Ovation Magazine Issue 153

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SINCE 1996

ALL THE GLAMOUR COLOUR OF THE STAR-STUDDED EVENT AT THE GLO-CAF AND AWARDS 2014 CEREMONY IN LAGOS

FIRST CLASS SOCIETY LADY AND FASHIONISTA

PRINCESS ADELAIDE OFORI BECOMES NEW QUEEN MOTHER OF AKWAMUFIE

© OVATION 2014

EXCITING PICTURES OF THE

OVATION

CAROL AND AWARDS IN ACCRA

LIMPOPO CROONER

KCEE, HIS LIFE,

MUSIC AND BREAK UPS

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PUBLISHER’S INTRO

WHAT A

ISSN-1362-7309 Issue 153 CREW PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dele Momodu momodudele@yahoo.co.uk

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Mobolaji Momodu EDITOR Michael Effiong mikeffiong2009@yahoo.com mikeffiong@ovationinternational.com

MANAGING EDITOR Segun Adebowale PHOTO EDITOR Adekoya Adegbite PRODUCTION MANAGER/ART DIRECTOR Isaac Edoh-Philip ASSISTANT DESIGNER Kwaku Yeboah Darteh CORRESPONDENT Mo Salami…Dele Salako…Babatunde Martins PHOTO JOURNALISTS Colin Ramsay… Ade James (USA)… Dayo Adedayo Isaac Adegbite… Dragan Mikki… Bodise Wilson Soji Adekunle… Vera Odjugo… Tope Brown Solomon Ekhaiyemhe… Abraham Falodun Segun Lawal… Ken Ehimen...Sunmisola Olorunnisola Guy L’ Avenir (Benin Republic) Ben Dzakah (Ghana) MARKETING/ADVERTS Zed Dominic Okolue (Benin Republic) US CORRESPONDENTS Samantha Ofole Prince… Shola Orolugbagbe CONTRIBUTORS Jimi Akinniyi… Sanya Ojikutu… Isatou N’jie Dayo Olomu… Makeba Boateng LAGOS OFFICE Bamisebi Richard Ojo-Head Admin Aderemi Abiola-Admin. Officer UK OPERATIONS 7 Du Maurier House, Lawn Road, London NW3 2XE Tel: +447951026178, +447956967160 UK DISTRIBUTION/WORLDWIDE SUBSCRIPTION Jay Magazine & Newspaper Distribution, UK +44(20) 76358888, +447976628251 UK AND EUROPE DISTRIBUTION Quality Magazine Distribution Global Distribution MANAGING EDITOR BENIN REPUBLIC BUREAU Jeanne-Frances Maduakor Centre Commercial Xanadu-Ancien Pont, Wlacodji Contonou Tel: +229 97221918, +299 98155422 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Onukaba Adinoyi-Ojo… Ike Okonta… Sunmi Smart-Cole Okagbue Aduba… Osasu Obayiuwana… Dupe Ashama Isha Tejan-Cole (West Africa) ...Richie Dayo Johnson GHANA OPERATIONS #17, Asafoatse Afua Street, West Airport.

Tel: +233-21-762595, 778737. Fax +233244843099 LAGOS 13B Ladipo Kuku Street, Off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria Tel: +234-0-8023002090, (0)8055069220, (0)8055069212, (1)4543030 TOGO BUREAU King Nee +2289160855 Chinyere Ndukwe +22890039631 PRINTED BY The Magazine Printing Company Ltd., Enfield, England.

DIRECTORS Segun Fatoye, Mobolaji Momodu, Damola Aderemi, Dele Momodu (CEO) OVATION Magazine is published as a periodical by OVATION Comm. Ltd. ©OVATION International Reproduction in full or part of any contents of OVATION magazine (without prior written consent from the publisher) is strictly prohibited.

FABULOUS

YEAR!

L

et me start by saying how wonderfully God has stood by us at OVATION International. It was a year of giant strides and audacious moves on our side. The year 2013 saw us sustaining a humongous publication at an average of 364 pages per issue except for special editions. Our loyal readers also responded in kind by picking up copies and encouraging gallant efforts. News Agents, Distributors, Vendors, Librarians, Celebrants and Advertisers marvelled at how we managed to sustain this feat at a time many major global titles were dying or going epileptic. It is all the work of the almighty and the support of all of you through prayers and patronage.

There is no other way to describe your darling magazine than to call it a miracle baby.

Since we started this magazine in 1996, we’ve gone through many tribulations and triumphs. It won’t be a bad idea to regale you with tales of our incredible exploits in the jungle of media business. It is not an exaggeration to say most publications often die from conception. That is, they perish in the minds and hearts of the would-be publishers. Everything looks so simple INITIALLY until you get to the stage of execution. That is when you begin to discover the hidden mysteries of publishing as well as the latent miseries of business in general. Our experience tested our faith but we remained resolute and prayerful. We just refused to give up.

Please, permit me to go briefly into our chequered history for the sake of those too young to remember the story behind our epic journey.

OVATION International was born as a child of circumstance in the beautiful city of London in April 1996. I was on the run from my beloved country when I was declared an enemy of State by the Abacha junta in July 1995. I was accused of being one of the brains behind a pirate radio known then as Radio Freedom and later changed to Radio Kudirat. I managed to escape through the smugglers’ routes at Seme Border into Cotonou, Benin Republic, from where I travelled to Lome, Togo and arrived that night in Accra, Ghana. It was probably my most horrendous experience in life, being forcefully detached from family and friends. From Ghana, I moved to London and landed on July 29, 1995, at Gatwick to begin an unplanned life as a refugee.

It soon dawned on me that this was not going to be a tea party. The military regime left behind in Nigeria was getting more and more neurotic and unrepentantly draconian by the day and the hope of returning to my beloved country soon evaporated. The challenge was very palpable: how to keep body and soul together in exile. Then I received the call of God through my younger cousin, Mr. Segun Fatoye, who posed a question I didn’t expect: what are you going to be doing for a living now that you are stranded in London? I was initially tongue-tied and he had to answer his own poser. He said the options available to me were very few and limited and if care was not taken I will end up as a security officer or dish-washer! It didn’t sound

palatable but it was the cold and brutal truth. He wondered why I did not consider starting a publication in England since I was already a successful and celebrated journalist back home.

That was the tonic needed to galvanise me into action.

A few of us soon came together to knock together what would become Africa’s biggest celebrity journal. It would have been impossible without the eternal love and support of the best mentors, family members and friends in the world, including Chief Ezekiel Olasunmoye Fatoye, Segun Fatoye, Damola Aderemi, Yemi Aderemi, Bayo Williams, Damilola Abiodun, Gbenga Olunloyo, Chief Oyekunle AlexDuduyemi, Dr Bode Olajumoke, and others who gave emotional and material support. We had a pool of some of Africa’s brightest journalists, including Sonala Olumhense, Ike Okonta, Onukaba-Adinoyi-Ojo, Olakunle Bakare, Alaba Yusuf, Azuh Arinze, Samantha Ofole-Prince, Uzoma Umesi, Eddie Iroh, and many others to thank for our blistering take-off.

From the first cover we did on Mohammed AlFayed of Harrods, at the time, it was obvious we were out to change the status of Lifestyle journalism forever. The rest is history.

OVATION International has continued to live up to its reputation as a child of destiny. Nearly 18 years on, the magazine has maintained its lead and its style has given rise to a preponderance of look-alike publications. We are indeed flattered that we have caused a major revolution in the industry. It is doubtful if any publication ever had such grip or influence in our genre. The success of OVATION International has cleared the way for others to enter the massive Nigeria market. We have seen the coming of several foreign brands in form of franchises and we’ve not been intimidated by any of them because of our indomitable Nigerian spirit. We have demonstrated that Africans have the capacity to produce world class magazines for global consumption.

As we draw the curtain on the year 2013, we wish to thank you all for your enduring faith in us. We truly appreciate your custom and we promise to continue the task of publishing a magazine that presents the positive image of Africa and Africans.

Merry Xmas & Happy New Year!

Read us in full@www.ovationinternational.com

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THE GLAMOUR AND THE GLORY OF

OVATION CAROL AND AWARDS 2013 Story: Bamidele Salako Photo: Adekoya Adegbite, Tope Brown, Ben Dzaka, Segun Lawal, Akintunde Akinpelu & Abraham Falodun

ACCRA STANDS STILL

Jerry Rawllins presensing award to the University of Ghana, Legon in the honour of Prof. Kofi Awoonor

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Former President J.J. Rawlings, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Awoonor family members listen as Afetsi Awoonor reads his speech

F

or the first time since inception, Africa’s biggest and most celebrated pan-African concert, the OVATION Carol and Awards, organised annually by the continent’s leading celebrity journal, OVATION International Magazine, shifted base further west of the continent to the Republic of Ghana, where excitement levels soared as the country braced itself to host its inaugural edition of the yearly showpiece event which was themed, “It’s all about hope”.

Characteristic of the yearly event, the fairytale Christmas ball and charity event was a star-studded affair that unfolded with many magical moments and unforgettable experiences. Not surprisingly, an excited Kwesi Baako told OVATION after the show, “It’s the best event I have attended all year – all thanks to Mr. Momodu for bringing the Carol to Ghana this time

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Everyone applauds Afetsi Awoonor

around. I have seen pictures and videos from previous editions held in Lagos and often longed for when I could be part of the experience. Having now attended one myself, I hope it stays here for a while; otherwise, with what I experienced tonight, I would have to find a way of making it to the destination of the next installment.” Another participant called it, “a sensational evening of endless fun and excitement.”

It was the first time in its six year history that the OVATION Carol would be holding outside Nigeria’s entertainment capital, Lagos, proud host of its five previous editions. It is also noteworthy to mention that, even though the OVATION Carol is in its sixth edition, the awards component got introduced in 2012 to recognise and celebrate African achievers.

Most importantly, the 2013 OVATION Carol and

Awards was dedicated specially to the late President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, who died last year as well as Ghana’s illustrious son and literary giant, Prof.

Kofi Awoonor, who died in the infamous terrorist attack in Nairobi, Kenya last year.

The resounding success of the Ghanaian adventure was made possible by proud sponsorsincluding the United Bank of Africa (UBA) - Africa’s Global Bank, which has been partners since inception as well as the Ghanaian division of African Telecoms giant, Globacom Limited – Glo Mobile Ghana Ltd. Others who played key roles in the overall success of the extravaganza were Guiness Ghana Breweries, Alisa Hotel, De Potters Event Managers, OHTV (UK),www.ondbox.com, www.ameyawdebrah.com,

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CELEBRITIES GATHER FOR LIVELY PHOTOSHOOT

Jocelyn Dumas John Dumelo

Juliet Ibrahim

Superstars: Juliet Ibrahim, John Dumelo & Jocelyn Dumas

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Sexy performer, Stephanie Benson First-rate Radio Personality & compere, KOD

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Ben Brako

Journalist: Blackofe

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Top celebrity, Sammi B Miss Ghana 2013, Guiseppina Nana Akua Baafi

Richie Mensah

PHOTO SHOOT CREDITS Kwaku David - Photographer Thomas Dye - make up Jacqueline Donkoh - make up Jade Morrision - MCPR Michelle Morrison - MCPR Jewette Johnson Maria Brown La Villa Boutique Hotel - Location Providers D-Day Leona Rose - Make Up Frances Nuttifafa Mensah of NuttiKingBeauty Jojo Abot

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The talented artiste, Edem

Big Brother Africa finalist, Elikem The tailor

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International model: Shirley Selasie Anku

Ebi Bright

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with the ladies in red: Juliet Ibrahim, Sandra Ankobia, Jocelyn Dumas & Belinda Baidoo

International model & couturier, Belinda Baidoo

Ebi, Makeba & Bee

Bee Arthur

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Mecche Korrect

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Amanda Jissah

Ofie Cudjoe

James Gardner

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Stephanie Benson & Bashorun Dele Momodu Tv Personality & Lawyer Sandra Ankobia

Okyeame Quophi & wife, Stacy

Makeba Boateng

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THE MAKING OF OVATION CAROL VIDEO

Becca, Edem & Afriyie Wutah

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THE GHANA EDITION

The artiste & crew with Overtion Publisher

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Becca

LAGOS ERUPTS: THE NIGERIAN SHOOT

Edem & Becca

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...INSIDE EXQUISITE ADAM AND EVE GRA, IKEJA

The beautiful setting for the video shoot

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Dammy Krane , May D ,Yemi Alade, Patoranking & Dazzle shooting a scene

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Make up session (Arewa powdering Patoranking's face)

Make up session (Arewa filling Yemi Alade's brows)

Make up session (Arewa doing a touch up on Dammy Krane's face)

Dammy Krane & Ovation's celebrity Photojournalist Sunmisola Olorunnisola

Yemi Alade singing along

May D getting ready for the shoot

May D admiring one of the decoration lights

Dammy Krane , May D ,Yemi Alade, Patoranking & Dazzle on set

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Dammy Krane & May D exchanging gestures

Patoranking in a world of his own

Patoranking on set

Dammy Krane doing his usual theatrics

Patoranking performing at the video shoot

Dammy Krane dancing along at the video shoot

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Ovation Abraham Falodun, Wale Oyebamiji ,Dazzle & Demilade Alao

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Stephanie Benson Chris Attoh

Sonnie Badu Burna Boy

Becca

Juliet Ibrahim

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THE PREPARATION

THE STATE HOUSE BANQUET HALL LIGHTSS UP

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THE OUTSTANDING DECOR

COURTESY GABRIELLA MEDIE’S RED CARPET EVENT

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THE COCKTAIL

Guest on red carpet

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...AND THE RED CARPET BEGINS

Tv3 presenter, Benny Blanco

Charles Coussey & Ofie Kodjoe

Nadia Buari & Jm Iyke

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Kathy Gyemfi

Jessica Williams

Maame Efua Bryem & Yolanda Faakye

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Damilola Adegbite

John Dumelo

Nana Ama Konadu

Ebele Gibson & Fred

Lydia Forson & Joanna Boamah

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Mrs. Eby Ekeocha of UBA

Debbie Keshie & Idowu Ejere

Bright Ahafia & Owusu Ansah

Dr. Emmanuel Osei Acheapong Henry Essilfie

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Regina Van-Helvert

Whitney Boakye Mensah with Joyce & Fred Apenahier

Issac Shedowo

Nicole Amaka Davis

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Dr. Ike Ekeocha & Mrs. Eby Ekeocha

Adei Ashiekotie

Nana Abena, Ahmed H. Ibrahim & Effie Nkrumah

Mr.&Mrs.Felix Ekeoma

Ms. Afriyie & Ama K.Abebrese

Whitney Boakye Mensah

Pastor Peter Kayode & daughter

Miss Tourism

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Mr. Oye Balogun, Karen Akiwu, Gabriel Bagal & Daniel Addo

Julie Akita,Ebenezer Sackey, Daniel Okam, Florence Odum & Joshua

Seun Oloketuyi, Seun & Bayo Ogori

Kawsara Abdulai, Beneciethia Oppong, Dominic Pobee & Rita Appiah

DXD

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R-l: Segun Lawal, Edward T. Emmanuel, Chaste Inegbedion & guests

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Rocky Dawuni & Miriam Rose

Abimbola & Adabayo Ogori

Margaret Ofori-Atta

Mavis Odai

Makeba Boateng & Peace Hyde

Isaac Mansah

Nana Gyamfi

Akua Yeboah & Dorothy Amoah-Oppong

Priscila Naa Okai & Ms Evelyn Nartey

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Tania Anaglate,Maame Efua & Diana

Frankline Cole & Roseline Kumpa

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Nana Konadu Boateng

Abiodun Koya & Ms Elizabeth Konu

Yasmin

Sterre Nkatini

(r) Otunba Mike Ajayi

Ms Mansah

Belinda Baidoo & Sammy B

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Shirley Selasie Anku

Debbie Captan & Alex Dawtey

Marie Humbert

Monalisa Chinda

K O D & wife

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Belinda Baidoo & Nikky Delicia

Doris, Elizabeth & friend

Shola Okesanya

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Lydia Forson

Ms Funmilayo Adeyemi

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Mrs. Bukky Shinaba, CEO, De Potters evant & Adenuga

Mad.Akua Busua & Naana Nilson

Gabriella Medie, the event decorator

Eunice Addai

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Tania Anaglatey, Maame Efua & Diana

( m) Ama K Abebrese with friends

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Mrs. Bolaji Momodu

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Ovation’s Tunde Martins

Mr. Oliver Alawuba, MD, UBA West Africa

Prof. Kofi Anyidoho (right)

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Soundcity Presenter with GH1 Presenter Amanda Jissah

Yvonne Okoro, John Dumelo & Sandra Ankobiah

Ice Prince and Amanda with friends

Rowland, Farida Nwansa, Mercy Zulu & Mooya Lumamba

Karen,Tobi, Stella & Keisie Okoli

Alder Consulting, ghanagist.com, Makeba Creates PR (MCPR), Hip TV, GhONE, Zaron, Charter House and Mai Atafo Inspired.

This remarkable accomplishment goes without mentioning the awful disappointment felt by Nigerian readers and fans of the magazine, who for one reason or the other, could not make the trip to Accra to be part of the 2013 party. This was understandable, because the OVATION Carol yearly offers more than the quotidian musical experience: it promises and delivers a fascinating mix of the best of continental denier cri, glam, charity, music as well as the celebration of African achievement, all in the ubiquitous spirit and camaraderie of Christmas.

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John Dumelo & Ovation’s Edward Emmanuel

It is the only free, invitation-only event around Christmas that every Nigerian looks forward to attending with a great deal of anticipation.

Another fact is that, no other event attracts the same number and quality of guests-distinguished personalities from all walks of life- and brings them under one roof in a fun and relaxing atmosphere - like the OVATION Carol and Awards does. Nigerian revelers were bound to be sad to see all that taken away from them; but it was the fair thing to do, after all, OVATIONInternational Magazine is a continental magazine with an international flavor!

Moreover, OVATION is a panAfrican celebrity magazine that has, for close to two decades, documented and celebrated African success stories from all across the African continent and the Nana Abena, Ahmed H. Ibrahim & Effie Nkrumah

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Emmanuel Armah & guest

Ohi Momodu

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Amanda Dugbatey & Esinam Gifty Seshie

Ice Prince & Tobi Sanni

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Prof. Kari Dako & Helen Yitah

Chris Maame & Ama Anin

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Dorothy Amoah Oppong

Tope Oyeyemi & Akinola Oluwatobi

Barbara Dedjoe & Williams Dedjoe

Hanniel Musa, Vivienne Andzenge & Ella Antwi

Kojo Osew

Sunmisola Oloruninsola

Itiola Dada

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Liona Rose

Ulisa Isagbah

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Eniafe Momodu

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Mr. & Mrs. Addo

OJB & wife Sandra Ajayi

Anna & Herthy

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Josie Mahachie Agbeniyi

Abraham Falodun & Michael Effiong

Ama K. Abebrese

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Kufreabasi James, Kemi James & Anietientebasi James

Chief Teju Thorp (right)

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Sonnie Badu

Burna Boy

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Sunmisola & Oyinkan

Adesegun & Aderemi Abiola

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Prince Adeyemi Aseperi & friend

Itiola, Ade Abiola & Oyinkan

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Mr. & Mrs. Okoli

Mike of Mikris Fashion

Oye Balogun

Sammi B & friends

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Alhaji & Alhaja Lawal

Ade & Larry

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Michael Yirenkyi

Tobi Sanni Daniel

Sammi B & guest

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Burna Boy & friend

Monalisa chinda & Segun Arinze

(L) Sylvia Odonkoh

Tunde Martins & guest

Ovation team: Sunmisola, Dele Salako & Edward

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JOHN JERRY RAWLINGS (JUNIOR JESUS), THE CHARISMATIC LEADER ARRIVES

Nawa Nelson, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Nawa Akua Busia

Nawa Akua Busia, Jerry Rawlings & Bashorun Dele Momodu

globe. Several Africans, including non-Nigerians have opened their doors to us and allowed us into their worlds to capture and tell their stories in our unique and fascinating style. It therefore became necessary to demonstrate our continental commitment by extending the unique and sensational yuletide experience that our annual event delivers to other parts of Africa - starting with Ghana.

In extending the tentacles of the OVATION Carol and Awards to the rest of Africa, Ghana was a natural first choice. For several years, the beautiful West African country off the Gulf of Guinea has, like Nigeria, been a hospitable host for the magazine’s operations in that country and a cordial host of the premier, House of OVATION , the company’s Restaurant and Bar which also happens to be Ghana’s hottest celebrity hangout!

Ghana therefore had the bragging rights to host the event’s first foray outside Nigeria as well as all the aces for first refusal and finally got the hosting rights unopposed.

This was why, as 2013 wound down, and the buzz of the Christmas season was in the air, the song on every Ghanaian’s lips could easily have been, Santa Claus is coming to town but in truth and more suitably so, the rhyme on everyone’s lips was, The OVATION Carol is coming to town. Santa sure came to town and he came bearing the gift of a truly sensational sixth edition of the OVATION Carol and Awards, made in Ghana, for Africa and the world.

Before the red-letter day arrived, in keeping with the tradition of the event. There were pre-event activities. The first was a Superlative Celebrity Photoshoot. Top Ghanaian celebrities assembled at the scenic La villa boutique Hotel-and it was fun. Ghanaian celebrities who endorsed the event and appeared on different printed and on-line publicity materials in sizzling outfits taken at the shoot included Chris Attoh, Joselyn Dumas, Juliet Ibrahim, Yvonne Okoro, Elikem the Tailor, John Dumelo, Reggie Rockstone, Mzbel, 52

President John Jerry Rawllings

Bashorun Dele Momodu welcoming former President, J.J. Rawlings

Guiseppina Baa (Miss Ghana 2013), Becca, Edem, Ofie Kodjo, Ben Brako, Amanda Jissih, Belinda Baidoo, Stonebwoy, Blakofe, Gyedu-Blay Ambolley, Okyeame Quophi, Lydia Forson, Stephanie Benson, Richie Mensah amongst others.

Then, the OVATION Carol theme song was recorded in Lagos and Accra, Ghana. The recording and video shoot brought together a group of young, talented and fast rising Nigerian and Ghanaian artistes. May D, Dammy Krane, Yemi Alade, Skales, Patoranking and Dazzle, flew the Nigerian flag high, while Becca, Edem and Afriyie Wutah did Ghana proud. The fantastic multi-star collaboration produced the astounding theme song, “Love in the air” which was aired repeatedly on several leading local and international Radio stations as well terrestrial and cable channels. The topnotch song was produced by Fliptyce and the video was directed

by Olabode Akorede’s, HG2 Films.

Under the keen eye of OVATION Publisher, Bashorun Dele Momodu, planning and organisation were coordinated by Iyiola Ayoade’s Charter House Ghana, a trusted one stop production outfit-experts in events consultancy, organisation, events marketing as well as audio-visual productions. They pride themselves as being, “the power behind the performance” and have planned mega events for several multinationals and international brands. They had worked severally with the OVATION brand before and were trusted to again deliver a classy and truly cherished experience.

When D-day finally dawned, love was truly in the air as the red carpet at the State Banquet Hall, Osu, Accra, became a celebrity catwalk for guests and celebrities to strut their stunning outfits. The colour code for the OVATION Carol is usually red; while some of the guests opted for all-red outfits, others decided to jazz up their lovely outfits with red accessories.

Against a backdrop bearing the logos and names of the various event sponsors, the celebs and guests assumed different exquisite postures for camera lenses and flashlights while also granting interviews to

showbiz reporters. Everyone on the red carpet was treated to cocktails and chatted heartily with friends in the true spirit of Christmas, with one unifying desire-to have a good time!

And a good time they all had, including the long list of celebrities who graced the superlative event. Some of the starts we spotted were, talented actor Chris Attoh and Television presenter cum actress, Joselyn Dumas - who co-compered the event; Becca, Edem, Damilola Adegbite, Jim Iyke, Nadia Buari, John Dumelo, Segun Arinze, Monalisa Chinda and OJB Jezreel.

Wave-making singer, Ice Prince, MI, Yvonne Okoro, Sandra Ankobiah, Peace Hyde, Salasie Ibrahim, Kayda Afriyie, Ama K. Abebrese, Belinda Baidoo, Emmanuel Armah, Lydia Forson, Efya, Mzbel, Ofie Kodjo, Abiodun Koya, Marie Humbert, Regina Anne Dei Van-Helvert, Stephanie Karikari, Chris Kata, James Gardiner, and international recording artiste, Wyclef Jean, also graced the event amongst other celebrities.

There were other prominent guests at the concert, such as the ex-Ghanaian President, Jerry Rawlings; Chief Executive Officer of UBA West Africa, Dr. Oliver Alawuba; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of UBA Ghana, Mrs. Abiola Bawuah and OHTV Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Akin Salami.

Inside was the real spectacle: the Banquet Hall had been transformed by Gabriella Medie’s Red Carpet Events into a story-book ball room with all the trappings of a royal banquet fit only for Princes and Princesses. The official red colour of the OVATION brand ruled resplendently and was rounded out with symphonic silver appurtenances. Christmas lights glistened brilliantly across the length and breadth of the room exuding that distinctive Christmas feel.

The sitting arrangement was pristine: tables were draped in matching combinations of red and silver as well as white and red. The naperies, ornate centerpieces

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John Jerry Rawlings & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu with John Jerry Rawlings & his entourage

J.J. Rawlings & Lady Patience

The Kofi Awoonor family with Jerry Rawlings & Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Charismatic J.J. Rawlings acknowleding cheers from the audience

Bashorun Dele Momodu & wife, Bolaji Momodu with JJ Rawlings

Josie Mahachie Agbeniyi, co-producer Click Africa

Jerry Rawlings & Eniafe Momodu

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Mr. Oliver Alawuba, MD, UBA West Africa with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Globacom’s Bode Opeseitan greeting First Atlantic Bank’s Oye Balogun as Bashorun Dele Momodu looks on

Josie, Zimbabwe High Commissioner to Ghana, Ambassador Musaka & Nancy

Mr. Dupe Ashama, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Hon. Oye Ojo & Hon. Deji Jakande

Kyeiwaa, Gloria Bartels & Adoley Addo

Bashorun Dele Momodu with the Okolis

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Iyiola Ayoade

Bashorun Dele Momodu & OJB

and tableware were ordered perfectly across each table. Particular attention was paid to each detail; everything was in tip-top shape.

The stage where all the major acts of the night would unfold was a wonder to behold. It was an articulate tribute to African creativity and expertise.

Whirling stage lights of different sizes, shapes, hues and colours produced harmonizing celestial shafts that illuminated the stage at co-ordinated intervals adding extra oomph to all the fascinating performances that spotted the eventful occasion.

To top it all off, the musical extravaganza was broadcast live on select television stations in Ghana, Nigeria and the United Kingdom and streamed live to the world via www.ondbox.com, GhOne and Hip TV. All was indeed set for a classic coup de theatre.

In no time, the hall was chock-full, and the beautiful venue came alive with the silky voices of the numero uno choral music group in Ghana and possibly the nation’s most outstanding and internationally recognized youth choir, the Winneba Youth Choir. The 55

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PULSATING PERFORMANCES: PART 1

Co-Compere: Chris Attoh

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Threadstone: Ghana’s only Gospel Rock Band

Co-Compere: Jocelyn Dumas

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THE WINNEBA YOUTH CHOIR

Efya

Afriye

multiple award-winning choral choir saturated the atmosphere with a cocktail of African harmonic tunes as well as other delightful chorales from across the world getting the concert off to a sizzling start.

Co-comperes, Chris Attoh and Joselyn Dumas, proved an item throughout the evening as they coordinated the event with an almost telepathic cooperation, an ample dose of calm and a great deal of class and panache.

As the event unfolded, there was a stirring tribute to a true African great, a global icon and the symbol of the South

African anti-apartheid struggle , former South African President and elder statesman, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, popularly known by his folk name of Madiba, who had passed on only nine days earlier at the age of 95. A moment’s silence was observed in his honour.

Then, the action began. Performer after performer took turns to enchant the audience with their glowing talents.

Nigeria’s premier award-winning rock band, Threadstone, brimming with a lot of energy, excitement and imagination, would have left older legendary rockers like Aerosmith and the Rolling Stones, gaping with amazement at such brilliant

Abiola Koya

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...IN HONOUR OF KOFI AWOONOR

SPECIAL DANCE DRAMA

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Nadia Buari, President J.J. Rawlings, Jim Iyke & Lady Patience

Damilola Adegbite & Chris Attoh

Jide Agbeniyi, Co-Producer, Click Africa, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Korewa Momodu

J.J. Rawlings: Man of the people

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Maq, H.E. J.J. Rawlings & Sandra Ankobiah

J.J. Rawlings & Josie Mahachie Agbeniyi

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Peace Hyde

Yvonne Okoro & Bashorun Dele Momodu Ankobiah

Peace Hyde & Benny Blanco

Anna & Hertty Kwarteng

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J.J. Rawling & Sonnie Badu

Mr. & Mrs. Add0

Jade Morrison & Bashorun Dele Momodu

From 2nd left: Yvonne Okoro, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Sandra Ankobiah

Tunde Martins, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Sunmisola

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From 2nd left: josie Agbeniyi, J.J. Rawlings, Zimbabwean High Commissioner to Ghana, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Jim Iyke, Nadia Buari & Lady Patience

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The Executives of Energy Bank, Ghana

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Bshorun Dele Momodu, Otunba Mike Ajayi (4th left) & friends

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From 2nd: Mr. Olu Luther-King, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Adoley Addo, Mrs. Gloria Bartels & Kyewaa

Debbie Keshi, Efosa & Idowu Ejere

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Bayo Ogori, Abimbola & Seun Oloketuyi

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Mr. & Mrs. Apenahier

Marvis, Jessica, Kathy, Eunice & Naa

Sonnie Badu (left)

H.E Pavelyn Musaka, Zimbabwean High Commissioner to Ghana with guests

From 2nd left: Jim Iyke & Nadia Buari

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Jewette Johnson & Belinda Baidoo

Prince Adeyemi Aseperi, Debbie Keshi & Michael Effiong

Ohi Momodu (r) & friends

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Oluwakemi James, Anietie & Kufre

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Jim Iyke (right)

Nadia Buari

Korewa Momodu

Sandra Ajayi

Ohi Momodu

Ovation’s Bamishebi Ojo

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OJB & wife

Bamikole Omishore & Sandra Ajayi

Standing from 2nd left: Sandra, Bayo & Bamikole Sitting: Ohi, Eniafe, OJB &

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Bamikole Omishore greets J.J. Rawlings

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J.J. Rawlings greeting Eniafe Momodu

Josie, Her Excellency Muska, Mike Ajayi & guests

Otunba Mike Ajayi greeting J.J. Rawlings

Anna, Hertty Kwarteng & friends

Debbie Captan & husband, Alex Duartey

Sammi B with guests

Hanniel Musa, Ella Antwi & Vivienne Andzenge

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Ella Antwi

Whitney Boakye Mensah, the Chief Hostess attending to The Okolis

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Mrs. Bukky Shinaba: MD/CEO De Potters from Nigeria

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Mr. Oliver Alawuba, MD, UBA West Africa & Mrs. Abiola Buwuah, MD, UBA Ghana

Oye Balogun, Director, First Atlantic Bank & Mrs. Karen Akinwunmi-Tanoh, Chairperson, First Atlantic Bank

Ovation Director, Prince Damola Aderemi, Mrs. Bolaji Momodu & Daniel Tobi Sanni

Sandra Ajayi, Mayowa & friend

Mr. Dupe Ashama, Mr. Doyin Iyiola & guest

Adesegun, Ade Abiola & Olaolu

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John Dumelo, Sandra Ankobiah & Yvonne Okoro

Mrs. Gloria Bartels & Kyewaa

Mr. Olu Luther-King (m) & Adoley Addo (r)

Cromwell & Maq

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Damilola Adegbite (left)

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Bashorun Dele Momodu, Hon. Deji Jakande, Hon. Oye Ojo, Mr. Dupe Ashama & Mrs. Doyin Iyiola

Mr. & Mrs. Adu

Ice Prince & Bamikole Omishore

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Abiodun Koya & Tobi

Whitney Boakye Mensah & Mrs. Bukky Shinaba

domestication, by a purely African band, of an American music genre, popularized by American and British bands.

Classical vocalist, Abiodun Koya, with a trail of several high profile performances across the globe including a cameo at a commemorative event at the White House, left no one in doubt about her operatic prowess. The classically trained soprano painted metaphoric murals around the venue with an enchanting voice so commanding and so powerful that President Rawlings, who could no longer resist the allure, sprang up from his seat, walked to the stage, Korewa Momodu & MI

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shook the rare talent and planted a peck on her cheek for such an awesome performance.

A documentary on the pre-event shoots and celebrity interviews held in the build up to the spectacular evening was screened as well as the video of the OVATION Carol theme song.

Guests also enjoyed exciting performances from Ghanaian star acts - Becca, Efya, Afriyie Wutah, Edem and Sonnie Badu – who demonstrated that Accra was out to give Lagos a run for her money over the coveted status of Africa’s entertainment capital.

The concert then took another solemn turn when the time came

Iyiola Ayoade & Abiodun Koya

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MI & Ice Prince

Anietie & Kufre greeting Ice Prince

Mansah & Jasmin

Micheal Effiong & friend, Prince Aseperi

Gwen Addo, Gabriella Medie & Manuela Adu

to honour the memory of late Ghanaian poet, educator and statesman, Professor Kofi Awoonor, whose life was cut short on September 21, 3013, during the infamous terrorist attacks at the Westgate Shopping Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, where he was attending the Storymoja Hay Literary Festival-it was a celebration of pan-African writing and storytelling. He was, amongst other works, mostly renowned for his 1971 work, This Earth, My Brother, which has been described as a cross between a novel and a poem.

