The Durbar Festival is a grand horse parade held in honour of the traditional ruler, known as the Emir. During the event, hundreds of horse riders gather to celebrate culture, history, and community.

The riders dress in beautiful traditional clothes. Many wear long flowing robes and colourful turbans. Their horses are also dressed in bright fabrics, bells, and shiny decorations. Some horses wear cloth embroidered with gold or silver thread.

Before the parade begins, the riders gather in groups led by their district heads. Each group proudly represents its community. The atmosphere is full of excitement as drums beat loudly and traditional trumpets play royal music.

When the Emir arrives, the celebration becomes even more exciting. The Emir rides on a beautifully decorated horse, surrounded by palace guards. People greet him with respect and wave as he passes.

One of the most thrilling parts of the Durbar is the horse charge. During this moment, riders gallop quickly toward the Emir and then stop suddenly in front of him. It shows their bravery, skill, and loyalty to the Emir.

Children love watching the Durbar because it feels like a scene from a storybook. The fast horses, colourful clothes, music, and cheering crowds make the day unforgettable. Some children even try to imitate the horse riders when they play with their friends.

The Durbar Festival also teaches young people about history. Many years ago, horse riders were part of the royal army that protected their kingdoms. Today, the festival reminds people of those brave warriors and their traditions.

Even though life is becoming more modern, many communities still protect this beautiful tradition. It helps people remember who they are and where they come from.

Today, tourists from different parts of Nigeria and around the world travel to northern Nigeria just to watch the Durbar Festival. They come to see the horses, the royal procession, and the rich culture on display.

For many children in northern Nigeria, the Durbar is more than just a festival. It is a proud celebration of culture, courage, and tradition that brings families and communities together.

The post The Durbar horse parade: A royal celebration in Northern Nigeria appeared first on Teen Trust News.

If you enjoy taking pictures, you may already be on your way to becoming a photographer. Here are some simple tips that can help you grow your skills.

1. Start with what you have

You do not need an expensive camera to begin. Many great photos are taken with smartphones. What matters most is how you see the world and how you capture it. Start by taking pictures of things around you, such as your family, friends, pets, flowers, or school events.

2. Learn to observe

A good photographer pays attention to details. Look closely at colours, shapes, and patterns around you. A simple object can become an interesting photo if you notice the right moment or angle.

3. Use good lighting

Lighting is very important in photography. Natural light from the sun often works best. Try taking pictures in the morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. Avoid taking photos in very dark places where the image may not be clear.

4. Practise every day

Just like sports or music, photography improves with practice. Take pictures often. Try photographing different things such as people, nature, buildings, or food. The more photos you take, the better you will become.

5. Learn basic camera skills

As you grow in photography, learn how cameras work. Understand simple things like focus, zoom, and framing. Framing means deciding what should appear inside your photo and what should stay outside it.

6. Be creative

Photography is not just about pressing a button. Try new ideas. Take photos from different angles. Get close to your subject or step farther away. Experiment with shadows, reflections, or movement to make your photos unique.

7. Learn from others

You can learn a lot by watching other photographers. Look at photos in magazines, books, or online galleries. Notice what makes the pictures interesting. You can also watch tutorials that teach photography skills.

8. Tell a story with your photos

The best photographs often tell a story. A picture of children playing, a busy market, or a beautiful sunset can show feelings and moments in time. Think about what you want people to feel when they see your photo.

BSometimes the perfect photo takes time. A bird may take a while to land, or the sunset may slowly change colours. Good photographers are patient and ready to capture the right moment.

10. Keep learning

Photography is a skill that grows over time. As you practise more, you will learn new tricks and improve your style. Do not be afraid to make mistakes because every mistake helps you learn.

With passion, creativity, and practice, photography can become a wonderful hobby or even a future career. Who knows? One day your photos might appear in magazines or exhibitions or even inspire people around the world.

The post Capture the moment: A kid’s guide to photography appeared first on Teen Trust News.

“Nkwa Umuagbogho” means “Dance of the Maidens”. It is a special cultural celebration for young girls who are not yet married. The festival is not just about dancing. It is about pride, discipline, and preparing young girls for adulthood.

