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Why Father’s Day is So Special: Honouring Our Heroes

Father’s Day is our chance to shine a spotlight on all the incredible things dads do. It’s a day to celebrate their love, sacrifices, and the countless ways

Father's Day

Father’s Day is here! It’s not just another date on the calendar, but a day full of love, appreciation, and heartfelt gratitude. Today, families around the world are taking a moment to honor the men who have shaped their lives with unwavering support and wisdom. Let’s chat about how Father’s Day came to be, why it’s so special, and the unique role dads play in our lives today.

How It All Started

You might not know this, but Father’s Day actually started because of one daughter’s deep love for her dad. Back in 1910, a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd from Spokane, Washington, thought, “Hey, dads deserve a day too!” after being inspired by Mother’s Day. Her own father, William Jackson Smart, was her hero. After her mother passed away, he single-handedly raised Sonora and her five siblings. Talk about dedication!

Thanks to Sonora’s efforts, the first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910. But it wasn’t until 1972 that President Richard Nixon made Father’s Day an official holiday in the United States. Now, it’s celebrated worldwide, and each country adds its own unique twist to the celebrations.

Why Father’s Day is So Special

Father’s Day is our chance to shine a spotlight on all the incredible things dads do. It’s a day to celebrate their love, sacrifices, and the countless ways they make a difference in our lives. Whether it’s teaching us how to ride a bike, helping with homework, or giving us the best advice, dads play a crucial role in shaping who we are.

And here’s the cool part: fatherhood is evolving. Today’s dads are breaking away from traditional roles and becoming more involved in nurturing and caregiving. It’s a beautiful change, showing just how adaptable and multifaceted fatherly love can be.

Nowadays, dads do it all. They’re not just the breadwinners anymore; they’re active participants in every part of family life. Here’s how they’re making their mark:

  • Role Models: Dads teach us values like honesty, hard work, and compassion just by being themselves.
  • Mentors: They guide us through life’s ups and downs, sharing wisdom from their own experiences.
  • Support Systems: Dads are our emotional and psychological rock, helping us build confidence and resilience.
  • Partners in Parenting: Modern dads share the responsibilities of raising kids, creating a balanced and nurturing home environment.

In today’s fast-paced world, having a supportive and engaged dad is more important than ever. Their presence provides stability and a sense of security, positively impacting our development and setting a solid foundation for our future.

Father’s Day celebrations can be as unique as the dads we’re honoring. Some families throw a big barbecue, others enjoy a quiet day at home, and some might go on a fun adventure. The goal is simple: show our dads how much we appreciate them. Whether it’s a heartfelt card, a thoughtful gift, or just spending quality time together, it’s the love behind the gesture that counts.

So, Father’s Day is all about celebrating the everyday heroes in our lives. It’s a day to recognize the sacrifices they make, the love they give, and the essential role they play in shaping who we are. As we celebrate our dads today, let’s cherish the timeless values they impart and the lasting impact they have on our world. Here’s to all the amazing dads out there – Happy Father’s Day!

Fashion

The Importance of Comfortable Dresses for School

As a student, you spend most of your day at school, and it’s essential to wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. A comfortable dress can make a big difference in your overall school experience, allowing you to focus on your studies and extracurricular activities without any distractions.

What Makes a Dress Comfortable for School?

When it comes to choosing a comfortable dress for school, there are several factors to consider:

Leather jacket
  1. Fabric: Look for dresses made from breathable, soft fabrics like cotton, polyester, or blends. Avoid dresses made from scratchy or itchy fabrics that can cause discomfort throughout the day.
  2. Fit: Choose a dress that fits well and isn’t too tight or too loose. A dress that’s too tight can be restrictive and uncomfortable, while a dress that’s too loose can be distracting and get in the way of your movements.
  3. Length: Consider the length of the dress and whether it’s suitable for school. A dress that’s too short can be distracting and may not be allowed by school dress codes.
  4. Style: Opt for a dress with a simple, classic design that’s easy to move around in. Avoid dresses with complicated designs or excessive embellishments that can be distracting or uncomfortable.

Comfortable Dress Options for School

Here are some comfortable dress options for school:

Sundress
  1. Sundresses: Sundresses are a great option for school, especially during warmer months. Look for sundresses made from lightweight, breathable fabrics and pair them with sandals or sneakers.
  2. Shift Dresses: Shift dresses are easy to wear and require minimal effort. Look for shift dresses made from comfortable fabrics and pair them with leggings or tights for colder months.
  3. A-Line Dresses: A-line dresses are a great option for school, as they’re comfortable and easy to move around in. Look for A-line dresses made from breathable fabrics and pair them with sneakers or sandals.
T SHIRT Dress
  1. T-Shirt Dresses: T-shirt dresses are a great option for school, especially during warmer months. Look for t-shirt dresses made from comfortable fabrics and pair them with sneakers or sandals.

