala (Consul), Engr. George Udeh (a Nigerian businessman in Russia and member of the Community) and Arch. Yinka Olatoye (a renowned Nigerian architect in Russia and member of the Community) and his wife. In his welcome speech, the President-General of the Community, Dr. Bashir Obasekola talked about the main essence of such occasions as this one being reported and the need for unity amongst Nigerians in Russia irrespective of tribe, age, gender, social status or religious inclination. He said, “with unity and brotherhood (as the motto of the organization reads) amongst us there is no limit to what we can achieve. It is with unity that we can form a formidable pressure group to help lobby for our mutual interest within the host authorities and the Nigerian Embassy in Russia. Laissez-fairism and aloofness will not help anyone of us, rather it will continue to damage our image and reduce the worth of an otherwise powerful Nigerian community. He acknowledged the financial contributors to the event: Mr. Niran Raji (a Nigerian businessman in Russia and a member of the Community), Mr. Rex Essenowo, Mr. Shola Aiyetan (PRO of the organization), Prince Kingsley Shiweobi (Deputy PRO), Dr. Sheriff Musa, Arch. Yinka Olatoye, Mr. Isaac Mamman, Dr. Cyril Ohiara and Mr. MacMarcel Onuora. Mr. S. Ajala, speaking on behalf of His Excellency Ambassador Dan Suleiman and himself, talked about the need for constant unity amongst Nigerians in Russia, the need for mutual cooperation between the Nigerian Embassy and the Nigerian Community organization in Russia to improve the image of Nigeria and the wellbeing of all bona fide Nigerians living in Russia. He also reminded all Nigerians to register their presence in Russia with the Nigerian Embassy and obtain the Consular Identity Card, which was introduced by the Nigerian Embassy in early 2006. He commended the efforts of current Executive of the organization and implored them to continue to improve on these. The occasion was not only limited to latest Nigerian, African music, Hip Pop, R ‘n’ B, Reggae or Latino hits, abundant drinks and food (including moi-moi). The event also saw live performance by a Nigerian born artist Jam Sheriff (Dr. Sheriff Musa, MD), a runners-up during the contest for who to represent Russia in Eurovision 2006 (he lost to the eventual runners-up of the tournament – Dima Bilan) and Dillon Show (Mr. Dillon Oloyede). For many girls, the inclusion of Dillon Show in the program of event of the day was a bait, as most of them always like to see Mr. Dillon display his romantic and artistic dance and cat-walk. Besides, The Nigerian Community Russia also gave out certificates of awards to distinguished members and friends of the organization in acknowledgement of their outstanding contributions to the organization during these years. Five categories of certificates were awarded: Certificate of Appreciation: 1. Mr. Marlon Saunders (Jamaican) 2. Mr. Kester von Klomegah (Ghanaian) 3. Mr. Amos Idowu (Minister, Nigerian Embassy, Ukraine) – formerly in Moscow 4. Mr. Sunday Ajala (Nigerian Embassy, Moscow) 5. Mr. Benny Adejinle (Nigerian Embassy, Moscow) 6. Mr. Ibrahim Sulaiman (Nigerian Embassy, Moscow) 7. Mr. Abdulahi Zango (Minister, Nigerian Embassy, Moscow) 8. Arch. Olayinka Olatoye (Nigerian) 9. Dr. Cyril Ohiara (Nigerian) 10. Mr. MacMarcel Onuora (Nigerian) Certificate of Recognition: 1. Engr. Peter Egwuonwu (Chairman, Ohaneze Ndiigbo Moscow Chapter) 2. Dr. Sheriff Musa (Nigerian artist in Moscow) 3. Mr. Charles Igboh (Nigerian actor in Moscow) 4. Mr. Chidozie Ekweribe (Nigerian comedian in Moscow) 5. Mrs. Fadek Ojajune (a linguistic tutor) 6. Mr. Chidi Odia (a Nigerian professional footballer in Moscow – CSKA ) Certificate of Honour: 1. HE Air Commodore (rtd) Dan Suleiman (Ambassador of Nigeria to Russia) Certificate of Inspiration: 1. Dr. Rilwan Gbamgbala ( Nigerian business tycoon in Moscow) 2. Dr. Jonah Izzuka 3. Dr. Ayo Ojajune 4. Dr. Emmanuel Nwaneri 5. Mr. Adeniran Raji 6. Engr. Basil Oguzie 7. Engr. George Udeh 8. Dr. Chris Ede, MD 9. Dr. Maurice Okoli Certificate of Merit: 1. Mr. William Awili (ex. General-Secretary) 2. Dr. Abayomi Samuel, MD (ex. Treasurer) 3. Mr. Matthew Ilechukwu (ex. PRO) 4. Dr. Peter K. Aariola (ex. Internal Auditor) 5. Dr. Uche Obua (ex. Special Adviser) 6. Dr. Ronke Awe (ex. Deputy Secretary-General) 7. Mr. Rex Essenowo (Secretary-General) 8. Mr. Shola Aiyetan (PRO) 9. Prince Kingsley Shiweobi (Deputy PRO) 10. Mr. Lanre I. Abraham (Social Secretary) 11. Ms. Stacia Wokocha (Deputy Social Secretary) 12. Mr. Kenneth Eziashi (Welfare Officer) 13. Mr. Michael A. Odita (Deputy Welfare Officer) 14. Mr. Obi A. Okeke (Commerce Secretary) 15. Dr. Tony Abugu (Legal Adviser) 16. Mr. Dillon Oloyede (Deputy Legal Adviser) 17. Mr. Isaac Mamman (Secretary for Education Affairs) 18. Dr. Almighty Ironnah, MD (Vice President) 19. Dr. Bashir Obasekola (President-General) During the occasion, the Community’s calendar 2007 was launched. A well-designed and colourful piece of work indeed! Engr. George Udeh, whose “Master Otdykha” company (a chain of tourist agency, where he is a partner) was one of the two companies given advertisement space on the calendar, set rolling the launching. The launching was generously continued by Arch. Yinka Olatoye, Mr. S. Ajala, Mr. William Awili (former General Secretary of the organization), Dr. Cyril Ohiara, Mr. Bode Eluyera, Dr. Tony Abugu (Legal Adviser to the organization), Mr. Akaya Mike, Mr Julius Gbamgbose, and many other Nigerians and non-Nigerians present in the party.    