In many Igbo communities, this festival is held once a year. Families prepare their daughters for weeks. The girls are taught good behaviour, respect for elders, and the importance of hard work. They learn how to carry themselves with confidence and grace. It is believed that beauty is not only about the face but also about character.

On the day of the festival, the village becomes colourful. The maidens wear bright traditional wrappers, beads around their necks and waists, and beautiful hairstyles. Their bodies may be decorated with gentle designs made from local chalk. The sound of drums fills the air. When the music begins, the girls step out proudly to dance before the whole community.

The dance is slow, graceful, and organised. Each movement has meaning. It shows that the girls are disciplined and well-trained. Parents watch with joy. Elders watch with pride. The community celebrates the growth of its daughters.

One interesting part of the festival is that it also teaches patience. In the past, girls who took part in Nkwa Umuagbogho were expected to remain modest and focused. The festival reminded them that growing up is a process. It encouraged them to build good character before thinking about marriage.

Today, some communities still celebrate this tradition, though in a more modern way. It has become both a cultural display and a way to keep history alive. Schools and cultural groups sometimes perform the dance during special events to teach younger children about their roots.

Why is this tradition important? It shows that culture is not only about kings and big ceremonies. It is also about guiding young people as they grow. Nkwa Umuagbogho celebrates girlhood in a positive way. It teaches that strength can be gentle, and confidence can be quiet.

In a world where many young people feel pressure to grow up too fast, this tradition sends a different message. It says, ‘Grow step by step.’ Learn. Be proud of who you are. Respect your community. And when it is your time to shine, step forward boldly.

Nigeria has many hidden cultural treasures. The Dance of the Maidens is one of them — a beautiful reminder that every stage of life deserves celebration.

The post The Nkwa Umuagbogho: when maidens dance into womanhood appeared first on Teen Trust News.

A sound engineer works with sound. They record music, adjust microphones, control speakers, and mix different sounds together. They make sure voices are clear, instruments are balanced, and there is no unwanted noise. Without sound engineers, music and movies would not sound professional.

If you dream of becoming a sound engineer, here are some simple and helpful tips.

1. Love sound and music.

You do not need to be a singer or instrumentalist, but you must enjoy listening carefully. Pay attention to how songs sound. Notice the drums, vocals, background sounds, and effects. Train your ears to hear small details.

2. Learn the basics.

Start by understanding how sound works. Learn simple terms like ‘volume’, ‘pitch’, ‘bass’, ‘treble’, and ‘echo’. You can watch educational videos, read beginner books, or take short online courses. Knowledge is your foundation.

3. Practise with simple tools.

You do not need an expensive studio to begin. A laptop, headphones, and free audio software are enough to start learning. Practise recording your voice. Try mixing music. Play with sound effects. The more you practise, the better you become.

4. Take music or science subjects seriously in school.

Sound engineering involves both creativity and technology. Physics helps you understand sound waves. Computer studies teach you about software. Music class improves your listening skills.

5. Learn to use audio software.

Professional sound engineers use Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). These are computer programs used for recording and mixing music. Start with beginner-friendly software and grow from there. Be patient while learning.

6. Volunteer and gain experience.

Offer to help in your school during events. Assist in church, mosque, or community programmes where microphones and speakers are used. Real-life practice builds confidence and skill.

7. Be patient and observant.

Sound engineering requires focus. You must listen carefully and adjust small details. It is not always loud and exciting. Sometimes, it is quiet and technical work. Patience is very important.

8. Build connections.

Meet musicians, DJs, event planners, and media teams. Networking helps you find opportunities. Many sound engineers start by assisting others before working independently.

9. Stay updated with technology.

Technology changes quickly. New equipment and software are introduced every year. Keep learning so your skills remain relevant.

10. Believe in yourself.

Success does not happen overnight. You may make mistakes while learning. That is normal. Keep practising. Every expert once started as a beginner.

Becoming a sound engineer is a journey of learning, practice, and passion. If you love sound and enjoy working behind the scenes, this career could be perfect for you. With dedication and consistency, you can one day control the sound of concerts, movies, and hit songs.

The post Behind the music: Tips to becoming a sound engineer appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Here are practical, no-fluff tips to help you start your journey to becoming a chef.

