Ovation magazine issue 165

SINCE 1996

ALL THE GLAMOUR AND COLOUR OF OVATION CAROL 2015 IN NIGERIA AND GHANA

OVATION C EL EBRAT ES A WOR THY I CON

SIR KESINGTON ADEBUTU “BABA IJEBU” AT 80

© OVATION 2016

THE SUPERLATIVE WEDDING OF YEWANDE ADEOSUN AND

ADEMOLA ADEFARASIN

© TY BELLO

IN NIGERIA AND ITALY

SELF-RELIANCE ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT PROGRAMME (SEAP) MARKS 15TH ANNIVERSARY IN GRAND STYLE

ISSN-1362-7309 Issue 165 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, +229 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.

Visit us @ www.ovationinternational.com

THE GRAND 80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION OF

SIR KESINGTON ADEBUTU

© TY BELLO

Story: Eric Elezuo Photo: Adekoya Adegbite & Segun Lawal

B

ecoming an octogenarian is not no easy feat, considering that 80 is a whole 10 years beyond the biblical three scores and ten years stipulated for mankind. Little wonder that popular businessman and betting entrepreneur, Sir Kesington Adebutu rolled out the drums big time to thank God and mark the occasion with the “mother

of all” parties. Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu was born on October 24, 1935, in Iperu Remo in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, to late AlhajI Karimu Folarin Adebutu and late Alhaja Seliat Olasimbo Adebutu. Sir Kesington attended the Wesley Primary School, Iperu Remo and completed his primary education at Ijero

Baptist School, Ebute Metta, Lagos in 1950. In January 1951, he was admitted to Baptist Academy School, Lagos but he completed his secondary education at the famous Remo Secondary School (RSS), Sagamu Remo, Ogun State. He began his early life at Cable & Wireless Limited (which later transformed to NITEL) as Operations Clerk. He 7

CHURCH SERVICE

Sir Kesington Adebutu with Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode

The Adebutu family with Her Excelllency, Dr. (Mrs.) Idayat Oluranti Adebule, Lagos State Deputy Governor

Sir Kesington Adebutu with wives

(L) Oba Sikiru Adetona (Awujale Of Ijebuland) & other traditional rulers

Chief Olusegun Osoba greeting the Adebutus

8

Otunba Gbenga Daniel & wife, Yeye Olufunke

The Adebutus

Sir Kesington Adebutu with his son, Hon. Ladi Adebutu

Yeye Olufunke Daniel with the Adebutus

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode & Sen. Oluremi Tinubu

The Adebutus

Sir Kesington Adebutu with Chief Olusegun Obasanjo

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo & Oba Sikiru Adetona

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo greeting Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode & other guests

Cross-section of guests

9

Officiating Ministers

Sir Kesington & Chief Olusegun Obasanjo receiving Holy Communion

L-r: Engr. Olawunmi Gasper, Chief (Mrs. ) Sena Anthony & guests

Cross section of traditional rulers

10

(R-l): Alhaja Bintu Tinubu, Aremo Olusegun Osoba & (Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom) Oba Dr. Festus I.A. Adesanoye

Cross section of guests

Sir Kesington Adebutu recieving special gift from old frieinds

then joined Claffin Chemicals as Salesman and through a dint of hardwork rose to become Regional Sales Manager for Lagos and the then Midwestern Region. It was his quest to provide employment for teeming Nigerian youths that led to the establishment of Face Millionaires Pool Limited with his bosom friend, Chief Solomon Ayoku in 1969. The Philanthropist par excellence, who abandoned his ambition of becoming a Lawyer because he preferred ‘enjoying’ life, is today the Founder and Chairman of Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation (KAAF) and promoter of the popular Premier Lotto, better known as Baba Ijebu.

But beyond the fanfare, it was another occasion to express his humaneness and penchant for helping the less privileged when his Foundation which was celebrating its 10th Anniversary conducted a free medical outreach programme in Iperu-Remo, Ogun

State. Also, he gave out eight brand new cars and other valuable gift items to loyal customers of Premier Lotto the day before the mega birthday celebration.

For the pride of Ogun State who was recently rewarded as an ICON during the Ogun at 40 celebrations and celebrated as a man of character, kindness and generosity. the momentous occasion was further embellished, as he was honoured with the traditional title of Asoju Oba of Lagos by Oba Rilwan Akiolu (replacing the late Chief MoladeOkoyaThomas). .