OVATION Publisher, Bashorun Dele Momodu, revealed to a sombre audience that he read several works by the literary icon growing up and described the late statesman as a true Daniel Tobi Sanni, Ola (HG2) & Ice Prince

son of Africa. Professor Awoonor’s son, Afetsi Awoonor, who was injured in the Westgate Mall attacks but escaped with his life, was on hand to receive the posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of his late father.

A cheque of Ten Thousand Ghana cedis (GHc10, 000) was also presented

by OVATION for the endowment of the fund for the Kofi Awoonor Poetry Competition organised by the School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana, Legon. The presentation was made by former President, Jerry Rawlings. A thankful Afetsi, who referred to Bashorun Momodu as a big brother, expressed his profound appreciation for the honour accorded his late father and his family.

Afterwards, a 75

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Petrina Akpaloo, Gloria Simpson & Lawrenda Lumor

Mr. & Mrs. Felix Ekeoma

Eunice Tetteh & Audrey Smart-Abbey

Danieth Opri-Atta & Margaret Opri-Atta

Sterre Mkatini & Marie Humbert

Pastor Peter Kayode & daughter

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Tope Brown & Mr. Dupe Ashama

Paul Edem, Yemisi James, Fredrick Cubson & Ebele Cubson

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Mr. & Mrs. Okoli with daughters Kelsie & Karen

Charles Olaleye & Frank Monye

Bode Opeseitan & Otunba Mike Ajayi

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Bashorun Dele Momodu & Micheal Effiong

Ice Prince & Korewa Momodu

Oye Balogun, Gabriel Edgal, MD, UBA Africa & Otunba Mike Ajayi

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Bashorun Dele Momodu & Ama K Abebrese

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Tope

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President J.J. Rawlings presenting a rose to Abiodun Koya in appreciation of her sterling performance

Cromwell, Maq & Jerry Rawlings

Bashorun Dele Momodu with KOD

Oliver Alawuba (MD/CEO, UBA West Africa) & Mrs. Abiola Bawuah (DMD UBA, Ghana)

Mr. & Mrs. Okoli with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Folusho Adeagbo & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Oye Balogun, Daniel Tobi Sanni & Prince Damola Aderemi

Mr. Kenedy Kgyeponegi, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Alhaji Sanni Thomas

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Bashorun Dele Momodu & Cromwell

John Dumelo & Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Dr. Oliver Alawuba, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mrs. Abiola Bawuah

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Jide Agbeniyi, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Korewa & Josey Agbeniyi

Rocky Dawuni & Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Bashorun Dele Momodu & Afetsi Awoonor

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Bamikole Omishore

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David Pappoe, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Afetsi Awoonor & Willy Agbemabiese

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Roni Nicol & Tenn Awoonor

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Sonnie Badu

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Mr. Robert & Mrs. Elfrida Omole

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Ovation’s Funmi Adeyemi at work

commemorative dance performance was delivered by the Noyam African Dance Institute. Before all this, usbased opera singer, Abiodun Koya had wowed the audience with a scintillating performance that elicited a standing applause and a presentation of flowers by none other than J.J. Rawlings.

Proceedings began to hot up when rising Nigerian act, Burna Boy took to the stage and began to thrill his Ghanaian audience with hit tracks which have made him a staunch crowd favourite back home. Unsurprisingly, the Ghanaian crowd was in sync with his lyrics and sang along every step of the way. With Afro-pop anthems like Tonight, Like to party and Run my Race, he raised the ceiling on the evening’s performances and set the venue on fire for later acts.

Another intriguing highlight of the show was a haute couture special presented by leading Nigerian designer, Ohimai Atafo, as the concert stage became Mai’s makeshift runway.

The Edo-born graduate of AgroEconomics showcased fabulous pieces from his Weddings by MAI and Mai Atafo Inspired collections in his usual dramatic style with Ghollywood screen hunk, Chris Attoh also featuring as a model on the runway. The sensational bit of stagecraft took some breaths away.

At the OVATION Carol and Awards, the best is always reserved for the last and the 2013 party was no different.

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The event climaxed with the arrival and appearance on stage of multipleGrammy award-winning international recording artiste, songwriter and producer, Wyclef Jean.

His performance was the zenith of the entire night and exactly what everyone had been expecting. He wasted no time in setting the hall alight with his evergreen global hits and collaborations like Ready or Not, Guantanamera, Sweetest Girl, 911, Hips Don’t Lie and other chart-busters.

His performances took fans through every stage of his musical development -from his days as a freshfaced artiste in the Fugees to his golden days of global domination of the musical space and now to the point where he now wears a Veteran’s hat. At some point, a bevy of ladies in the audience joined him on stage and the whole place was just on a roll.

Displaying a manual dexterity on the guitar, he showed that he was still very much on top of his game and in a tribute to late Reggae legend, Bob Marley, he performed the late maestro’s hit track, Turn Your Lights Down Low. Later, he invited on stage, his girlfriend, Naadei Dorothy Alexandre to join in on the act. Naadei, who herself is a recording artiste, is half-Ghanaian, and was visiting her home country for the first time.

Together, they closed his pulsating act with an acoustic rendering of one the greatest songs of all time, Bob Marley’s, Redemption Song.

Then, the old made way for the

Ovation’s Sunmi Olorunisola & Oyinkansola Akinboye

Slim Kofi & Leslie Brobbey

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Ovation’s Publisher in a tete tete with H.E

Dr. Robert Omole & Prince Aderemi

Becca & H.E J.J. Rawlings

Becca & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Lady Patience, Becca & J.J. Rawlings

Lady Patience, Becca & Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Makeba with Chris, Sarah Antonia, Jade & Peace

Michael Effiong (M) with Ade & Larry

(R-l) Akintunde Akinpelu (R), Jerry Rawlings with guest

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mike

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Katty Gyemfi

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Mr. Doyin Iyiola & guest

Hon. Deji Jakande & Mr. Dupe Ashama

Sandra Ankobiah, Yvonne Okoro & Oyinkansola Akinboye

Ovation Publisher, Bashorun Dele Momodu with a jolly mood with Ovation Editor, Michael Effiong

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Effiong

Kiki Banson Michael Effiong, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Iyiola Ayoade with Leke Aderohunmu

Oyinkansola Akinboye, Joselyn Dumas & Sunmisola Olorunnisola

Bashorun Momodu with Oyinkansola Akinboye

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Bashorun Dele Momodu & his son, Eniafe Momodu

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Miss Nigeria Ghana & Miss Nigeria Tourism with guest (m)

Jessica

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Oye Balogun & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Iyiola Ayoade & Oye Balogun

Abraham Falodun & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Sunmisola Olorunnisola & Bashorun Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu sandwiched by Ovation staff members & guests

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Aderemi Abiola, Dele Salako, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Edward Emmanuel & Babatunde Martins

Joselyn Dumas & Dele Salako

Joselyn Dumas & Dele Salako

Segun Olusanya & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Segun Olusanya, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Akintunde Akinpelu & Aderemi Abiola

Adekoya Adegbite, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Tope Brown

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Segun Lawal & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Sarah Antonia, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Makeba Boateng

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Mrs. Kemi Effiong, OJB & wife

Bashorun Dele Momodu & guest

H.E Musaka & guest

Bashorun Dele Momodu & guest

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Mr. Bode Opeseitan, Director Globacom

Kayode Mobolade of Globacom (left)

Nicole Daris & guest

Michael Effiong & Oye Balogun

Mr. Foluso Adeagbo (r)

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Ayesha Bedwei & Nana Farera Bedwei

(l) Lt.Col. Egbejule

Nana Yaw Boakye Mensah with Mr. & Mrs. Apeneher

Nana Aya & Marvis Odai

Maame Efua & Tania Anagjate

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Priscilla Okai, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Evelyn Nartey, Manager House of Ovation

Michael Effiong, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Chaste Inegbedion

Akintunde Akinpelu & Michael Effiong

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Aderemi Abiola

Dele Salako, Abraham Falodun, Michael Effiong, Babatunde Martins & Emmanuel Edward

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Isaac Mansah & Mike Yirenkyi

Segun Olusanya & Michael Effiong

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Jewett Jonhson,Nikky Delicia & Belinda Baidoo

Dominic Pobee, Olabode Opeseitan & Kayode

Sandra Ankobiah,Yvonne Okoro & Claudia Lumor

Karen Okoli, Ex. President J.J. Rawlings & Keisie Okoli

(r) Nana Abina & friends in pose with Ex. President .JJ Rawlings

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Vivvienne Andzenge

Akua Mavis

Akua Kathy Gyemfi

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Mavis Odai

Hanniel Musa

Mrs. Bukky Shinaba

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Ameyaw Debrah

Fremah Osei

Ademola Lookman

Ms.Evelyn Nartey

Paul Nelson

Nikky Delicia & Araba

Mrs. Adu

Belinda Baidoo & Araba

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Mr. & Mrs.Tobi Okoli with Former President Jerry John Rawlings

Martaret Ofori -Atta, Naana Nilson. & Akua Busia

(mid) Joanna Boamah with friends

Elizabeth Konu & Gifty Esinam Seshie

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Chris & Shola

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Lesley Brobbey, Makeba & Martin

Mr. & Mrs. Boakye Mensah

Liz Konu, Gifty Esinam Seshie, Yvonne Okoro, Sandra Akobiah & Anita Dugbartey

Iyiola Ayoide with Mr. & Mrs. Kofi Okyere Darko

Araba & Kiki Banson

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Julie Akita & Ex. President JJ Rawlings

Araba, Ex.President Jerry John Rawlings, Nikky Delicia, Belinda Baidoo

Sein Sadi (Face of Africa Germany, Miss Kenya)

Energy Bank Boss & Staff with Former President

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Debbie Captan

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Here Comes The

Bubbly BURNA BOY

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Fashion According To

Mai Atafo

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Makeba Boateng, introducing the segment

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The Adorable

BECCA

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Wyclef

Jean in the house

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Naadei Dorothy Alexandra performing along side Wyclef

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Nobody cooler than

Ice Prince

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THE ACTIONPACKED

M.I

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FUN ALL THE WAY

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Isaac Shedowo in a dancing mood

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Folusho Adeagbo & Bashorun Dele Momodu

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John Dumelo & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Dancing mood activated

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CAPITALFIELD INVESTMENTS & TRUST LIMITED CELEBRATES

10 YEARS OF

EXCELLENCE Story: Bamidele Salako Photo: Abraham Falodun & Segun Lawal (Iroko)

Mr. Raphael Femi Lewu, GMD/CEO Capitalfield with his wife, Abimbola

T

en years ago, an idea was conceptualized and a dream was born. It was not a dream to go where no man had gone before or to do what no man had done before. It was a dream to do what had in fact been done before, but in a novel, innovative and distinctive manner, guided by a set of unique, winning and game-changing principles and values. That dream has, today, blossomed into a sterling reality Capitalfield Investments and Trust Ltd. Launched in 2003 as a Consultancy, Financial Services and Equipment Leasing Company, what started out as a single entity a decade ago, has today evolved into a conglomerate of seven subsidiaries.

CIT Microfinance Bank Ltd., CIT Bureau De Change Ltd., Logicvantage and Trust Ltd., Capitalfield Energy and Allied Services Ltd., Tentropics Marines Ltd., Roots Mining Co. Ltd., and Seedland Agro-allied Ltd. The company’s astronomical growth and gravitydefying trajectory, while not totally inscrutable, have 138

been nothing short of extraordinary.

Driven by core values such as professionalism, integrity, team work, passion and an excellent customer service experience, values which are still central to the group’s operations in diverse sectors of the national and global economies in which they compete, the company, against all odds, broke even in just a year of launching its operations, recouping all capital investments on the business, and more, within that time.

That singular feat has since elevated the group to the status of an apotheosisexample for business startups looking to draw inspiration from the company’s remarkable success story-a story which has proven to be antithetic to the routine experiences of new local businesses in Nigeria.

Ten years on, one could confidently aver that, now, more than ever, the Group is closer to fulfilling its vision of being the market leader in the sectors in which it operates as it continues to deliver on its

promise to diverse stakeholders. It is in furtherance of that vision that the group has stayed true to its mission of continuously adding value that simplifies the lives of its stakeholders while earning stakeholders’ confidence with utmost integrity and excellent service delivery.

But then, what ship can sail successfully to a given destination without the able hands of a captain to steady it on its course? None! So would Capitalfield’s success story not just be incomplete, but totally nonexistent, without due mention of its number one brand representative – the man who dreamt and envisioned it all at the start – Capitalfield’s Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), Mr. Raphael Femi Lewu. A Solicitor and Advocate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with over 22 years work experience in various financial institutions. Mr. Lewu, an astute businessman, who had his work cut out from the start, has been steering the wheel of Capitalfield’s commendable progress.

Steadily, but surely - with focus, passion, dedication, hard work and a commitment to certain strong ideals exclusive to visionaries, Mr. Lewu has been building an enduring organisation – an institution even- a legacy that would outlast him. This is why he is always quick to point out that his organisation is a self-governing one that can run successfully even in his absence.

A man who does not shy away from acknowledging and appreciating the invaluable contributions of his staff to the growth and success of the organisation, Mr. Lewu is one CEO who understands the value of people. Every worker or client, from the security personnel at the gate, the least customer to the Director on the board- they are all members of the Capitalfield family and no one is deemed insignificant. The Group’s CEO is also not fearful to concede some of the praise and credit for the giant strides the group has taken attained the years to his colleagues or partners - as he likes to call his employees – and not subordinates.

Asked in an interview with OVATION what milestones the company has recorded in the last ten years, he had three distinct answers – people, people and people. He affirmed, “I would not want to mention milestones in terms of material achievements. We do in fact have every reason to thank God for all the assets we have acquired as well as the growth in numbers in terms of figures and revenue – which is quite remarkable. More importantly though, our first milestone would be the people, the second, people and the third, people as well.”

He continued, “Over the years, we have been able to cultivate dependable alliances – reliable people and good friends. I mentioned people under three broad categorizations – the first group comprises those who believed in us at inception. I am talking about our Shareholders and Directors.”

“They have been with us through thick and thin.

This is the set of people that we owe a great deal of gratitude. Over time, some new investors also came on board and we have stringent requirements that potential investors have to fulfill before they can be part of our setup. We have been very lucky in the area of investors because we have always aligned with the right people.”

“The second group of people is the Capitalfield family – our employees. We regard them as colleagues and partners in this journey that we have embarked upon. They have been very fantastic. We always set out to recruit and retain the best hands in the industry we find ourselves and to relate with them in a manner where they have a sense of ownership. Thirdly, our various customers have been so fantastic. We are lucky to have them. We have worked hard to earn their confidence and they in turn have shown us tremendous loyalty.”

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“We are very proud and feel blessed that in spite of the unstable economic policies in our country, Nigeria, we have stood the test of time and excelled in our various ventures.

All these achievements are a product of integrity, passion, professionalism, teamwork and a great level of good customer service. These attributes form the core of our values as a dynamic organization reaching for greater heights.

“Our story will not be complete without the goodwill we have enjoyed from most of you here present and we want to thank you for believing in us and entrusting us with your resources in different measures This was why when Capitalfield rolled out the drums to celebrate ten years of achievement and distinction, it was very much like a family affair.

Directors, investors, business associates, shareholders, customers, clients and of course, employees all gathered to commemorate the milestone like one big family.

Shining like princes and princesses in their dapper and gorgeous outfits, the red carpet at the Civic Centre, venue of the anniversary dinner, became a corporate catwalk. Here, everyone posed and smiled for the cameras before moving into the wonderfully garlanded banquet hall where the celebration was to take place.

The room was already buzzing with familiar tunes from the playlists of Disc Jockey, DJ Volume.

The reception by beautiful usherettes positioned around the room was genial and the ambience, cool and convivial. It was a fantastic anniversary atmosphere and everyone chatted, cheered and basked in the euphoria of the moment. The venue was decked out in sparkly silver with a touch of green – one of the official

colours of the Capitalfield brand.

A planning committee chaired by Capitalfield’s Head of Corporate Communications, Sharon Daniels, had been charged with putting this party together.

Working closely with Sharon were Seun Oworu, Yewande King, Opeyemi Balogun-Oluwa, Isa Hassan, Ayo Ifebanjo, Chinelo Okoroafor, Tony Akinwunmi and Maryam Kuye-all Capitalfield staff members.

Together, they made a dream team and saw to it that they delivered a fitting commemorative reception.

They decided that the Grand Banquet Hall of the Civic Centre on Victoria Island, host of several upscale events, would be an appropriate venue for the dinner.

Then, they talked to fast rising Events Management Company, Fowosoge Concepts about handling the décor. Mrs. Adedoyin Oyesiku’s Dosik Catering Services would take care of foods; Noble Foods would provide canopies while all the vintage drinks and wines would be supplied by Drinks & More. Cocktail impresarios, OJ Unique Events would deliver cocktails. Very importantly, the anniversary cake had to be exotic, and so Mercy Omozokpai’s Exotic Cakes took care of that.

Back to the party – as the guests settled, Master of Ceremonies, Michael Lawrence, a comedian, better known as Ogbolor, announced that the event was starting officially and invited Rev. Toyin Akinyemi to take the opening prayer.

Following Rev. Akinyemi’s short and incisive prayer, Capitalfield Group Executive Director, Mrs. Gloria Dubi-Itiveh, stepped up to deliver the welcome address. Mrs. Dubi-Itiveh who has been with Capitalfield since inception and knows more than a thing or two about how it all began stated, “Nothing great will ever be achieved without great men; and men are only great if they are determined to do so. Ten successful years as a corporate entity in the investment industry in Nigeria – this is a great blessing we are delighted to be celebrating today.

“Behind this success are great people who do common works uncommonly well…From our humble beginnings, sharing a part of the fifth floor of Eleganza building in the heart of Lagos Island with less than ten employees, we have grown to a family of about 100 dedicated, motivated and passionate employees who together have built the Capitalfield we have today, occupying a whole building of three floors, in a prime location, still in the heart of Lagos Island.

“We are very proud and feel blessed that in spite of

the unstable economic policies in our country, Nigeria, we have stood the test of time and excelled in our various ventures. All these achievements are a product of integrity, passion, professionalism, teamwork and a great level of good customer service. These attributes form the core of our values as a dynamic organization reaching for greater heights.

“Our story will not be complete without the goodwill we have enjoyed from most of you here present and we want to thank you for believing in us and entrusting us with your resources in different measures…Let us enjoy the evening and I hope you all will have a good time as you join us to celebrate our 10th anniversary. Welcome and thank you for listening.” The Group Executive Director’s inspiring remarks were met with rousing applauses from everyone.

A delightful musical interlude followed. The duo of Deni the guitarist/soloist and G-Bash the rapper, delivered a virtuoso collaboration that tickled guests’ fancy in no small measure. Rather than go for the more established acts in the music industry, Capitalfield chose to display its innate passion for providing opportunities for new, young and talented individuals to show what they can do and Deni and G-Bash did not disappoint.

The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Capitalfield, Dr. Oluwatamilore Falomo, had the floor next. Having observed the protocols, an obviously elated Dr. Falomo began, “Since the inception of Capitalfield ten years ago, I have watched with deep interest the way the growth momentum has increased with each passing year and how it has surpassed expectations.

“The Board of Directors and I are impressed with the performance of the company and that is part of the reason we are celebrating today. As we all know, one man alone cannot build a nation, the success story of Capitalfield cannot be complete without due recognition of the efforts of all directors, shareholders and investors, the sheer determination and resilient spirit of the Executive Management Team, the commitment and dedication to work of all employees and the goodwill we have enjoyed from all of you, our friends and well-wishers here present, including those who could not make it to this event. My warm appreciation goes to you all.”

He expressed his deep joy at being part of the memorable occasion and enjoined everyone present to 139

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Mrs. Gloria Dubi-Itiveh (ED, Capitalfield)

Board Chairman, Dr. Ore Falomo & Mr. Raphael Lewu, GMD/CEO

Ms. Sharon Daniel ( Head, Corrporate Comminication, Capitalfield)

Mr. & Mrs. Dunstan Oyugbo

Sir Benjamin Wilcox & Dr. Mrs. Soba Wilcox

Mr. Seun Oworu ( Head of trading, Capitalfield energy) & Barr. Mrs. Lyinda Oworu

be merry and enjoy themselves. A documentary detailing Capitalfield’s thrilling ten year story was displayed after which the duo of Deni and G-Bash took center stage once again with a license to thrill; and thrill they did.

Capitalfield’s soft-spoken and unassuming GMD/CEO, Mr. Lewu rose to give his remarks. He recalled how the Capitalfield dream took off in the Law Chambers of a longtime friend, A.U. Mustapha, who he said taught him a lot of good things, amusingly adding, “and bad ones too.” He spoke of how the company broke even in just one year, admitting that the business environment was friendlier then, affording them the opportunity of breaking even in the first year of business.

The qualified Barrister took guests on a memory lane, recounting the birth of each Capitalfield’s subsidiary. He proceeded to review the achievements of two of the group’s flourishing divisions – CIT Microfinance Bank Ltd. and Capitalfield Energy, revealing that these two had contributed 35% of the group’s overall revenue in fiscal year 2013.

He then introduced the group’s newest subsidiaries – Tentropics Marines Ltd., Roots Mining Co. Ltd. and Seedland Agro-allied Ltd. He told OVATION, exclusively, that the Group had discovered very huge opportunities in the Maritime, Mining and Agro-allied sectors, which they intend to explore fully. “Nigeria is blessed with an abundance of natural resources and those three sectors provide 140

Mrs. Bola Adebajo (Head of Treasury, Capitalfield)

Mr. Micheal Uba a.k.a Ogbolo of Wazobia fm – The Compere

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How easy or difficult was it for you to play that role

It was very difficult because it was the first time I was getting into such a demanding role. They had to make me look so dirty and I had all those smelly things all over my body but I just had to suck it all up.

It was hard but enjoyable.

How would you describe your journey so far in the world of movies

It has been good, considering the fact that I had to go to school. Initially, I was having issues with having to strike a balance between work and school.

I might have exams in school and also have an auditioning or a job, but I could not sacrifice my education, because I knew I had to finish what I started. So, it was pretty much, an up and down experience. Now, I am done with school and I have got all the time in the world to pursue my acting career.

What course did you study in School

I studied Fine and Applied Arts.

Tell us about your family

I am from a family of three – the only child.

Growing up, I played with myself a lot because I had no sibling. I am from Imo state.

Where are your parents now

My parents are in Delta State.

They had no qualms about you going into acting

No, not at all. My number one supporter is my mum. My dad did not quite like the idea at first, but when he started seeing the movies and his friends started to tell him, ‘they see his daughter in the movies,’ he then became cool with it.

How many movies do you have under your belt now

I have starred in about 20 movies or more.

What major acts have you worked with

There is a movie I really love titled, Stronger than Pain. I starred alongside the amazing and hilarious Nkem Owoh. I just finished another one with Emem Isong titled, Lagos Cougars. It is in the cinemas and everybody needs to go see this movie. I starred alongside Monalisa Chinda, Uche Jombo and Alex Ekubo. I worked with the late Justice Esiri. I had an amazing time with him on set. He was like a father to me. I have also worked with Emeka Ike, Olu Jacobs and a host of others.

Who would you say you have enjoyed working with the most

I tend to enjoy working with the veteran actors the more, because like I said earlier, I like to ask questions; and they are the ones who give you the real advice you need to excel in the industry. Veteran actors are in a class of their own and they do not think you are in competition with them. Sometimes, when you meet actors who are within your age range or a little older than yourself, they feel threatened, see you as competition and tend not to give you the best advice for some reason. I really enjoyed working with Muma Gee - Patience Ozokwor – I had a truly great time with her. I tend to like to work with people like her more, because they are always out to inspire me.

Have you come up against any enemity in the industry from some of your more established counterparts, who perhaps, view you as a threat, just like you said

Truthfully, I have not. I actually try to avoid scenarios or situations like that.

Where do you hope this is going to take you

Hollywood! (laughs). I was in the United States for a course at the New York Film Academy recently and so, I went to Los Angeles and I just would love to be there.

Now, you are a rising star; what has changed about you

Nothing! I am same old me and I do not want anything to change. I do not want to be a celebrity, I want to be an actress.

But you cannot divorce the two, particularly if you are an excellent actress

Yeah, I know, but some people get carried away with the celebrity tag. There is a difference between being a celebrity and being an actress. You could look glamorous and all and be everywhere, but I prefer to be one known more for the strong quality of my acting as opposed to the glamour of celebrity life.

What do you think has brought you this far – talent

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Yes, of course, talent and hard work but the number one thing, I have to say, is God. Some things just happen sometimes: you might not really be the best. You could find people that are much better than you are and they are just there lying around. Nobody takes note of their talents. And then you just come from nowhere and before you know what is happening, you are doing really fantastic things.

Thanks be to God for the gift of life and then, for the talent that works for me.

Do you think you are one of Nollywood’s “baddest” girls

(Laughs) I do not know.

What are some of the awkward things you have read or heard about yourself

I think the one thing I hear most about myself is that, I am sexy. People say, ‘She is sexy’ and all that.

Do you see yourself as a sex symbol

Perhaps; I think a little bit. Some people think I am a fashionista because I keep getting messages from people about how they like what I was wearing at an event or when they spotted me somewhere.

Now, I think should not just go into the fashion world. I know I have gotten a couple of e-mails from people telling me they liked how I was looking when they last saw me.

Who or what inspires you in or about the acting profession

I basically get my inspiration from God and then, from my mum. I look at her and I just want to be better in life. She is such a strong woman. I do not know – when I look at her, I just want to be better and make something positive of my life. She inspires me.

In the industry, there are a few actresses who really catch my fancy. I love Mercy Johnson – I think she is a fantastic actress.

You ladies sure have something in common

Yeah, but it does not end there. The fact that she has that kind of body is not all there is to her. She can act. Even if you give her a role that does not require her to show off her body, like a village girl role, she will deliver a perfect performance. She is amazing actually.

What prompted the plastic surgery

People keep asking me that - I never had a plastic surgery. Do you want to come and touch my butt – no, my boyfriend will kill you (laughs). I did not. A girl sent me an e-mail, asking why I would go do a plastic surgery when I knew well that I was already beautiful and I told her I did not. What actually happened was that, I went to Los Angeles and I posted a picture of mine on the social media which I took on a Drive where they do plastic surgeries in LA and I passed a comment like, ‘Hey, Dr. Ray (Dr. 90210), I am here to see you.’ And before you knew what was happening, it was everywhere that I had gone to get boob and butt implants. I only added some weight – I did not get implants.

For real

Absolutely! Yes. Who are some of those that have helped you along the way

I would not say helped, because no one ever really took my hand and then, led me somewhere to be given a role. There are, however, a few people who, when I need to ask questions, I can call them up.

The first person, who really ever gave me that opportunity to meet people, was AY – Ayo Makun.

He is someone I can call anytime, any day, and I am sure he will give me the best advice. Segun Arinze too was a great help to me.

What has been the most challenging moment in your career

The times when I did not get jobs to do. I think I stayed for close to a year and I did not get a call from anyone. It happens. People do not always work all the time. Sometimes, you have movies that you have already worked on, in the previous year and they come out in a year you are not working and people think you are always working. I think that was a time when I felt, ‘Am I sure I should be doing this?’

Is there anything you wish could be different about your life right now

I wish I had siblings. I wish I had a brother or a sister.

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‘People keep asking me that - I never had a plastic surgery. Do you want to come and touch my butt – no, my boyfriend will kill you (laughs). I did not. A girl sent me an e-mail, asking why I would go do a plastic surgery when I knew well that I was already beautiful and I told her I did not. What actually happened was that, I went to Los Angeles and I posted a picture of mine on the social media which I took on a Drive where they do plastic surgeries in LA and I passed a comment like, ‘Hey, Dr. Ray (Dr. 90210), I am here to see you.’ And before you knew what was happening, it was everywhere that I had gone to get boob and butt implants. I only added some weight – I did not get implants – it is not. To act is in itself not easy. It is not easy to get a script and a role, and to interpret it and act, as if it were happening to you. You have to be sure that this is what you want to do, be strong and pray. At the end of the day, it is God’s exceeding grace that makes the difference.

You are waxing spiritual right now

Yes. What role does faith play in your life and career

A lot! I try to revolve my life around God every day. Yes, we all do crazy things, have fun, party but that does not exclude God from the picture, because there is a difference between being spiritual and being religious.

What are you working on currently

I rounded off my first production here in Lagos a while back. I just finished a second production in New Jersey. That is like half of the movie. Now, I am back in Nigeria to finish the second half of my second production. My first production is in the kitchen cooking, getting ready to be released.

Do you see yourself in the Director’s chair in the days ahead

When we talk to new comers in the industry, the ladies in particular, they talk about how difficult it is getting roles because of the challenge of sexual harassment, do you come up against stuff like this

Yes, it happens. It is everywhere, not just in the movie world. I have friends who are in the Banking industry and they come back, all stressed and tired and you ask them about their day and they tell you stories of how they were harassed sexually.

Sometimes though, a guy in your line of work might just be showing a genuine interest in making your acquaintance with no ulterior motive but I do not think I have ever gotten to a point where people tried

to force themselves on me. The advances come but it all depends on how you turn it down. It is everywhere.

What would be your words to a young lady who wants to venture into acting

She has to be strong because it is a tough industry. There are a lot of things you learn about life in the industry. It is a very challenging industry.

Then, you tend to know who your real friends are because, I say all the time that, there is no real friend in Nollywood – and not just here. Even in Hollywood, you hear stories of betrayals and all. You have to be patient and strong. People think it is easy

Oh yes! I would love to be behind the camera. I told you earlier that, I just rounded off a course at the New York Film Academy; I will love to go back to do a course in Directing. People do not tend to appreciate the people behind the camera around here.

The guys behind the camera do a great job. At the end of the day, they are the ones who are responsible for bringing out a wonderful picture. All we do is act, but they – the camera guys, the costumiers, and so forth, bring the best out of us.

A number of Nollywood stars have tried their hands out at music, would we come to see Daniella Okeke the musical artiste too

(Laughs) No! Definitely not. You might see me dancing in a couple of musical videos as one of the video vixens – if they pay me well.

What is your price right now

(Laughs) I cannot tell you that. If you need me for a production, my manager is here, talk to him.

Who would you love to appear in a movie with

Denzel Washington! I love him – he is a great actor. There are great actors in Nigeria as well.

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What is your fashion craze

I have just fallen in love with bags right now. I just believe that if you have got good shoes and good bags, then you are good to go. And I am not a designer freak.

I have quite a number of designer bags and shoes but I go with what looks nice and what suits me. I am not the kind of person who says she cannot wear something, except it is a Prada or Burberry.

What will you not be caught dead wearing

I do not know. I love to experiment a lot, but I do not think you will catch me wearing a stripper’s outfit on the streets.

What is your most expensive fashion item

I think it is a bag but I will not tell you what it went for.

Your favorite car

I love Range Rover but I currently drive a Land Rover.

Your favourite tourist destination

I love Paris.

Yes, I actually read that you went to Paris on vacation with your boyfriend

Do not mind those people; they are just looking for what to write. I went to Paris to shop. I went with my boyfriend and it is no big deal. There’s this island I would love to visit though – Bora Bora. I have seen pictures and the place looks so lovely. I am looking at that as a honeymoon destination.

Now you are talking honeymoon, are the wedding bells ringing soon

I do not know o (laughs). I do not have such plans yet. Besides, I am not the man now.

Oh, so he has not popped the question yet

No, he has not. But, every girl looks forward to that.

You in the next five years

I hope to bigger than this then. I leave it to God – wherever He thinks is the best place for me to be, I am fine with.

How do you stay on top of your game – any rituals

154

I just do my thing. When I wake up in the morning, I pray. I drink a lot of water – that gives me strength.

And then, once in a while, when I can find the time, I try to exercise just to get my balance. Otherwise, I do not really have anything special that I do.

trashy. Sexy does not mean exposing all the sensitive parts of your body that are supposed to be hidden. It just means you look so good, you command a second, third, fourth, even fifth look from people around. You stand out.

What is your fashion-style

Nice talking to you. I wish you success in all your future endeavours

Sexy; I like sexy stuffs but not trashy.

There is a difference

Oh yes, there is a difference between sexy and

Thank you.

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AT THE 9TH

ALL NIGERIAN

EDITOR’S

CONFERENCE IN ASABA, DELTA STATE

t was four rewarding days of deliberation, networking and soul-searching as Editors

I

from across Nigeria gathered in Asaba, Delta for the 9th All Nigerian Editors’ Conference.

With former Newsman and Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba as Chairman, the Conference which has its theme "Nigeria Beyond Oil: Role of the Editors" was attended

by Govornor Peter Obi of Anambra, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Governor of Ekiti also had resource persons like Richard Ikiebe of the Pan Africa University and Agriculture Minister, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina. The host Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan showed

Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan receiving a plaque from NGE President, Mr. Femi Adeshina

exemplary leadership by being at the conference throughout.

In his welcome address, Mr. Femi Adesina, President, Nigerian Guild of Editors stated that it was imperative that the country must move its economy beyond oil or it would face serious consequences.

According to him “Nigeria must now diversify or die. For well over four decades. we have run a monoproduct economy. Petroleum has been our mainstay, and we have allowed the easy money from oil to strangulate other cash cows like agriculture, solid minerals, tourism and many others.

“Oil is fast becoming a vanishing source of easy revenue. Nigeria once had a pride of being one of the

largest producers of petroleum on the continent, but not anymore. Ghana ,Kenya, Uganda, Cameroun, Chad and some others have also found oil. And much more contentious is the fact that America, our largest customer has discovered shale oil and so may not need to patronize us again. I tell you doomsday is by the corner, except we become proactive and stave off the evil.”