Tips for Wearing Comfortable Dresses to School

Here are some tips for wearing comfortable dresses to school:

  1. Dress for the weather: Make sure to dress according to the weather. If it’s cold outside, wear a dress with leggings or tights. If it’s hot outside, wear a lightweight, breathable dress.
  2. Wear comfortable shoes: Wear shoes that are comfortable and suitable for school. Sneakers or sandals are great options for school.
  3. Accessories: Keep accessories to a minimum. Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or accessories that can be distracting or uncomfortable.
  4. Confidence is key: Wear a dress that makes you feel confident and comfortable. When you feel good about what you’re wearing, you’re more likely to have a positive school experience.

Wearing a comfortable dress to school can make a big difference in your overall school experience. By choosing a dress that’s made from breathable fabrics, fits well, and is suitable for school, you can focus on your studies and extracurricular activities without any distractions. Remember to dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and keep accessories to a minimum. With these tips, you can find a comfortable dress that’s perfect for school.

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Health

Cost of healthy diet stood at N1,346 in September –NBS

The National Average Cost of a Healthy Diet (CoHD) per adult a day stood at N1,346 in September 2024, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has said.

The NBS revealed this in its CoHD report for September 2024 released on Monday in Abuja.

The bureau said that the CoHD in September increased by 7.3 per cent compared to the N1,255 recorded in August.

The NBS said the CoHD was the least expensive combination of locally available items that met globally consistent food-based dietary guidelines.

It said it was used as a measure of physical and economic access to healthy diets.

“This is a lower bound (or floor) of the cost per adult per day excluding the cost of transportation and meal preparation.”

The bureau said that to compute the CoHD indicator, the following data on Retail Food Prices, Food Composition Data, and Healthy Diet Standards were required.

The NBS also said that in September, the average CoHD was highest in the South-West at N1,598 per adult per day, followed by the South-South at N1,462 per day.

It said the lowest average CoHD was recorded in the North-West at N1,144 per adult per day.

The NBS further said that at the state level Osun, Ogun and Lagos recorded the highest CoHD at N1,661, N1,650, and N1,639, respectively.

The bureau said Katsina recorded the lowest CoHD at N1.043, followed by Jigawa at N1,087, and Kebbi at N1,118.

The NBS said CoHD had steadily increased over the past six months, since April 2024.

“The CoHD in September 2024 is 30 per cent higher than what was recorded in April 2024 at N1,035.

“The food groups that have driven the increases in CoHD are legumes, nuts and seeds, starchy staples, and animal source foods.

“Legumes, Nuts and Seeds recorded the smallest increase in price by 3.8 per cent on a monthly basis.”

The report added that animal-source foods were the most expensive food group recommendation to meet in September accounting for 36 per cent of the total CoHD to provide 13 per cent of the total calories.

It noted that fruits and vegetables were the most expensive food groups in terms of price per calorie.

“They accounted for 11 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively, of the total CoHD while providing only seven per cent and five per cent of total calories in the Healthy Diet Basket.

“Legumes, nuts and seeds were the least-expensive food group on average, at seven per cent of the total cost.’’

The report also said that in recent months, the CoHD had risen faster than general inflation and food inflation.

“However, the CoHD and the food Consumer Price Index (CPI) are not directly comparable.

“The CoHD includes fewer items and is measured in Naira per day, while the food CPI is a weighted index,” NBS said.

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Business

Shisha is most profitable in cafes, restaurants across Africa — Study

New research by AIR Group, a leading shisha molasses producer and owner of the Al Fakher brand, reveals that shisha is the highest-margin item for cafes, bars, and restaurants across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the U.S.

Recent interviews with hospitality owners in Nigeria, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Spain, and the U.S. indicate that around 80% of these establishments rely on shisha as a top revenue driver, with profit margins reaching up to 95%, compared to just 5% on food.

“Shisha is one of the most equitable consumer goods worldwide,” noted Ronan Barry, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of AIR Group, who stressed that much of shisha’s value goes directly to local businesses. “The lion’s share of revenue benefits the small establishments that serve the experience.”

For many of these venues, shisha is essential for survival, with nearly half of respondents in Africa and other regions indicating they would struggle without it. Garth Beer, who manages a shisha catering business that services dozens of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, explained, “In some cases, it’s ‘come for the shisha, stay for the food,’ while in others, it’s ‘come for the food, stay for shisha.’ That after-dinner shisha can make a table profitable.”