The auspicious day was bright and beautiful as the celebrant woke up with his regular morning devotion, where, with the entire family members, he dedicated the day to the glorious hands of God. Even before the prayers could end, and just as the first flicker of light began to penetrate his windows, visitors came to wish

him well. Of course, everyone who knows, Sir Kesington Adebutu is aware that he is a man of the people. The preparation for the church service was first-rate and classy, capturing all the finesse of a quintessential man of style. By 11am, a convoy of exotic cars left for the Methodist Church of the Trinity, Tinubu, Lagos where the thanksgiving service was held. .

At the church, guests, spotlessly dressed in orange, blue and silver outfits were seated patiently, awaiting the Man of the Occasion. His arrival, heralded a new kind of excitement that enlivened the atmosphere and the service proper began. The Officiating Priest eulogized the courage of the time-tested entrepreneur, saying that Sir Kesington’s life has touched a lot of lives across the nation. He gave thanks to God for giving this generation a man in the calibre of Sir 11

(L) Pastor Taiwo Odukoya

Chief (Mrs.) Opral Benson & Mrs. Bewaji Kuku

Chief Yele Ogundipe, Ondo State Commissioner for Information, Kayode Akinmade & Pastor Afolayan Daniel

12

Sir Kesington Adebutu with wives: Chief (Mrs.) Kofoworola Adebutu & Lady Caroline Adebutu

Hon. Ladi Adebutu with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode

Pastor Afolabi Daniel greeting Gov. Olusegun Mimiko

Bimbo Dacosta, Bukola Oredola, Margistrate Tope Adebutu, Princess Rosemary D. Adebutu & Mrs. Yemisi Akanni

Margistrate Tope Adebutu, Zainab Osman & Zakiya Osman

Pastor Akin Osinbanjo (right)

Senator Gbenga Kaka & Aremo Olusegun Osoba

13

Sir Kesington Adebutu greeting Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode & Sen. Oluremi Tinubu

Sir Adebutu Kesington reading a Bible passage

The Adebutus recieving blessing

Adebutu, who despite his accomplishments, never forgets the Lord. In his short speech, the celebrant was full of thanks to the Almighty God for sparing his life this far, saying that it was neither by his power nor wealth that he is alive today. .

The event planners under the direction of the celebrant’s wives were at their creative best. They laid out an impressive yellow carpet, instead of the regular red carpet. Here, many were given the opportunity to discuss the personality of Sir Adebutu @ 80. They paid glowing tribute to a man they all agreed has firmly planted his feet on the sands of time. The near carnival that was witnessed at the church was child’s play, compared to the superlative reception that unfoled at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites.

It was a party like no other, a fitting celebration of a worthy business titan. As expected, several top personalities from all walks of life converged at both the church and reception to celebrate him. Among them were top politicians, business moguls, captains of industry, members of the diplomatic corps, academia,

14

(L) Mr. Jimi Agbaje

royal fathers, leaders of market associations, notable entertainment practitioners and ordinary Nigerians whose lives he had touched. Personalities included: Governor of Ogun State, Chief Ibikunle Amosun and his wife, Olufunso who doubled as the Chairman of the event, Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona; white cap chiefs, who represented the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiotu, former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo;the former US Ambassador, Amb. Walter Carrington and wife, Arese, former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Segun Osoba and wife, Derin, former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and his wife, Mr. Jimi Agbaje; former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Sarah Sosan; former President of Island Club, Chief Adeniyi Williams; the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Idiat Adebule, who represented the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senator Teslim Balogun, Senator Fatima Raji Rasaki, Senator Iyiola Omisore, Sentor Olurunimbe Mamora, , Hon. Desmond Elliot, Hon. Omosede Igbinedion. Publisher of OVATION International Magazine, Bashorun Dele Momodu; the

immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Chief Rasaq Okoya and wife, Sade, Chief Onafowokan and wife, former First Lady of Lagos State, Dame Abimbola Fashola, the Asiwaju of Ile-Ife, Chief Alex Oyekunle Duduyemi, Senator Buruji Kashamu, Justice Shola Oguntade (Rtd) and wife, Hajia Abba Folawiyo, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and the legendary entertainer, Pa. .

Jimi Solanke.

At the lavishly decorated reception venue, where K-Square Security provided water-tight security. At every interval, the likes of 2Face Idibia, Sir Victor Olaiya, Mike Aremu, Pa Jimi Solanke and the ever youthful King Sunny Ade were on hand to provide soul inspiring music, which added a touch of spice to the Alist event. In company of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Idayat Adebule, his grand and greatgrandchildren, Sir Kesington Adebutu cut his gigantic 4-tier 80th birthday cake to the thunderous applause of everyone. This is wishing the great entrepreneur, betting expert and philanthropist 80 glorious cheers!