In his remarks, Governor Uduaghan said that he was happy that the media was keying into his administration’s Delta beyond oil concept that was launched years back He said that with changing trend worldwide, it was imperative for his state and in deed the whole nation to begin to discover and promote

Gov. Emmanuel Uduaghan & First Lady, H.E. Roli Uduaghan

Hon. Victor Ogene, Governor of Anambra state, Mr. Peter Obi & Mr. Femi Adesina

Gbenga Adefaye, Yusuf Olaniyonu & Steve Ayorinde enjoying facilities of mobile clinic

Barr.Chike Ogeah, Commissioner of Information (left)

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Muyiwa Akintunde, Steve Nwosu, Sheddy Ozoene & Steve Ayorinde

Waheed Odushile,Femi Adesina & Frank Igwebueze

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Editors being taken on tour

Inspection tour to New State Assembly Complex

Inspection tour of a Model secondary school

Inspection tour to State Primary School

Gabriel Akinadewo & Dotun Oladipo

Inspection tour of Mandela Park

Sunny Ofili, SSA to the Governor on ICT & Maureen Chigbo

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...TIME TO DANCE

Swering in new members: Kayode Akintemi, Azuh Arinze & Michael Effiong

Commissioner for Youth, Ebifa Ijeoma

Commissioner for Commerce Kingsley Emu (l) & far right Commissioner for Higher Education, Hope Eghagha

Swering in of new fellowers

Commissioner for Special Infrastructure, Orezi Esievo, Commissioner for finance, Kenneth Okpara & Sunny Ofili in charge of Ministry of Science and Technology and ICT

Commissioner for Energy, Charles Emetulu, Mike Igbini of Delta State (DLA), Pastor Powell (SA to Governor) and Mr. Tony Obu, PS Government House

other income-generating industries that will be beneficial to the future generation.

After the deliberation, the Editors in a communiqué signed by NGE Secretary Isaac Ighure urged the Federal Government to embark on sustained diversification of the nation’s economy in a bid to free it from further dependence on oil and gas.

The guild advised that agriculture,tourism and other non- oil sources should be “intensively explored to avert the catastrophic consequences of a future without oil. It also urged financial institutions and funding agencies to provide increased funding to nonoil sectors, especially agriculture, small and medium enterprises and manufacturing.

The editors also called on the government to fast track efforts toward improving infrastructure, particularly in the power sector, transportation and telecommunications.

While in Asaba,t he Editors’had an opportunity to experience the Delta Mobile Clinic Scheme and were also ferried to difference projects sites to carry out first-hand assessment on projects embarked on by the Uduaghan administration.

The Conference was rounded off with a colourful Dinner event which saw the swearing in of new members and fellows. The evening was rounded off superbly with pulsating entertainment by top stars: Omawuni and D’Banj while comedian, Igo dye joined by some local talents gave everyone a great ribcracking time.

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Chief Ayiri Emami & Commissioner Paulinus Akpeki of Ministry of Housing

Ted Iwere & Ray Ekpu

Top Management of Raypower /AIT

Gbenga Adefaye & Bolaji Tunji

Kunle Solaja, Sola Osunkeye, Funke Egbemode & Frank Igwebueze

Steve Ayorinde & Mideno Bayagbon

Michael Effong & Omasan Buwa, Special Assistant to the Governor

Omawunmi & friend

D’banj

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FLYING OFFICER

HASSAN NGULDE WEDS MARYAM ABUBAKAR IN KANO

Story: Bamidele Salako Photo:Family Album

The couple

e is an amazing man. He is very religious, patient, kind, loyal, generous and a gentle soul. He is always there when I need him.” These sweet remarks were spoken by lovestruck Maryam Waheeda Abubakar when she chatted with OVATION about the love of her life, Flying Officer Hassan Ngulde, shortly after the lovers tied the nuptial knot in Kano formalizing a long-standing friendship and relationship.

Life often presents us with several memorable moments as we travel through and there is no doub the fact that, that special weekend when Maryam and Hassan became one, remains the most memorable yet for the lovebirds who met through a mutual

H The couple

friend.

A chance encounter between the two love-birds, swapped numbers and several calls afterwards birthed a close friendship which later developed into a rock-solid love affair; and one which has now culminated into a happy home.

The ceremony which conveyed Flying Officer Ngulde and Maryam – a devoted Public Servant - on their all important flight from singlehood to matrimony took off with the Kamu at the bride’s residence.

That day, Maryam’s home was a vibrant hive of activities as her loved ones prepared her for the most important weekend of her life. There was a lot of excitement in the air as friends, cousins and aunts swarmed the

Presentation of the sword

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The lovely couple marching through the crossing of swords

Mothers of the bride & groom at the sword crossing

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Alh. Abba Kasim, Prof. Iliyasu & Bride’s Dad-Alh. Abdulrahman Abubakar

Cutting of the cake

Bride’s sister, Mujiba, couple & bride’s mum

Officers at the Sword Crossing

Cross section of Senior Officers

Mummy’s pet, Aisha with her mum

Air Commodore Ben Chiobi, Navy Commodore Ememor & groom’s father Rtd. Wing Commander Ngulde

residence. Later that day, a happy train of Hassan’s family members stormed the house to celebrate the commencement of festivities.

The highlight of this event was Maryam’s presentation to Hassan’s family and boy! Was she a beautiful bride! No wonder, her in-laws-to-be received her with approving eyes and bright smiles that betrayed their admiration for her articulate beauty.

Their reaction was an unspoken acknowledgement that Hassan had made the right choice – a fact they already knew anyway.

Later, Maryam was sprayed with perfumes in accordance with tradition.

And then, everybody made merry and Bridal train

had an awesome time celebrating with the lovebirds.

Alfurqan Jummat Mosque at Alu Avenue, Kano was the setting for the Fatia – an Islamic ceremony where the wedding solemnization took place. At the Fatia which is statutorily an allmen’s affair, the groom and his family members fulfilled certain requirements of Islamic law and the new union was formalised and blessed.

Festivities peaked with a grand dinner reception at the upscale Afficient Event Center, Kano where beautifully garbed friends and relations of the newlyweds came in their numbers to celebrate the newly formed union.

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THE KAMU

Bride’s mum, the lovely bride & Aunty Binta

The pinders

Arrival of the bride

Elated mother of the bride, Haj. Amina Pinder with Haj. Munnira & Asmau Kaita

Furera, Amina, Bride’s mum, Halima & Altine

Bride with her sister, Mujiba

Bride’s mum with aunties

Bride with friends

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Unveiling the bride during the kamu

Bride with sweetmother

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ELATED MOTHER OF THE BRIDE: HAJIYA AMINA PINDER ABUBARKAR

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THE WEDDING FATIHA

2nd right: Bride’s father with CBN Executives

Groom’s dad-Alh. Ngulde, Alh. Suleiman, Alh. Rabiu, the groom, Alh. Musa & Malam Sadiq

From Right: Rep. of Emir of Dukku-Dan Isan Dukku, Alh. Maude, Alh. Baba Hamidu & Alh. Mohammed Gusau

Chief Imam of Alfurqan Mosque-Dr. Bashir, Prof. Iliyasu & Alh. Nasiru Barau officiating the marriage

The spectacular event also witnessed the coming together of old time friends of the bride’s mum, Hajiya Amina Pinder Abubakar. We were told that many of them were longtime friends from her secondary school days at the Federal Government College, Kano. They came to register their love and support for their friend and her daughter.

Maryam, who told the magazine that the best gift she had ever received from anyone was an engraved jewel box which Hassan gave her, shone resplendently in a stunning wedding attire designed by the House of Flair with fabrics acquired in Dubai. Hassan

too, was quite the charming Prince. The couple was an ebullient lot and brimmed with palpable delight.

Their beaming faces were an eloquent testimony of their overpowering love for each other which Maryam perfectly articulated to the magazine thus: “Hassan is my Mr. Perfect. The one thing that made him stand out from others was how caring he was and his selfless attitude too.”

It was little wonder then that Hassan did not have to make a formal proposal – they were already a perfect fit and their thinking – almost telepathic. “There was no proposal. It

Fmr. ANPP Kano Chairman, Hon. Hashim Hotoro & the Bride’s dad

Alh. Ali Ringim, bride’s father, Sen. Sabo, Hon. Faruk, Alh. Abdullahi, Alh. Aminu & Alh. Koguna

Alh. Garba Ahmed, Alh. Abdullahi Halilu, bride’s father & Alh. Musa Garba

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Father of the bride with the Pinders

Alh. Faruk Shehu, Alh. Abubakar Ali & Alh. Abdulrahaman Abubakar

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THE WEDDING DINNER

The Lovely couple

The gorgeous bride: Maryam Waheeda

The dashing groom

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Couple with mother of the bride

Arrival of bride’s mum, Mrs. Amina Pinder Abubakar

Ammani Umar, the lovely bride & Murja Abukur

Bride only sibling-Aisha Mujiba with sister, Maryam Waheeda

Mrs. Fatimah Abdulfatah, Haj. Munnira Hassan & Hassana Abdulfatah

Bride’s mum with Reps.of Katsina State First Lady

just got to a point where we both knew where the relationship was going,” revealed Maryam, who holds Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems from the American University of Nigeria and a Master’s Degree in Information Security from Royal Holloway University of London.

The couple, their families and guests enjoyed some royal hospitality with Meenat Restaurant and Catering Services, treating everyone to a delightsome assortment of lipsmacking delicacies. The guests savoured more than their fill of all that was on offer, while also getting treated

to some wonderful music.

Apart from a crowd of loved ones turning out to fete the newlyweds, the couple was also showered with a lot of love and gifts during the ceremonies and was as such filled with so much appreciation. They had no choice but to reciprocate the love showered on them.

“We would like to thank everyone family, friends and well-wishers. We appreciate you taking time out of your busy lives to join us on our special day and also for the prayers. May the Almighty Allah reward you all abundantly.”

Wife of Emir of Dukku, Hajiya Jummai Rasheed & sister with the bride’s mum

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Natalia, Bride’s mum, Esther Mai shanu & Hauwa Mai Musa

Bride’s mum with childhood friends: Zainab, Hauwa, bride’s mum & Halima

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Sisters bridal train

Friends bridal train

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Aunty Missis, Bride’s mum, Amma Pinder, Couple, Aisha & Aunty Baana

Hadiza, laila, Hamrah, Mami, Hajja & Lami

Engr. Bilkisu Pinder, Barr. Adama Pinder & Fatima

Haj. Baana Pinder & Dije Pinder

Mr & mrs Jide Akanbi, the couple & little Farida

Mujiba & best friend, Ruqayya Daggash with couple

Aisha Mujiba Abubakar with mum

The Ben Umars: Rakiyah, Kaltume & Asiya

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Toasting time: Mrs. Aliyu, Bride’s mum & Hauwa Maina

Hadiza Mongunu, Binta Sarki Mukhtar & Maryam Mohammed Bello

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Batulu Koguna, Halima Kabiru Gaya, Zainab Anza & Sadiya Bichi

Aunty Yagana, Hadiza & Bilkisu

Aunty Ladi & Binta

The Groom’s mum with relatives

Cross section of the Groom’s brothers

Bride’s mum, groom’s mum & Aunty Yagana

Groom’s twin sister-Hussaina & her set of twins with hubby

Haj. Aisha of FirstBank & Haj. Munnira Hassan

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Cutting of the cake

Toast by Hajiya Khadija Kasim

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Aunty Hajja Pinder with the couple

Furaira, Zainab, Binta, couple, bride’s mum, Hafsat, Sa’a & Hadiza Marmoni

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WONDERLAND FUNFAIR SEASON2

THRILLS FAMILIES WITH UNDILUTED FUN IN LAGOS Interview: Bamidele SalakoPhoto: Adekoya Adegbite & Wonderland Photo

Weeks after the yuletide season, OVATION spoke with the brain behind the magic, Oyo State-born Registered Nurse and business woman turned amusement cognoscenti, Mrs. Bola Awokoya, whose new venture has earned her the moniker Wonder Mama.

A bubbly, jovial and vivacious personality with an undying passion for children, Mrs. Awokoya is rolling back the years with this wonderful innovation that is poised to redefine the way Nigerian families enjoy their holidays.

At the heart of her dream is a drive, not just for national expansion, but for continental expansion. Ever dreamt of being able to spend every other holiday at Disneyland? Wonder Mama says she is bringing the Disneyland experience to your side of town soon.

What inspired this idea – the Wonderland Funfair

I love holidays – Christmas especially. As a child, I always looked forward to Christmas with excitement. It was a tradition in my family to spend Christmas together. My siblings would return from their bases abroad and we would buy gifts for one another and sit around this huge Christmas tree and open our gift boxes. And growing up, we always went to UTC, Kingsway, to see Father Christmas and we always looked forward to it because of the gifts.

When I left this country for the United States, that yearning for Christmas never left me. Over there, Christmas holidays were very depressing for me. It was typically winter- freezing- and the trees had no

Mrs. Bola Awokoya (Wonder Mama) with Lagos State DeputyGovernor, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire

oyful memories! That was the clear take-out for daddies, mummies and many kiddies who experienced the thrills, amazement and magic of the Wonderland Funfair. Aptly tagged ‘Wonderland Funfair Season 2,’ it unfolded at a gigantic temporary amusement park that illuminated Adeniran Ogunsanya Street and environs in Surulere Lagos, for 23 days over the Yuletide season.

J

Her Excellency with Wonderland team

leaves and it always had this graveyard feel about it. I did not like it and that made me always look back to the fun Christmas seasons I had experienced in Nigeria.

When I returned to Nigeria a few years back, I started something at City Mall – Santa’s Grotto.

Children came, saw Santa and got gifts. It was there that a lady, Mrs. Njere –the Proprietress of Treasure Hills School in Dolphin Estate approached me to bring the grotto to Dolphin Estate to a better space and a bigger crowd. I am very spontaneous. We went to this lovely park a few days to Christmas and I liked it and I felt I could pull it off. I had this wonderful lady, Kikiope Oyegoke-Okewale who basically drove the project then, and she was a massive help. We rented the bouncing castles, paid for the park and had the first Wonderland Funfair. And it was fairly successful, though I had expected a larger turnout than we had.

In 2012, I started to talk with The Eagle Club about doing the same thing on their grounds but we faced a few challenges, chief of which was that, I had to travel again and I was not very prepared. I felt we needed to get it right the second time around and a lot of things were not in place. But we eventually had our funfair on that ground in 2013, which ran from December 14 through the 5th of January. The club’s President, Mr. Yomi Pearce, was very supportive. He did not even want us to leave in the end.

Where did you find the courage to hold a bigger second outing when the first outing appeared to have fallen terribly short of your expectations

I am driven by a passion to see people happy. As you can see, I am a very happy person (laughs). I love to bring people happiness. That was exactly why I did not give up. There are memories that children need to have. You cannot take it away from them. My childhood Christmas memories are still very much

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Amazing wonderland

A splash of fun at Wonderland

In the beginning: Wonderland being packaged Children at the Sports arena

A family having fun at wonderland

The challenging Obstacle course castle

One of various adult engagements at Wonderland

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Little ones in their own world...the Toddlers Combo

Wonder Mama with the giant double wavy slide

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Wonder Mama, friends & family at the magic train

Her Excellency addressing children & guests

Cutting the Wonderland cake at the opening ceremony

Emmanuel Obembe with the Deputy Governor

Mr. Pearce of Eagle Club, Deputy Governor & Wonder Mama

Wonder Mama, Olawale Okunniyi & Princess, the comedian

Mrs. Awokoya, the Deputy Governor & Kunle at the official opening ceremony for Wonderland Funfair Season 2

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with me. Memories like that are priceless for me.

It was my drive to create a place where families can come, relax, be at peace and be happy; where children can be children and have the time of their lives and we were able to achieve that. Besides, anything worth its salt has its teething stage. The Dolphin experience was our learning curve and it was the reason why the 2013 outing was such a success. It was extremely important because we learnt how not to stage a funfair. It gave us a foundation to build upon going forward.

Was that name ‘Wonderland’ inspired by the famous children’s story, ‘Alice in Wonderland’

A wonderland is a paradise of sorts – a place where you are wowed by the things you see, hear, feel, and experience. The idea is to create a place of amazement where children’s fantasies come alive.

How affordable is it to enjoy the pleasures of the Wonderland Funfair

Compared to the number of facilities you have access to, quite affordable. We had a thousand naira gate fee to gain access to the grounds, enjoy some games and receive gifts at the gate. For example, on entering the venue, children got these special character balloons as well as notebooks, pens, and wristbands, in addition to a box of goodies. And we had other packages: a separate fee for greater levels of fun and

another fee to see Santa and receive fabulous gifts that are second to none. You see, kids and parents who thought they knew bouncing castles and understood amusement facilities were amazed, because they had never seen something that big in one spot and it was good value for money.

What unique experience does Wonderland offer families

The essence of life is happiness and the higher degree of happiness is joy. If we have to sum it up, the take-away from Wonderland is joy joyful memories. It came through the precious moments that families harvested from every fun activity they participated in at the fair. All the facilities we set up, all the efforts, finance and the networks we invested, were all for the purpose of bringing an enduring joy to families.

Wonderland is not a place you come to and forget easily. Even, parents can attest to this. Children had the freedom to express themselves and adults had the freedom to be kids again. Children had moments that they would relish forever and the parents had moments with their kids that will bring smiles to their faces every time they remember. People came from all around Lagos and from far and wide– not just residents of Surulere. And when Wonderland becomes bigger, and we are well known across Africa, people will remember us for “…bringing enduring joy to families”

Wonder Mama, Yinka Adeojo, Baby Thomas Adeojo, & Emmanuel

Sadiq, Wonder Mama, Debola & Kunle

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The Cutest baby of Wonderland

Mountain climbing at Wonderland

So, what feedbacks have you been getting from families who experienced the magic of your Wonderland last Christmas

Positive feedbacks, absolutely. A lot of people have approached us to retain the Eagle Club grounds as a permanent amusement park, and we are looking into that, but we are for now a mobile funfair. We have also been getting calls from people wanting us to set up something like that for them at various places during some special occasions. We in fact had one fantastic family from Delta State and the father now wants us to come to their State. It is a very welcoming need which we are eager and ready to meet. We have also been getting feedbacks from people on ways to get better.

Now, it is a mobile experience, are you looking to secure a more permanent location where families can come and

I am driven by a passion to see people happy. As you can see, I am a very happy person (laughs). I love to bring people happiness.

That was exactly why I did not give up. There are memories that children need to have. You cannot take it away from them.

Debola revelling in the amazing Wonderland scenery

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The Sale-Exhibition zone at Wonderland

Colorful Santa moment at Wonderland

Proud winners with their prizes

A rush to see Santa at Wonderland

Dasola, Moji, Mutiat, Bola & Mrs. Biola Oni

Aunty Arinola Fuwa & Mutiat

Ridwan, Wonder Mama, Gbenga Davies & Princess

Ronke, Deputy Governor, Wonder Mama, & Mutiat

Wonder Mama and some guests at Wonderland

Wonder Mama ushers the Deputy Governor through the Exhibition zone

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Biodun Ogunrinde truly surprised to see his family at his surprise birthday party

Biodun, Tishe, and Nike Ogunrinde

Seyi, Esther, Demilade, Olivia, Christabel & friends with the Ogunrindes

Demola Fashola, Dasola Azeez & Kunle on the red carpet

Dr. John, Mrs. Awokoya, Kunle Odukoya & Nonso Nwokocha of Headwords-XVP

have fun, not just on holidays but on weekends too, perhaps

The mobile amusement will eventually culminate into the permanent site.

Most definitely. But we want the mobile experience to continue all over the country and beyond. The vision is big. As a matter of fact, Wonderland will not just be a Christmas thing but a round-the-year experience. We want to be able to roll our apparatus into remote areas and bring fun and joy to people everywhere. We will be partnering with government officials and establishments, NonGovernmental Organisations, corporate bodies and individuals to achieve this objective. We are looking to find spaces where we can set up on weekends, so that families can come in and have a great time for a token.

Do you have any prior experience, maybe while in the United States, staging funfairs like this

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Hmmm, No, I do not.

So, how were you able to successfully coordinate and harmonise human and material resources to make this massive dream a reality

To be honest with you, I cannot take all the credit.

The Dolphin Estate outing was engineered by Kikiope Oyegoke-Okewale and for this last one, kudos must go to my Project Manager, Kunle. Fate brought us together and he has been of immense help, since. I had the vision, he bought into it and together with other

Idayat & Wale King, wonder mama, Biodun & friends

members of the crew, and we gave it our all and pushed ourselves to deliver the best that we could. I laid out my ideas and he used his gift of piecing things together to turn them into reality. He is a Brand Management Consultant as well, so, he has an intricate understanding of how things should look and work.

Another thing is, as a Nurse, I work with children with special needs. I spend time with them and organize periodic events for them at occasions.

Perhaps, this has always been in me. Even during the Wonderland Funfair, I spontaneously planned surprise parties for friends; anyone who came in and saw the party would think we had painstakingly planned it for a while without realizing that it was a spur of the moment thing. People say I have an innate ability to

Kemi Abba, Biodun, Wonder Mama & Ronke

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Ladi Laoye, Mrs. Bisola Oludipe, Debola Awokoya, Bola Awokoya, Mrs. Yusuf, a friend & Bimbo of LTV

Ladi Laoye, Mr. Tosan, Biodun & a friend

Mrs. Shitta Bey, Mr. Awobajo, Wonder Mama, Aunty Jumoke Oni & Mrs. Awobajo

Mr. Anya & family at Wonderland

Mutiat Peters, Ronke Nekan, Adetoun Adeojo, Nike Ogunrinde, Bola Awokoya & Olori Funke Akiolu

Nike, Debola, Kunle, Wonder Mama with 9ice

Parents digging it up at Wonderland

Aisha, Wonder Mama, Tinuke Jimoh & Lati

Princess playing Cow-girl at Wonderland

Princess with the Adegbites

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Deputy Governor with some children cutting the cake

organize events with a snap of the fingers. It comes to me naturally.

In terms of the content and technicalities, what changed from the Dolphin experience

First, this location is better and more strategic. The Dolphin Estate venue was remote and a bit exclusive.

The Eagle Club is however a high-footfall area with lots of commercial activities -Banks, Telecoms Service Centers, Shopping Malls, perpetual human and vehicular traffic and all that – you could not but notice from wherever you were in that axis, that the Wonderland Funfair was in town, and it was magnificent.

Also, we are more experienced this time around, because we know the business better, especially in terms of the infrastructure. I brought in most of the inflatables – about ten of them - from the US. The Wonderland inflatables were not just put together for the sake of it; I personally picked them for the purpose of entertaining and engaging children of all ages. All the inflatables had names and we had special relationships with each one based on our understanding of their peculiarities. For example, The Toddlers’ Combo was such a favorite amongst mothers. It was specially fitted for crawlers to put them in their own fairy world with uniquely designed climbers, turtle, mushroom etc.

Another bestseller was the 60ft long Obstacle Course Castle which is more than a Bouncy Castle. It is a challenging inflatable that is fun for both children and adults, as it takes them through a thrilling boot camp experience, where they go through various hurdles, as in a maze. It is amazingly fun, trust me.

There is the 20ft tall giant Double Lane Wavy slide, a magic-maker for those seeking the ultimate in sliding fun and excitement. There is also the Sports Arena where kids could simulate different kinds of games like basketball, among others. And we have the very cute Ball Pit, the dual Prince and dual Princess Bouncy Castles that double as slides, as well as the Slippity dry & wet slide.

To make the experience total, we brought in a very large train called the Magic Train which could convey 178

families and a smaller train for a particular age group.

We had electric cars, and also large and small collapsible swimming pools. Generally, there was something for everyone: adults could engage themselves with such games as table tennis and various board games, while we had the Sony PlayStation installed for older kids and teenagers.

From the photographs we had, you would see how mothers and fathers were mountain climbing, bungee jumping, Rodeo bull riding, and having the time of their lives. We also had MC Toks come in on special days to engage our guests and spice up the atmosphere, while some celebrity friends, such as 9ice and the comedienne, Princess, repeatedly came around on several occasions to add glamour to proceedings.

People were amazed at what we had on ground. They told me that we have to organize the funfair more often.

Were there exciting prizes for people to win as well

Yes, and that was where MTN’s support was quite instrumental. They provided us with a lot of branded items. So, we were able to engage the children and their parents in a number of fun activities and games, after which, winners got wonderful prizes like, schoolbags, t-shirts, notebooks, umbrellas, key rings and so on. It was an exciting and rewarding experience for everyone.

This project was massive and must have been very demanding

It was more than demanding. Financially, it was titanic. I thank God for my family – they were very supportive, especially my sister, Adetoun Adeojo, Chief Executive Officer of Bravo Home Finishings. I thank my crew members as well; some were visible and others worked from behind the scenes, like Bolaji Idowu, from New York. He was very helpful. It took a toll on me and the crew emotionally and materially.

God gave us strength though.

What was your own take-away from this awesome experience you have been describing

In terms of bringing something of value to the market place, there was a lot to learn. Understanding

your target market and tailoring your offerings to their needs is golden. There is a big value in creating services that address the needs of children, like engaging them through various recreational and constructive activities. I am saying this, because we cannot do it all. We already have a niche and we are certainly going to get better and we are going to dominate our niche. We are going to be known across Africa.

The value of adequate preparation time too cannot be over-emphasized. This one was better than the first edition because we started preparations earlier. The next outing will be a lot better than our last because we are already preparing for it. Anything we do, however small, time is essential. Location is crucial. We also learnt the value of human relations and customer service. We had a few angry customers that we were able to turn around due to a few good words and good relations.

I am guessing it was not all plain sailing. What were the challenges you faced this time around

The project was huge and financing was a major challenge. However, we had fantastic individuals and organisations that supported us in kind – the likes of, Mrs. Fuwa of The Bag Shop, Mrs Abiola, Bravo Home Finishings, Aunty Helen of XtraStyle, Uncle Rasheed Shabi, T.J. of Tijan Balloons and MTN’s Mrs. Saidat Mohammed Lawal, amongst others. At short notice, Mrs. Lawal did the best she could for us – she was wonderful.

So, what does the future look like for Wonderland

Joyful! The future is going to be massive – massive with fun, massive with excitement, massive with joy.

You know I stated earlier that we are trying to spread joy everywhere we go. People will be amazed.

Communities will be amazed. Countries will be amazed. The whole continent is going to be amazed at what Wonderland evolves into. It is only a matter of time.

When next is Wonderland Funfair coming to town

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Victoria Adebimpe, Mutiat & Olori Akiolu

An elated Mutiat Peters at her surprise birthday party at Wonderland

Wonder Mama, Nurse Janet & Jemila Umar

Wonder Mama, Emmanuel & Debola

‘’Wonderland is not a place you come to and forget easily. Even, parents can attest to this. Children had the freedom to express themselves and adults had the freedom to be kids again. Children had moments that they would relish forever and the parents had moments with their kids that will bring smiles to their faces every time they remember. People came from all around Lagos and from far and wide– not just residents of Surulere. And when Wonderland becomes bigger, and we are well known across Africa, people will remember us for bringing joyful memories everywhere we go.’’

Mama T & Nike

Hey, you never know, but we have something in the works already. We are looking at having a Wonderland Easter Fiesta that will take place in more than one location.

Is Wonderland a Disneyland in the making

(Exclaims) Yes o! Absolutely! Give me five (Laughs). What I am trying to do is this: you want to have a party for your daughter and you want to wow her, we could bring that Disneyland experience right into your backyard and then you invite all her friends to come and have fun. Imagine, it was a five year old or ten year old, and you do that for her, what you would be doing is creating a fairytale birthday for her.

She will never forget that, neither will her friends. The memory will be priceless.

I want to bring joyful memories and priceless memories to families and create a platform for those hard-to-come-by family moments. Parents are not spending enough time with their children anymore and

it is having a telling effect on families. I saw men playing with their kids at Wonderland Season 2 at Eagle Club and they were so happy and comfortable.

That gave me joy. I feel fulfilled knowing that that quality family time was a Wonderland time. I know that many of those who experienced the excitement this last time will be looking forward to doing it again next time around.

This is why I would love to use this forum to thank Her Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Princess Victoria Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire. I thank her for supporting me from the inception when all we had was a Santa’s Grotto at the City Mall. I thank Mrs. Awoyomi from LEARN. I am immensely grateful to Mr. Yomi Pearce and the Eagle Club for their tremendous support.

I thank my crew as well – they were awesome. My friends and family were awesome. The entire Adeojo family, Titi Awokoya and all the Awokoyas, Ronke Adenekan, Mutiat Peters, Mrs. Olubola Obiyomi, Aunty Ayinke, Mrs. Umar, Dr. John Okoh, Sadiq

Umar, Bimbo of Events Secure, Adekunle Oke, Bimbo of LTV, Nonso Nwokocha of Headwords-XVP for all the beautiful designs and Kunle Dixon Odukoya, my Project Manager who made me look bad (Laughs). He was calm and collected and people warmed up to him easily. And very special thanks to my children, Deblo, Emmanuel, and Olivia my baby. I love them all.

You have a wonderful store here where we are having this interview, do you mind talking about the other things you do, apart from being an amusement connoisseur

This is a one stop shop for designer t-shirts, shoes, pants and accessories for children and adults – both male and female. I carry brand names like Polo Ralph Lauren, Marks and Spencer and so forth. I have a day job as well. I am a Nursing Consultant at Ketu Special Children’s Centre here in Lagos.

Mrs. Bola Awokoya Intuition Shop D19, Adeniran Ogunsanya Shopping Complex, Surulere, Lagos.

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ALAAFIN OF

OYO

OBA LAMIDI ADEYEMI SPEAKS

Interview: Segun Adebowale Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

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I strive to do my best and live by my conviction, to be fair, merciful and just. Every day, I try to adhere to the theme of philosophy behind the institution of the Alaafin of Oyo, which is duty for service and service for humanity.

After that, I meditated and did light exercises. I also did a little bit of jogging in the Palace and skipped the rope between 7.00am and 8.00am, depending on my state of health that day. We have the Morning Council where every Ayaba (wife of the King) would be present and we deliberate about activities of the day before and also plan for the present day.

At 75, where do you get the strength to skip and jog

As you grow, you would slow down activities you do every day. At 75, I cannot do very well what I used to do when I was 50 years old. I used to skip for 3 minutes of six rounds but now I can go for one minute of three rounds. You cannot give too much pressure to your heart and your body system, but you must keep on doing the light exercises, in other to keep the frame going and system working. The strength that I have will level up with the age and what the body can take; it is a combination of factors.

I also go for general checkup regularly in other to maintain my life style.

What is the significance of the drum that was beaten today

The Alaafin institution mirrors the distinctive culture and indigenous civilization. The Oyo nation gave to the Yorubas the Talking Drum and I can tell you without fear of any contradiction that what we invented has not been invented by any other race.

There is nowhere in the world apart from Oyo in Nigeria where people have invented a talking drum.

The bigger Drum is called the Gbedu and it is specifically for the King and it is not drummed to celebrate a common event in the society like the Ileya Day. But it is strictly for the Alaafin. You may not hear what they are saying with the Gbedu, but I understand it and I must take each step to match the beat. More importantly, my steps must be so calculating to reflect the number of all the Alaafins that ever reigned in Oyo. It is a mystery to outsiders like you but we always have people counting the steps and if there is any mistake, I will be corrected after the event. When I came in, they told me that the steps I took matched the beat, counting from the Alaafins from the Oyo Empire, till the previous one.

How many steps did they count

That is a mystery and it is not for you to know (general laughter). The Alaafin of Oyo inherited the attribute of Divinity, which the Yorubas believe, means death. he Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi celebrated a milestone some months back , clocking 75 years.

The celebration, which coincided with the Id-elFitri, better known as Ileya, was celebrated with so much fanfare in the city of Oyo. Oba Adeyemi led a number of faithful to the prayer ground, after which, the crowd including the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Monsurat Sunmonu, Chairmen of the four Local Government Areas in Oyo- Oyo West, Oyo East, Atiba and Afijio - as well as the Alaafin’s children and grand-children returned to the Palace.

Shortly before returning to the Palace, the well respected monarch danced alone to the beat of the Gbedu drum.

Hours later, the Alaafin sat on his throne and discussed passionately tradition, culture, religion as well as his 75 years sojourn on earth, so far.

T

We congratulate Your Majesty on your 75th birthday,

may your days be even longer in good health and prosperity. How do you feel Sir, having reached this milestone

We are grateful to Almighty God. Longevity belongs to God, the creator of everyone on earth. He grants to individuals His blessings, grace, good health and long life. You can sustain His greatness through certain applications of events, methods of living, Religion as well as through other means. But the mystery is that, He is the creator that gives life and takes it, anytime He wishes. He has also destined to everybody the time which individuals would spend on earth. So, I am grateful to God for giving me the grace to attain this age.

What was the first thing you did in the morning of your birthday

I prayed to the Almighty God, which is the first thing I normally do every morning. Every member of the palace community came to the mosque (which is within the Palace) as early as 5:30am for prayers.

You are a staunch Muslim and yet, you observe the traditional tenets, is there no conflict

There is no any conflict because the Yorubas were the first to practice secular religion. The Yorubas understood the human nature and their philosophy was and still is to accommodate all religions. My blood brother, Rev. (Father) Peter Olayiwola Adeyemi is of the Catholic faith and my Aremo (first son) is also a Christian and I am a Muslim. Should I ask my brother or my son not to come to the Palace because they are Christians? The Oyo Empire accommodated diverse opinions and that was one of the reasons that made Oyo Empire to be the longest empire ever founded by anybody in the world.

Roman Empire lasted for less than 300 years and British Empire was less than 250 years, but the only Empire created by human being that lasted for an uninterrupted 600 years was the Oyo Empire.

If you want to live long and also want your society to progress in peace, you cannot force the people or the society to observe only one religion. In 181

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Oyo, we have Sango worshipers, Ifa worshipers, Osun worshipers, Christians and Muslims and we all live in peace in the same household and Community.

Majority of those who came to the mosque to celebrate and pray with me are not Muslims but they came to celebrate with the Alaafin. Should I have driven them away? The relative peaceful nature of the South-West is also borne out of the accommodating nature of the people.