Start cooking now; don’t wait: You don’t need a fancy kitchen to begin. Start at home. Learn how to cook basic meals really well: rice, soups, pasta, stews, grilled foods. Practice cutting vegetables properly. Learn how to season food correctly. The earlier you start experimenting, the faster you grow. Cooking is a skill. And skills improve with repetition.

Master the basics: Before you try to invent a new signature dish, understand foundational techniques: boiling, sautéing, baking, roasting, frying, and grilling. Learn about flavour combinations. Why does garlic work with butter? Why does lemon brighten a dish? Great chefs don’t just cook; they understand food.

Get proper training: While some chefs are self-taught, professional training can open doors. You can attend culinary school or enrol in cooking classes. Culinary schools teach kitchen discipline, food safety, menu planning, and presentation, all essential in professional kitchens. If full-time school isn’t possible, short courses or apprenticeships at restaurants are solid alternatives.

Work in a real kitchen: This is where things get serious. A professional kitchen is fast-paced, intense, and sometimes stressful. But it’s the best training ground. Start as a kitchen assistant, intern, or line cook. Watch how experienced chefs move. Observe how they plate food. Notice how they manage time. Experience is your biggest teacher.

Develop kitchen discipline: Being a chef isn’t just about talent , it’s about discipline. Clean as you cook. Keep your station organised. Respect hygiene rules. Be punctual. Professional kitchens run on structure, and chefs who lack discipline don’t last long.

Build your signature style: As you grow, begin to discover your cooking identity. Are you passionate about local dishes? Pastry? Fine dining? Street food? Fusion cuisine? Develop something that makes your food unique. The world doesn’t need another copy; it needs your flavour.

Learn about business: Many chefs eventually open restaurants, catering services, or food brands. So learn basic business skills: budgeting, marketing, customer service, and pricing. A talented chef who understands business goes much further.

Stay curious: Food trends change. Techniques evolve. New cuisines gain popularity. Follow food blogs, watch cooking shows, read recipe books, and learn from chefs around the world. Curiosity keeps you creative.

Build resilience: Kitchen life can be tough: long hours, heat, pressure. But resilience is key. Mistakes will happen. Dishes will fail. You might burn things. That’s part of growth. Learn, adjust, improve.

Cook with passion: At the heart of it all, passion matters most. The best chefs genuinely love food and the joy it brings people. When someone tastes your dish and smiles? That’s the real reward.

Becoming a chef is a journey, not an overnight glow-up. Start small. Stay consistent. Keep learning. And one day, people won’t just eat your food, they’ll remember it.

The post How to become a Chef: Smart tips to get you started appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Omugwo is a tradition that happens when a woman gives birth to a baby. After the baby is born, the new mother’s own mother, or sometimes her mother-in-law, comes to stay with her for some weeks or months. She does not just visit. She moves in for a while. Her main job is to care for both the mother and the baby.

In Igbo land, Omugwo is very important. It is believed that a woman who has just given birth needs rest, guidance, and support. Childbirth is not easy. The body needs time to heal. The new mother may also feel tired or confused because caring for a baby is new and challenging. That is why her mother steps in to help.

During Omugwo, the grandmother wakes up early to help bathe the baby. She teaches the new mother how to hold the baby properly and how to breastfeed. She may prepare special meals that help the mother regain strength. These meals often include pepper soup made with local spices that are believed to help the body heal faster.

The grandmother also helps with house chores. She may sweep, cook, and wash clothes. This allows the new mother to focus on resting and bonding with her baby. It is a time of learning and love.

Omugwo is not only about physical care. It is also about passing down knowledge. The grandmother shares advice about parenting, discipline, and family life. She may tell stories about how she raised her own children. In this way, wisdom moves from one generation to another.

Another beautiful part of Omugwo is the sense of unity it creates. Family members visit to see the new baby. Neighbours may bring gifts or food. Everyone celebrates the new life. The baby grows up knowing they were welcomed with joy and care.

In modern times, some families live far away from their hometowns. Even then, many grandmothers travel long distances to perform Omugwo. Some stay in big cities or even travel abroad to support their daughters. This shows how strong and meaningful the tradition is.

Omugwo also teaches an important lesson about community. In many Western cultures, new parents may handle everything alone. But in Igbo culture, raising a child is seen as a shared responsibility. The saying “it takes a village to raise a child” truly fits here.