Despite shisha’s popularity, safety concerns with traditional charcoal shisha limit its availability in certain venues. AIR Group’s latest charcoal-free, pod-based system, OOKA, addresses these issues and has already been adopted by nearly 250 establishments across regions, including Africa. In Nigeria and beyond, this innovation is helping more small businesses offer shisha to customers safely and with fewer regulatory challenges.

Mario, manager of a premium nightclub in Dubai, noted, “We initially excluded shisha due to smoke and fire concerns, but with OOKA, we’ve had incredible customer feedback—it’s setting us up for a record season.”

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Health

8.7 million residents in Lagos, living with hypertension — Commissioner

The Lagos State government has revealed that there are about 8.67 million residents of the state living with hypertension.

The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated this on Friday at a press briefing to announce a state-wide public health campaign on hypertension and diabetes with the theme ‘Know Your Numbers and Control Your Numbers’.

The commissioner added that there are also 3.48 million residents living with obesity, while another 1.73 million live with diabetes.

He disclosed that the state government would be providing free check-ups and tests for hypertension and diabetes from October 28 to November 3, 2024.

According to him, within this one week, the state government hopes to test and screen 800,000 residents for free.

He said, “We may even get more than 800,000 people who would have been tested at the end of the week.”

He said that the free check-ups and tests would be available in all state government-owned hospitals, the over 300 Primary Healthcare Centres, and general hospitals.

Abayomi further said that it is important to do regular check-ups because the symptoms of hypertension and diabetes show up when it is serious or late, with dire consequences for the patient.

The commissioner stated that it is important for every resident to do regular check-ups and tests because hypertension and diabetes do not only kill; they damage a person through stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.

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Health

8 Drinks That Can Help Support Weight Loss

While a healthy diet and regular exercise are essential for weight loss, incorporating certain drinks into your routine can also support your goals. Here are eight drinks that can help aid in weight loss.

1. Water

  • Calorie-free and hydrates the body
  • Boosts metabolism and energy
  • Helps control hunger and cravings

2. Green Tea

  • High in antioxidants and catechins
  • Enhances metabolism and fat burning
  • Supports healthy digestion

3. Lemon Water

  • Stimulates digestion and metabolism
  • Alkalizes the body, reducing inflammation
  • Supports healthy hydration

4. Cucumber Juice

  • Low in calories, high in water content
  • Supports hydration and digestion
  • Rich in antioxidants

5. Cranberry Juice

  • Low in sugar, high in fiber
  • Supports healthy digestion and gut bacteria
  • May reduce bloating

6. Ginger Tea

  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Aids digestion and metabolism
  • Suppresses appetite

7. Protein Shakes

  • Supports muscle growth and repair
  • Helps keep you full and satisfied
  • Convenient and portable

8. Vegetable Juice

  • Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
  • Supports healthy digestion and energy
  • Low in calories

Tips and Precautions

  1. Choose unsweetened and low-calorie options.
  2. Drink in moderation (excessive consumption can hinder weight loss).
  3. Combine with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
  4. Consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes.

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Health

The Importance of Hand Washing: Why Clean Hands Save Lives

Hand washing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of illnesses and infections. Yet, many people overlook this crucial habit, putting themselves and others at risk. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of hand washing, its benefits, and provide tips on proper hand washing techniques.

Why Hand Washing is Important

  1. Prevents the Spread of Infections: Hand washing removes germs, viruses, and bacteria that cause illnesses like the flu, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.
  2. Saves Lives: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hand washing can reduce diarrheal diseases by 47% and respiratory infections by 16%.
  3. Protects Vulnerable Populations: Hand washing is especially crucial for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
  4. Reduces Antibiotic Resistance: By preventing infections, hand washing helps reduce the need for antibiotics, slowing antibiotic resistance.

When to Wash Your Hands

  1. After Using the Bathroom
  2. Before Eating
  3. After Coughing, Sneezing, or Blowing Your Nose
  4. After Touching Animals or Their Waste
  5. After Being in Contact with Someone Who’s Sick
  6. After Handling Garbage or Chemicals
  7. Before and After Preparing Food

Proper Hand Washing Technique

  1. Wet Hands with Warm Water
  2. Apply Soap
  3. Rub Hands Together for 20 Seconds
  4. Scrub All Surfaces (Palms, Backs, Fingers, Wrists)
  5. Rinse Thoroughly
  6. Dry Hands Completely

Additional Tips

  1. Use Soap and Water: Hand sanitizers are effective, but soap and water are best.
  2. Wash Hands Frequently: Aim for 8-10 times per day.
  3. Teach Children: Instill good hand washing habits early.
  4. Lead by Example: Demonstrate hand washing importance to others.

Hand washing is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing illnesses and saving lives. By incorporating hand washing into your daily routine, you’ll protect yourself, your loved ones, and contribute to a healthier community.

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