Engr. George Udeh introducing/launching the Calendar.                        Arch. Olayinka Olatoye launching the Calendar                                                      And the dance floor declared opened :)         The Voice Interview With Dr. Obasekola   This is an extract from an interview given by Dr. Bashir Obasekola, the President-General of the organization to Kester von Klomegah of The Voice Magazine (www.thevoice.nl ), published in June 2006 edition of the magazine. TV: How is the organization, The Nigerian Community Moscow, taking shape after struggling for the past few years to prop up its membership and to raise awareness for the need for unity? Dr. Obasekola: It will be an understatement if I say the task of getting Nigerians together is easy. My fellow compatriots in other parts of the world will surely bear me witnesses. Despite the considerable numbers of Nigerians residing, working and studying in Moscow, the percentage of registered members of the organization is still very low. Although, we have some categories of Nigerians that do not officially register their membership with the organization, but are always or occasionally participants in the organization’s events and meetings. The situation here in Moscow, Russia is compounded with the peculiarities of the situations in Russian society. Life is not easy over here, both economically and socially. So, many of my compatriots are busy toiling for themselves to be able to make ends meet. Although, I use to tell them that man shall not live by bread only. There is need to occasionally relax, undertake other activities of life that make one a human being. Generally, there is improvement in the membership drive of the organization and there is a considerable increase in the awareness of the need for unity amongst Nigerians residing here in Moscow. The same story is the case in other towns and regions of Russia, like St. Petersburg, Krasnodar, etc, where there are Nigerian Community organizations. Looking back at what was the situation of things when the organization was formed some years back, a period when many Nigerians were afraid to identify themselves as Nigerians, when we were suspicious of each other, then I can say categorically that the organization is faring well and taking good shape. TV: Can you comment on some of the landmark achievements since its establishment? Have there been any setbacks? And so, what were the actual difficulties that confronted its Executives? Dr. Obasekola: Since its establishment in 1999 by some few enthusiasts under the leadership of Mr. Sylvester Adegbie, The Nigerian Community Moscow has drastically changed both in popularity and in membership. Many of the first sets of members and officers of the organization like Mr. Frank Morgan, Henry Konyeaso, Esq., Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed, Mr. I. Umenne, Mr. Matthew Ilechukwu, Dr. Peter Aarinola, Dr. Abayomi Samuel, Mr. William Awili, Engr. George Udeh and many others, did a wonderful job by initiating and with perseverance helping to lay the foundation for this organization. Even though today, some of these people have left the country, the organization has continued to grow and membership of the organization has grown beyond the founding members. We have more diverse sets of members now – ranging from students to businessmen/women to expatriates. The organization has since been registered with the Russian authorities as a social, not-for-profit organization. There is no Nigerian who had been living in Moscow for at least six months who will truly claim that he/she never heard either from friends or the local media about the existence of the organization. The Moscow Times (a local newspaper in English) runs the organization’s notices on its Community Bulletin Board’s page at least twice a month. The Nigerian Embassy in Moscow has also been reckoning with the organization as the main representative of Nigerians living in Moscow. However, there are a lot of problems and setbacks. As I had said earlier, it is always hard to get Nigerians to unite for a common goal. Every Nigerian is a master on his/her own. So, the organization is still finding it difficult to get all Nigerians together irrespective of tribe and social status. A considerable number of Nigerians still prefer to stay outside the organization and remain as on-lookers and “sympathizers” of the organization. Apart from this, lack of fund is another big problem of the organization. As we all know that nothing can be done without money. The little achievement the organization can be proud of today is achieved mainly thanks to contributions from little enthusiasts, who are always ready to levy themselves to finance the organization’s activities. Therefore, the newly appointed members of the Executive Council of the organization are to continue to strive to achieve more in the membership drive, finance and promotion of the organization. We need the organization to grow stronger and efficient enough to really fully carry-out the aims and objectives entrenched in its constitution. An effective