Is it safe to conclude that the Alaafin practices two religions

No, I practice all the religions, because all the adherents of the different religions are Alaafin’s children. I worship with Christians whenever they need me on Sundays and we have given them a place of worship here in the PaIace and the same goes to the Muslims, too. The Most (Rev.) Ladgigbolu, a retired Bishop of Methodist Church of Nigeria is my cousin and he always comes around to pray for me. But if he comes into my living room, he kneels down for me, yet we are age mates.

You came to the throne at the age of 33, what were the challenges you faced at that young age

It was very challenging, especially at the beginning. When you are young, the pressure to succeed will be too much for you. The fear, the anxiety that you must not fail, the responsibility that rests on your shoulder at a very tender age will make you sleepless, sometimes.

Between then and now, how have you been able to cope

Human administration is not easy. The challenges differ every day and every day to an Oba is a challenge.

Do you mind sharing some challenging moments with us

They are too many but I would share one or two.

My first challenge was to return the institution of the Alaafin to its original pedestal of glory and limelight which certain people tried to undermine. Secondly, I also had a challenge with certain people who tried preventing access to documents and facts which would make the kinship of the Alaafin indisputable.

However, I offended the established order while doing so but my courage as well as the vision that I had, helped me to succeed. I have advised and where necessary, challenged every successive Governments in Oyo State and this has been to assist them to make true, fair and just decisions. I have also made them to know that Obaship institution and modernization can flow side by side, without any conflict. I have also brought to fore, that our traditions and cultures are neither antagonistic nor anachronistic in the modern society. They are potent and can be used to achieve good governance.

I have also contributed modestly to national development and if I believe that there is anything that is against natural justice, I would not hesitate to head to Court, since this would help change, shape,

Governor Ajimobi is a very focused and realistic person, because he is educated. He has identified the problems of the State and he is addressing them, in very realistic ways. He also listens to advice, personally reads letters and replies them. For the first time in the history of governance in Oyo State, we have a Governor who will read and reply your letter in less than a month.

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re-order or assist the country to attain certain level of development. I have won about 95 percent of over 100 cases that I instituted against individuals, establishments or community.

Let us talk about some of the glorious moments

I have contributed to the uplifting of the Obaship institution from Baale’s to Obas. I have crowned Obas more than any traditional ruler, living or dead in the history of Yoruba race. I have contributed to the maintenance of peace law and order and boundary disputes between Iseyin and Ipapo, Kishi and Igboho, and a host of others. I have advised Governments and the boundaries have been concretized into law. The voice of Alaafin has always been dominant whenever there are crises and I have brought out relevant documents to help in resolving these boundary disputes. A case in point is that of the one between Fiditi and Iroko and I showed a document which showed that in 1926, the Alaafin resolved the boundary dispute in favour of Fiditi. There are so many including the epic judgment at the Court of Appeal in a case I instituted against the Oyo State Government. I am not praising myself buy rather showing that we can all contribute to mankind in our little ways.

If you had not become a King, what would you have been

If I had not been a King, probably, I would have been a Lawyer. I missed the opportunity of being one and I ensured that my first son did not miss it. He wanted to be an academician but I said, no. Since then,

we have had a couple of children who have become Lawyers in our family.

How was your growing up like

It was very tough because my father was very strict but he also appreciated the importance of religion and education. He took me to Iseyin to learn the Quran and to the Palace of the Alake of Egba land, Oba Sholadapo Ademola after the completion of the Quran. He wanted me to mix royalty with education and the Alake’s children including the first Chief Justice of Nigeria, Sir Adetokunbo Ademola were well educated. Later, I went with Alake of Egba land on exile to Oshogbo in 1948 and returned to Oyo in 1949. The crisis in Egba was occasioned by the women’s riots in Egba land but the Alake wanted me to return to Oyo immediately but my father insisted I should stay with him since I was with him when the going was good.

How did you feel when your father was deposed

Life was very tough. After losing my mother at a very tender age, there was nobody to take care of me.

Later, I realized that I had potential to become something in life. I started with Boxing, Athletics and Fist Fighting, all in a bid to keep my body and soul together. I started reading and was the happiest man on earth when I passed my first examination. I shed tears of joy and since that time, I started memorizing things. There is nothing I would ever read and would not remember and my 183

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Kehinde, Adeteju, Akeem, Aremo Babatunde Israel, Adeleke, Taiwo, Arewa Folashade, Adedoja & Tayo

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Children & grandchildren

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Prince Adeleke, wife & children

friends used to call me over-syllabus (reciting the speeches of Nnamdi Azikwe delivered in 1947 and 1960).

What is a typical day in the life of Kabisesi

I strive to do my best and live by my conviction, to be fair, merciful and just. Every day, I try to adhere to the theme of philosophy behind the institution of the Alaafin of Oyo, which is duty for service and service for humanity.

What food does Alaafin eat most

I eat any good food that is tasty, but it has to be moderate. I eat light meals in the morning, like pap and moin-moin. I have also reduced alcoholic in-take but do more of vegetables and fruits, like bananas and drink orange juice. I have also reduced my in-take of carbohydrates, because I will not be able to burn them out. I eat amala because it contains 70-80% of fibre and it is different from pounded yam and eba. If you do not combine it with a lot of vegetables, it will not digest very well. Too much of alcohol weakens both the kidney and liver. I want to use this medium to thank my children who give me fruits wines, apples and oranges.

These fruits are suitable for the body and I drink a lot of water, because the body requires a lot of water.

Most of your children described you as very kind and strict, what kind of a person are you and what kind of

Princess Lara Adeyemi & Aremo Babatunde Adeyemi

Princess Bisi Adeyemi upbringing did you give the Princes and Princesses

I want to see myself as a role model, a motivator and facilitator. That was why I was very strict with them, so that when they fall, they would be able to stand back on their own; without any body's help.

None of my children will come and ask me for a huge amount of money, except on rare occasions. They cannot come to me and say,‘ Daddy, I need a car.’ I will ask the child, where he expects me to get that money and if he cannot work hard to get himself, one. But if they need money for something important, I will give it to them.

What do you consider as your greatest legacy

It has been being courageous, generous to humanity and also contributing to the happiness of human beings and the development of the society, in whatever way God has enabled me.

How would you assess the administration of Governor Ajimobi

Governor Ajimobi is a very focused and realistic person, because he is educated. He has identified the problems of the State and he is addressing them, in very realistic ways. He also listens to advice, personally reads letters and replies them. For the first time in the history of governance in Oyo State, we have a Governor who will read and reply your letter in less than a month. He does not look down on people;

Princess Bisi & Prince Akeem

Adenike & her mum, Arewa Folashade

he is very humble and always provides solutions to the State's problems. Some people think the government has a solution to every problem, but it depends on the funds available.

What kind of books do you read, Sir

I read Legal and Philosophical books because the ability to pursue logic is inherent in Philosophical books.

What kind of music do you listen to

All good music, I am a mixer.

Do you still dance

I dance very well and listen to Classical music.

Classical music is what you get from Yusuf Olatunji, Ayinla Omowura or Orlando Owoh. I listen to King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister and Haruna Ishola. When you listen to them, you will feel the original Yoruba philosophy.

How would you love to be remembered, Sir

This is a question that bothers me. You do not tell people how you want them to remember you. People should remember you whichever way they would want to remember you. I am sure we are all remembering our nationalists in different ways and it is left for people to remember me in their own ways.

It has been nice talking to you ,Sir

Thank you.

Princess Adeteju, Princess Adenike & Princess Edede

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Arewa Folashade with younger brothers

s a Father. As a Father, he is very caring and loving. When we were young, he used to take us to watch live matches. We used to jog and eat together. Many of us are athletic and we gained that from him. He is a good father余 he trained us mentality, physically, academically and administratively. As the Alaafin of Oyo, he taught us the meaning of royalty but we were not spoilt by the

MY FATHER IS VERY

CARING

-PRINCE AKINYEMI ADEYEMI What is your impression of your Father

I can analyze him in two folds, as the Alaafin and as a Father. As a Father, he is very caring and loving.

When we were young, he used to take us to watch live matches. We used to jog and eat together. Many of us are athletic and we gained that from him. He is a good father; he trained us mentality, physically, academically and administratively. As the Alaafin of Oyo, he taught us the meaning of royalty but we were 186

not spoilt by the riches of the royal family.

he was crowned the Alaafin.

How was your up-bringing

Do you see yourself becoming a King one day

My up-bringing was very interesting. I was born, bread and nurtured at the Palace with the Alaafin of Oyo. I lived with him for many years and growing up in the Palace exposed us to a lot of things, administratively, culturally, academically and morally.

It has been a blessing to me having him as a Father.

First and foremost, I am a King in my house and that is the most important thing for me. Being a King is divine and I do not focus on it. In fact, I do not see myself as a Prince, until when people call me a Prince.

I would rather like to achieve something for myself, be whatever God wants me to be, make my own mark and leave the rest to God.

What would you wish him on his 75th birthday

What can I wish a man that has been of tremendous assistance to me and the other children? Nothing, other than, a long life in good health and peaceful reign as Alaafin of Oyo.

THE CROWN PRINCE, ISRAEL ADEYEMI You are the crown Prince

If you say so, but it is not something that I like to boast about. It is not that I am not proud of it, but I would rather prefer to be addressed as a Lawyer. My Father brought me up in way that I should not lay so much emphasis on the title. Rather, he taught me to make a difference in the society and also excel in my field.

How would you describe your Father

He is a very loving Father in his own way, a very caring man, very principled, rugged and dogged.

However, many people do not see the soft part which is caring. He cares about his children and wants the best for them. He also tries to raise his children in a Godly manner, instilling in them the will to excel in life with hard work, good education and discipline. I treasure that soft part of him, the most. Some people see him as a combative person because of his battles but they need to see the fatherly side of him and appreciate him.

What was your upbringing like

I had the privilege of being very close to him. We jogged together and he was always carrying me on his head or shoulders to watch live Football matches. We were not conspicuous during his battle for the throne but we resumed the father-son relationship as soon as

What will you wish your Father on his 75th birthday

I wish him long life and divine health. Whatever you want to be in life, no matter your goal and aspiration, if you do not have life and good health, you cannot achieve them. That is why I wish him long life and good health. Secondly, I wish that his later years would be more glorious than the former. He is a symbol of honour and prestige to Oyo State and Nigeria, in general. As a human being, he might have his own flaws and weaknesses, but I am always impressed and proud when I am in the midst of people discussing my Father, without knowing who I am. I want God to preserve his life, so that, he can continue with his good legacies.

FIRST DAUGHTER, PRINCESS (AREWA) FOLASHADE ADEYEMI How is it being the first daughter of the Alaafin of Oyo

It has been challenging and wonderful. It is lovely to have a loving Father that is well cultured and intelligent. He taught me to be who I am today. God made me who I am, but my Father, a well-polished man, groomed me.

What kind of a man is your Father

Alaafin to me, is an icon of culture. I respect him a lot and I have learnt to appreciate him. It is a very great honour and privilege to be fathered by Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III and I just thank God for his life.

What do you do for him

I am his personal Consultant on Cultural matters. I have a huge passion for Culture and I also promote Culture. I attend to Cultural matters and represent him

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Prince Bayo, Princess Adetutu & Prince Adeniyi Akeem

The Olori’s of the Alaafin of Oyo

at Cultural programs like awards or festivals. Alaafin has also given me the privilege to organize festivals in Oyo, like the ancient Festival of Sango and Oranyan Festivals. We also have Ifa Festival coming up April, 2014.

What would you wish your Father on his 75th birthday

I wish him long life, good health and another 30 years on earth. He is not growing old but growing more in wisdom and I pray to God to keep him with the greatest wisdom forever.

PRINCESS TEJU ADEYEMI Can we meet you

My name is Teju Adeyemi. I am a graduate of Mass Communication from

Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State. I just finished my National Youth Service (NYSC) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

What is your impression of your Father

He is a good man and someone you would love to have as a Father. He is a disciplinarian, Philanthropist and a driving wheel for his children to be successful. He is always pushing us hard to succeed in life.

What kind of person are you

I am reserved and I like being alone.

What would you wish him on his 75th birthday

I wish him long life, prosperity and many more years. I still like to have him as a Father, for many years.

Olori Suliat, Olori Abibat & Olori Ramatu (senior wives of Alaafin)

Princess Jumoke & her husband, Rotimi Adetunji

Princess Adetutu

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85 HEARTY CHEERS FOR PROF.

ADEBOLA

ONITIRI Story: Daniel Fayemi Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

I Celebrant cutting his birthday cake

n an age and time where the standard of education in Nigeria has fallen drastically and values such as hard work, selflessness, dignity and excellence are virtually non-existent, exemplary men, the likes of Professor Herbert Maurice Adebola Onitiri, who have led inspiring lives and possess remarkable profiles deserve to be celebrated.

The mood was therefore that of jubilation and merriment when Prof.

Onitiri clocked 85. The Octogenarian was celebrated by family members, friends, associates and well-wishers at the City Club, Raufu Williams Crescent, Surulere, Lagos and guests present at the event agreed that it was a deserving celebration for an uncommon achiever.

Scenes of singing and dancing characterised the Thanksgiving and Holy Communion Service which were held for the celebrant. The special service was led by the Cathedral Provost of The African Church Cathedral Bethel, Venerable T. Ade Fagbayi.

While delivering his sermon, Ven.

Fagbayi showered encomium on the celebrant, describing him as a man who has ‘shown remarkable consistency in maintaining the character traits that define him: love for his family, love for his country, empathy, concern and compassion for fellow men.’ He prayed that God would grant the celebrant more years of good health and prosperity, so that humanity would continue to tap from his immense wisdom.

An exciting reception followed at the same venue where guests were pampered endlessly throughout the event with mouth- watering delicacies, good rhythm and exotic wines.

Professor Onitiri’s rise to prominence was inevitable after earning a rare First Class Honours as far back as 1956 at the London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE, where he earned a Bachelor of Sciences Degree in International Economics. His feat was widely reported in the Nigerian media and it was a great inspiration and source of pride to his fellow Nigerian and African students.

C.A Martin & Abimbola Taylor

Tunde Onitiri, Alh. Muritala Gbadeyanka (Chairman, MITV) with Mr. & Mrs. Sunny Osa

Mr. Osa Sunny Adun & Otunba Wale Bello

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Miss Adaeze Nwafor, Miss Jennifer Ifegbuliem, Yeye Rewane, Miss Ugochi Obidimalor & Otunba Wale Bello

Celebrant & Mr. Abbass Badery

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Celebrant with CFS Male Group members

Celebrant with CFS Female Group members

Otunba Wale Bello (Chairman, Wilbron Oil & Gas Ltd), Tunde Adegbola, Ladi Akande & Mowo Akande

Adesuwa Omoruyi, Rolly Omoruyi & Roseline-Omoruyi (Mgr. DBN TV)

Celebrant with guests

Prof. Lagundoye & Dr. Wale Lagundoye

Mr. & Mrs. Osobase with Mrs. Taiwo Lambo

It was therefore unsurprising, when as a result of his academic performance at the LSE, he earned the distinguished scholarship, Harkness Fellowship of the Commonwealth Fund, with which he pursued further studies at the University of Berkeley, California (1965-1957). He later left for Yale University in New Haven (1957-1958), where he obtained his Master’s Degree in International Development in 1958.

Professor Onitiri became the first African to be appointed as the Research Professor and Director of the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER) in 1964. His 16-year

stint at NISER was remarkable as he led the institute to become Nigeria’s foremost policy think tank on social and economic issues.

While serving NISER, he also served on the Board of the Directors of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) between 1973 and 1979. The Octogenarian was also a member of the Adebo Commission (1970) and Udoji Commission (1972), both of which were set up to review the structure and orientation of the Nigerian Civil Service.

Prof. Onitiri’s career achievements were not limited to Nigeria.

T. Diyaolu & Col. Segun Cole

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The Osobase family members with the celebrant

Glegg, Ogunleye& Shorungbe

Mowo Akande & Mrs. Anike Adegbola

Motunrayo & mum

Chief (Mrs.) R.I Benson, Mrs. Yinka Lawal & Mrs. Ronke Adewole

Rtd. (Col.) Akinsola Abayode-Cole, Elder Deji Martins & Bade Taylor

His numerous international assignments and accomplishments included Adviser to the SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations Conference of Trade and Development (UNCTAD) at its first session in 1964.He was also the Chairman of the Working Group on Economic Integration of Developing Countries and Measures for Accelerating Economic Development of the Least Developed Countries at the second session of UNCTAD in New Delhi, India in 1968.

In 1973, he took a one-year sabbatical from NISER and moved to Dakar, Senegal, to help set up Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa, (CODESRIA) Prof. Onitiri also played a key role in establishing the framework for the African, 192

Caribbean and Pacific – European Union Trade Treaty (The Lome Convention) in 1975.

From 1975 to 1980, he was a member of the United Nations Committee for Development Planning and he also served on the Board of the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development.

In 1978, the Secretary General of UNCTAD and the UNDP requested from the Nigerian Government, the services of Prof. Onitiri as Chief Economist and team leader for the UNDP on the Economic and Social Survey of Zimbabwe.

In that capacity, he led a team of international Economists that prepared an economic blueprint for Zimbabwe, which the UN published as: ‘Zimbabwe: Towards a New Order’ on the eve of that country’s

independence in 1980.

While pursuing this brilliant academic career, Prof.

Onitiri also established himself as a family man extraordinaire! In 1961, he married Princess Agnes Osobase (of blessed memory) from Irrua in Edo State.

Together, they were to enjoy a 47-year long happy and fruitful marriage, which has been blessed with five children and many grandchildren.

The children include Mrs. Oyinkansola Adun, who is married to Mr. Osa Sunny Adun, the President of Degue Broadcasting Network (DBN TV), Mr. Babatunde Onitiri, Mrs. Adenike Hyde, Mr. Olufolarin Andrew Onitiri and Mr. Oluseye Onitiri.

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THE LOVELY WEDDING OF

MARTINS OSARENWINDAMEN AND AUGUSTA DURU IN BENIN, EDO STATE Story: Funmilayo Adeyemi Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

L

ove, like grass seeds, can grow anywhere. In fact, horticulturists say that grass seeds can germinate and flourish in the toughest of surfaces. And love? Ever heard the words,‘love at first sight?’ Forget your clichéd interpretations for a moment. What love at first sight really means is that, love is not constrained by a set of iron-cast rubrics as to where it can find expression.

Love will find you anywhere – even in the most improbable of places and circumstances – the convenience, the hospital, in a public bus, in the skies, on the seas – you name it.

For lovebirds, Augusta Ogadinma Duru and Martins Osarenwindamen Efe, love found them chilling by the poolside of a hotel. It was an unusually warm day in an otherwise rainy month of April in 2009. Augusta and a couple of friends

thought it was the perfect weather for a good swim.

On getting to the pool, they noticed a couple of guys who had obviously come to unwind as well.

One of them in particular kept staring and eventually walked up to say hi. It was Martins!

He introduced himself and made no fuss about the fact that he had just met his wife. Augusta was amazed because Martins went on about how he was drawn to her and how her beauty gave him the butterflies-in-the-tummy effect. They had a good conversation, swapped numbers and afterwards, kept in touch. They went on a couple of dates and their love waxed strong.

After dating for a couple of years, Martins decided that it was pointless denying the obvious – Augusta was a ‘wife material’ and the onus was on him to take things to the next level. He decided to

propose to her. He planned a trip to South Africa for a project and asked Augusta to travel with him to Abuja to bid him farewell.

While the lovebirds were chilling in the hotel room, Martins called Augusta’s attention to something on his laptop. Out of curiosity, she obliged him and to her amazement, it was the website of a company that deals in wedding rings!

He asked her to peruse the page and make a pick.

Before she could get her thoughts together, Martins went down on one knee and asked her to marry him.

Augusta, who was shocked, screamed so loud that the hotel management came rushing into their hotel room for fear that something awful had happened. On the contrary, it was Augusta screaming YES! The ring was ordered and paid for

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THE COLOURFUL ENGAGEMENT

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The adorable couple

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PREPARATION FOR THE MAIN CEREMONY

Bride's maids dressing up

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Couple with bride’s maids 7 grrom’s men

Groom with his men

immediately and two weeks later, it was delivered to her doorstep. From then on, the lovers commenced their wedding plans.

Their journey to matrimony began with a colourful and an entertaining traditional wedding ceremony at the bride’s father’s residence in Umuduruaku community, Imo State.

It was a special occasion for everyone, particularly for Augusta, who spotted a unique hair-style and was radiant in an attractive traditional ensemble, adorned with beautiful choral beads. Martins too, looked charming in his native attire.

In accordance with Igbo customary rites, Martins took his seat and awaited his Princess who then tried to locate him in the crowd with the drink she had received from her father. Customarily, 202

she would identify her husband to everyone by handing him the drink.

Augusta eventually presented the drink to Martins who sipped it and the whole place erupted with shouts of joy. The atmosphere was lively as drummers, pipers and singers all performed.

After all the traditional rites had been observed, the couple cut their cake and pop musician, Jay Martins thrilled the guests with a sensational performance and the couple was showered with enormous gifts.

The following week, a lavish reception was held at the Flamingo Hall of Best Western Homeville Hotel, Benin City, Edo State – the groom’s home State. The reception was preceded by photo-calls as the bride stepped out of a white limousine, looking stunningly beautiful in her

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white wedding dress created by Amore Bridals. She had been made up for the special occasion

by Bride Beauty Hair & Makeovers.

Her Prince flourished in a black suit by Tribal Mark. Together with the bridal train, they moved to a beautiful garden close to the reception venue where they posed endlessly for the klieg lights of the paparazzi.

Later, the wedding train painted the town red with the exotic cars moving in a convoy from the beautiful garden to the reception venue. Mega star, Tuface Idibia performed as the couple made a grand entry into the venue.

The venue was beautifully decorated by RURU World and Uche Kelvin better known as Baba Nla and they both created a very convivial atmosphere for guests. The families of the couple also turned out in different

exquisite outfits that made the day so colourful. Big Brother Amplified winner, Karen Igho and musician, Buchi, were exciting comperes. Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Kazeem Salami, handed to the couple some tips on how to successfully navigate the married life and also presided over the cutting of the beautiful cake which was made

by Flourish Food Unique Global Enterprises.

Guests were later pampered with some enjoyable delicacies, an eye-catching collection of exotic wines and drinks. There was a spectacular performance by accomplished musical acts, J Martins and Tuface Idibia as well as other rising acts. The duo of DJ FX and DJ Akaba also set the venue ablaze with a deluge of musical hits while the couple danced to the rhythm of their songs. Family members, friends and associates of the couple appreciated them by showering them with wads of notes.

Groom's Parents

Audrey with couple

Bride & her mum

Couple & friends

Bride & Uche

Lizzy, DJ Akaba, groom & DJ FX

Bride & Sandra

Alhaji Kazeem Salami (MD Kaz Oil & Energy) Chairman of Ceremony

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Coker Shola & Tony Kabaka

Tuface Idibia & Addiction with friends

J Martins, Samson & Tuface Idibia

Osague, Uwagboe & Success

Guests

Kabaka

Osayande, Sagoh & Honourable

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Guests

Guests

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Bride & Maleke

Uche Emeana (Baba Nla Concept) Event Coordinator

Karen Igho (MC)

Sharon Igho & sister

Nnekka & Ikenna

Alhaji Salami & Jide

Annabel, Emy & Ibinabo

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Couple & Supro Niyi (Federal SARS Adeniji, Adele)

Xcoba, Fejiro & Ernest

Joseph Idahosa with guests

Paxy & friend

Couple with friends

Couple & friends

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I Go Save, Tuface Idibia & JMartins

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FOLA

THE SPECTACULAR WEDDING OF ABIOLA AND SRDAN BANJAC IN HOUSTON, TEXAS Interview: Michael Effiong Photo: RHPhotoarts

Fola is the strongest person I have ever met.

She is so loving, kind and supportive and being married to her feels like an honor

ove was in the air! Yes, undiluted and unconditional love filled the atmosphere when childhood sweethearts, Folashade, the daughter of Nigeria's democracy Martyr, Bashorun MKO Abiola and Srdan Banjac decided to get married and settle down as husband and wife.

Their lovely nuptials was witnessed by family and friends from far and near and the occasion was as enjoyable as it was memorable.

Proceedings began with a traditional wedding.

This was a wedding ceremony according to the Native Law and Customs of Folashade's Yoruba race from South West Nigeria and her mother's Anioma race from Ika, Delta State Nigeria.

Held at The Signature Manor in Houston, Texas, (which was wonderful transformed to a cosy and convivial venue with lovely decor by Keisha's

L

Kreations, Houston), the ceremony painstakingly planned by Shade Fatusin's Conceal Affairs, was rich in colour and eclectic fun.

The bride who stepped out looking stunning in her Aso Oke attire and heavily beaded Anioma maiden outfit sparkled courtesy of the excellent make-up of Lyza Dora. The groom was no less dashing in his own attire too.

Fola and Srdan had their official civil wedding ceremony inside the exquisite The Chateau Cocomar, Houston, Texas. Again the decor was creatively done to reflect the taste of the couple and the upscale scenery of the venue.

Guests were pampered endlessly by Codur, which provided an assortment of meals and lively entertainment was dished out throughout by the team from LG Entertainment.

Fola and Srdan were full of smiles all through the occasion-an indication that they not only enjoyed their special day but were happily looking forward to life together as one body and one flesh.

Later, we had this chat with the lovely couple:

The Bride: Folashade Abiola

How does the transformation from being single to married feel like for you

It feels fabulous. We are not meant to walk life alone so finding my life partner is truly a blessing.

What responsibility does marriage now confer on you

I would say we are responsible for upholding our vows and making sure to keep GOD first in our marriage.

What are the attributes that your husband possess that convinced you that he is your Mr. Right

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The lovely bride

The bride & groom

The groom & his amazing parents, Mr. and Dr. (Mrs. )Banjac

The bride & her mother, Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Abiola with her uncle, Dr. Osoba

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The bride’s family, Deaconess (Chief) Patience Moseri, M.D. of Royal Academy Group of Schools, Princess Vivian Ayorinde & her children with Prince Tunde Uboh, M.D. of Marmos Property International The bride & Congressman John B. Larson

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The bride’s sisters & friends

The groom & Congressman John B. Larson

Princess Vivian Ayorinde & her daughter

The couple with Dr. Mrs. Gloria Abiola, Deaconess (Chief) Patience Moseri, M.D. of Royal Academy Group of Schools, her sister, Dr. Bunmi Salako, the groom’s parents, groom’s sister, Deaconess Rhoda Afolabi, M.D. of Laga International, her sisters Raolat & Surat Abiola with Princess Vivian Ayorinde

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THE MAIN CEREMONY

My father was an amazing and magnanimous man. I would have loved for him to walk me down the aisle.

However, I know he was there in spirit.

He is the most patient, understanding, supportive and loving man. I have never met anyone that meets every obstacle with patience and support.

Is there anything you do not like about him

I cannot say that there is anything that I do not like about him because I accept and love him as a whole.

How did you meet, give us the unedited version

We met at a high school program administered at Yale University called the Junior State of America.

This program prepares future leaders to learn about Policy and Governance. We had an orientation and I noticed him looking at me. After the orientation he approached me and we talked for a bit and then I asked him if he wanted to take me out. He said, “yes” and the

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The enchanting Chateau Cocomar

rest was history!

When and how did your husband propose and how did you feel when he did

It was in July. We went on a dinner cruise around Washington DC and had a lovely time. After that we decided to go to our favourite restaurant for a night cap.

We had a wonderful time and Srdan suggested going for an evening stroll. I remember thinking it was so hot outside but I agreed. We took a stroll around Mount Vernon and then he pulled me close and whispered in my ear “be mine forever, will you marry me?” I pulled back and then he got on his knee with the ring. I screamed “yes” and then fireworks went up and it was so beautiful. I felt like I was on top of the world and I was excited to be marrying my best friend.

Describe the first meeting with his family

I met his family during the summer when we met.

His family came to visit him and he told them that he

wanted them to meet his girlfriend. I remember feeling very nervous but his mother and father were so sweet and told me I was beautiful and they were happy that I made their son happy.

What is your relationship with his immediate family members like

I have a great relationship with his family. Srdan and I have been together since we were in high school and we feel like our families have watched us grow together.

Could you share some of the memorable moments you had with your husband while you were dating

Srdan and I are a very relaxed and down to earth couple and the most memorable moments are when we are spending time and relaxing together. For Srdan’s birthday I took him to race a Lamborghini. Srdan is a “car guy” and absolutely loves racing. Also, we have travelled a lot and seen so much together. Everything is memorable!

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The gorgeous reception created by Keisha's Kreations & Conceal Affair

This might sound a bit weird but I miss my father’s cologne, his smile and his laugh. I still remember it to this day.

Anytime, we would spend time with him I knew he was coming because his cologne preceded him followed by his warm smile.

What went through your mind the minute you were pronounced husband and wife

ceremonies

Shade at Conceal Affairs knew the kind of weddings we wanted and presented us with options that fit the plan.

Relief! I was just so happy and relieved that everything went perfectly and that I was finally marrying my soulmate!

Your gown? who made it and was it difficult to make up your mind

Tell us about the big day, was there anything significant about the date chosen for the nuptials

My dress was custom made. I tried on the concept dress and immediately fell in love.

My weddings were absolutely amazing! I worked with Shade Fatusin at Conceal Affair in Houston, Texas.

I did not know exactly how I wanted my wedding to looking but I knew I wanted it to be glamorous, classy and elegant. Shade brought that vision to life in ways I could not have dreamed of. We chose the Labor day weekend because it is a holiday in the U.S. and we wanted people to fully enjoy the weekend with us.

What of your other accessories, shoes, etc

What informed the choice of venues for the different

Did the day go according to plan, was this the wedding of

My shoes and accessories were used to build on the concept of the glamour.

Who was your make-up artiste

My make-up artist was the amazing Lyza Dora. She was so professional and creative and worked on my bridesmaids, mothers and myself. She had us looking absolutely gorgeous.

The delicious & beautiful wedding cake created by Cakes by Jessie & decor created by Keisha's Kreations

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He is the most patient, understanding, supportive and loving man. I have never met anyone that meets every obstacle with patience and support.

The bride & her enchanting & beautiful bride’smaids

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The bride & groom laughing along with their bridal party & groom’smen

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The couple with Congressman John B. Larson, Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Abiola, Mr. & Dr. (Mrs.) Banjac, Deaconess Rhoda Afolabi, M.D. of Laga International

Family members & friends of couple

The bride hugging her Aunt, Princess Vivian Ayorinde

The groom, his father & groom’smen

The wedding surpassed my wildest dreams. I really loved both ceremonies. The traditional wedding was so much fun and I loved the colors and the various outfits. The white wedding was like a fairytale. I loved every detail of it. your dream

Yes, Yes, Yes! Conceal Affairs handled everything!

She took care of everyone which allowed me to sit back and enjoy both of my weddings.

Now tell us about yourself, growing up, educational background

I am a Lawyer and an Accountant. My family would describe me as funny, determined and a lover of all things fashion and beauty. I would describe my childhood as fun and adventurous. We travelled a lot and my sisters and I loved to be together and have fun.

My parents were so happy and allowed us to be a part of everything that we found interesting. I took ballet, piano, tap and gymnastics and it was all so much fun.

Things got a bit interesting when my father, MKO Abiola, passed away but we were always able to make it by keeping GOD first and remembering that we are all here for a purpose.

knew he was coming because his cologne preceded him followed by his warm smile.

What are your fondest memories of your dad

I would love to share that but I’ll keep those close to my heart. I will say that he was the best story teller on earth and we would get into the most interesting and spirited debates. My dad told me that I would be an Attorney when I was a child. I see now that he was right.

So, when will the kids start coming and how many are you expecting

Wow, we just got married! We definitely want children but we are still very active in our careers.

When things slow down a bit we will start planning the next step.

What do you do now or are you a full time housewife

I am a Senior Forensic Accountant and I absolutely love my career.

What kind of a person are you and your philosophy of life

I am a very optimistic person and always see the bright side of things. After all, this life is too short to allow anything temporary to bring you down. My philosophy in life is to always “do better and try harder”. I live by these words and I believe they have kept me motivated and driven.

Describe your fashion style

I would describe my style as classy, elegant and timeless. I try to keep to timeless pieces and I only incorporate fads that I can see coming back.

Is there any fashion item you are crazy about

I would say the one fashion item I am crazy about is my wedding dress. Best purchase ever!

Describe your husband in a few words

Would you have wished that your dad was around to attend

I would characterize Srdan as patient, understanding, grounded and passionate. He truly is an amazing man.

Of course! My father was an amazing and magnanimous man. I would have loved for him to walk me down the aisle. However, I know he was there in spirit.

Congratulations on your wedding, how does it feel to be married at last

What do you miss most about him

This might sound a bit weird but I miss his cologne, his smile and his laugh. I still remember it to this day. Anytime, we would spend time with him I

The Groom: Srdan Banjac It really feels amazing. Things just feel right. There is no other way to describe it but everything feels right!

What does marriage mean to you

Marriage means unity in success and struggle. Fola

is the strongest person I have ever met. She is so loving, kind and supportive and being married to her feels like an honor.

What do you do now that you were not doing before

Nothing has changed but the love grows more and more each day.

So, how did you meet your wife

Fola and I are high school sweethearts. We met at a high school program administered at Yale University called the Junior State of America. This program prepares future leaders to learn about Policy and Governance. We had orientation and she noticed me looking at her even though I was trying to be cool about it! After the orientation I approached her and we talked for a bit and then she asked me if I wanted to take her out. I jumped at the opportunity and the rest is history!

What were the qualities that cemented the initial affection, what attracted you to her

She was very pretty. But I was very attracted by the fact that she did not play any games. She is a very driven and determined woman and I loved that.

What kind of reception was she given the first time you took her home

My parents loved her on first sight. She was so respectful, kind and funny that they really enjoyed spending time with her.

How long did you date before marriage and did you see her as your wife from day one

We dated for a few years because we both wanted to focus on our careers for a while. I knew from day one that she would be my wife and I told her on our third date that I had a dream that she was holding our child and we were married.