Children can learn something powerful from Omugwo. It shows that family support matters. It teaches respect for elders. It reminds us that helping one another makes life easier and happier.

Omugwo may not have loud drums or bright costumes, but it is one of the most beautiful traditions in Nigeria. It is built on love, care, and togetherness. And that is something worth celebrating.

The post The beautiful tradition of “Omugwo” in Igbo culture appeared first on Teen Trust News.

1. Start with curiosity: Every great dentist starts with curiosity. Ask questions about how teeth grow, why cavities happen, and how brushing keeps mouths healthy. Being curious helps you enjoy learning, and learning is a big part of becoming a dentist.

2. Pay attention in school: Subjects like science, biology, chemistry, and even maths are important for future dentists. You don’t have to be perfect, but try your best and ask for help when you don’t understand something. Reading books, watching educational videos, and participating in class can make learning easier and more fun.

3. Build good study habits: Dentistry takes time and practice, so learning how to study well is important. Create a quiet place to read, do homework regularly, and revise what you learn. Good study habits now will make learning easier later in life.

4. Take care of your own teeth: Dentists lead by example. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and visit the dentist when needed. Understanding dental care from personal experience helps you appreciate the importance of healthy habits.

5. Be kind and patient: Dentists meet people of all ages, including children who may be scared of dental visits. Being kind, calm, and patient helps people feel safe and comfortable. Practising kindness every day builds skills that are just as important as book knowledge.

6. Learn to work with your hands: Dentists use their hands a lot to examine teeth and perform treatments. Activities like drawing, crafting, building models, or even playing musical instruments can help improve hand coordination and focus.

7. Dream big and ask for guidance: Talk to your parents, teachers, or even a dentist about your interest. Asking questions and learning from others can inspire you and help you understand what the job is really like. It’s okay to dream big—every dentist once started as a child with a dream.

8. Stay determined: Becoming a dentist takes many years of learning, but hard work pays off. There may be moments when school feels tough, but staying determined and believing in yourself makes all the difference.

Dentists don’t just fix teeth; they help people smile with confidence. With curiosity, kindness, and commitment, you can grow into a future smile-maker too. Who knows? One day, you might be the dentist helping others flash their brightest smiles.

The post Smile makers wanted:Fun tips for becoming a dentist appeared first on Teen Trust News.

When people talk about the Fulani tribe in Nigeria, the discussion is often filled with stereotypes and negative impressions. Unfortunately, these one-sided narratives have made many Nigerians forget that the Fulani are one of the most culturally rich, peaceful, and hard-working ethnic groups in the country. As a student, I believe it is important to highlight the better side of the Nigerian Fulani tribe so that we can promote understanding, unity, and national harmony.

One admirable quality of the Fulani people is their strong sense of discipline and humility. From a young age, Fulani children are trained to be respectful, patient, and obedient. They value good character and self-control, which are reflected in their calm nature and polite manner of speech. This discipline helps them endure difficult situations without complaint, especially in their traditional pastoral lifestyle.

Another positive aspect of the Fulani tribe is their hard-working spirit. Traditionally, the Fulani are known as cattle rearers who travel long distances in search of pasture and water for their livestock. This nomadic life requires endurance, resilience, and commitment. Despite harsh weather conditions and long journeys, they remain dedicated to their work. Today, many Fulani people are also successful farmers, traders, scholars, and professionals contributing positively to Nigeria’s economy.

The Fulani are also well known for their rich cultural heritage. Their dressing, music, and traditions are unique and fascinating. Fulani attire is usually simple but elegant, reflecting modesty and cultural pride. Their music and poetry often carry deep messages about love, bravery, patience, and moral values. These cultural expressions help preserve their history and teach younger generations important life lessons.

Hospitality is another good quality of the Fulani people. They are generally generous and welcoming to visitors, especially in rural communities. Sharing food, milk, and shelter with guests is considered a virtue among them. This shows their strong belief in communal living and kindness to others.

Furthermore, the Fulani place high value on education and religion. Many Fulani families encourage both Islamic and Western education. Over the years, the tribe has produced respected scholars, leaders, and professionals who have contributed greatly to national development.