Nigerian Community organization could also be a catalyst for the establishment and effective growth of African Community organization here in Russia, which could help in resolving the numerous problems confronting Africans in this country. A well-organized Nigerian Community organization is an indispensable one for all Africans (blacks) living in Russia. TV: Members of your reputable organization are individuals or group of individuals located in Moscow and in other neighboring provinces. What are their most complaints or problems? Do they find The Nigerian Community helpful in most cases when they in need? Dr. Obasekola: The prevalent problems are the ones relating to immigration - residency status (Russian law requires that all foreigners register their presence in their localities). As many foreigners, including many Nigerians are having long expired entry/exit visas, they cannot easily undertake this requirement, hence they become illegal immigrants. Although, this problem has categories, the first category are some who genuinely came to Russia with good intentions looking for greener pasture, but for lack of information, they fell victims to some unscrupulous persons, unfortunately, sometimes fellow Nigerians, that claim to have such connection of doing the registration, which at the end of the day is a fake registration. The second are those, who had actually elapsed their stay and want to stay on, but could not easily extend their registration. The last category of this immigration problem is those that had just completed their jail terms and have their registrations expired owing to passing of time. As this organization does not condone nor encourage illegal immigration, we only try to assist in information and consultancy. Ours is to encourage and assist Nigerians to be law-abiding in this aspect of Russian law. Another common problem is the problem of racial attacks that has unfortunately become a daily incident in Russia. Many blacks, including Nigerians have been attacked and maimed for the past years. The organization is currently working with other African, Russian anti-fascist organizations and other like-minded organization to build a united front against this ugly vice in the Russia society. We will continue to educate the Russian populace about Africa and its culture, as we see lack of this as one reason why most Russians have a wrong impression about blacks and the benefit of having them in their midst. Lack of job is another problem that most Nigerians face here in Moscow. The problem is sometimes compounded with racial prejudice and lack of proper documents (Russian law require foreigners to get work permit to be able to take up any job in Russia). Unfortunately, the organization cannot change this law, but we are encouraging our members to assist fellow Nigerians when there is such a possibility under the given circumstances. In this area, many of the businesses with Nigerian origin are helping by employing quite a number of their compatriots, who have the requirements to work legally. The Community will continue to exploit all available opportunities to render assistance by passing on the information about any Nigerian looking for job to employees or Employment agencies. Another problem peculiar to Russia is accommodation problem. Sometimes, a black could have his/her money to rent an apartment for him-/herself, but yet cannot get one. Mostly, the problem is associated with racial prejudice. Some landlords/ladies do not just want a black or afraid of renting house to people who could happen to be criminally minded. We are currently, looking for a Housing agency that could be helping in such circumstances. Meanwhile, we encourage our members to render assistance to their fellow compatriots in such circumstances. TV: As the longest serving President of The Nigerian Community Moscow, what can you say about the overall changes in the country? Does the political change present some opportunities for your citizens in particular and other African colleagues in general, despite the problems that threaten their lives? Dr. Obasekola: Well, I came to Russia (then USSR) about two decades ago as a student. I studied at the Russian Peoples’ Friendship University (then named after Patrice Lumumba). The year I came to this country coincided with the year Mihail Gorbachev became the head of the Soviet Union and started the Perestroika. So, I actually witnessed the transformation from Communism to Perestroika, then to Market Economy. These changes have both positive and negative impacts on the position of Africans in this country Africa was practically forgotten by those in helm of affairs in the early 90s. However, the situation started to improve again at the beginning of the 2000 under the current leadership of Russia. More Africans started to come to study again, both as scholarships and as non-scholarships. But alongside this development xenophobia started to rear its ugly head in Russia. Those politicians who were against a continued relationship and assistance to Africa during the early 90s who are now influential politicians use their political rhetoric to bring racism and elements of fascism into limelight. They knowingly or unknowingly became ideologists for extremist-fascist groups like the notorious “Skin-heads”. Despite this ugly development, I am optimistic about the opportunities the future development of Russian society and economy could offer Africans. Currently Russian giants and private companies are doing business in Africa. Recently, RusAl (Russian Aluminium company) bought a controlling share in Nigerian aluminum company, Gazprom and Russian Energy Unit are undertaking ventures in Nigeria. This development means that in perspective opportunities for Russians, Nigerians and Africans are enormous. I am only apprehensive about the damage the racially motivated attacks and killings would cause to African-Russian relationship and image in the short-term before the actual benefits of the economic relationship are materializing.  