When and how did you propose to her

It was in July. We went on a dinner cruise around Washington DC and had a lovely time. After that we decided to go to our favourite restaurant for a night cap. We had a wonderful time and then I suggested going for an evening stroll. I had the ring in my pocket and was waiting for the perfect moment to propose and I knew if I could get her to walk along this romantic trail I found it would set the perfect backdrop. We took a stroll around Mount Vernon and then I pulled her 213

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The groom & his father sharing an intimate moment

close and whispered in her ear “Be mine forever, will you marry me?” she seemed stunned so I thought maybe it was because I wasn’t on one knee. So I dropped down and got on one knee with the ring. Then she just looked at me and screamed “yes” and then fireworks went up and it was so beautiful. I felt like the luckiest man on earth!

What was the first meeting with her family like

I was so nervous to meet her family. Her family is huge and it has a lot of women! I made sure I came with three dozen flowers, gifts and wine. Her mom opened the front door and gave me such a warm smile and all of my nerves eased. When I walked in I met all of her sisters and they were so funny and kind. I remember the look in Fola’s eyes, she was so happy to see how everyone was getting along and it made me happy to see that.

Where you intimidated by her family background

Not at all! Fola and her family are the most down to earth people I have ever met. I never felt uncomfortable and I truly admire their strength, courage and resolve through all of their adversity. I must say I wish I had a chance to meet her father, MKO Abiola. He had such an impact on her and gave her the strength to attain all of her success. However,

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The bride & her loving mother, Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Abiola

her house has his pictures everywhere and her family is so loving.

What was the feeling like the moment you were pronounced man and wife

Now let us talk about your celebration of love, which moment stood out for you

It was such a joyous feeling. I was so happy that we were at this place and it was finally official!

The moment that stood out for me was when she was walking down the aisle. I remember feeling such a rush of emotion. She was absolutely beautiful and I was so happy that the moment finally arrived.

Retrospectively, are you glad you are married

Did the wedding ceremony go according to plan

How many kids are you planning to have

The wedding surpassed my wildest dreams. I really loved both ceremonies. The traditional wedding was so much fun and I loved the colors and the various outfits. The white wedding was like a fairytale. I loved every detail of it.

We are taking that one step at a time. However, we know we definitely want children.

Tell us about the preparation for the wedding

I knew from our third date that I would marry Fola and to finally be married is truly a blessing. I am elated at the progression of our relationship and I cannot wait to live this life with my best friend.

Tell us about yourself

My family would describe me as funny, down to earth and more of a thinker. I am very passionate about my family and my work.

To be very honest, Fola and our planner, Shade from Conceal Affairs were the ones that planned both weddings. I really was able to sit back and allow them to put things together. Whatever made Fola happy would make me happy.

What is your favorite food,color,music etc.

Where did you shoes,wristwatches,etc

Describe your wife in as many words as possible

shop

for

the

clothes,

My suits were custom made by a boutique in D.C. called Swank.

My favourite food is called Borek. That is an Eastern European “meat pie”. It is delicious. My favourite color would be Navy blue because it is regal and I love all types of music but Barry White is my favourite artist.

My wife is every woman. She is strong, resilient, intelligent, passionate, loving and supportive. I have to be the luckiest man on earth!

The bride’s wonderful Aunts: Deaconess Chief Patience Moseri, M.D. of Royal Academy Group of Schools,Chief Mrs. Isibor, Mrs. Nneka Agbam (nee Egbarin) & Deaconess Rhoda Afolabi, M.D. of Laga International

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TRIPLE CELEBRATIONS FOR THE

AKHIWU FAMILY

IN PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE Story: Adebayo Rukayat Photo: Koya Adegbite

he joy of welcoming a baby is nothing compared to watching the infant grow and develop over the years. This explains why the Managing Director of Oil Flow Petroleum Services, Engr. Lucky Akhiwu and his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth threw a memorable first birthday party for their bundle of joy, Jason Akhiwu at the Aristo House, GRA, Port Harcourt.

The ceremony was actually a triple celebration for the family. Because apart from Jason’s birthday, they were celebrating Engr. and Mrs. Akhiwu’s wedding anniversary and Mrs. Elizabeth Akhiwu’s birthday. No wonder that on that day, the venue which was beautifully decorated by Classy Finish was filled with family, friends and dignitaries which included the Publisher of OVATION Magazine, Bashorun Dele Momodu; Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi and a host of others.

Compered by ace comedians,

T

Julius Agwu and AY alongside Chioma of Silverbird Television, it was a day of laughter and excitement for the guests especially the kids. Mouth-watering cuisines and drinks were provided by Koko Catering Services Ltd. And guests were properly pampered.

There was a kids’ corner and also a Blue carpet party for the adults with good music by D.J. Bobby which lasted till late. The celebrant’s mother, the gorgeous Mrs. Elizabeth Akhiwu who was garbed in a stunning blue fitting gown and had her make-up done by DNK Suave was the cynosure of all eyes throughout the party.

‘Limpopo’ crooner, Kcee and Harrysong thrilled everyone with pulsating musical performances as they all partied till late in the evening.

Few weeks after, the OVATION crew were guests of the Akhiwu’s in PortHarcourt and we had an interesting interview with them.

The Akhiwus

Mr. Chike Steve, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Engr. Lucky, Celebrant, Mrs. Elizabeth Akhiwu, Mr. Tolmann, Sen. Afikuyomi, Jovita & Emeka Onachukwu

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The Akhiwus

Mrs. Elizabeth Akhiwu

Event decorator, Classy Finish, Shola Egberedu

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Mrs. Akhiwu & celebrant, Jason

Little saxophonist

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Chioma with the Akhiwus

Julius Agwu, Sen. Afikuyomi, Engr. Lucky, Mrs. Akhiwu, Dele Momodu & AY

Julius Agwu, Engr. Lucky, Mrs. Akhiwu, Mrs. Enondem Paul & AY

Eze & Kelly

Harrysong, Engr. Lucky & Kcee

Mr. Segun & Mr. Imasogie

The children catching their fun

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Fortune

Anita, Mrs. Akhiwu & Vivian

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Donald & friend

Daisy & Emma Akhiwu

Shola Egberedu & Mrs. Akhiwu

Mrs. Grace, Mrs. Akhiwu & Mrs. Vivian

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Barrister Tella

Celebrant, Emma Akhiwu & Mrs. Akhiwu

Anita & Kamsi

Fregene & Mrs. Akhiwu

Val

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Jasper Ako

Mrs. Elizabeth Akhiwu

CY

Imaobong Ekpo

Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi

Chief Solomon Akpotu

Vivian

Lady White

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Fregene & Lady White

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Mrs. Ekpo & family

Kess & Kevwe

Imasogie, Winifred, Margaret & Joke

Mr. Tony, Engr. Lucky & Mr. Billy Harry

Donald, Mr. Ekpo, Engr. Lucky & Mr. Temisan

Dr. Noble Abe & Mr. Temisan

Fortune & friend

Donald & friends

Cocktail servers

Rev. (Mrs.) Norman, Mrs. Akhiwu & Mrs. Ego

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Dr. Tom, Udoh, Anita, Mrs. Akhiwu, James, Mrs. Ekpo & Mrs. Vivian

Anita, Engr. Lucky, Mrs. Norman, Mrs. Akhiwu, Mrs. Ego, Mrs. Grace & Mrs. Vivian

Dr. Tom Otuka & the Akhiwus

Udoh, Anita, Mrs. Akhiwu & James

Kevwe & Agnes

Chief Akpotu, Engr. Lucky, Mrs. Akhiwu, celebrant, Chief Jasper & Mr. Sly

Rojo, Chike & Tella

Sly & Mike Okparanta

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Bashorun Dele Momodu & Frank Okamigbo

Julius Agwu, Engr. Lucky, Mr. Dom Okafor & Mrs. Akhiwu

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I am a high flyer but my wife has been very helpful, looking after the home and also supportive in my business. She is a good mother, wife and friend.

She makes decisions that are as perfect as the ones I would have made. I guess that is why people say we act like twins. Above all, she is very disciplined and God-fearing. All these factors have kept us together over the years.

And in this marriage, we are partners Everything was well-planned and organized with lots of gifts to go home with.

You have some Comedians and Celebrities as friends, are you Showbiz inclined

I am not a Showbiz person. I am into Oil and Gas, and a member of several organisations such as Rotary Club, Port Harcourt Chambers, Forum of SouthSouth Chambers, Society of Petroleum Engineers, Petroleum Engineers Association of Nigeria, Polo Club and several others. We usually organize Peace concerts, Polo tournaments as well as Oil and Gas events and I interact with entertainers in the course of organizing these events. We have now become friends and the likes of D’banj, Tuface and others are very close pals now.

Tell us more about your job

I run an Oil and Gas company. We test Oil and Gas wells and I also run a Sub-Sea Engineering company with access to deploy vessels under the water. We are purely an upstream company with operational headquarters in Lagos and Corporate headquarters in Port Harcourt. We have set up offices in London and the United States of America to look after the international global offices.

How long have you been into Oil and Gas

ENGINEER LUCKY

AKHIWU

Congratulations to you on your wedding anniversary and of course, the first birthday party of your son

Thank you very much.

How long have you been married

We have been married for six years and we got married on my wife’s birthday. That was why we celebrated our wedding anniversary, her birthday and my son's birthday. So, it was a triple celebration for us.

cake and she accepted.

Six years down the line, what factors have been responsible for the stability of the marriage

It has been God because I am a high flyer. She has been very helpful, looking after the home and also supportive in my business. She is a good mother, wife and friend. She makes decisions that are as perfect as the ones I would have made. I guess that is why people say we act like twins. Above all, she is very disciplined and God fearing. All these factors have kept us together over the years.

How many kids do you have

I have been in it for so many years. I am an Engineer and I worked for Schlumberger Group in Nigeria and after so many years, I was transferred to Aberdeen and later, Paris. At some point when I was in Aberdeen, I thought I should bring the expertise back to Nigeria and that gave birth to CNS Marine.

We have two major vessels for diving operations and we want to carve that niche with a local company and impact Nigerians locally.

What impact have you been able to have on the society

We have created a lot of impact but I would want the government to create more jobs. If this is done, our youths would be engaged and those who want to create chaos in the society than work should be treated as criminals.

Tell us about yourself

Why did you get married on her birthday

Let us talk about your birthday celebration, how was it

We were so much in love and I felt we should go that way. We took the decision as partners.

The event was wonderful and it was not surprising because we spent six months planning for it. We had different committees for different aspects and we had a large turn-out in spite of the short notice. It was almost like a carnival and Limpopo master, Kcee, performed while AY , Julius Agwu and Silverbird’s Chioma also hosted the event. Some of my friends flew in from London and my fellow Polo players also came in their large numbers. We thank God that it was a success and most importantly, everybody returned to their various destinations safely.

I am from Edo State but see myself as a SouthSouth person. I had my first Degree in Mechanical Engineering after which I proceeded to bag my Masters in Petroleum Engineering. Schlumberger discovered me during their ‘Catch them young' program for best brains in Nigeria where I worked as an international staff member in different countries in the world including, South Africa, Aberdeen, Mozambique, Paris and several others. At some point, I left after many years in service to float Oil Flow Services, Nigeria. I am happily married to Mrs. Elizabeth Akhiwu and we are blessed with three children.

Did you contract an events planner

Is any of your kids thinking of following your line

How and where did you meet her

We met in Lagos. I went for the Board meeting of the Society of Petroleum Engineers and stopped over to have another meeting in Ikoyi and that was where we met.

What was the attraction

She was very calm the first day we met. She listened more and was very receptive. We did not see again until after about three months. I invited her to Port-Harcourt and she bluntly refused. I was shocked because very few ladies would have refused such an offer. After a while, she accepted to come to say hello.

One thing led to another and we got married.

Where and how did you propose to her

I proposed to her in a cozy restaurant in Mayfair London on my knees with the ring inside a cheese-

We have three kids.

Yes, we did. We had an events planner, Classy Finish managed by Sola Egberedu, who flew in from Lagos. The Disc Jockey, D.J. Bobby also came from Lagos and he is really good. There were some wonderful and fanciful decorations and the catering company, Koko Catering services also catered excellently with tasty and wonderful meals and drinks.

Yes, my first son is thinking towards that direction.

Let us talk about your passion for Polo, how and when did it start

I discovered my passion for Polo six years ago when I came across the Gentlemen’s Club and became interested in the game after some finding. I got my 223

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Gogo & Charles Fingesi

Sen. Afikuyomi, Jovita, Emeka Onachukwu, Mrs. Enondem Paul, Mike Okparanta & Mrs. Ekpo

first horse during the Kaduna Tournament and presently, I have five horses. Polo is a game of kings.

What are the names of your horses

Paula, Pender,Julia,Sophia and Pedro.

I am told the a business partner, Mr, barry Adedamola how long have you been partners

Kelly Olisa, Engr. Lucky, Sunny Edah & Emma Akhiwu

Which Cities hold special attraction for you

Paris and the Caribbean Island.

Why

How and where did you meet

What do you love eating

We met in London. Someone introduced us and since then, it has been wonderful. Our partnership has been tested over the years with no written agreement and if anything happens today, we cannot go to court.

But it has been very rosy and we have never had issues. We could have corporate issues but we resolve them.

I like Egusi Soup and Pounded yam and it is my favourite.

What kind of music do you listen to

Mr. Jenkins, Dr. Noble Abe, Mr. Temisan, Mr. Billy Harry & Engr. Lucky

I relax by playing Polo and hanging out with my family.

I love Paris because it is a city of love with wonderful attractions and the Caribbean because of the beauty and calmness of the beaches.

I love being in His presence and travelling with my wife.

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How do you relax

We have been partners for eight years and it has been very successful.

We are friends and brothers and he is my son’s God-Father.

What do you love doing

Mr. Billy Harry & Engr. Lucky

I love Gospel, Pop Music as well as Rhythm and Blues.

My passion for this country is to see that we create a better society that caters for her youths. This passion propelled my partner, Mr. Dayo Adedamola and myself to set up a diving company called CNS Marine.

The objective is to train Nigerians so that they can compete globally

What Cologne do you love wearing

I love Dolce and Gabbana as well as YSL. Who is your favourite designer

Salvatore Ferragamo and Gucci.

They are good designers.

What would we catch you wearing most of the time

Salvatore Ferragamo.

Do you have time to read

Yes, I find time to read and I have lots of books in my shelf.

How will you describe your wife

Oh, she is my rare gem. She is God-fearing, caring and above all a disciplinarian.

Do you have a pet name for her

Yes I do and the name is Koko.

Where is she from

Akwa Ibom.

So, it is a blend of Akwa Ibom and Esan

Yes it is. And language is not a barrier to marriage.

How many kids are you still expecting

Perhaps, one or two more.

What will you want to be remembered for

I want to be remembered as the game-changer who contributed in building the society and affected lives positively.

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My husband is a very great person that has passion for whatever he does. He is very hard-working and also a go-getter. He is not a lazy person and he never gives up. I really appreciate all these qualities about him

MRS. ELIZABETH

AKHIWU

First and foremost, let me say congratulations to you as I was told it was a triple celebration; your birthday, wedding anniversary and your son's first year birthday, congratulations madam

Thank you.

How do you feel

I feel great. I feel grateful and overwhelmed; I give God all the glory.

I was told you got married on your birthday

A day after my birthday; my birthday was on the 13th, and I got married on the 14th.

So, how was it

It was wonderful and beautiful.

Six years down the line, how has it been

It has been great fun, maybe some rough patches, but in all, we give thanks to God. What factors have been responsible for that stability in your marriage

First of all, it has been God. Then respect, because the man is the head of the home. So, if you accord him the proper respect, you will get your due in return. That is just what has been binding us. We are also very good friends and we are free with each other. I think communication is important and that is what has kept us going.

What do you do

I am a Consultant and also own and run a Logistics and Hospitality firm.

He said he met you in Lagos and he invited you to Port Harcourt and you bluntly refused

Of course, it is completely normal to turn down a guy at the first time of asking. From the outset, when he saw me, he said he was going to marry me and I was like, 'To who?’ This was because I was not ready to get married, not even in three years to the time that he asked. He kept pushing though and we exchanged phone contacts and that was how we kicked things off. He invited me to Port Harcourt, I bluntly refused but later came, and today; we are married.

When did you know he was the right person

I knew he was the right guy from the first day.

He is a man that appreciates a lady and he respects a woman - that was the first attribute that attracted me.

He listens; he does not just condemn you. He hears you out and gives you his own suggestions. From the outset, he was and still is a friend.

How would you describe him

He is a very great person that has passion for whatever he does. He is quite hard-working and he is a go-getter. He is not a lazy person and he never gives up. I really appreciate all these things about him.

He says he is a high-flyer, do you miss him

dancing. I love listening to music, too. I put God first in all I do because I know He will take me places. I also love cooking and travelling. I have passion for the less privileged and I try as much as possible to help the needy in my own little way, whenever the need arises.

He said he loves Egusi and you do it so well

Yes, he loves Egusi and Banga soup. And my favourite meal is Beans and Plantain. I am from Eket, Akwa Ibom.

I thought you probably would love one of your traditional meals

Sincerely, I am not a food person. I prefer eating junk food and fruits.

Of course, I miss him, but I am used to it. We try to make up for time lost by grabbing every opportunity and every vacation and spend such free times together. We always make up for it.

What kind of music do you listen to

Let us talk about your childhood

Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Barry White and Luther Vandross.

I grew up in a large family - a close knitted one.

I grew up in a family of seven; it is one big loving family. So, it was fun. My Dad was strict; my Mum was mild in between, but in all - it was great and it was fun growing up there.

Are your parents still alive

Yes, they are and they are both doing great.

Where are they based

They are based in Lagos.

What passions do you have because your husband plays Polo

I do not play Polo, I play Golf and I love

Rhythm and Blues , Old school, Jazz, Highlife, anything nice.

Your favourite artistes

How do you relax

I watch movies and love serving God. What fashion accessory are you crazy about

I am crazy about everything, as long as it is nice and not necessarily the name. I like to dress and look nice and if I come across a label I can afford, I do not let it go. So, be it Fendi, Chanel, Gucci, Bvlgari, Giorgio Armani, I buy them.

How will you define your fashion style

I am classy and original.

You love fashion obviously

I do not play Polo, I play Golf. I love dancing, although they say I do not know how to dance. I love listening to music and I love doing anything that concerns God. I put Him first all the time and I do not joke with Him and any activity that has to do with Him. I love cooking and travelling. I have passion for the less-privileged and I try as much as possible to help the needy in my own very little way, whenever the need arises.

Yes, I do.

Do you read

I do read, I have lots of books. I love reading, travelling and being with the family.

What would you want to be remembered for

I want to be remembered as someone that affected lives positively in her own little way.

Are you doing so now

Yes, I do. I go to the Orphanage once or twice a year.

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Engr. Lucky & comedian, Julius Agwu

DJ Bobby & wife with Julius Agwu

Mr. Temisan, Engr. Lucky & Mr. Mike Okparanta

Mr. & Mrs. Tony

Mr. & Mrs. Eric Montana

Winifred & Val

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Pastor & Mrs. Austin

DJ Bobby

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Engr. Lucky, Ezra & Kayode

Chioma

Sen. Afikuyomi, Engr. Lucky & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Akaz Baba & friends

Emem, Doris, Tari & Valerie

Koko & Thelma

(From 2nd left) Mary Uranta, Mrs. Akhiwu & Nkechi

Christopher & Fred

AY & Engr. Lucky’s family

Mr. Kelly Anidi & Sunny Edeh

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CHIEF INNOCENT

OFOR GOES HOME IN GRANDEUR

By Uzor Maxim Uzoatu

t was a mixture of sadness and joy in Amihie V i l l a g e , U m u c h u , Aguata LGA, Anambra State as a respect son of the soil, Chief Innocent Ezeanyaku Ofor (JP), a retired top civil servant was laid to rest.

Chief Ofor, a respected community leader was given a very grand farewell by his people, family and friends.While they were sad that he had departed, they were joyous that he lived a most fulfilling life and touched many lives.

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Chief Gerry Ofor welcoming Anambra State Governor Peter Obi

Governor Obi with Lolo Uche Gerry-Ofor & Mrs Ogonna Ofor

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Chief Ofor's casket in church

The departed, a 1960 graduate of the University of Ibadan, distinguished himself as Manager of Hotel Presidential Enugu and later, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education.

A devout Catholic, he was a 4th degree stalwart of the Knight of St Mulumba and a member of the Opus Dei. He holds the high traditional title of Udorah Umuchu.

Chief Ofor is survived by Chief Gerry Ofor (Ukpaka Umuchu), Prof (Mrs) Ifeyinwa Emejulu of UNIZIK, Awka, Ntomchukwi Reginald of MTN, Chinedu in USA, Mrs. Chidimma Maxim-Uzoatu, Engr. Ebuka in Kenya, and Lady Chika Anierobi. He was blessed with 29 grandchildren.

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Chief Ofor's sons Ebuka, Tiko, Chinedu & Chief Gerry

Igwe of Umuchu town G.O. Ezechukwu with Chief Gerry Ofor (Ukpaka Umuchu)

Uzor Maxim Uzoatu & his wife, Chidimma in traditional condolence visit

Mourners

Mourners

Mourners

Home of late Chief Innocent E. Ofor (Udorah Umuchu)

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VIVACIOUS

KEMI ADEWUNMI IS

50

Story: Bamidele Salako Photo: Segun Lawal (Iroko)

The elegant celebrant, Kemi Adewunmi relaxing at home

he Grand Ball Room of West Africa's tallest hotel, the 5-star Intercontinental Lagos, was the magnificent setting for the 5-star celebration of the 50th birthday anniversary of high society’s very own golden grand Dame - Kemi Adewunmi.

The mother of two lovely daughters – Amira and Aisha – went all out to celebrate her landmark

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birthday in an eye-popping fashion and her sensational outing commanded a star cast of the society's high and mighty. For Kemi, a highly connected woman of style and class, nothing less could have been expected and indeed, her 50th turned out to be quite extraordinary.

When it comes to hosting such parties, particularly one as special as her golden

anniversary, you can always count on Kemi to give her very best. With strict attention to detail, consistent with her characteristic devotion to excellence, the riveting gold-themed decor and the picture-perfect quality of the venue proved to be the apt ingredients required to get her classy celebration rolling.

Leaving nothing to chance and sparing no cost,

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...ISN’T SHE LOVELY...

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Kemi was determined to make her golden jubilee a memorable one, not just for herself, but for friends and family members who would be sharing the once-in-a-lifetime event with her. We in fact gathered that in an attempt to provide the maximum of comforts for her highly placed friends who had to escape tight schedules to make it a date with her, Kemi, on her own bill, made hotel reservations for some of them at the Intercontinental.

She told us, “It was important to give the best to friends and family members who have been very supportive over the years. And a number of those I invited are very busy people who have had to sacrifice more pressing engagements in different parts of the world to make it down here tonight. It is important that I express my heartfelt appreciation by offering them their time’s worth.”

When these cutely clad high profile guests finally arrived and began to make their way into the scenic venue, they were instantly conveyed on the wings of exotic tunes into music wonderland, courtesy of the genius of multi-talented flutist, Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli (MFR) and his merry band of melody makers.

Their delectable melodies permeated the atmosphere for close to an hour while the guests settled in. During this musical prelude, Tee Mac's son, Joe Bloggs, made a fascinating cameo and everyone reveled in the trans-generational musical extravaganza that father and son served up.

Some of the dignitaries who relished Kemi's regal hospitality were: Chief Harry Akande, former Senate President, Sen. Ken Nnamani; Hajia Abah Folawiyo, The Otunba Adekunle Ojora and The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, Bashorun Dele Momodu and wife, Bolaji Momodu; Femi Pedro, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Monalisa Chinda, amongst others.

In a chat with OVATION, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila said, “It is remarkable that at 50, she looks the way she does. Her charming looks are just a perfect reflection of who she is on the inside.

She has got a heart of gold; those who know her can attest to this. It is no surprise that her birthday has attracted such a large crowd with a lot of high profile personalities. It tells you the kind of lady we are celebrating today.”

The party went full-throttle when the birthday girl herself arrived to a rousing ovation from a crowd of loved ones and well-wishers. As she made her way to her table, her stunning beauty animated the party. Saying that she looked half her age would be re-stating the obvious. She looked amazingly young for a 50-year old. Such was the beautiful deception that her looks commanded that, if you had not met her before that night, you would have long thought she was the celebrant’s daughter, before realizing that she was in fact, the celebrant!

She rocked a charming floor length black gown in which she unflappably cast the figure of a Greek goddess. Truly, Tee Mac was not plucking a figure out of thin air when he described her as, "Mrs. Magic" in a special birthday number he sang for her, because she certainly had everyone charmed by her magical ageless looks.

She was conspicuously excited by the carnival-like atmosphere of her birthday party. Her excitement was like the gushing forth of a pent-up flood – it flowed forcefully in all directions. Her bubbly and vivacious nature rendered every attempt by Tee-A, who was Master of Ceremonies, to keep her in one place, futile. She was everywhere, warming up to her guests, thanking them, dancing with them and ensuring that they were all well catered for.

With a deluge of delightsome Kemi Adewunmi & Mum, Bola Adewunmi

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Atunwase of Lagos, Chief Mike Inegbese & wife, Mary with celebrant

Hon. Wale Edun & Sen. Ken Nnamani

Kemi Adewunmi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

The Otunba Adekunle Ojora & The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora with Kemi Adewunmi

Aduke Mina, PDP B.O.T Member, Prince Adesuyi Haastrup, Dr. Vicky & Otunba Femi Pedro

Hon. Folake Oshinowo, Kemi Adewunmi & Hon. Jumoke Okoya-homas

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Olorogun Oskar Ibru, Tee Mac, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Princewill Utchay, Gbenga Sokefun & Kojo Williams

Mrs. Bolaji Momodu, Kemi Marinho, Tolu Sodipe & Shola Oladeinbo

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Bola Adewunmi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Caro Sosu, Mrs. Hairat Balogun, Bola Adewunmi, Osahon Idemudia & Ayo Balogun

Captain James Daniel, Kehinde Daniel , Bola Adewunmi, Idowu Sebanjo& Lola Ade John

Mrs. Ronke Atere, Mrs. Titi Orija Adesoye, Shade Akinremi , Mrs. Doyin Willington& Mrs. Bunmi Craig

Lanre Ogunlesi & Segun Sebanjo

Elder John Adebanjo & Bismack Rewane

Mrs. Yetunde Onileere, Tee Mac & Hajia Abah Folawiyo

Gloria Ibru, Eje Coker, Kemi Adewunmi, Elvina Ibru & Obukome Ibru

Fafaa Dan Princewill & Pastor Ituah Ighodalo

Tutu & Tayo Ayeni

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Akin Ojo Johnson, Bola Adewunmi & Tosin Alobo-Bakare

Christy, Bola Adewunmi & Biodun

Bola Adewunmi & Bukky Akintola

Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Bola Adewunmi & Femi Akin-Olugbade

Yinka Dawodu, Bola Adewunmi & Ganiyat Dawodu

From 2nd left: Bola Adewunmi, Mr. Dapo Williams, Mrs. Iyabo Williams, Peju Williams & Mrs. Jumoke Dosunmu

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Folarin Adewunmi & Ronke Biodun

Bola Adewunmi, John Nwachukwu & Mojisola Olubiyi Nwachukwu

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Monetro Ibru, Kehinde Young & Helene Ibru

Denrele Edun

Natasha Omatseye, Funisayo Popoola & Jojo Matseye

From 2nd left: Celebrant with Elder John Adebanjo

Mrs. Bolaji Momodu & Kemi Adewunmi

Mavie Ukpo, Folake Coker, Kayinsola Demola-Seriki, Tara Rosiji, Yinka Coker & Feyisola Popoola with guests

continental and local cuisines and choice wines and cocktails to choose from, no one could, in truth, complain.

The thoroughly pampered guests also enjoyed a wonderful evening interspersed with electrifying musical entertainment, thanks to a couple of up-coming artistes, a dance group, a live band, a music legend and the enigmatic DJ Sose.

TUC Dancers came on stage and took breaths away with some energetic and breathless acrobatic dance displays that would have made Michael Jackson, the late King of Pop green with envy.

Then, Tee-A and DJ Sose combined to take guests down memory lane with a medley of local and international Old School jams - some sort of musical journey to tease the guests and show many of them how old they really were - if they could recollect the lines.

Shortly afterwards, the celebrant eased herself out

of the venue and while everyone was wondering where she was, she returned out of the blue in a dazzling strapless outfit looking like a fairytale princess.

She eventually stepped on stage to get a special birthday treat from legendary Highlife maestro, Dr. Victor Olaiya, who regaled her with his all-time hit number, "E ba mi so fun Sisi yen” – substituting the ‘Sisi’ with ‘Kemi.’ The elated celebrant danced and wiggled with great delight to the sound of sweet music.

Afterwards, Dr. Olaiya took everyone on a jolly ride through the melodious rhythms of timeless classics like Omo pupa and other evergreen hit tracks.

Next came the CEO Dancers – contestants in the just concluded season of the X-factor UK. They went on to justify their spot on that international reality talent contest with some fantastic well-choreographed display.

Then, up-coming acts, Eezy Chris and Tee Mac’s son, Joe Bloggs, took turns to titillate the crowd with contemporary Afro-Pop and Rap combinations before the Gloria Ibru Band came on board to provide the highlight of the show with a medley of numbers, cutting across various music genres. The celebrant danced heartily with her daughters and siblings; friends also joined in and everyone had a fantastic time.

In the end, there was no doubt the fact that Kemi’s dream 50th birthday celebration became a splendid reality. “I cannot find the words to express how I feel,” she said afterwards. “You could see how many very important personalities came from far and wide to celebrate with me and I am truly honoured by all the love and support that all these wonderful people have showered on me tonight. I am truly blessed and awed by all of these.”

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Princess Shola Areago Elegbede with Chief & Mrs. Harry Akande

Olufemi Adeniregun, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Wole Ake & Gbenga Sokefun

Kayode Ogunmetu, Kemi Adewunmi & Kojo Williams

Goriola & Temitope Dalley

Kemi Adewunmi with Yewande Amusan & Dapo Amusan

Mrs. Jumoke Oyeneyin, Omolara Abati, Joko Oni & Sola Oladenibo

Saheed Dosunmi, Abiodun Adewunmi & Tonmi Adewunmi

Kemi with Chief & Mrs. Harry Akande

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Captain James Daniels & Folabi Balogun

Dotun Oni & Folake St. Matthew-Daniel

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Olori Tola Olaniyan, Oba Ashiru Olatoyelanyan, Olori Ropo Thompson, Oba Dokun Thompson, Bola Adewunmi, Mrs. Ore Williams , Kemi Adewunmi & Mrs. Bimbo Victor

Oyinkan, Abiola Fagbayi, Kemi Adewunmi Abimbola Fagbayi & Bukky Adeola

Enitan Allen, Jibike Babatunde, Folake Kazeem Kuku, Yinka Oghobu, Jibike Babatunde & Caro Sosu

Ibinabo Fiberesima & Kemi Adewunmi

Saheed Dosunmu, Omolola Ajumobi, Dr. Debo Williams, Kemi Adewunmi Mrs. Jumoke Dosunmu & Yetunde Williams

Jibike Babatunde, Kemi Adewunmi & Banke Ibrahim

Segun Sebanjo & Bunmi Eric

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Omolola Ajumobi, Dr. Debo Williams, Yetunde Williams, Kemi Adewunmi, Peju Williams & Saheed Dosunmu

Dunni Olunloyo (left)

Tosin Jolayemi & Bunmi Jolayemi

Sola Adeeyo & Dotun Oni

Doyin Wellington, Aisha Ibrahim-Alfa & Mrs. Jumoke Dosunmu

Bola Akinsehinwa, Ronke Ayuba, Kehinde Young- Harry & Ruth Benemasia-Opia

Kemi Adewunmi & Femi Osilaja

Akin Akintola

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Aisha Alubankudi & Tai Elemosho-Okesanjo

Sami Omai, Sunny Omai, Joke Shodi & Ganiyat Dawodu

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Omolara Abati & Olori Bola Olaniyan, Kemi Adewunmi, Biola Yuguda, Sen. Ken Nnamani, Yomi Adeola & Mrs. Caro Sosu

Emeka Ugwuoju, Alice Mbadiwe, Kemi Adewunmi & Amb. Greg Mbadiwe

TUC Dancers

Kemi Adewunmi & Sir Victor Olaiya

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EKO HOTEL

CELEBRATES STAFF AT END OF THE PARTY Story: Segun Adebowale Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

Management & staff cutting the cake

t is a general accepted norm that the venue makes an event. And one venue that has stood out among its class in the hospitality industry, is the Eko Hotel and Suites. Year in, year out, Eko Hotel and Suites has hosted high profile events peopled by the crème -de -la –crème in the Nigerian society. Apart from hosting some editions of the Ovation Carol and Awards, other high profile events that have taken place in the venue include MTN’s 2013 Corporate Elite and the Glo CAF Awards.

To the management of Eko Hotel and Suites, the hosting of these events and much more would not have been a success without the expertise and efficiency of their staff members who must have dissipated energy, time and resources towards making them a success.

The management therefore deemed it fit that, since the staff members had been diligent in their work, they

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Mr. Ghassan .J. Faddoul, Managing Director, Eko Hotel addressing staff

had qualified not only to dine with Kings but also as Kings themselves!

Towards making this a reality, the management selected nine people drawn from different departments in the organisation to plan a befitting end of year party as well as an awards ceremony. Headed by the Conference and Banquet Sales Manager, Mrs. Bimpe Kalesawo and ably assisted by the Assistant Human Resources Manager, Mr. Tajudeen Mohammed, the nine wise men and women set out to plan a never-tobe-forgotten end of year party.