In conclusion, the Nigerian Fulani tribe has many positive qualities that deserve recognition. Their discipline, hard work, hospitality, rich culture, and respect for education show that they are an important and valuable part of Nigeria. Instead of focusing on negative stereotypes, Nigerians should appreciate the better side of the Fulani people and work together for peace and unity in our diverse nation.

 Zainab Haliru is an SS2 student of Shehu Shagari Model Islamic Centre, Abuja.

The post The better side of the Nigerian Fulani tribe appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Start with small events

Every great event planner starts somewhere. You don’t need a huge wedding or concert to begin. Try planning small events like a classroom party, a game day with friends, or a family movie night. This helps you learn how to organise people, time, and activities without feeling overwhelmed.

Be a great listener

Event planners must listen carefully. When someone says, “I want a blue-themed party” or “I love games,” it’s your job to remember and plan around it. Listening helps you understand what people want, so you can make them happy. A good planner doesn’t just plan—they pay attention.

Learn to stay organised

Organisation is a superpower in event planning. Make lists of what you need, when things should happen, and who is in charge of what. You can use a notebook, a planner, or even your phone. Staying organised helps everything run smoothly and reduces last-minute stress.

Be creative and think outside the box

Events are more fun when they are creative. Think about decorations, games, music, and themes that make people smile. Don’t be afraid to share new ideas—even silly ones. Sometimes the most unexpected ideas turn out to be the best part of an event!

Learn to work with people

Event planning is teamwork. You will talk to decorators, caterers, friends, teachers, or family members. Being polite, patient, and kind makes people want to work with you. Remember, good communication helps everyone stay on the same page.

Stay calm when things go wrong

Not everything will always go as planned—and that’s okay! Maybe the music stops playing or the cake comes late. A great event planner stays calm, finds a solution, and keeps smiling. Staying positive helps others stay calm too.

Keep learning and practising

Watch events around you and notice what you like about them. Ask questions. Read books, watch videos, or talk to people who plan events. The more you learn and practise, the better you’ll get.

Becoming an event planner is about creativity, organisation, teamwork, and joy. If you love bringing people together and making moments special, this could be the perfect path for you. Start small, dream big, and keep planning—you never know where your ideas might take you! 

The post From ideas to parties:A kid’s guide to event planning appeared first on Teen Trust News.

In the heart of Rivers State lies the Kalabari Kingdom, a place where culture, pride and celebration are deeply woven into everyday life. For the Kalabari people, festivals are more than moments of fun — they are living traditions that carry the heartbeat of their ancestors. Every drumbeat, dance step and outfit tells a story of identity, unity and joy.

Among the many festivals celebrated by the Kalabari people, each has its own rhythm and meaning. The Owu-Aru-Sun festival, for instance, honours departed heroes and ancestors. It is a time when families come together, masquerades take over the streets, and the sound of drums fills the air. The atmosphere feels almost magical, as though the spirits of the past have joined in the dance.

The Kalabari are renowned for their graceful dances and dramatic masquerade performances. Dancers and masquerades are dressed in richly patterned George wrappers, decorated shirts and striking accessories that shimmer under the sun. Their movements are filled with pride and purpose, expressing stories of bravery, love and a deep respect for tradition.

Fashion also plays a central role in every celebration. Men wear George wrappers tied elegantly around their waists, paired with long shirts and hats, while women adorn themselves in colourful wrappers, lace blouses, coral beads and headscarves. During festivals, the community transforms into a sea of vibrant colours and royal elegance.

No festival is complete without food, and Kalabari cuisine never disappoints. Favourites such as fisherman soup, prepared with fresh seafood and rich spices, and onunu, a soft blend of yam and ripe plantain, are served to guests and families alike. Every bite feels like a celebration of the rivers and farmlands that sustain the people.

At the centre of it all is the spirit of togetherness. Kalabari festivals bring everyone; young and old, together in joy and remembrance. They remind the people of who they are, where they come from, and the importance of preserving their heritage.

The Kalabari people have shown that tradition can exist beautifully alongside modern life. Their festivals are not just events; they are powerful expressions of pride, unity and culture that continue to inspire all who witness them.

Olive Jim- George is a student of Capital Science Academy, Abuja.

The post The colorful spirit of the kalabari people and their festivals appeared first on Teen Trust News.