TV: Do people express similar optimism or your fellow Nigerians, like any other Africans, have dashed hopes for a bright future in Russia? Dr. Obasekola: Yes, there are mixed feelings amongst my fellow Nigerians and Africans here in Russia. The situation is pathetic. Like I said earlier, the xenophobia that has unfortunately become a substantial element of Russia society is making live very dangerous to Africans. Blacks are been killed and wounded on the streets of Russia just on the ground of their colour. Subsequently, the number of Africans with dashed hopes for a bright and save future in Russia is diminishing everyday. A number of them have left the country with their Russian families for another country or back to their country of origin. Even Nigerians, with their well-known optimistic and endurance nature are not left out in this trend.  TV: How has The Nigerian Community Moscow relate with the Embassy authorities and with other NIDOE organizations that were formed during President Obasanjo’s administration? Dr. Obasekola: The history of the relationship of the Nigerian Community Moscow and the Nigerian Embassy authorities could be divided into phases. At the earlier years of the organization the relationship with the Embassy could be described as cold and suspicious. There were some staff of the Embassy then that were afraid to have a united, strong and effective Nigerian organization that could challenge their laxity. So, our organization did not receive any assistance and cooperation from the Embassy. Instead, a divide and rule policy was adopted. The Embassy then was a no-going area to many Nigerians; requests for consular assistance were usually either ignored or out-rightly rejected. I pray that such period of Embassy-Nigerian Community relationship will never come again. The actions or inactions of the Embassy during those years negatively impacted on our membership drive, as many Nigerians were disappointed in Nigeria through the Embassy. Some up till date cannot overcome those bad impressions of the Embassy of those times. Well, the second phase started a couple of years ago. The Embassy has come to realize that the Nigerian Community Moscow is a serious and persistent organization committed to uniting Nigerians irrespective of tribe, sex or social status and that it is ready to collaborate with Embassy to alleviate the problems of Nigerians in this country. Subsequent officers in charge of consular affairs (being the first port-of-call at the Embassy) are becoming more friendly and cooperative. The current Minister counselor in charge of immigration and consular, Mr. S. Ajala is really trying to change the old face of the Embassy. The enthusiasm and timeliness at which he is trying his best to carry-out his job is encouraging and deserved to be commended. Despite the volume of the consular problems facing Nigerians daily here in Russia and the peculiarities of Russian society, he has continued not to be weighted down. I pray that he will not be discouraged and I will like to say that we in the Executive Council of the organization will not disappoint him and will also cooperate to make him serve Nigerians well. One of the aims & objectives of the organization is to encourage contacts, establish networking amongst Nigerians living in Russia and elsewhere in the world, and maintain close liaison with other Nigerian organizations having similar aims and objectives with the Community. On the relationship with Nigerians In Diaspora Organization Europe (NIDOE), I will say that this is still very weak. Currently, we do not actively partake in the affairs of NIDOE, this is because our organization is still going through its formation period. Nevertheless, efforts are being made to keep and improve on the little relationship that we currently have. TV: During the last elections, you were re-elected as the President, - indicating a full fledge trust in your leadership and at the same time you are an Economist Analyst and Financial Management Accountant with the well known Independent Media Sanoma Magazines. How do you really cope up with the volume of work both for the organization and your official employment in Moscow?  