The planning committee reached out to some of their clients and friends of the house including Ovation International Magazine, Rotary Club of Victoria Island East, Arik Air and Mei Hotels and Airport Services Ltd., who donated cash, materials and flight tickets given out to deserving winners for the Long Service Awards and lucky winners for the Raffle Draw.

About eleven days to the end of 2013, the staff

Mr. Danny Kioupourolou, General Manager delivery his speech

members and management of Eko Hotel and Suites converged at their Banquet Hall to celebrate themselves. And celebrate, they did! Attired in their Christmas outfits, the staff members alongside their family members as well as some key management staff members, including the Company Secretary, Chief S.O.Alabi were already seated minutes before the event started. Some few minutes to 5pm, the event which was anchored by three Master of Ceremonies led by Ayo Makun better known as AY, M.C. Pencil and CM, who is a staff member of Eko Hotel; started with a prayer.

After thanking God for a rewarding 2013, a dance troupe emerged on the stage to entertain the crowd and thereafter, the Managing Director of the Hotel and Suites , Mr. Ghassan J. Faddoul came to deliver a welcome address. Mr. Faddoul, who was filled with gratitude for the management and staff members of the organisation, noted that they had met most of the

AY

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Mr. & Mrs. Chinedu Eboh

Osaro Ekomweresen (immediate past president) & Tiyan Alile (President Rotary Club V.I East)

Oreagba Kafayat. Olatinwo Tope & Olumegboro Ajoku

Mr. & Mrs, Lawal

Yinka & Lola

Olajumoke Ajofoyinbo & Comrade Osifowode Babajide (HAPSSS)

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Comrade Abiodun Adenrele, Comrade Ajidagba Sunday & Chief S.O Alabi (Company Sec)

Kehinde Micheal, Yinka Bello, Mohammed Tajudeen & Mrs. Bimpe Kalesonwo

targets they set out for themselves in the beginning of the year. He therefore enjoined the workers to always put in their best, stressing that management would always make the organization condusive and habitable.

The General Manager of the Hotel , Mr. Danny Kioupouroglou took the baton from the Managing Director and commended the leadership of the Managing Director, which he noted had brought in a turn-around for the past three years. Clad in a black caftan with embroidery, Mr. Kiopouroglou assured the staff members of a better and more improved Eko Hotel and Suites in terms of staff welfare, urging them to always put in their best.

Living up to their words to always reward excellence, three staff members of the organization were handsomely rewarded with cash prizes for their exceptional productivity in the year gone by. While Samson Olufemi Odusanya ( Preventive Maintenance – Engineering Dept.) and Kola Oyebanji (Restaurant Cashier- Account Dept.) bagged the third and second positions respectively, Fausat Bola Ibrahim of the Banquet Sales Section- Food and Beverage Department emerged the winner in the Employee of the year category.

Speeches and awards ceremonies over, the Disc Jockey, DJ. BQ whose touches on the wheel of steel have been unmistakable since the event started, took over and for the next few seconds, he serenaded the crowd, signaling the begining of undiluted entertainment that would be savoured by the crowd.

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As soon as he finished, the well-liked comedian cum actor, AY took over and he increased the tempo of the entertainment with his rib-cracking jokes, livening the atmosphere and making sure that the staff members and their family members who were eating and drinking were much more relaxed.

The entertainment continued with the Magician who came on stage to display his magical prowess and he mesmerized the crowd with his magical feats. He soon gave way for the Limpopo crooner, KCee who succeeded in bringing down the roof and sending the crowd into a frenzy with his song , Limpopo , which has become a national anthem. Not surprisingly, the crowd sang and danced with Kcee from the beginning of the song till he ended his performance!

Right after that performance, the raffle draw took the center-stage and at the end of the day, the biggest winners of the evening included Olaniyan Sadiq Adewuyi, Zainob Kazeem and Susan Atubobaraolo, who won return tickets to New York, London and Dubai, respectively.

Still basking in the euphoria of entertainment , the MC’s invited the well- dressed staff members to the stage for the Best Dressed competition and some of them stepped out to take part in that competition.

Thereafter, the management staff members were called upon to cut the cake, after which the Assistant Human Resources Manager, Mr. Tajudeen Mohammed gave a vote of thanks, paving way for the Disc Jockey to rock the crowd till late in the night.

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The General Manager, Mr. Danny Kioupourolou waiting to honour one of the staff

. Mr. & Mrs. Yemi Dada

The Managing Director, Mr. Ghassan .J. Faddoul,

Adedeji Adewale & K Square

Ayorinde Ajayi, Adefunke Ojo, Adisa Omowumi, Aderemi Adeoye & Lateef Olatunbosun

Olabisi Rotimi, Saheed Olabinjo, Mustapha Sulemon & Kehinde Micheal

Kehinde Olasukanla & Oduntan Adebisi

Mr.& Mrs. Agbaje

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I feel gladd the minute the word of God lifts someone up or transforms someone’s life, especially, someone whom the enemy has put down; and the supernatural had taken over. I am happy that I have been an instrument in the hands of God. That keeps me going and I count it as a blessing.

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he Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Bishop Mike Okonkwo’s foray into Evangelism started about 42 years ago.

Bishop Okonkwo, who celebrated eight more years of entering the Sexagenarian club this year with a lecture series among other activities, hosted the OVATION Faith team days after his birthday ceremonies.

The fire-spitting Bishop discussed a wide range of issues in Christendom, Politics as well as the oldest institution on earth, Marriage, declaring that there was no marriage made in heaven.

He also chastised couples who make claims of

never quarrelling since their union solemnized, telling them to always be real!

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO

Bishop

Mike Okonkwo Interview: Segun Adebowale Photo: Family Official Album

was

It must provide you with such tremendous fulfillment being a blessing to millions, not just Nigerians but around the world, but how do you feel impacting blessing into people

I must say that it is a passion and I am truly encouraged and I feel fulfilled when I see a large church. I feel fulfilled when I see the transformation through the word of God of someone who has almost lost it all. For me, it is something fulfilling.

How does it feel feeding people with the word for about 42 years and also clocking 68 years

It is difficult to really put it in words. People

ask me, ‘At 68, how have you been able to keep going?” I feel gladd the minute the word of God lifts someone up or transforms someone’s life, especially, someone whom the enemy has put down; and the supernatural had taken over. I am happy that I have been an instrument in the hands of God. That keeps me going and I count it as a blessing.

It would seem that you did not have much of a choice 42 years ago when this journey began in 1971 under the tutelage of Apostle Egbo at the United Church of Christ (UCC). Please run us through how this foray into a life spent in the service of God actually began

It started when the war ended. The war was quite an experience and it is by the grace of God

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I was called to emphasize the integrity of the word of God. We believe that, whatever the word of God cannot produce for you, the domain does not exist.

You do not have to break your head over it, because everything is in existence because of the word of God. So, we hold meticulously to God’s word. It will produce results, irrespective of what you are experiencing in the natural. So, we emphasize integrity and that there is no substitute͞ there is no cutting of corners.

that I am alive today. I was working in the Bank, brought up in a Christian home, here in Lagos. I attended Choir practice here in Lagos, and since then, I had had a personal relationship with the Lord.

My parents were disciplinarians. My father and mother are late now. My father used to work with the Post Telecommunications (P&T), and finally retired in Marina in 1964 and went back to the East. My mother was a Trader and traded in native dresses in the market in those days. I passed the Entrance Exam into the Mayflower Grammar School under Tai Solarin. In fact, Pastor Kumuyi of Deeper Life was a year ahead of me in Mayflower. I needed a feel of Igbo land, and told my Father to change me to another school in the East. I later went to Merchant 250

Light School, very close to Onitsha and graduated in 1963. As soon as I graduated, I came back to Lagos and started working with the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA). Few months later, I was transferred to Africa Continental Bank (ACB). I worked with the Bank till the war started in 1966 and I then relocated to the East. I did not want to join the Military but was later conscripted. Several attempts were made to enlist me but they failed. The Bank Manager decided that we were going to be selected through the ballot and I was not on the list. Surprisingly, the Manager for one reason or the other wanted me to go to war and he now cancelled the draw. They came into the compound for another enlistment and I had already left the office to buy cigarettes. I was not picked and

the Manager was not still satisfied and he released those people and brought them to the compound. He called some of us another day and told us that the headquarters said we should go with the officers.

They suspected that we wanted to run and vowed to shoot us if we did. We later escaped on the pretext of withdrawing some money and I stopped working for that period.

Why did you not want to go to war

I did not want to go because there was no attraction. I did not have a passion for it. Eventually, myself and my immediate younger brother (who is late now) decided to go for military training as a voluntary officers, late in 1969. Two days later, the war ended and our colleagues who went to war as

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I lost my first daughter in the course of preaching in 1984. She was two years plus and I just came back from a crusade in Abeokuta, on Christmas day. She joined the young people to preach and sing in the Church, only for her to develop fever at night.

By the next morning, she was dead. I still went to preach in Bishop Moses of Overcomers- Church in Okota area, here in Lagos.

I also lost my younger brother to the cold hands of death and learnt about it on arrival in the United States of America for a conference. He was shot by armed robbers but I still finished the conference. It was very traumatic and that led to the death of my father and subsequently, my mother.

These are the prices you pay in the Ministry; but I have to keep going. soon as we came back died. We left them and entered the town instead of going to war. After the war, I visited Lagos, somewhere in Oyadiran Estate and told the Lord that whatever I could do for Him with my life, I was willing to do. I totally surrendered myself.

As soon as I went back to Enugu, I started attending UCC. Nothing was more interesting to me than the Church. I later left my Banking job but my parents did not find it funny. They felt something was wrong with me. They said, ‘What do you want to do now? I said, ’I want to serve the Lord.’ My father said, ’Even though you want to serve the Lord, must it be in the Pentecostal Church? These are mushroom Churches.”

This is because Pentecostal churches were very unattractive, unlike today in those days.

You served Apostle Egbo faithfully for almost ten years, from 1971 to 1980. It appears that there is a direct relationship between faithful stewardship and enduring success, not just in the Ministry but in all professions

Generally, it is one of the themes I advocate. I do not have any reason to regret the number of years I stayed there. In fact, I wanted to be there the rest of my life until 1979 when I left the Church. I later sought counsel from distinguished men of God including Dr. Boyejuku and Dr. Kumuyi. I remember attending Monday Bible study at the University of Lagos in Kumuyi’s one flat. Deeper Life started from that flat. I bought and also listened to tapes and read books voraciously and finally, I inaugurated The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM).

How challenging was it when the vision of TREM commenced

There were a lot of challenges and questions. How do you raise your staff? How do you deal with staff issues? How do you survive? However, whenever God gives a vision, He will not tell you the details of the vision. He expects you to focus on the end of the vision because the end of the vision keeps propelling you. But, there is something inside of you that tells you that it would be better. And that keeps you going.

In specific terms now, what kind of Ministry were you called to run

I was called to emphasize the integrity of the word of God. We believe that, whatever the word of God cannot produce for you, the domain does not exist.

You do not have to break your head over it, because everything is in existence because of the word of God. So, we hold meticulously to God’s word. It will produce results, irrespective of what you are experiencing in the natural. So, we emphasize integrity and that there is no substitute; there is no cutting of corners.

What personal sacrifices has your calling demanded of you

I lost my first daughter in the course of preaching in 1984. She was two years plus and I just came back from a crusade in Abeokuta, on Christmas day. She joined the young people to preach and sing in the Church, only for her to develop fever at night. By the next morning, she was dead. I still went to preach in Bishop Moses of Overcomers- Church in Okota area, here in Lagos. I also lost my younger brother to the cold hands of death and learnt about it on arrival in the United States of America for a conference. He was shot by armed robbers but I still finished the conference. It was very traumatic and that led to the death of my father and subsequently, my mother.

These are the prices you pay in the Ministry; but I have to keep going.

What has kept you going

I did not set out on this calling by myself and I did not set out to look for benefits. As a matter of fact, whatever one gets in the Ministry today is by the grace of God. I am aware that Churches have now been set up for material gains but that is wrong.

Can you name some of your mentors and those whom you have also mentored

I have been mentored by people like Dr. Morris Cerullo, Kenneth Copeland, John Osteen and his son, Joel Osteen is also gifted. Each of them has had a remarkable influence in my life and in my search for knowledge; I have been blessed by their books, tapes and teachings. Dr. Cerullo gave me a scholarship and most Ministries in Nigeria in those days benefited from him. God has also used us to mentor Pastors like Taiwo Odukoya, Paul Adefarasin and some Redeemed Church Pastors.

Wherever I go to in any part of the world, some people would come and tell me that my Ministry taught them.

At what point did you meet your wife, Dr. Peace Okonkwo

We met in the Church in the UCC. She was there before me and got in under Scripture Union (SU). According to her, what drew her to UCC was because of the music they played. She came to listen to the music and started attending the Church. Scripture Union was very strong in those days, from the late 60’s to 70’s. We met as young people in the Youth Fellowship and took part in the Youth Drama during the period, but surprisingly, you would be shocked to hear that we were like cats and dogs. She saw me as one arrogant boy from Lagos who was busy driving his Father’s car. I found her very attractive but I did not have the courage to approach her. I was a very shy boy when it had to do with ladies.

Did she have an inkling

I could not say but all I knew was that we were like cats and dogs. I knew she had a very good relationship with my elder Sister here in Lagos. My Sister later told her of my interest and intention. But my parents tried to use her to make me abandon my calling, telling her that we would die in penury. In fact, my cousin specifically told her never to knock at his door for food since she could not stop me. She later travelled to the United Kingdom for four years and received a prophecy that her husband was in Nigeria and was on the verge of starting a Ministry. That kept her going and we have been married for over three decades.

What has kept the marriage alive, in spite of divorces amongst Ministers

There is no marriage in Heaven. Even if God calls someone your wife, you would still go through some challenges. The most important thing is, prayerfully ask God and be honest and sincere. I believe that God brought us together and no matter the challenges, the issue of divorce has never come my way. I have never lifted a finger against my wife. We could talk and quarrel and shout, especially years back, but we are now mature. We are able to dance as friends and talk over things. I do not agree with people who say they have never quarreled as man and wife, even identical twins quarrel! If I were to do it again, I would still marry my wife.

One cannot but wonder, with news of clerical divorces here and there, what exactly is the Bible's position on the issue of divorce. Have the standards changed and should we be worried

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I believe Nigeria will get better. There is a prophetic word over Nigeria. I believe time is coming when nations of the world will struggle for our green passport.

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We have business going into Politics and I believe that there is nothing wrong with that. We are where we are today because Christians have shied away from Political offices and the Churches have been playing the Ostrich over the years. If good people sit back and do nothing, then we will allow the enemy to take our place.

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ONE HAPPY FAMILY

Let me tell you my position and it is scriptural, God is against divorce and that is truth. God hates divorce and that should be the standard in any Church.

However, divorces do happen. But, it should be the first step. I believe that the Church should be carried along, since the Church was involved in the wedding. The Church must be involved in counseling and managing the crisis, if it happens.

However, if divorce occurs, the other person could be permitted to marry, most especially young people. Otherwise, that could lead to other sins being committed.

Will Nigeria ever get better, Sir and what is God telling you about Nigeria

I believe Nigeria will get better.

There is a prophetic word over Nigeria. I believe time is coming when nations of the world will struggle for our green passport. Nigeria is endowed and the Country is not an accident. There are Nigerians in most nations of the world.

Virtually every nation you will go in the world, you would see Nigerians; there is no accident with God. We have great potentials, and we should not kill ourselves over our potentials. I believe that there will come a time that God will say, ‘Time is up and let my agenda be uppermost in Nigeria.’ Pastor Tunde Bakare of the Latter Rain Assembly has come under a lot of stick for venturing into Politics. Sir, do you think Christians, and particularly, Pastors have any business going into Politics Dr. (Mrs.) Peace Okonkwo, Bishop Mike Okonkwo & their daughter, Uche Okonkwo

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The Okonkwos

We have business going into Politics and I believe that there is nothing wrong with that. We are where we are today because Christians have shied away from Political offices and the Churches have been playing the Ostrich over the years. If good people sit back and do nothing, then we will allow the enemy to take our place.

Why was Pastor Bakare not supported by his fellow Pastors when he contested

The only challenge I have with him, is that, he did not do his homework very well. You must have a constituency and belong to PFN or CAN. It does not mean that we all must agree in all areas but that association confers some responsibility on the group. If you are not a member of these two, it would be difficult supporting you.

You are a founding Father of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) as well as a past Vice President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). Do

256

you think these organisations still possess the level of influence required to call Nigeria's leaders to account and to bring about change in the society. Or are they propaganda tools in the hands of the Government

It is a lie, do not listen to all of that, all those things are just distractions. As for Ayo Oritsejafor, who is the current CAN President, he is a personal friend of mine. When you see Ayo from afar, you can misjudge him. I know what he passes through, sticking out his neck for what he should not stick out his neck for. His telephone lines are open 24hrs and he gets calls from everywhere. I do not know of any CAN President who has travelled, even to the interiors in Nigeria, than Ayo. I know personally that, there are certain areas that he has disagreed with President Jonathan.

When he came on board, he never had Jonathan’s telephone line and had to go through somebody to reach Jonathan,

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Dr. Peace Okonkwo

even as the CAN President. That is not to say that he is a saint, that he has not made some statements, but most of the things they are saying about him are not true.

What is the Nigeria of your dream

It is a Nigeria where you can go to any part of the Country and be seen as a Nigerian.

A Nigeria where you are qualified to run for an election without tribalism or sentiments; a Nigeria where electricity is working 24-7, a Nigeria where healthcare delivery is affordable to everybody, and not some few individuals going for medical check-up abroad. For me, those people should hide their faces in shame. I want a Nigeria where there are jobs as well as an enabling environment for commerce and business to thrive.

Tell us about Bishop Okonkwo, the man, Husband, Father and the you we do not see on our television screens

I am the same person. The person you see on the pulpit is the person you will see at home. At home, I am the husband to my wife and I remove the gown of Bishop and romance my wife. I am also the father to my child. I listen and play with them as a family and we continue bonding.

You do not look 68, Sir

Yeah, I know that age is just only a number. I said I will not fall apart, as long as God keeps increasing me in age. That is what I believe.

It appears you love Football, what Football club do you support

Manchester United.

We know there's a competition named after you (the Bishop Mike Okonkwo Football Cup). And in the final of that competition, you had some wise counsel for Coach Keshi for the Malawi game – perhaps, there's a footballer somewhere in you

I will say that probably, because of my interest in the game. I would not say I am a footballer but I love it when people play

tactically. So, I could always offer tips here and there.

What else interests you

I watch movies and I love action movies. I love to read magazines, newspapers and listen to music.

What is your kind of music

Christian Music and good Jazz music. Once the lyrics is good and there is music in it, I love to listen to it.

What legacies are you looking to leave behind when all is said and done

I have raised men and women who will impact their generations in different parts of the world. I do not want to leave any legacy; I want to die empty. Whatever is inside of me is meant for the people. It is not about leaving anything, because, whatever I am leaving, if there is no one to continue with it, it is not useful.

What role does Church have to play in leading the transformation of Nigeria, are we playing that role and will we ever see a Christian in Aso Rock

I think we have started. It took the Church a long time to believe they should be involved in politics.

The truth is that, the systemic structure in Nigeria, as it is now, can drown anybody, even a Christian.

This is why people change the minute they get Political offices and stop attending services. But now, we have begun the awareness, training and re-training. I believe that a born again Christian will one day emerge in Aso Rock. lively moment ce Okonkwo share a Bishop Mike & Dr. Pea

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Bishop Mike Okonkwo & his lovely wife, Peace

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Ovation’s Managing Editor, Segun Adebowale interviewing Bishop Mike Okonkwo

Exterior view of the The TREM Headquaters in Lagos, Nigeria

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ATORISE,

LANRE

TERIBA LAUNCHES NEW ALBUM,

HALLEUYAH Story: Funmilayo Adeyemi & Adebayo Rukayat Photo: Segun Lawal

Lanre Teriba aka Atorise

P

Lanre Teriba & K1 The Ultimate

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Lanre Teriba & Chief Ganiyu Adams

rominent Gospel musician Lanre Teriba, popularly known as Atorise, who has spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth and won souls for Christ with his sonorous voice, has launched a new album titled, Halleluyah as well as his own record label, Ltee Records. The album, which was released under the platform of foremost marketer, Bayowa Films and Records, is another promising effort from the gospel singer.

The album launch, which took place at Amador Suites, Sangotedo, Lekki Peninsula was compered by ace comedians, Akin Olagbade (popularly known as Arole Gbenga Adeboye) and Omo Jesu, both of whom sent the guests into fits of laughter with some

rib-aching jokes while scintillating music played in the background. The evening also witnessed a spectacular performance by a musical band, Dele Gold.

The conspicuous event kicked off with an opening prayer by Most Senior Evangelist Dele Ogundipe from Celestial Church of Christ, Genesis Parish, Alakuko, Agbado, Lagos.

Also, the star-studded event had Saheed Balogun, Idowu Phillips, Yomi Fash Lanso, Femi Branch, Adewale Elesho, Gbenga Adewusi, Alhaji Sulaimon Atawewe, Funke Adesiyan, Chief Gani Adams, Mc Oluomo, among others in attendance.

The event reached its crescendo, when the star of the show, Teriba was

Pastor Moses Kasali blessing Lanre Teriba

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Otunba Gani Adams, Mrs. Idowu Philips & Gbenga Adewusi

Steve Nwosu, Toyin Nwosu, Bimbo Osiegbu & Sanmi Olayinka

Femi Davies (right)

Aare Olanrewaju Yakub & Micky Kazzim

Princess Adenike Osinloye, Olawunmi Idris & Princess Shade Adeyemi

Lanre Teriba & Sulaimon Adio Atawewe

Segun Okeowo & Lanre Teriba

Temmy Hamzat, King Wasiu Marshal & MC Olu Omo

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Yomi Fash-Lanso & Femi Branch

MC Olu Omo & Hon. Bola Ilori

Shulammite, Lola, Gad & Toro

Nneka Ugbor, Blessing & Bolaji

Halima, Basirat, Iyabo Kaffo & Easy Lizzy

Abbey, Halima, Eva & Abolanle

Atorise with fans

called on stage to perform a track from the album titled, Olorun Iberu, after which the album was launched by Pastor Kasali, Gbenga Adewusi, Mc Oluomo, Pastor Dele Ogundipe, Otunba Gani Adams, amongst others.

Each of them contributed some funds to the development of his newlylaunched recording label.

Guests were later thrilled by Fuji music sensation, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal and an upcoming artiste, Brainchild. All the entertainment was complemented with luscious delicacies 262

and exotic drinks.

Teriba expressed his profound gratitude and appreciation to all the wonderful people that made the event a success. He also thanked his fans and non-fans alike, that without them, he is nothing.

Evangelist Lanre Teriba (better known as Atorise) was born about three decades ago to Mr. and Mrs. Oladimeji Teriba. After his Primary and Secondary education, he proceeded to the Federal Polytechnic, Offa in Kwara State, Nigeria.

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Oke Iyanu

C&S Church Celebrates

Annual Harvest

By Deji Aroloye

T

he annual harvest ceremony of the Oke Iyanu Cherubim & Seraphim Church, Dopemu in Lagos State was indeed a day of joy and merriment for the Church members and their guests who gathered to celebrate God’s manifold blessings in their lives.

It was also praises galore, as everyone sang and danced, as if there was a caveat: “If you do not dance, you are not welcome here.” But all was done to give thanks to the Lord whose mercies endure forever.

The event began with the singing of a hymn co-ordinated by the Choir Director followed by a series of prayers led by the Parish Pastor, Supt. (Prophet) Ajibode, with the loud responses, of

Abiodun Dorcas ,Akin Fasipe ,Toyin Maduewesi, Supt. Apostle Ajibode, Prophet (Dr.) Olatunji Talabi, Apostle Dele Taiwo & Evang. Odulabi

“Amen” from the congregation, almost splitting the roof. The praise and worship session was also quite thrilling as the choir dazzled worshippers with their melodic songs that permeated the church auditorium.

As the service progressed with all its excitement and fanfare, different personalities who made time to attend the special occasion were arriving at intervals to identify with the Church.

Some of the guests were magnanimous in offering praises to God and donations to the Church, including the Publisher of OVATION International Magazine, Bashorun Dele Momodu, who was represented by the Managing Editor of the magazine, Mr. Segun Congregation praying

Cherubim band on a parade

Hon. Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo, Iyalode Adunni Bankole & Olori Oyeniyi

Barr. Aisha Ademodi, Hon. Ola Oladugba & Barr. Abimbola Jack

Prophetess Tokunbo Backry & Modupe Johnson, a.k.a Fali

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Mrs. Farombi Toyin & Snr. Apostle Farombi Rebecca

Omobanke Olusoji & Gbenga Adepoju

Victoria Taiwo, S. Ajibode, & Prophetess Ajoke Akanmu

Supt. Ajibode, Mr. Segun Adebowale & Apostle Dele Taiwo

Adebowale. And they were given due recognition, which was done mostly by Special Apostle Dele Taiwo, a popular Juju music artiste and a prominent member of the Church. Apostle Dele Taiwo was everywhere to ensure things went as planned.

The climax of the event came when the guest Speaker, Prophet (Dr.) Olatunji Talabi mounted the pulpit for his sermon. Prophet Talabi who is also known as Baba Lesekese, is the General overseer of Evangelical Apostolic Church, Lagos. The man of God appreciated everyone that graced the occasion, exhorting them, that it was worthwhile to make oneself available in the house of God at all times. He charged the congregation to make it a habit to give thanks to God. From his sermon, he taught that praise is a

currency that moves God. He further stressed that it is important for one to be successful in life, but the pursuit of heaven should be the number one goal that drives one’s life. Prayers were offered to Jesus Christ who is seen as the Master of perfection, strength and transformation.

Everyone in attendance sang, danced and prayed, but that was not all.

Some families were called out for special thanksgiving as they brought food items such as bananas, oranges, coconuts and yams to the Church. The agricultural products signify that they have experienced different levels of fruitfulness in their businesses in the course of the year. At the end of the service, the worshippers wined and dined with elation and pleasure, basking in the goodness of the Lord.

Alhaja Badmus & Taiwo Temitope

Members of New Ages Band International

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Adewale Awotola

Dele Agbeyo, Mrs. Elizabeth Taiwo & Apostle Dele Taiwo

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Pastor

Dotun Ojelabi Launches Book,

The Eagle Personality Story: Deji Aroloye Photo: Solomon Ekhaiyemhe Tonye Cole, Chief Femi Pedro with (far right) Pastor & Mrs. Ojelabi

he Founder and Senior Pastor of Covenant Harvester Christian International Ministry, Pastor Dotun Ojelabi scored a double in his ministration career by launching a book and also releasing an album at the Agip Hall, Muson Centre, Lagos. The gifted man of God titled the book, “Eagle Personality : Volume 2’ while the album was tagged, ‘Wonders of His Worship’.

With copious examples, Pastor Ojelabi’s inspirational offering clearly highlights the positive traits of an Eagle and how humans can imbibe

T

them to live purposefully and win in the battles of life. Also, the nuggets in the book are highly beneficial to the youth, being veritable ingredients for them to be transformational agents in the society.

The special Guest of Honour at the event was the former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Femi Pedro, while the Chief Executive Officer of Laterna Books, Pastor Remi Morgan reviewed the book. According to Pastor Morgan, “The book encourages individuals to rise to their potentials which God has created them. It aims at igniting the fire

Pastor Wale Adefarasin

Pastor Wale Adefarasin, Mrs. Gbemi Shasore, Pastor Dotun & Mrs. Tutu Dotun

Pastor Wale Adefarasin, Mrs. Gbemi Shasore,Pastor Mrs. Tutu Ojelabi & Pastor Mrs. Adefarasin

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Ebenezer Obey

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Pastor Dotun Ojelabi & Mrs. Gbemi Shasore

Wole Oni

Tayo Wamilele with members of African praise house

in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges in life. “ The ceremony which was colourful and classy from the beginning to the end,was anchored by the talented Awesome Joshua.

Veteran Juju Artiste turned Evangelist and a close friend of the author, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey as well as other artistes including, Femi Micah, Tayo Wamilele, Shola Allyson, and Wole Oni thrilled the crowd that gathered at the event.

Some of the dignitaries that graced the occasion included the First Lady of Lagos State, Dame Ambibola Fashola who was represented by Gbemi Shasore, Publisher of Ovation International Magazine, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Chief Executive Officer, Sahara Group, Mr. Tonye Cole, Senior Pastor of Trinity House and his wife, Pastor and Mrs. Ben Itua, Barrister Kayode Sofola (SAN) and others.

Joshua Awesome

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Shola Allyson

Ebenezer Obey

Fikun Ojelabi

Femi Micah

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Kayode Sofola, SAN, Mrs. Darlin Sofola & Pastor (Mrs.) Peace Goodey

Lr: Pastor Moses Jackson, Wole Oni & guests

Prince & Mrs. Yinka Dunsin

Shola Allyson with Oladeji Esther

Chief (Mrs.) Adeshina Balogun with Mrs. Tayo Giwa

Pastor Ilesanmi Dowoni, with Pastor& Pastor (Mrs.) Kunle Oreoje

Jesuyami Oluwasani, Pastor Joseph with Pastor & Pastor Mrs. Jackson

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Pastor Wale Adefarasin

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with Pastor (Mrs.) Tutu Ojelabi

Pastor Wale Adefarasin, Pastor Dotun Ojelabi & Ebenezer Obey

Pastor Tutu Ojelabi, Pastor Dotun Ojelabi & Pastor Femi Oluwadare

Ebenezer Obey, Pastor Dotun Ojelabi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Femi Pedro, Pastor Dotun Ojelabi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Fikun Ojelabi with Pastor Dotun Ojelabi

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Book Review: Pastor Remi Morgan

Pastor & Mrs. Dotun Ojelabi with Pastor & Mrs. Ben Itua & family

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HOW TO GET

AHEAD

IN YOUR WORLD OF

KNOWLEDGE T

-PASTOR TOLA SEEDY

he fundamental desire of God is that we represent Him on this earth. As Christians, we practice the ways of God, live the life of God and as such, we should be shining lights, as God is. I believe that God takes no pleasure in seeing His children extol His name only in words but not in actions and positive results.

In the story of creation, God’s obvious intention was to make His replica on the earth and rule the

Knowing who you are, helps you know to why you are. It also helps you know who you are not. This is very important, because most of the sadness and depression that we face, is because we compare ourselves to other people.

God has wired strengths and weaknesses into everyone! The strengths are for us to take charge and be unique, while the weaknesses are for us to depend on Him. When we understand this, we will learn how to use our strengths and stop crying about our weaknesses but instead tossing them to God and accepting His help. world by him. A substantial part of His capacity was however lost when man sinned. This is what God meant when He told man he would die if he ate the fruit he was not permitted to eat – Gen 2:17.

This problem was however rectified by the coming of Jesus Christ through which man –upon repentance and by grace- receives God’s life and can assume His position on this earth. It is therefore a sad thing to God when He sees a child of His living a life short of the one He has planned for us through redemption.

In the coming editions, I will be writing on some of the ingredients necessary to get and stay ahead in this world. The first focus is KNOWLEDGE. There are three basic knowledge areas that are critical if anyone will enjoy lasting success on this earth. The first one is: KNOWLEDGE OF GOD The survival and success of any entity depends largely to its knowledge of and association with its Source. Regardless of whatever theories Science has propounded, the intrinsic value and make up of man is not physical. Man is essentially a spirit because it was the breathe of God (not just oxygen) that brought him life- Gen 2:7.

Being a Christian is more than being morally upright; it is being in sync with the provider of the new life you now live. Many Christians struggle because they do not know the God they serve nor do they know His word -Matthew 22:29. The lack of this knowledge makes it difficult to see things like He would (which is what we call faith) and act accordingly. The knowledge of God brings wisdom, faith, power and authority, without which, no one can enjoy a dominant life.

In Hosea 4:6, God regrettably revealed that, His people were perishing because of a lack of knowledge.

He further threatened to reject them, because they rejected knowledge. This shows how much value God places on knowledge, that He is not even willing to preserve His own people who lack it. There are too many church-goers who speak in tongues and dress in a solemn fashion but do not have a personal revelation of the God they serve. Such people therefore struggle to do the things of God and to stand above their peers, as they are already missing out on a powerful leverage.

A deep knowledge of God puts us in a position of authority and power, which is where a Christian ought to always be. Instead, there are many running from Church to Church being chased by demons. I imagine how sad God feels about this.

KNOWLEDGE OF OUR ENVIRONMENT Growing up in Christendom, I often heard the phrase, ‘heavenly minded and earthly useless’. This was supposed to be about religious people who claimed to be focused so much on heaven that they practically do not lift a finger to do anything meaningful on earth. As I grew older, I began to realize that, it is not possible for you to be haven bound, if you do not affect your world first – Matthew 5:13-16. By God’s design, anyone that is a Christian must make an impact here on earth, be looked up to by others and lead them to God. In my few years as a Pastor and Counselor , I have met many Christians who refuse to be professional at anything. If you are a Christian Lawyer, I believe you should be better than other Lawyers and make them look up to you. Same goes for any other field of human endeavour that a Christian is in.

All through the scriptures, I have noted that God only does for man, what He has not empowered man to do. A man of God once said, “God gave us brains so we can give Him rest.” Proverbs 11:9 says the righteous person will only be delivered through knowledge. Speaking in tongues does not give you the right to do a shoddy job. I will not engage you to work for me simply because you are born again. I have seen Christians gather to pray in their Churches from Monday to Friday, asking God to bless them, give them jobs, and make them rich. The question for me is, ‘How do you want Him to do that if you do not have the required skill, knowledge and expertise required for your desired job? All they have amassed instead is lots of hours in prayer.

For Christians who are struggling financially, I remind them that resources come to you when you meet peoples’ needs, know your environment, pick the needs around and meet them. The more you do this, the more valuable you get to people around you and the more power you have to negotiate. Knowing your God is not enough, knowing where He has put you is very important as well.

