Reuniting with loved ones, trying the best awara in Gombe, and experiencing the vibrant local culture at the Loi Bai market -an Interview with Stephen

We wish you a merry Christmas

We wish you a merry Christmas

We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year

Good tidings we bring to you and your kin

We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year

. . .goes the classic carol.

Was it just like yesterday when we wished our friends a merry Christmas?

Happy Christmas, guys; trust you're having a great time celebrating the festivities with friends and family!

On this joyous Christmas day as we gather around the warmth of shared traditions and festive cheer, let us take a moment to reflect on the spirit of giving, unity, and the magic that encapsulates the season.

To hold this interview, I travelled from Jos to Billiri, Gombe state (you guessed: my hometown).

I was there a few days between Wednesday and Saturday and had to quickly travel out on Sunday, back to Jos. I'm changing apartment here, and have been very busy with packing, then of course there's Christmas preparation. Speaking of which, have a peak at my pre-Christmas chicken. (pre-Christmas, you may ask. Yes. I'm eating at my neighbour's tomorrow! I'll save my chicken for the New Year)

Today, I have the pleasure of bringing you an interview with my childhood friend, Stephen Sunday La'abes, a dynamic advocate and visionary committed to positive social change.

If this newsletter came in just when you're getting ready to go out for a picnic or a Christmas hiking with friends, don't feel bad if you don't read it. Go out there, have fun: Christmas comes once in a year; my newsletters come in every month -12 times a year!

Stephen's passion for creating positive social change was fueled by his family's tradition of giving back to the community. He reflects, "I was influenced by my father and uncles, notably Dr. Emmanuel La'abes and Amb. Japhet Philip; they instilled in me a sense of selflessness." Witnessing these acts of kindness left an indelible mark on Stephen's dedication to advocating for those without a voice. He also emphasizes the role of a compassionate mother, saying, "Her commitment to serving and assisting the marginalized and vulnerable members of society inspired me to dedicate myself to advocating for those without a voice and working towards the betterment of our community."

As a Global Goals advocate, Stephen highlights SDG 4 -Quality Education- as a deeply resonant goal. He passionately expresses, "Having personally witnessed the transformative power of education, I am deeply passionate about providing equitable and quality education for children in rural communities. I firmly believe that education is the cornerstone of personal and societal development."

Addressing urgent issues facing communities, Stephen emphasizes the gambling pandemic, proposing a multi-faceted approach, including prevention through education, support for affected individuals, regulatory advocacy, community engagement, and personal responsibility. "Every positive action, no matter how small, contributes to creating a better world," he stresses.

The fight against drugs and alcoholism is another front where Steph shines. He advocates for a comprehensive strategy involving prevention and education, access to quality treatment, addressing root causes, and creating supportive environments within communities, what he describes as "a comprehensive approach that combines prevention, treatment, and addressing underlying social issues" and? "the most effective mechanisms in addressing drug and alcohol abuse within communities."

As the convener of Visionary Network, Stephen empowers the younger generation to combat illiteracy through accessible and inclusive educational programs. Collaborating with local schools, organizing literacy drives, and promoting the importance of education, Visionary Network inspires and empowers the next generation. "We work to provide educational resources and mentorship programs that target underserved communities, ensuring that all young people have the opportunity to learn and thrive."

Stephen also draws on his experience as a former participant in the Africa Check Fact Ambassadorship Program to advocate for prioritizing critical thinking, verifying information before sharing, and actively seeking reputable sources to combat the spread of misinformation. "Promoting media literacy and encouraging individuals to question and critically evaluate information are key in combating misinformation; one can never be too careful."

Shifting gears, Stephen takes us to Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State for the Christmas celebration (after all, isn't today Christmas?!) Steph describes a typical Christmas celebration where communities come together for special services and widespread food sharing. Families prepare delicious meals, and children actively participate by sharing gifts of food -rituals that create a heartwarming atmosphere of generosity and togetherness. He reflects, "The spirit of togetherness and reconnecting with those close to my heart is what makes Christmas truly special for me."

Reflecting on childhood memories in northeastern Nigeria, he shares nostalgia for the homogeneous lifestyle and communal spirit. Despite diverse backgrounds, a strong sense of unity during festive occasions stands out. "It is truly heartwarming to see how people look out for each other and come together regardless of their differences." The relatively cheap cost of living and the delicious traditional dishes, like Masa, danwake, and awara, add to the nostalgia of growing up in northeastern Nigeria.

In closing, Stephen shares his favourite Christmas tradition—reuniting with loved ones, trying the best awara in Gombe, and experiencing the vibrant local culture at the Loi Bai market. "The prospect of reuniting with loved ones and trying the best awara in Gombe during this festive season is what I look forward to the most."

I can't thank you enough, but I can say this. . .

Naija in the Mix launched in July. In August, I published my first interview with Uchenna Emelife (Sokoto state). In August, I spoke with Halima Yusuf Bawah (Borno state) in September; in October, I spoke with DETAILMADEIT (The FCT). Ayomide Amusan (Osun state) was supposed to be my guest for November, but we couldn't get through with it. My last interview for the year takes me back home where (in this edition) I speak with my friend, Stephen (Gombe state).

It's interesting to see how far one's passion can take them. What started out as a small storytelling blog now has about 300 subscribers (and you're one of those amazing people I'm blessed to have!) 2023 has been a great year, 2024 will be a greater year.

Here am I, wishing you a splendid Christmas celebration full of love and bliss. If you happen to be around Jos this season, feel free to stop by at my place for a drink; I'll be delighted to host you.

Here's to the many memories and emotions we shared in this year; may our best days never be behind us.

I'll see you in 2024.

Amen. Amen. Amen

With love,

Shalom Kasim

Jos, Nigeria.