Dr. Obasekola: Of course, it has not been easy to combine my professional work with my social work as the President of the Nigerian Community. I was only able to cope somehow mainly thanks to my background. I have always been involved in extra-curriculum and social activities. I was a Senior Prefect during my primary and secondary schools days, during my University years I was very active in Students’ Unionism – I was the President of the Nigerian Students’ Union for three years. I have also served in many positions in many organizations combined with my major career job. While I appreciate the trust in my leadership as expressed by the General House resolution to re-elect me into this position, I would not say that I have been able to achieve a lot under these circumstances. Nevertheless, I had been able to ply the organization through the turbulent period of its history. The organization has become a recognized body for Nigerians residing in Moscow and its environs. However, a lot still has to be done. One of the major tasks now is to go beyond Moscow in the organization’s operations. We will do everything within our ability to enhance a united Nigerian Community in Russia and bring more and more Nigerians on board. I think we should not be discouraged by the fact that sometimes the environment in Russia does not always permit one to always be in the position to assist Nigerians in problems. Many a time, many of my fellows Nigerians, unfortunately, do not make things easier either; they could sometimes be deceptive and hide actual information about themselves. Unlike in most western European countries, civil society is still at its rudimentary stage here in Russia. It is not easy to operate a non-government organization aimed at defending and assisting individuals. Sometimes, one does not receive the understanding and cooperation of Russian authorities. Nevertheless, I am optimistic about the future of the organization here in Russia. I am happy that during the recent Annual General Meeting held in March, new blood was injected into the system. People of experience and full of enthusiasm were appointed into the Executive Council. I believe that with combined efforts, unity and commitment more could be achieved. The organization needs to get further to reach out to more Nigerians and promote the image of Nigeria. TV: Thank you, Dr. Obasekola Dr. Obasekola: Thank you for having me too. God bless. (P.S. Some few months after this interview, the organization under the leadership of Dr. Bashir Obasekola was upgraded and transformed to The Nigerian Community Russia with headquarters in Moscow. The organization now has Chapters in other major towns and regions of Russia).      FIFA CHAMPIONSHIP                               The last year's FIFA U-20 Women World cup soccer competition in Russia brought Nigeria to the quarter finals, loosing to Brazil with a 2-1 defeat.  Although the Falconets lost Brazil in their quarter-final match, it was a great pride to the Nigerian community to see the beautiful work displayed by the Nigerian ladies.  This was a great tournament and probably one of the greatest soccer events in Russia, wich Nigerian team participated in recent times. To qualify for the finals, the Nigerian ladies team defeated Finland with an 8-0 clear cut. That was the simplest way to express Nigeria's defeat over Finland, as the World Football Championship tournament continued at the Podmoskovye Stadium in Russia, on that gracious Wednesday evening making the Nigerian team qualify for the quarter-finals of the Under-20 Women's World Cup Championship.  It was unbelievable, after the Nigerian team lost to China in a 3-0 outfit on Saturday the 20th of August. This was a not only a great match but a magic on the field. The first half delivered to the Nigerian team a 4-0 advantage, with Akudo Sabi opening goal on the 7th minute, and followed by Maureen Eke and Cynthia Uwak, backing the lead on the 13th and 15th minute strikes respectively, while Sabi sealed the first half with a 42nd minute goal.  While the Nigerian Community in Russia rendered an express fanclub services, exercising their full support for the team, chanting songs and prayers to electrify the atmosphere, the girls were busy doing their things and even in the second half repeating the onslaught with talents. The Nigerians girls dictated all conditions in the field and the Finish team had no choice than giving up. As one of the top Consular officers from Nigeria put it "this is a massacre" , jokingly cautioning a threat to our diplomatic relations  The Finish were totally downplayed in all aspects of the game. The other four goals in the second half were scored by Eke and Maureen Chikwelu stamped the last goal sealing in the 47th minute. Eke scored her second in the 65th minute while Chikwelu's goal came in the 73rd minute before sealing the 79th minute with another fantastic goal. We are proud of you and we look forward with pleasure to our sports men an ladies for more success on the international arena.  You can access the tournament website for match schedules and results on fifa's site:                                                              http://www.fifa.com/en/comp/matches/0,3677,U20W2006S121,00.html  Images from the stadium showing the game and the community fan express club                  P.S :                                               Dont' forget your contibution is very important to the community, send your articles and comments to us today!       The U-20 female football championship in Russia ended on the 3rd of September. We congratulate the Nigerian Falconets for their great performances in the tournament and their continuous efforts to keep our Green & White flying high.