Did you miss me? I have got to confess, I missed myself. The restrictions and new way of life dictated by Aunty Rona has been difficult for all of us.

Before one really has the right to complain about anything the responsible thing to do is to express one’s gratitude for good health and the health of our loved ones.

Then comes the huge sigh about the inconvenience, the economic battering, the constant fear and anxiety, and the fervent prayers for this to be over in our lifetimes.

It has been a herculean task to stay positive and keep going.

The Lagos state commander in chief has let us know that we are in the “personal responsibility” phase which in summary translates to “you are on your own”.
We may all be bored of the whole corona virus matter, but the virus is relentless and still coming for us with all the cunning and guile available to it.

Please stay safe and remain vigilant.

This is Oddbod and the City – My Lagos Adventure.

World Environmental Day

Last week I found myself at the Lekki Conservation centre for an event hosted by the Lagos State Environmental Agency to celebrate World Environmental Day. The theme this year was biodiversity and we could not have been in a more perfect location for the occasion.
All over the globe, the call to action is for individuals to look at how daily life impacts the environment. Humans are tasked with protection, conservation, and restoration of the ecosystem; we are a part of the ecosystem, not apart from it. Did you see what I did there?
The importance of biodiversity cannot be overstated. The delicate balance when disrupted leads to catastrophic effects globally, incalculable economic and global health impacts.
The scourge of plastic pollution also got its day in court. The heavy rains have led to state-wide flooding, property damage and submerged roads. I swam with my car into work that morning, praying the whole time that I did not have an appointment with the mechanic loading for the next day. The number one culprit for blocked water ways and canals is single-use plastic. What are the sustainable solutions going forward? A company called Bonniebio Nigeria LTD proposed an exciting project that included production of biodegradable plastic products in Lagos.

It was a very soggy Ods that went back home that day, a short walk into the conservation park showed the wetlands to be submerged under about 3 feet of water that had been channelled away from the residential areas in Lekki where it would have cause property damage.
This was the perfect example of the advantages of preserving our wildlife, parks, and forests.

A quick appreciation shout out – Artmart.ng

This whole online schooling matter has been quite the experience and I have yet to find the parent that was in love with it (although I know a certain yummy mummy in Winchester who was running such a tight ship when it came to her kids that I imagine she settles right into headmistress mode like a pro).
Additionally, there was the “homework” which brings me out in a cold sweat when there is equipment needed.
When it came to art supplies, I really must sing the praises of the customer service I got from the super friendly people at Artmat.
First up they had what I wanted then took the time to probe further and give me what I NEEDED! My mini me is an art enthusiast and they had us set up for homework and her own projects for the lockdown period.
Brushes, paints, canvases and options options options.
They have equipment to satisfy anyone from amateur dabbler to career professional and their social media page is a community with competitions and inspiration galore.
Check them out.
For further information about my adventures check out my Instagram @oddbodandthecity