KNOWLEDGE OF YOURSELF The pitiable outcome of the first man and woman in the Bible is very instructive. In Genesis 1:26, God made them in His image and after His likeness; they were God in every way. However, in Genesis 3, Satan played on their lack of self-knowledge to deceive them. He said to the woman, “Eat the fruit and you will be like God”,offering the woman what she already had but did not know.

So many times, we have settled for less, struggled for what we are entitled to and in fact, chase the things that should chase us. I find that the average person only knows what is not good about them and nothing more. In my years of counseling, I have discovered that the most difficult questions for people are: Who are you? What is special about you? How best can you describe yourself? What do you want? And why do you want it?

Knowing who you are, helps you know to why you are. It also helps you know who you are not. This is very important, because most of the sadness and depression that we face, is because we compare ourselves to other people. God has wired strengths and weaknesses into everyone! The strengths are for us to take charge and be unique, while the weaknesses are for us to depend on Him. When we understand this, we will learn how to use our strengths and stop crying about our weaknesses but instead tossing them to God and accepting His help.

If I say Bill Gates does not know how to make jokes, it would not matter to anyone because the things we know he can make, he has made very well. Know yourself – your strengths and weakness, your purpose and the grace available to you.

Do not compare yourself to other people. Find out what you are good at, read books on discovery of purpose, pray to God to reveal purpose to you, ask yourself some important questions about yourself and tell yourself the truth. Also do online personality tests and read books on temperament. There is a world waiting to be conquered by you, as long as you have not wandered into some other world and gotten lost there.

God is counting on you!

If this article has blessed you, please relate with me on: tolaseedy@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/Tola Seedy

HIS PROFILE ‘Tola Seedy is a Teacher of God’s word with emphasis on emotional strength and healing i.e building internal capacity for external issues. He teaches that what is happening inside us controls what is happing outside.

A graduate of History and International Relations of the Lagos State University, ‘Tola uses humour and simplicity to teach in a way that will be clearly understood.

He is Associate Pastor with Daystar Christian Centre and a Facilitator at the Daystar Leadership Academy. ‘Tola regularly ministers to people across the nation. He is married with a child.

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LIVING ABOVE AVERAGE -2

PURPOSE

-Pastor TONY OLUKOYEDE learn from this mind. Yet, it is amazing to note that one thing that is missing in this generation is planning.

Let us examine what planning is all about.

PLANNING

O

ne of the principal keys to living above average is the ability not only to know why you are existing on this planet or the discovery of your assignment but the ability to create a detailed plan on how to get there. Your purpose is a destination made up of other little purposes. However, you must understand that your life’s span on Earth is limited. Therefore, you must plan, so that, you will maximize the moments in order to get to your purpose. Your purpose is not average; therefore people with average mindsets cannot get there. Your purpose is a masterpiece, which is accessible only to those who deserve to get it. Such people are the above average people, people who will settle for nothing but the best. Someone once said that the purpose of Jesus was to die; and in fact, He did it so well that, the whole world would never forget it. He died so well that even, Heaven stood at its feet for Him and hell trembles at the remembrance of its mistake. Jesus was and is an above average liver. His whole sojourn in the world was not an accident, but a well-crafted plan hatched by the master planner Himself. He planned the whole creation to magnificence. It is evident that the world is not accidental but a master-minded plot, far beyond the realm of this world and we ought to

Your level of influence today is based on your past plan.

Your influence tomorrow is based on your plans today. If you do not plan today, you are doomed tomorrow.

Planning is a function of what you can see or a glimpse of the future. It is the larger picture that brings the picture within the picture.

One cannot go forward in life, regardless of the enormity of resources in your hand without planning.

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Plan as though you will live (for) forever (because you will). Live as though you will die tomorrow (because you will die on some tomorrow).

Your level of influence today is based on your past plan. Your influence tomorrow is based on your plans today. If you do not plan today, you are doomed tomorrow. Planning is a function of what you can see or a glimpse of the future. It is the larger picture that brings the picture within the picture. One cannot go forward in life, regardless of the enormity of resources in your hand without planning.

Planning means capture information, re-organize, re-apply, engage, access, re-establish and process information. Planning deals with facts and figures, ideas and numbers. Success is a programmed event. A research was conducted on lottery winners, and it was discovered that majority of then end up being flat broke within a year. If you stumble at wealth, you will most definitely stumble out of it, but for one thing, a good plan.

Planning is the ability to process information to a productive end through your mind. Most information comes raw, void, without a shape. It is planning that gives shape. That information could be a dream, vision or an idea, but it will die as one; until you employ the help of planning to give it shape. Life is all about processes. It is easy to see this in nature; the inter-connectivity of nature is stupendous. From the great to the small, none can exist in isolation. Take for example, man breathes in Oxygen and breathes out Carbon dioxide which is what plant needs. The plants on the other hand, take our Carbon dioxide and releases Oxygen which gives us life. This is a product of a higher mind with the ability to plan to the minutest details. Be one too.

A plan is a little sketch upon which a dream is built. It is an arrangement for doing a thing. It is a detailed diagram of a dream. It is not enough to dream of a successful life, you need to put it to work.

Planning is the action plan of your dream. When you think of building a great financial empire, what are the things you need to do to get to that financial haven? Do you need to work hard, cultivate the habit of saving and careful spending? These are the things you need to sit down to plan for. There is no lasting success, wealth and riches, without a well-structured plan. Planning is a major pre-requisite to building wealth. Every great man plans his way to success.

There is a financial Eldorado (Spanish city of great riches), but without planning, you cannot get there.

Start planning for your tomorrow now. During the

course of your planning, you need to differentiate the long-term goals from the short-term goals. Then, segment your plans into hourly, daily, monthly, quarterly and yearly goals. Plan on papers; do not just plan in your mind. Let your plans be written in black and white. The Bible admonishes, “Write the vision, make it plain on papers, so that he that reads it may run with it.” Until you write it, no one will see it, until you make it plain and readable (a detailed plan, blueprint), nobody will run with it, including you. I do not want to waste my life on what is not clear to me nor do you want to do it. Some people already have a five-year or fifteen-year plan ready, while you still sleeping. A man once said that, a short pencil is better than a long memory. Write down your plans for that business, marriage, home, school, journey, seminar, month, year, finance, body, child, daily and constant improvement, etc.

Set goals for yourself and plan towards its achievement. A goal is a dream with a deadline. When your goals have deadlines, then you can evaluate your success. Do not deal with abstract or vague goals, but seeable and tangible ones. Planning gives you the ability to identify the things that will complement your targets in life. It will be easy to identify the people that fit into that dream of yours. It also makes it easy for people to identify the roles they can play in your life. Your success is tied to the plans you make.

Till next edition, stay on Purpose.

HIS PROLIFE Tony Olukoyede is the Senior Pastor of His Purpose Church and President of Purpose Power Int’l, an organization with a mandate to affect this generation positively and to raise an upwardly mobile and on-purpose generation.

He is a leader that has a strong commitment geared towards excellence and building a world of “ON PURPOSE” people. This he does through seminars, conferences and the media. He is an international motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, and also the Coordinator of Koinonia Ministerial Network, a body of over 200 gospel ministers. As a publisher, he is the CEO of Dreamland Information Publishing Ltd, and Purposetoday Network Ltd. With well over 21 bestselling book titles in his staple, he is also the lead facilitator of 4 Streams of Income Seminar, a Personal Finance Development Initiative. He is the Board Chairman of Purposetoday Investment Ltd, with an off shoot of what is now known as Purposetoday Investment Clubs.

He resides in Lagos with his wife, Folake Olukoyede a banker turned preacher and their four lovely children

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THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IN THE SOCIETY IS GODLESSNESSS

-IMAM ABDULRAHMAN AHMAD, HEAD, ANSARUD-DEEN SOCIETY OF NIGERIA Interview: Segun Adebowale Photo: Segun Lawal

T

he National Imam and Head of Mission of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Imam Abdulrahman Ahmad is a very soft-spoken cleric but beneath that demeanor, there is steel that cannot be ignored.

Imam Ahmad, who became the Head of the over 90 year old Society at the age of 45, is one who never minces words and in this interview with the Ovation Faith crew comprising , Managing Editor ,Segun Adebowale and Photo-Journalist, Segun Lawal, talked about Politics, Religion and other burning issues in the society.

Imam Ahmad, who has been holding forte at as the Society’s head for a decade, identified godlessness as the major challenge facing the society.

What do you do as Head of the Mission

I coordinate the spiritual part of the organization.

My responsibility is not only to lead prayers but also includes the overall planning of the spiritual education of the members by creating a conducive learning, teaching, preaching and charitable environment.

You got there around 2003

Exactly.

But you were not a member and yet, you became the Head of the Mission, is that not strange

It is not so strange. This is because Islam is one religion. Basically, what the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society does is what is done in the mainstream Islam. So, there is virtually no difference and I do not have any problem fitting in because there are no doctrinal differences that I would have to harmonize with.

Besides, there are no other differences that set anybody apart from members of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria. Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria is an organization established to promote education, inter-religious cooperation and harmony, economic empowerment of members and also carry out charitable works. This is basically what is done across the board in Islam and other religions. In

The world over today, religion is suspect and Godlessness is on the rise. People are questioning God over the usefulness of religion. I believe that is the greatest challenge facing religious people around the world. Ansaar-U-Deen Society of Nigeria is not insulated from it. Poverty is another very serious issue, not just material poverty, but the poverty of the human mind which is caused by the economic situation of the nation. People rush to houses of worship, not so much because they want but totality, I do notGod, feel strange andto out escape of place. from their difficulties.

So, you have been the Head of Mission for ten years Yes, it became ten years in July,2013.

Ten years down the line, how has it been piloting the affairs of the Mission

It has been tough and challenging especially, since Ansaar-U-Deen Society of Nigeria is probably one of the oldest Islamic organizations in Sub- Saharan Africa. I was barely 45 when I assumed the position and the society was about 80 years and it is 90 years old now. This tells you the profile of the society, in that there are many elders, who are set in their ways and understanding. There are also young people, from various backgrounds and educational levels. This is what I have had to deal with and I can tell you it has been also exciting because it is really a test of patience, understanding, courage and audacity as well

as organizational power. I must tell you that, despite the challenges, it has been very exciting.

What are your achievements in a decade

I do not know how to talk about achievements without talking about myself and I find it difficult to talk about myself because it would amount to blowing my trumpet which is against my calling. I think others would be in a better position to assess my achievements. The work of the ministry is not political, so you just do your bit and move on. But, I think that, we have been able to bridge the gap between the old school and the emerging school to create an understanding such that the new generation who have a lot of energy and new expertise can tap into the experience of the old to create a more virile society. This is still an on-going work but it is a march that has started and it is yielding dividends.

How easy was it for the elders to have accepted a young man of 45 to lead them

I must tell you that, it was their original decision.

They decided that, that was the kind of change they wanted and they were ready to extend cooperation. So, my task was made easier.

Did you compete for the position

I do not like to think of it as a competition. Yes, there were a number of us within and outside the society, and I was not within. By providence, the lot fell on me. So, I do not see it as a competition, though there were interviews and the rest, but it was not a competition.

Your challenges so far

The world over today, religion is suspect and Godlessness is on the rise. People are questioning God over the usefulness of religion. I believe that is the greatest challenge facing religious people around the world. Ansaar-U-Deen Society of Nigeria is not insulated from it. Poverty is another very serious 271

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We must understand the fundamental differences between religious experience and expression.

What we see most of the time is religious expression, people who adorn the toga of religion and speak the language of religion but are very ungodly.

God , Allah loves justice, fairness equity and his governance is just and fair. issue, not just material poverty, but the poverty of the human mind which is caused by the economic situation of the nation. People rush to houses of worship, not so much because they want God, but to escape from their difficulties. The third challenge is delivering the eternal message of God to a thoroughly secularized and materialistic set of people with a view to establishing the relevance of God in their lives. The fourth is couching religious messages in intelligible language that appeals to this ‘Coca-Cola’ generation, that is the set of people influenced and motivated by Rock ’n’ Roll, Jazz and Football (Laughter). This is one of the greatest challenges.

Another is the need for a society on the thresh-hold of its centenary anniversary to find relevance in modern challenges and overhaul itself to face the problems of now. The management of human absurdities is also a problem. Since the house God is not immune to politics, corruption and other negative human tendencies and it is my responsibility as the Head of Mission to call people back and explain to them that it pays to be steadfast in piety.

Do you think religious leaders are performing effectively their roles as watch dogs of the society

I think we must understand something first. There are claims of being religious leaders, but who are the real religious leaders? We must understand the fundamental differences between religious experience and expression. What we see most of the time is religious expression, people who adorn the toga of religion and speak the language of religion but are very ungodly. God , Allah loves justice, fairness equity and his governance is just and fair. Those who work for him cannot and must not possess qualities short of justice and fairness. We have apex religious organizations and individual religious leaders who have stood through thick and thin on the side of truth, good governance and justice and others who have been spokespersons of whoever is in power. These are issues that we need to understand before we dive into the role of religious leaders.

If you ask me, I think there are some religious leaders across the divide who are doing their best.

They are outspoken and contribute their quota to probity, integrity and good governance. They have spoken when they should and have acted when they are supposed to and they have remained true to their calling.

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Would it be out of place for religious leaders to contest for political offices

It is a very difficult question because there are individual religious leaders worthy of their calling and true to their convictions who could function well in elective offices, if they ever get elected. It is not often that the best candidate gets the job, since we are still grappling with the challenges of peoples’ votes really counting. Let us look at the party structure, because the parties in this country are founded and funders by the influential and others are the joiners.

The founders become virtual dictators. In short, the party becomes a clique. They have well -articulated interests and only those who fit into their ambitions can pass through the various checks built into the party structure. We still do not have a grassroots party formed by ordinary people and genuine stakeholders who may necessarily not be rich but have integrity and who will get nominated to stand for election.

Now tell me in this country, if a religious leader has not been accepted or seen as an accessory to the interests of founders and funders , how will he be nominated to contest for the election in the first place?

These factors militate against the interest of genuine people who want to run for political offices because the understanding is that, Politics is an investment and those who invest resources expect returns and they recruit people who will align with them and protect their interests. We have read in newspapers of aspirants and contestants being made to swear to oaths by god-fathers. If this is how it is in the political scene, how do you expect a religious leader or a person of integrity to be elected for an office?

What can we do to remedy the situation

I think it is evident from my analysis, that the first step to ensuring good governance is to critically review our philosophy of Political Party formation.

Now I tell you, even as members of the fourth Estate of the Realm, how much influence do you have in the

political structures of these parties? In the course of forming these parties, what was the input of the Media into that dying word called manifesto of political parties? These parties are cast in concrete, which means you have to fit in. There is little or nothing to do to re-align the forces. Firstly, we must work towards a truly people political parties, where the affairs of the parties are run by members who subscribe and not super funders. Two, we must ensure that critical stakeholders such as the Faith community majorly made up of Islam and Christianity, youth, women, traders and professionals begin to make inputs into the formation of Political Parties so that there would be a party that can be said to be of the people. Why is it that there is no independent candidature? Because it is believed that the party represents the people, but are you represented by a party? It is not just about challenging religious leaders into leaving their comfort zone because the truth is, they are better off there, else they are rubbished and they can still contribute from that comfort zone than jumping into the fray. Now, it is as bad as this, if you bring an angel from heaven into Nigeria’s political scene, that angel would learn the art of falsehood and corruption.

You led some protests by some group of clerics to protest against the hike in fuel price, what led to the protest and will you do it again

Firstly, I was not a lone voice. We were a group of Muslim scholars. It is important to understand that we are Nigerians and we are stakeholders, critical ones at that. Being scholars is an additional challenge to stand up for the truth at all times and to be seen to stand for the truth. The cleric is not a rabid protester and it is unlikely you will find a cleric as a protester of some sort. We have tried everything possible to get across to the powers that be. If that fails, then we owe a duty to inform the powers that they do not have absolute power. After all, we elected them on a mandate. What are the functions of the government?

First, government exists to provide a technique for

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to learn. My mother was learned and she taught me to read and write. She was stricter than my father and she did not allow me think that, being a precious child was a big deal. Often, I doubted if they were my parents. I did not have time to play. When I out grew learning indoors, I had to enroll in an Islamic school.

Then I would have to wake up early and go to school when the others were asleep. This was how I started my life. My mother did not live long though. It was like she had seen it and was preparing me for that independence. So, I learnt independence early in life, since I had to go through everything on my own, under what I thought was wicked supervision of my father. The only thing they wanted for me was to become an Islamic scholar.

Then why did you read Mass Communication

peaceful change. If people no longer want you, leave peacefully. Two, to enable competing demands be satisfied on the widest scale. We are Nigerians, what do we enjoy? Do we have rights? In the face of oppression, do we fold our hands? Let me tell you, it is the religious leaders that feel the brunt of economic hardship.

How

They come to us in times of hardship, for jobs, assistance and yet, we are not politicians. So, we feel the brunt of bad governance. Some people believe that, as soon as we pray, manna will fall from Heaven.

Because of all these, we have to be part of the people.

We have been part of them from the beginning, I mean, we have done background works and since these works

have not yielded fruits, we have to let the world know that we are still part of the people.

Take us 45 years down the line, what are the progressions in your life

I am the youngest in my family and looking back now, I have every reason to give glory to Allah. My father had me when he was in his 70’s and at a time he had given up. In a way, I was a precious child and a late comer. Since I was the last, you would expect some natural bonding, but that was very theoretical.

Although we bonded, I never enjoyed all that came with being a precious child. The man was so strict, with me especially. He showed me there was a difference between loving a child and bringing up a child to be responsible. So, I started very early in life

It is a long story though. At a point in my life, I realized new sides of my father. Strangely, he believed in all round education, Western education included. Though, he insisted I had to be grounded in Islamic education first. Then, he would tell me that, anybody who had Islamic education without Western education was partially psycho. He had Islamic education but no Western Education, although he could read Yoruba, a feat he accomplished on his own.

Where are you from

I am from Ilorin. He was able to read Yoruba and I remember he used to buy a daily Newspaper Irawo Owuro then, before I learnt to read. And when I could read well, he would buy Daily Times and New Nigeria every day and he would make me read to him every day. He used to listen to Radio avidly and he was very current. I never knew he was monitoring me to ascertain if Icould actually read or if I was faking it by buying newspapers for me. Later, I changed to Concord and Guardian. Perhaps, this was what formed my background.

It has been nice talking to you, Sir.

Thank you.

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AT THE

JOURNEY BEGINS BROADWAY MUSICAL CONCERT Story: Sokeye Kehinde Photo: Solomon Ekhaiyemhe#

N

igerian Gospel music star, Tim Godfrey and crew, Republic of Xtreme (ROX) staged the first of its kind Gospel Broadway drama and musical concert at the Shell Hall of the Musical Society of Nigeria (Muson) Centre, Lagos, tagged, “The Journey Begins.”

The event was a

combination of Broadway drama and a musical concert integrated into one seamless spectacle. It was was borne out of the need to inspire a generation of young Nigerians to take up responsibility and avoid using life’s numerous vicissitudes as excuses for apathy and failures.

Directed by Joseph

Chinonso Young, Ibukun Blessing,Blessing Okocha & Femi Jacob

Tim Godfrey

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Nkem Umeze, Lothano Amba & Dr. Eloka Umeh

Koffi with Owen Gee

Owen Gee, Julius Agwu & Steve Onu (Yaw) & M.C. Abbey

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Lapacious Bose

Ofili, the event opened up with stories of six individuals confronted by similar challenges in a court room setting. The audience followed the trajectory of each character’s peculiar dilemma, leading to a thought provoking resolution, before climaxing into a high energy musical performance.

An exciting and

experienced cast included, Nollywood actors Joseph Benjamin and Femi Jacobs; Comedians Julius Agwu, Lepacious Bose, Yaw and Akpororo along with Musicians such as Banky W, Tim Godfrey and Rox. Those who gathered at the hall to witness the exceptional theatrical performance left with many memories to cherish.

Chioma Odimba

Banky W

Owen Gee, Julius Agwu & Steve Onu (Yaw)

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Alex Igbape,Tolu Idowu, Anietie Bature, Kingsley Bature, Dupe Olatimehin & Agape Akinniyi

Ekanem Eta, Virgil Adjonyo, Sonia Obiajulu & Mrs. Moronke Williams

Doyin with Ali

Judy, Lily & Sola

Funke Onadeko, Alueam Ivory & Uche Anajemba

Evelyn Oguamanam, Rita Eke Opara, Frank Eke Opara & Uche Oguamanam

Temi Idowu with Mofe Aransiola

Pastor Dele Balogun with Ikia

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Sabina (Naija FM), Lamboginny, OTB (Naija FM), Ushebe ,Akposome & Andrianna

Mrs. Moyo Owen Gee with Mrs. Fola

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HELP! KELECHI UHEGWU WANTS TO WALK Interview: Deji Aroloye Photo: Personal album

t birth, Miss Kelechi Uhegwu was born without any form of physical disability until she was struck by Poliomyelitis. She was a year old when the sad incident that has largely confined her to the wheelchair occurred.

Despite the untold hardships this predicament has placed on her, Miss Uhegwu who clocked 30 this year, is doggedly forging ahead in life and even daring to record some successes.

In this interview with OVATION's Reporter, Deji Aroloye, she bears her mind on the struggles and how she has been pursuing her goals over the years without focusing on the odds against her.

Now, she desires to walk unaided, because her doctor had told her a spinal surgery can be done to correct the defect. She is passionately appealing to organisations and individuals to contribute funds towards her medical operation.

A

Good afternoon, can we meet you

I am Miss Kelechi Ruth Uhegwu from Ariam Ala in Ikwuanor Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria . I was born on the 14th of January, 1984 and I am the eldest of three children. I had my Primary Education at Mictec International School in Ojota, Lagos and at Holy Child International School in Satellite town. I had my Secondary School at Navy Town Secondary School in Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos.

How has the journey of life been, despite the fact that you are living with disability

A little after my first birthday, my parents traveled to Lagos, leaving me with my grand mum in Agbor. I fell ill and was admitted into the General Hospital, Agbor in Delta State where I was misdiagnosed by the doctors and treated for malaria and measles. I was injected for some days and this led to pains in my legs after which I could stand but was unable to walk. After a while, I could not walk anymore. I had Poliomyelitis.

In an interview you granted a newspaper, you said 'Polio has limited my movement, but has not limited the person in me.' Has this saying any way affected your disposition to life

You are right. It is an expression I love to use. I had to pull myself through life, despite all the difficulties that are associated with disabilities in Nigeria. I learnt how to walk with leg braces and crutches. While growing up, all my life was spent in school, home, church and the hospital. At school, I played like every other kid. I had my fair share of being bullied too. At home, I could play with my younger brother, but was over-protected by my parents. I was not allowed to play outside with other kids because my caring parents thought I was fragile.

But like the adventurous person that I am, when my parents went out, I would device a way to get out of the house with my younger brother to play with other kids, even with the knowledge of the punishment that awaited me.

Tell us about your life in the University

I bagged a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology from the University of Lagos in 2008 but my entry into the University was a miracle. I had battled with UME (University Matriculation Exam) for two years because I thought I put in my all which was not good enough to get me an admission. So, I struggled and obtained a Diploma form in the University of Lagos

My doctors told me that they had done their own part, that it was time for me to undergo a corrective Surgery. So, I survive on pain relief medication to help me cope with the pains, while I prepare for the Surgery.

The Surgery is to help straighten my spine and to give me an opportunity to walk unaided again. It costs about £47,000, which is far more than what I can afford as an individual considering my present financial status. and channeled my whole energy into the entrance examination and passed it. Another challenge was transportation to the University from my home in Satellite town to Akoka where it is located because Diploma students were not given accommodation in the University.

Being the very optimistic person that I am, I took the risk of waking up every morning without a dime and then I would get a ride by strangers for half my journey or directly to the University. I met the Deputy Vice Chancellor to tell him about my challenges.

When he saw me, he was pleased with my zeal to be educated, despite my physical and financial challenges and he gave me an approval to write the final exam. I eventually wrote the exam and came out with good grades with which I gained admission by Direct Entry to study a Degree course in Zoology and my tuition was erased.

Did you find it difficult moving around the campus for your academic activities

My everyday experience in the University was so tough, as my classes were held on the third floor and underground at the Faculty of Science. I could not go for all the classes because my human energy could not carry me. So, I either stayed for all the lectures that would be held on the third floor or downstairs throughout a day. I could not shuffle going for classes and my grades suffered eventually.

Can you share with us a life-changing experience you have had

A life changing experience was when one of my friends ,Jane Ogbe, wrote a story about me and I was nominated for the ‘Survival Against All Odds' Awards, by the Aart of Life Foundation in 2006. It was featured on-air, people voted for me and it was really an exhilarating feeling. I emerged as the 1st Runner up eventually. That singular experience helped me become a stronger person, because people kept stopping me to say they watched the programme and they were inspired by my story. I felt good that I was an inspiration to some people.

When was your lowest moment all through these years

My lowest moment was on the 8th of March, 2000 when my dad passed on from Renal failure. It was the final year of my Secondary school and that was when I understood the meaning of the word ‘Responsibility.’ Even now, my Mum has been bedridden for over three years as a result of complications from Pott's disease.

Have you been rejected one time or the other because of your condition

Well, people relate with you based on how you present yourself to them. Your look and the aura around you speak a lot. When you are a cheerful person who dresses neatly and talk intelligently, you attract people with positive energy. So, people relate with me 'as a person' rather than 'as a challenged person'.

Despite the pains, who are the people that have been helpful

I draw my strength basically from God. Family members, friends and even people, I do not know have been very supportive. I meet people who have encouraged me and shared the word of hope with me, just like meeting you today has done for me.

How do you keep the fire burning

Besides being a Laboratory Scientist, I love Art and I express it through Make -up and writing Poems.

I love to read books, listen to good music, and invite friends around. That is what I do to keep the fire burning. I also encourage my friends with any form of disability to stay strong, look good, smell good, surround themselves with positive people, dream big, take a leap and every of our dreams will be achieved.

Tell us about your constant visits to the hospital

I was always in the hospital and it was extremely painful. I had my treatment at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and National Orthopedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos. The experiences were not interesting ones and sometimes, they made me 277

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I want people from different walks of life to come to my aid.

I am using this platform to reach out to all Nigerians, government, politicians, organisations and people with a heart of gold to come to my aid by sending in their donations for my Spinal Surgery. become unnecessarily quiet. When I was much younger, my doctors used to tell my parents that I was going to undergo Spinal Surgery. I did not understand what they meant at that time. I did go for Physiotherapy, especially when I had spinal pains and got better. But it got worse later in spite of the Physiotherapy. My doctors told me that they had done their own part, that it was time for me to undergo a corrective Surgery. So, I survive on pain relief medication to help me cope with the pains, while I prepare for the Surgery.

Can you talk more on the Spinal Surgery to be done

Late Dr. Adebola Bailey (Consultant Surgeon) of the National Orthopedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos referred me to Dr. J.K. Webb of the Queens Medical Centre, Centre for Spinal Studies and Surgery, Nottingham, England where I could undergo corrective Surgery. After my doctor passed on, I still stayed in touch with Dr. Webb. The reason my doctor , Dr. Bailey, referred me to Dr. Webb in England was because he had reviewed my case and worked with the hospital in England for a while and especially, because it is a school that specialises on Spinal Surgeries. The Surgery is to help straighten my spine and to give me an opportunity to walk unaided again.

It costs about ÂŁ47,000, which is far more than what I can afford as an individual considering my present financial status.

Do you find it difficult to reach out to clients because of your condition

I worked as a Lab Scientist for one year with the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) Lagos during my National Service Year in 2010/2011 and I concluded that I could not be a Lab Scientist anymore because of my physical disability. So, I focused on being self employed as a Make-up artist as I was beginning to feel worse on my spine. I use my own face as my own form of exhibition, when people see me, they tell me they like my make-up, ask about it and I tell them, I could give their faces that touch. Sometimes, I ask my clients come to my abode to have their make-up done.

It is not very convenient for some potential clients, especially brides. So, I live one day at a time, with the little that I am able to get. After my Surgery, I would like to focus on my Make-up career, doing make-up for events and having seasonal make-up training sessions for young entrepreneurs. A lot of people are not aware of how beautiful they truly are, if they applied make-up rightly. I love the smiles and looks of satisfaction on my clients’ faces when I give them a touch with my brushes.

What are the complications from Scoliosis

I honestly do need the Surgery as early as possible. I already have unleveled shoulders, prominent ribs, uneven hips, a shift of the waist and trunk to the side and an upper spine twist which has resulted to Kyphosis and gives me back pain. If I do not have the surgery done early, lung and heart damage may result in severe Scoliosis, the rib cage may press against my lungs and heart, making it more difficult to breathe and hard for my heart to pump.

Talking about the fund raising, what have been your efforts so far and their results

I have been doing public fund raising and using the Social networks like Blackberry, Twitter, Facebook, You-tube as well as Television, Radio, Newspaper and here are some links. These social networks gave more awareness about my challenge, but not much people donated financially. So, on May 26th, 2013 ,through the help of my childhood friend, Sound Sultan, Kcee, Solid Star, Nikky Laoye, Harrysong, and a couple of artistes, a fund raising concert was organised for me and we invested the money I had raised. During the concert, much money was not gotten from the concert, but it was fun because it helped to create awareness.

It seems that only entertainment practitioners are the ones supporting you

Not really, I want people from different walks of life to come to my aid. I am using 278

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Kelechi with Mike Laoye

this platform to reach out to all Nigerians, government, politicians, organisations and people with a heart of gold to come to my aid by sending in their donations for my Spinal Surgery.

Some well-meaning Nigerians are apprehensive when it comes to giving to worthy causes like this. What will you tell them to know that you are genuine

In life, you will meet different kinds of people. It is a shame that some people have soiled the road others are going to pass through. At every level in life, you get to meet cheats and you also meet genuine people. It is just like a relationship, if you have been heartbroken, it does not stop you from going into another relationship which may turn out better than the previous one. You can only know, when you try. This is an opportunity to try giving to a soul in need and you would be glad you did.

It seems your greatest desire is to walk. How will it help in your pursuits and expectations in life

Yes, the Surgery is also going to give me an

Kelechi with Sound Sultan

opportunity to walk unaided apart from the correction of the spine. I have been an inspiration to people but will be an inspirational speaker to encourage people after the surgery is done. The fact that people will see hope in the horizon once again when I talk with them would be the greatest thing worth living for.

Why do you want people to be part of the Help Kelechi Walk project

I am someone who has gone through the rigours of life and I have come out stronger, somehow. I believe that if more is invested in me positively, I would be a better person and I would be able to give out more to the people around me and the world at large. I am still very positive, that with time and financial support from caring hearts of the world, I would have my surgery done and be relieved of pains, especially. That is why I am appealing once again to the wonderful people in Nigeria to come to my aid. It does not matter

Kelechi with Sound Sultan

how little, it will go a long way to make a difference in my life.

Note:

You can reach Kelechi Uhegwu through the contact below: Mobile number : 08034252974.

E-mail address : kelechiuhegwu@yahoo.com Twitter: @helpkelechiwalk, @Qelechee Bank Details: Uhegwu Kelechi Ruth Guaranty Trust Bank(GTB); 0128207621(Current Account) 0137901905(Domiciliary Account($) 0008250589(Savings Account)

Kelechi with Kcee & Harry Song

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ALL HAIL THE NEW QUEEN MOTHER OF AKWAMUFIE, PRINCESS ADELAIDE OFORI Story: Michael Effiong Photo: Ben Dzakah

ulture, colour, and the whole gamut of the traditions of Akwamufie, a community located by the edge of the Volta River came to the fore when elegant city buisnesswoman, Princess Adelaide Ofori was installed as the Osomanyawa Bekai (Queen Mother )of the town.

In deed throughout the ceremonies, the town located 88km from Ghana's capital, Accra literarily stood still as the old and young all came out to witness the grand occasion.

The new Queen Mother, who was installed at

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a lavish ceremony in the Palace by the present Omanhene, Odeneho Kwafo Akoto II, is blueblooded through both her parents.

Princess Ofori was born on December 21, 1950 into the Bekai Royal House of Akwamufie and the 700-year old Ofori Panin Dynasty of Akyem Abuakwa Ghana. She left Ghana four years after she was born to England to join her parents who had gone for studies.

She had all her education in England. Later, she worked for companies like Rank Xerox, Sun Life

Insurance of Canada and DAK Simpson of England. At DAK Simpson, she was Personal Assistant to the Managing Director.

She returned to Ghana in 1972 and was employed by Aryton Drug Manaufacturing Comapny as Personal Assistant to the MD. In 1973 she moved to Brian Munro Ltd, while there, she took a Course in Marketing at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Adminsitration (GIMPA). Through a dint of hardwork at the age of 25, she rose to become an Executive Director at

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THE INSTALLATION

Dr. Biola Mohammed, Nana Safoa, Mrs. Larler & Mrs. Funke Akinyanju

Nana Masi (Sanahene), Nana Safoa, Michael Willinton, Mrs. Mary Bondzie & Alex Vanboder

Dancers

Installation Committee

Queen Mother, Adelaide Ofori(Nana Safoa II) with elders

Drumers

Nana Safoa II

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Nana Safoa with family

Pouring of libation

The march through the town

Nana Ansah with Nana Safoa II

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The Queen Mother during one of the traditional rites

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Toke & Mofe (Nana’s children)

Queen Mother, Princess Adelaide Ofori

Mr & Mrs Kyeremanteng

Fifi Ofori Atta & Baffour Gyimah

Yenusi Adowo, Dr. Biola Mohammed & Funke Akinyanju

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Theresa Twum Baomah

Nana Afrakoma’s children

Nana Adjoa & Grace Bekai

Edmina,Sara & Afua Amofah

Junior & Mrs. Kyeremanteng

Owuraku Amofah & Nana Dokuaa, Prince Nuamah

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Nana Dokuaa & friend

Nana Afrakuma

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THANKSGIVING SERVICE

Nana Dokua & Nana Safoa II

Nana Safoa II

Majory Abdin, Tanya & Joyce Ademola

The Ademilus

The Queen Mother’s children: Toke & Mofe

Mrs. Ademilu & Mrs. Yemisi Adowo

Vicky Ademole & son

Angela Knight & Norkor Amartefio

Mr. Edward & Mrs.Grace Gerber, Ama & Kofi Duncan

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Damian & Sienna Duncan

Damian Duncan, Nana’s son

Mrs. Mary Bondzie

Mrs. Theresa Goka

Edwina

Friend

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Mrs. Saa Duncan

Ms. Akuffo

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Paulina, Josephine & Prince Nnanah

Family taking communion

Ama Danquah & Vida Darko

Mrs. Klufio & Genevieve

Aunty Wendy, Aunty Mary Bondzie & Toke

Nana Safoa, Nana Yaa & Alfred Walker

Dr. & Mrs. Issa Egala

Baaba Banda, Franka Akosa & Kyei Luizzy

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Ama Duncan

Kofi Duncan

Lucy Lamptey

Brian Munro (Ghana) Ltd. During the Acheampong Regime, she obtained the first one million dollars inport license for Brian Munro to import rice to Ghana. She worked in conjunction of the Ghana Food Distribution Corporation and Rivana Rice Company in Houston, Texas.

In 1977, she formed her own company, Dachel and Company and acted as Manufacturer's Representative for popular world brands. She moved to Nigeria in 1982 and registered Dachel & Co Nigeria Ltd which opened a factory in Lagos to produce pasta and spaghetti. The company also traded in spices and other imported products.

The company was involved in importing Kente cloth to Nigeria. As demand grew, she decided to produce Kente in Nigeria. She started researching and developing other methods of weaving, using different yarns and mettalic fibres to give her new product some uniqueness and this gave birth to her invention KENTE-OKE-a mixture of Kente and Aso-Oke. This fabric was so popular that it impacted so much on the community.

In 1999, she went back to live in England, while there she established, Dachel UK and opened a shop called African Majesty in the heart of London's Kensington Olympia from where she introduced and sold her Kente-Oke Products. Princess Adelaide promoted Nigeria, Ghana and indeed Africa at many international exhibitions with her product.

Esther Lokko

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Awuradjoa, Nana Safoa & Sarah

Nana Safoa & Nana Yaa

The New Queen mother who has four children and two grandchildren decided to take this responsibility as her way of giving back and helping to develop the land of her forebears.

Days after the elaborate ceremony, we had this engaging interview with Nana Sofoa II Princess Adelaide Ofori...

Congratulations on your installation. What is the role of a Queen mother

As a Queen Mother, You are in charge of the community and the people. You are more like the leader of the people and you have to take responsibility of what happens in the traditional area.

In terms of the output of the day, the social amenities for the people in the area; education, hospitals and schools. You have to help to uplift the people.

Are you from that particular town

Yes, my great great grand mother was a sister to the King in that town. She later married and moved with her husband to Agbomosu and then her daughter married and moved on and her daughter also married and moved to Akyem Abuakwa, where we were born.

From my maternal inheritance we are from Akwamufie.

When you were chosen what did the King tell you led to his decision in making you the Queen mother

It is the choice of the family and not the choice of the King. The king himself died and my mother was the ruling Queen mother before she died. When she

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RECEPTION

Nana Safoa & Mrs. Edwina Banda

Kyei Mizzy & Nana Safoa II

died, the family came back to choose somebody to come and lead them and the family chose me as the Queen.

So, when they approached you what was the reason they gave for your appointment, because I am sure you are not the only maternal great grand daughter from the family

Well, my mother obviously had seen something, because I think my mother had spoken to them about the possibility that I might be able to take that position. And I think that when they looked further into it maybe because, of my education, experience in life, my age and ability to deliver what they thought the people would need. So, when they looked at all the candidates I suppose they felt I was the most suitable.

I do not know, I think that is what happened.

I know you to be an urbane, city woman, how would you be able to play that role of mixing that life with the traditional roles your new position demands

Not only am I a big city woman, I also grew up in England. I went to England when I was four then I came back to Africa after I was 22 or so. So, all my education and upbringing is from England. Then, I lived in Nigeria for 25 years and back here. But despite the fact that I did not grow up here in terms of leadership role and understanding our traditions, I have no problems with that at all. It is something that

Osei Bonsu & Nana Safoa II

we were born with and my parents taught us from a very young age that we are from the royal family. We grew up knowing our culture. From a very young age you do have to listen to the drum, you have to learn how to dance , you have to learn how to dress for ceremonial occasions, you have to know the history of your family; the wars; the warriors and the rest of it.

So, we were not 'Oyiboish' (Laughs) in our upbringing, we were made to understand that our culture was at par with the British. There is a lot of rich traditions and cultures in Africa.

After all my experiences and travels and the people that I have met, I think the best thing I can be is being a true African. That is why I find it possible to take on the traditional role and I hope that from my experiences; I would be able to contribute something which will enhance what we already have as Africans.

May be, fine tune here and there.

Interestingly I know that you are blue-blooded even from your paternal side, so this is like a piece of cake for you like you just mentioned

It is not really a piece of cake, because when you grow up you imbibe other ideas and views. What made it possible for me to say yes is, because I am a Christian. I have been to the seminary and I have a diploma in Theology and my main concern was the religious aspect of it all like; worshiping some fetish

Nana & Nana Safoa

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Gloria Osei Bonsu & Joyce Ademola

Genivieve Olympio

Nana Safoa & Mrs. Fanny Egala

Nana Safoa, Awuraku Amofah & Afua AmofahMrs. with Esther Obetsebi-Lamptey

Awuraku Amofah

Juaben Senah

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Nana Safoa II & grandchildren

Christiana Kassab & Sara Duncan

Madam Barbara Gbedema

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Belinda & friends

Otimaa Tandoh

god or something of that sort.

I was actually coming to that, so tell me, what will happen to all those incantations, pouring of libations and the rest of it

Well, we are not worshiping any fetish idol or any other thing. African worship is based on the worship of God and African religion is also based on God, because with all the incantations they always start with God Almighty. In the Christian religion, we have Jesus as the ultimate intercessor but, in the Catholic and other religions they have the; Saint Paul and Virgin Mary. These people are supposed to be good people who have died and canonized to become saints in the Christian household. Likewise, we too have intercessors who are our great rulers, who have gone before us like; Nana Dokua Ofeibea. So, these are the intercessors. Though some may call it "Ancestor worship." It is not that we are worshiping our ancestors, we are requesting our ancestors to intercede on our behalf with God so, that while they are there with God they can look after us and oversee the things that we are doing here.

So, it is not too different from the worshiping of God, just that, instead of using white saints we are using our ancestors who have gone before us-whom we also feel have been canonized, because they have been great rulers who have gone before us. So, we are

praying to God through our ancestors. The only little difference is that, we are still using Old Testament forms of worship, like the sort of worship that the Jews adopted like; candles, incense, using certain leaves for purification and the rest of all. What we just have to come to terms with is that, if we believe the good news of Christ that Christ is God that he has come to make that final sacrifice then we can move away from the slaughtering, from the purification etc. That is really Old Testament activity but, so far as we are still worshiping God the Almighty-then there is nothing wrong trying to combine my Christian beliefs with my African traditional religion So, do you have to dress in a particular way anywhere you go or it is only ceremonial

As a Queen mother, I would have to dress formally. If I am going for a formal occasion definitely I would have to dress in my full regalia, but of course if I am going out for a private dinner with friends-I could get away with not being so formal.

So, that means that you have obviously changed your wardrobe

(Laughs) It is changing. Well, formally it changed for everyday affairs, but I think you can have the best of both. You can be yourself when are at home and then when you have to go represent your people, then you go formally.

has still you and

Nana Safoa II & Mr.& Mrs. Kyeremanteng

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Toke, Nana Safoa & Mrs.Wendy Kyeremanteng

Baaba Banda, Francis Kyeremanteng & Kyei Mizz

Kyei Mizzy, Nana Safoa II,Baaba Banda & Mrs.Wendy Kyeremanteng

Nana Safoa II, Laila Saint Mattew Deniels & Nana Dokua

Nana Dokua, Nana Safoa Mrs.Yemisi Adowo & Mrs.Laila St. Mattew Daniels

Mrs. Rhodaline Baffour Gyimah, Nana Safoa, Nana Dokuaa, Mary Bondzie & Juaben

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Mrs. Rhodaline Baffour Gyimah, Nana Safoa, Nana Dokuaa, Mary Bondzie with Esther Lokko

Mrs. Rhodaline Baffour Gyimah, Nana Safoa, Nana Dokuaa with Khaddy & Vida Darko

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Funke Akinyaju, Mrs.Ayo Ademilu, Dr.Biola Mohammed, Nana Safoa, Laila & Mrs.Mary Bondzie

Majory Abdin Nana Safoa. Nana Dokua,Tanya Abdin & Mrs. Ayo Ademilu

Stella Appenteng, Sheila Akuffo, Nana Dokua & Nana Safoa

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Mrs. Esther Obetsebi Lamptey, Diana I eccosou, Stella Appenteng, Nana Safoa,Nana Dokua & Mrs. Rhodaline Baffour Gyimah

Gloria Adusei, Nana Safoa & Nana Dokua

Bola Rosiji & Toke

Kofi Dokyee,Yeboah, Nana Safoa & Nana Dokua There is no way I would leave without asking you about 'Kente Oke' do you still make those fabrics

Yes, I am still making Kente Oke and if you look at my pictures most of my formal wears are Kente Oke, instead of using the big wrappers I use Kente Oke for my big covers when I go out.

So, I now wrap it instead of making it into clothing.

So, what has happened to that your unique creation

We are still working on it, we work in conjunction with international designers like Koshibah, who uses it to create clothes for London Fashion with guestsKofi Dokyee,Yeboah, Nana Safoa, Nana Dokua

P aulina, Sophie & Josephine

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Week, American Fashion Week. We also have customers who order from our different designers and they use it to create wedding dresses, bridesmaid’s gowns, traditional African engagement and weddings. We are still working on it. We custom make, we work to order.

So, we supply our customers in South Africa, Nigeria, some in America, some in London and different places. We are still working, but it is just that unlike London, we have a showroom where you can come and order but, we do not have a retail shop here in Ghana. But we are still very busy.

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Ama Boatemaa & Rosie

Nana Safoa & Nana Ansah Prem

Laila St. Mattew Deniels & Mrs. Sara Duncan

Mrs. Mary Bondzie, Sara Duncan, Nana Safoa & Mrs. Christiana Kassab

Iris Tagoe & friend

KG Osei Bonsu

Susanna Mitchel & Gifty Osei Bonsu with guests

Mrs. Mary Bondzie,Aunty Wendy,Toke & Nana Safoa II

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THE AKWASIDAE

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Nana Safoa & Mame Boatemaa

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Nana Safoa & Gyasehene (Nana Akon)

Nana Safoa & Min.for tourism Hon. Dzifa Gomashie

Otimaa Tandoh For people of Akwamufie, what should they expect from their new Queen mother

(Laughs) A lot of hard work from everybody, because at the moment, we have a very beautiful township which is on the edge of the Volta River and it is open to the best tourism I think for West Africa and even Ghana. This is because, it is suitable for boat clubs, yacht clubs, hotels, beautiful theme parks, international hospitals, and schools. So, what I have in mind is that the whole place should be surveyed and then zoned out and then turned into a beautiful township.We can make commercial capital of what I can consider our prime location. We all pay a lot of money to go to Dubai, England

to shop, why can we not translate something like that into our own little haven. Instead of going to spend all that money abroad, you come and have the best shops, best restaurants, hotels and a get-away without having to travel so many thousands of miles. Well, because of the size of the area it can be nicely controlled if there is a meeting of minds with all the people within that area. This would also create employment for the people there and it would be a nice tourist hub in West Africa. That is my dream. It will take money and good planning to be able to make it happen. It will take a lot of hardwork like I said earlier but I am prepared. There is no point leaving the 299

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HAT TRICK FOR

YAYA TOURE AT THE

GLO-CAF AWARDS 2014 IN LAGOS Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

Seyi Akinwunmi, Chairman, Lagos State Football Association, Yaya Toure, CAF President Issa Hayatou with Ms. Adenuga, a director of Globacom

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olour, glamour and first-rate entertainment were unleashed on the whole of the African continent when the Glo-CAF Awards ceremony unfolded in Lagos, the commercial capital of Nigeria.

And the highest point of the ceremony was the announcement of Manchester City and Ivory Coast superb Midfielder, Yaya Toure as the African Footballer of the year-his third consecutive crown as Africa’s best.

The title sponsors, Globacom spared no cost to ensure that the ceremony was glitzy, power-packed and was at par with such sporting events anywhere on the planet.

From the evening’s anchors: Super Eagles great, Sunday Oliseh and Supersports leading lady, Caroline Tshabalala to top-rate artistes, it was one evening that will be etched on the hearts of all for years to come.

The night was superb, and many Nigerians were very in jolly very mood expecting to sweep all the awards, in deed, Nigeria did win in many categories except the most prestigious one which went to Toure, who edged out local boy, Mikel Obi who flew into the ceremony in a private jet provided by his London Club, Chelsea.

Just like its brand which is a combination of qualitative service and fun, the evening was first class.

Performers included D’ banj, Beninois songstress Zeynab, Africa’s sensational pop twins, P-Square, South African enigmatic singer Lira, velverty-voiced Chydyma, prolific Nigerian recording artiste, dancer and songwriter, Flavour as well as Ghanaian performer Sherifa Gunu.

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The new Africa soccer king: Yaya Toure

Others who lit up the stage included: Ugandan comedian, Patrick ‘Salvador’ Idringi, who got the audience cracking with his hilarious jokes, the sensational swing act from Germany, Marieke Koch and Pole Rangers - Eike von Stuckenbrok and Remi Martin.

By far the most outstanding artiste of the evening was the masked one Lagbaja, he did not only light up the stage figuratively, he did it in real life with his costume and unique wellchoreographed ensemble of drummers!

Little wonder he got a standing ovation.

The evening was a great celebration of African football, its stars and officials.

LIST OF WINNERS African Player of the Year: Yaya Toure National Team of the Year: Super Eagles of Nigeria Youth National Team of the Year: Golden Eaglets of Nigeria Club of the Year: Al Ahly Fair Play Awards: Nigeria Supporters Club Coach of the Year: Stephen Keshi Most Promising Talent: Kelechi Iheanacho Referee of the Year: Haimoudi Djamel CAF Legends: Late Bruno Metsu & Jose Mehdi Faria African Player of the Year (Africa based): Mohamed Aboutreika Platinum Award goes to President

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Hon. Bukola Olopade

Mo Abudu (left)

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The private jet the brought John Mikel Obi from London

Clement Enajemo: MD/CEO, MUDI Africa

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Comedian Okey Bakassi, Gordon & friends

Eniola Adenuga with friends

NFF Board memeber, Chief Emeka Inyama, Prince Bisi Olatilo & Mr. Tony Nnachetta

R-l: Hon. Nduka Irabor, his wife, Ebele & guests

From 2nd left: Gboyega Okegbenro with executives of Globacom

Kemi Otegbade (right)

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Eniola Adenuga & friend

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Sunday Oliseh & Caroline Tshabalala

Kamal Shonibare of Globacom

Ghana football Association, President, Mr. Kwesi Nyantekyi & Gov. Adams Oshiomhole presenting an award to Alhaji Aminu Maigarim, President, Nigeria Football Association

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Egyptian FA representatives receiving award on behalf & Alhly

Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, President General Nigeria Football Supporters club

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Stephen Keshi receiving the coach of the year award

Golden Eaglets Kelechi Iheanacho kneeling with his award

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Mallam Bolaji Abdulahi post-humous awards to son of late Jose Mehdi Faria & wife of Bruno Metsu

Egyptian Muhammed Aboutreika receiving an award on behalf National & club team mate, Ahmed Fathy

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Nigerian Sports Minister: Mallam Bolaji Abdulahi, CAF President, Issa Hayatou & Mrs. Gladys Talabi, Executive Director Globacom

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John Mikel Obi: Stepping out after the occasion

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THE FIRST-CLASS PERFORMANCE

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Zeynab from Benin Republic

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Sherifa Gunu from Ghana

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Chidyma (right) performing

Marieke Koch from Germany Polo Rangers

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D’ banj

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Lagbaja

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Flavour

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Lira from South Africa

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P-Square

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FAMILY AND FRIENDS HONOUR

MRS. RACHEAL ODUKOMAIYA AT 70 Story: Emmanuel T. Edward Photo: Abraham Falodun

The celebrant, Mrs. Racheal Odukomaiya with children & grandchildren cutting the cake

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The celebrant, Mrs. Racheal Odukomaiya

oy was in the air, laughter flowed effortlessly and the atmosphere told it all- a celebration of life. This scenery played out as family members, friends and well- wishers gathered to felicitate with a doting mother and grand- mother, Mrs. Racheal Aduke Odukomaiya, who gracefully joined the Septuagenarian club.

The celebrant who is variously referred to by many as a shining example of motherhood, a theme of honour and a rare jewelry in a jeweler's shop, was all smiles and filled with laughter on that day.

After all, that club is peopled by the supremely favoured members. It was therefore not surprising that all efforts were geared to celebrate and make the day a memorable one.

The first port of call for the celebrant, family members, friends and her esteemed guests was Yaba Baptist Church for a thanksgiving service. By so doing, the newest member into the Septuagenarian club was just re-echoing Psalm 69;30, ‘I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify Him with thanksgiving.’ At the thanksgiving service, the officiating Minister, Rev. G. O. Adebayo had kind words for the celebrant, whom he described as an epitome of woman hood.

Rev. Adebayo also urged the congregation to live their lives in the beauty of Christ.

The Thanksgiving service geared off with songs of praise and worship that reverberated through the Church auditorium. It was such a beautiful sight to behold, with the congregation lifting their voices in adoration to God for his magnificent and immeasurable mercy and grace.

After a well-glorified fiesta of worship, it was time to move up the ante to the center of unequaled haven of fun.

And so, it was no surprise that the birthday party pitched its celebration at

the high and tasteful hall of 10 Degrees, Billings Way, Oregun, Ojota, Lagos. The magical and captivating designs of the hall was inviting as well as the perfectly arranged seats-bejeweled with richlycoloured chiffon materials.

With sweet rhythms jamming from the speakers, and the guests strolling upward into the hall in ravishing attires, there was no need for a soothsayer to say a bash was about to unfold.

Bee Jay Sax and his Jazz band thoroughly thrilled the guests to old-time Jazz tunes as everyone was settling down.

That was not all, guests were generously treated to richly blended fruit wines and mouth-watering delicacies.

At the height of the event, the celebrant was called upon to the dais by the urbane and distinguished, Sir Alex Duduyemi, who conducted the cutting of the cake. The celebrant smiled her thanks and one could almost feel the upper chambers of her heart pounding with joy.

She was surrounded by her adorable children and grandchildren, who spared no cost in planning the spectacular celebration, with the expertise of Square Circle Solution.

It was a splendid celebration that enjoyed the esteemed presence of dignitaries including Ogun State Deputy Governor, H.E. Segun Adesegun;the former Governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande and his jewel, Abimbola, Chief (Mrs.) Ireti Asemota; Mrs. Kemi Nelson; Hon. Ashiru; Amb. Yomi Akintola and a host of other prominent personalities.

Mrs. Odukomaiya’s 70th birthday has no doubt etched a place in the sweet memories of all and sundry that graced this remarkable celebration of her life on earth.

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Mrs. R. A. Adeleke, Justice Bisi Akinlade, celebrant & Mrs. Stella Awani

Prof. & Prof (Mrs.) Ade Elebute

Chief Mrs. Yinka Adeboye & Mrs. Adeniji

Chief Mrs. Jolayemi & Otunba Mathew Jolayemi & Erelu Abiola Dosunmu

Inspector General Musiliu Smith & Alhaji Saka Alao

HRM Oba Sesan Oguntayo (Ajalorun of Ijebu-Ife)

Elder Dr. Felix Ohiwerei praying for the celebrant

Mrs. Dupe Okuwobi, Mrs. Mojisola Martins & Dr. Mrs. Abisola Williams

Celebrant with Mrs. Titi Oluwole-Rotimi

Chief Olushola Dada & Princess Elegbede during church service

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Otunba & Otunba Mrs. Bush Alebiosu, celebrant & Alhaji Atanda Baale

Mrs. Rachel Aduke Odukomaiya & Barr. Soji Awogbaje

Mrs. Bola Ajayi & Mrs. Eno Udofia

Itunu Akinleye & Mrs. Idowu Abass

Beejax Sax thrilling the celebrant

Adetutu Ogunoik, Adetutu Ayeni & Adenike Onakapasa

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Alhaji Lateef Jakande extolling the virtues of the celebrant

Mosunmola Aremu (compere)

Mrs. Adetutu Adeleke (OON) saying the opening prayers

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The celebrant & her children

Celebrant, Mrs. Racheal Odukomaiya with grandchildren

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Celebrant dancing with children & well wishers

Children of the celebrant, Mrs. Alesinloye Williams with the celebrant, Mrs. Rachel Aduke Odukomaiya dancing into the hall

Mrs. Adeoye, celebrant with well wishers

Otunba Onabanjo with Balogun & Chief (Mrs.) Alex Duduyemi

Prof. Bode Abisogun-Leigh, Chief Tokunbo Thomas, celebrant & Chief Kunle Ogunade

Chief (Mrs.) Funke Arthur-Worrey, Celebrant & Dr. Bimbola Akintola

Mrs. Enitan Akerele & Mrs. Dupe Ajanaku

Chief Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN), Celebrant & Chief Segun Oki

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Mrs. Taylaur, Dr. Bimbola Akintola, Mrs. Dupe Akintola & Amb. Yomi Akintola

HRM Oba ‘kola & Olori Abiodun Ojutalayo

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Mrs. Sherifat Balogun, Chief (Mrs.) Ireti Asemota & Chief Mrs. Pat Adeniji

Olori Mosun Adeoye & Chief (Mrs.) Pancy Olakanpo Otudeko

Ms. Yetunde Williams, Celebrant & Dr. Debo Williams

Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Nelson & celebrant, Mrs. Racheal Odukomaiya

Mr. & Mrs. Jide Aleshinloye-Williams

Mrs. Nta Lijadu & Mrs. Ebun Mac-Gregor

Prince Goke Omisore, Chief Muyiwa Omisade & Dr. Majekodunmi

Chief (Mrs.) Jumoke Majekodunmi & Chief (Mrs.) Olaitan Omisade

Mrs. Lucy Lawrence & Chief Mrs. Julie Desi

Evelyn Rewane Fabyan & Mrs. Funmi Akande

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Mrs. Doyin Osidero & Mrs. Dupe Herbert

Mrs. Adefemi Taire giving a toast

Alhaji Lateef Jakande & wife, Abimbola with celebrant, Mrs. Rachel Odukomaiya

Mrs. Jumoke Funmi-Adesina, Chief (Mrs.) Biodun Aluko & Mrs. Adefemi Taire

Mrs. Sekinat Dosunmu, celebrant, Mrs. Bunmi Adeniji & Olori Abiodun Ojutalayo

H/E Prince Segun Adesegun, Mrs. Rachel Odukomaiya & Hon. Bimbo Ashiru

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The Otunba Adekunle Ojora & The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora

Chief & Chief (Mrs.) S. O. B. Babalola with Bashorun J. K. Randle (m)

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TOP-RATE BRAND, ZARON ARRIVES ACCRA

By Ben Dzakah

Ribbon cutting by star actress Joselyn Dumas

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aron, which aims at becoming one of the leading products of choice for all people of style has berthed in Accra, Ghana after years of making great impact in Nigeria.

The company which is involved in producing and distributing quality premium-priced lifestyle products that helps to enhance confidence, self-esteem, beauty,

Maadee Darko – Mensah & Selasie Kwawukume

inner peace and happiness was launched at a wellattended lively ceremony.

With products for the face (Zaron Face), the eyes (Zaron Eyes), the lips (Zaron Lips) and other exciting accessories, Zaron promises to give all discerning clients of divergent ages and skin colour the best products at the best prices possible.

Joselyn Dumas & Frimpomaa Darko – Mensah

According to Zaron Executives the adventure to Ghana was informed by years of study. It became a reality when it discovered that many Ghanaians were visiting Nigeria just to get Zaron products-and the only logical thing was to open a flagship store to cater for their needs.

Debra Jane Nelson & Joselyn Dumas

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Zaron Nigeria Maneger, Mary, showing guests samples of Zaron products

Saida Mumuni,Joselyn Dumas & Tope Kwaku

Make-up artist, Annette working on a guest

Jennifer Kessie,Selasie Kwawukume & Emefa Yeboah

Agartha, Maadee Darko-Mensah & Kuukua Dzani

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Kay Kimora Darko- Maesah,Jamil Mahama & Frimpomaa Darko-Mensah

Nayra Gewu,Maadee Darko-Mensah & Yvonne Asante

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Kuukua Dzani & Aunty Agartha

Jane Annor & Maadee Darko-Mensah

Ayiwa Darko-Mensah & Frimpomaa Darko-Mensah

Amelia S. Flumo

Kuukua Dzani & Aunty Agartha

Princess Sue-Vic Mawuena Amuzu

Christabel

Andrea Myma Hughton

Location: No. 52 Blohum street, Dzorwulu Next door to Van-J Eye Clinic 323

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THE GUY CALLED

JTOWN

HITS

TOWN

By: Kwaku Yeboah Darteh Photo: Personal Album

“I even had Missy Elliott tweet at me that I am super tight which means a lot to me. The fans are loving it because I went full Hiphop, I went very musical on this Mixtape” ip-Hop artist, music producer, the 1st Ghanaian Channel O Africa VJ, Entrepreneur, a visionary and best of all a father, J.Town is one individual who is on his way to greatness.

J. Town has also shared stage with some of the heavy weights in the game, talking about the likes of Rick Ross, Sean Paul, Fabulous and Joe when they came to Ghana to perform.

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Lets kick of this interview by telling us the response you’re getting on your latest Mixtape at the moment,.

“Feel My Wrath”

So far the response has been great, everyone says I should have made it an album, I even had Missy Elliott tweet at me that I am super tight which means a lot to me. The fans are loving it because I went full Hiphop, I went very musical on this Mixtape, you know how it is right now, the trend is just dance, but I felt I had a story and content so that people will realize that I am one of the best rappers, that is why I did this Mixtape.

How long did it take you to complete this Mixtape

There is a difference, there is difference in sound and production and I had more stories. After I drop my album certain things happened that gave me more things to write about so that’s defiantly the difference between April 26th when I dropped my album and now that I have dropped the Mixtape

So how many Mixtapes do you have on your belt as at now

With this new one, that will be my fourth one, my first one dropped like four yeas ago and it is still the most downloaded Mixtape in Ghana And how many albums

I have just one album, which I dropped in 2013 Which one is your favourite at the moment

Feel My Wrath, the new mixtape is definitely my favorite, I love the response that I am getting for it , I really enjoyed recording the songs, so it is my favourite right now

To record the songs, I didn’t take too long, it was the mixing and mastering that took some time, so I will just say about 4 months

Is there any message on this mixtape you think will affect people’s lives positively

Any special guest appearances on it

Definitly, the message has to do with encouraging people that whatever you want to do, don’t let people tell you that it would not work. You can create a whole link for yourself. For example, I am a Hiphop artiste in Ghana, Hiphop has now taken off in Ghana. I have done this

I featured Shatta Wale, Dee money, Raquel, Dex Kwasi, Edem, Jupitar, Screech my artist, David Jay from Denmark, So from South Africa, Navio from Uganda, C real from Ghana as well. I just feel these people were great for the mixtape and the sound I was looking for.

Comparing it to your previous album, any difference

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“I am the first Ghanaian Channel O VJ and a Content Producer for the Channel”

understand better if I use my local dialect. I am a Ga so I rap in Ga in certain places that fit into what I want to say, but my main meduim of communication when I rap is English You’ve been in the game for a very long time now, do you think Hiphop has grown in Ghana or it is now waking up from its slumber

It has definitely grown. I think I am one of those forefathers who has kept at it and a few other people too.

At first Hiphop artistes would never headline shows but now it has changed, we’re doing our own shows, we’re headlining, we’re flying over the country to do shows, it was never like that and we’re making good money from it as well.

So it has definitely picked up.

And do think Ghanaians have embraced Hiphop like other African countries have done

Not yet, we’re not there yet but we are moving there at the moment, Africans have realized that there are dope Mc’s in Ghana and that is a good thing, and I think it is going to get big. The more music grow in it quality, people will purchase it more and that is what I have realized with my self , the more I put up a mixtapes, albums and people like that I put up more.

Tell us your affiliation with Channel O

I am the first Channel O Africa

for quite some time now, I am the only one who has stompped on my grounds and not conformed with what everyone else is doing and I have done pretty well. So the message in it is never count me out. I have broken so many records as a Hiphop artiste and I have done what people said I couldn’t do.

And under which label was this, are you signed or independent

Under which production was this Mixtape

Do you ever rap in your local dialect

Half of the Mixtape was produced by myself and by a Producer called Slimbo

Once in a while, I feel there are certain terms, that people will

I am signed to my own label which is Home Of Original Dreams Entertainment, which stands for H.O.O.D

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VJ and a context producer for the Channel and I was supposed to be there for one year but this is my third year.

Am just making sure Ghana is being represented well on the channel with more interviews and more videos been show and stuff like that.

your mistakes, learn how to play the piano, go to YouTube, everything is there, they will teach you.

Study the game and you will become a good musician, don’t just be a Rapper or RnB singer. Study the art first.

Any Awards yet

How do people get to contact you

I haven’t won any awards yet but I have been nominated for the Channel O and Ghana Music Awards What do you think now, where Africa stands now when it comes to Hiphop Globally

Internationally I think they are paying attention now, because certain people have done collaboration with some of the artist from the west and it making them come here more. That is why you keep seeing more artistes coming to South Africa, Ghana and Nigeria now to perform. So they‘re definitely paying attention, it is just that we need to

step up our game and make things happen.

Who are you looking forward to record with internationally this year

I would really love to record with Missy Elliot, I am going to do everything possible to push it and make it happen.

Is it because of the comment she made about your Mixtape

Sure, the fact that she payed attention, I will let her know she is someone I would like to work with , she replied my message so that means something to me. In Africa there are only few Hiphop Artistes I like to work with, Aka from south Africa, Zues from Botwana, and a few other rappers aswell.

What about international Producers

My wish list is Dr. Dre, Swizz beats, 40, Timbaland and Young Guru. Those are the few Producers I would love to work with internationally Who inspires you

That’s a good question. I am inspired by old classic artistes, some are not even in the Hiphop genre, the likes of Al Green, Marvin Gaye, the Fat Boys, LL Cool J, Big Daddy Kane, Biggie, Tupac, of course Nas, Jay Z and quite recently Kendrick Lamar Any albums or Mixtapes after this one

Certainly,I am going to drop a couple of Mixtapes this year as well as some albums too. I am trying to be innovative so I am trying new ideas and looking for new ways of putting my music out there in a different way so I am working on a couple of thing. Therefore, my music is going to change again. So be expecting more Mixtapes, Albums, more videos aswell.

What do you always tell the young ones who look up to you

If you have a plan, and you feel it is going to work with you, don’t let other people tell you that you can’t do it. I am a living testimony, people used to say that English Rap was never going to work in Ghana but I have done it.

I have been all over Africa to perform, made some good money because I stuck to and perfected my craft. It is like Rhyming, you need to make sure every time you’re on point. If you want to be a Producer on the beat, learn from 326

If you want to chat with me, you can hit me up on twitter, @iamjtown, same thing for Instagram. If you want to book me, it is: JTown@gmail.com, hook up with my management and we get everything sorted out. And I do reply my tweets and Instagram messages, I am not one of those artistes who feel too big, so hit me up.

How do people get to download the Mixtape

All you have to do is to go to: www.datpiff.com and search for“Feel My Wrath” and it will pop up or www.datpiff.com/JTown. Download and enjoy.

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KATHY GYEMFI CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY AT THE HOUSE OF OVATION, ACCRA

By Ben Dzakah

Celebrant cutting her birthday cake with friends

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hat a sweet sweet celebration it was for adorable Kathy Gyemfi as she hosted a select set of friends and family members to drinks and bites at the House of OVATION, the upscale restaurant located in the posh Airport Residential Area of Accra.

The reason for the party was that Coco as Kathy is fondly called was celebrating her birthday-and she had a good time-popping countless bottles of champagne during the celebration that lasted into the night.

Born in Zaria, Kaduna State in Nigeria, Coco who has three older

Coco, Vicky, Jessica & Mavis

siblings, is a businesswoman who has also ventured into the movie worldand is making a good run in that industry.

The bubbly lady who returned to Ghana from the United State where all her siblings currently live, told OVATION that she was glad to be back and settled in Ghana-and regarding the party, she said “ it was a blast�.

She thanked God for seeing her through another year, and gave kudos to friends and family members who came to share the joyous moment with her.

Celebrant, Kathy A. E. Gyemfi ( a.k.a Coco)

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Rachael Fabea, Eunice & celebrant, Kathy A.E Gyamfi

Theresa

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Claudia Jeffery,Coco & Jermie A. Kabare

Celebrant & Mavis

Vivian Achor & celebrant

Jessica Williams & Kathy

Pastor Daniel Donkoh & Kathy

Ann, Coco & Herty

Nana Akua Mavis, Kathy, Lebene & Cissy Asamoah

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Akua, Alberta & Stacy

Herty, Eunice, Rachael, Coco, Agyeiwa & Ann

Claudia, Jermie & Agyeiwa

Pas. Daniels, Cissy, Coco,Vicky & Mavis Nana Akua

Ann, Akua, Alberta & Francisca

Coco & Cecilia Aggrey

Vivian Achor, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Kathy

Coco & Michael Effiong

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