Otunba Solomon Kayode Onafowokan, Mrs. Taiwo Onafowokan & Mrs. Mojisola Onafowokan

Sir Kesington Adebutu

Gov. Ibikunle Amosun

H.E. Idayat Adebule & Jide Sanwo-Olu

Sen. Maj. Gen. Mohammed Magoro

Chief (Mrs) Opral Benson

Mrs. Serah Sosan

Modupe Dosunmu

Chief (Mrs.) Moji Dokpesi

Jumai Bakare

Hon. Ladi Adebutu

Jumoke Otesanya, Olori Nike Adelugbe & Mrs. Egwu Folashade

Mr. & Mrs. Ohun Akin

15

Sen. & Mrs. Teslim Folarin

Hon. Omosede Igbinedion

Asuk (L)

Cobhams Asuquo

16

Prof. & Mrs. Najomo

Yemi, Modupe & Funmi

Mr. & Mrs. Femi Bamisile

Matel Okoh & Frank Attair

Aminat Odofi

Dr. Bola Oyeledu & Adebisi Fetuga

Olufunke Akanni & Funmi Peters

Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & Akintunde Ogunmekan

Chief Adesoji Ajayi-Obembe

Fehintola Omo-Izirein & Eniola Salu

Mr. & Mrs. Adams

Mrs. Alhaja Bintu Fatima Omosefe Tinubu & Sen. Oluremi Tinubu

Hon. Akeem Adeyemi

Ranti Animashun & Seun Adegunwa

Mr. & Mrs. Alobo-Bakare

Mr. & Mrs. Folorunsho

Mr. & Mrs. Akinfenwa

Hon. Jones Onyereri, Hon. Henry Ofongo & Hon. Obinna Onwubuariri

17

Mr. & Mrs. Oyefolu & friend

Hon. Ladi Adebutu & Akintunde Ogunmekan

Kunle Ogunsi, Danny Vibes & Tope Adelua

Mrs. Yetunde Oresanya, Arinola Adebowale, Tolu Ayebae, Tunji Olagunju, Omalara Olagunju, Shade Amole & Lase Rufy

TRIBUTES TO A GREAT MAN

A

t 80, the man Kesington Adebutu has affected the lives of very many people through his foundation. His 80th birthday presented an opportunity for so many of them to say thank you to this remakable philantropist who loves God with all his heart. These are a few of the tributes that were showered on Sir Kesington by family and friends.

You are hardworking, diligent, caring and God fearing. You are a pillar of strength and support to our family. You have provided for us completely and unconditionally, and for that I am grateful.

Thank you for the Godly foundation you laid for us and the values you instilled in our children. These have become a guiding light for them as they navigate the journey of life.

Happy birthday, my darling Bukola Lady Caroline Adebutu, wife ou are a man of great honour who has been able to stir the our home and union vigorously with so much zeal and passion; you are truly a captain parexcellence!

My Chairman, you are one in a million and men like you only come once in a million years.

Thank you for being the loving, caring person you are, and if loving you is wrong, I don’t ever want to be right Dodo.

Happy birthday my love!

Chief (Mrs.) Kofoworola Adetutu, wife

Y

18

Sir Kesington: The man who gives glory to God for His blessings

I

t is my prayer that legacy of harmony, prosperity and steadfast progress you brought to your community and the nation will endure perpetually even as Almighty God blesses you with robust health and many more years of fulfillment.

The ideals of unparalleled patriotism, piety and sterling leadership which you epitomizes, are traits which will continue to inspire us in our national efforts.

Muhammadu Buhari, President, Federal Republic of Nigeria ou are a remarkable entrepreneur whose vision, determination and resilience have added value to the community and hundreds, if not thousands of families who depend on your ventures, enterprises and other commercial activities.

A giant in very many respects, a distinguished leader in the church, politics, business and philanthropy, above all you are a patriot and a nationalist of no mean order.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo mong other reasons, my delight with Chief Adebutu’s attainmnent is due to the fact that Nigeria needs men like him as reminders of the virtues and gains of hard work, integrity and humane generosity. With his uncommon dedication to duty, he has recorded great achievements, not just in gaming and enterment, but in diverse business areas, such as agriculture, manufacturing, manufacturing and estate management.

Y

A

RECEPTION

Sir Kesington Adebutu arriving the reception

Sir Kesington Adebutu arrive reception with family

Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & Sen. Oluremi Tinubu

Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, H.E. Mrs. Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule & Alhaja Bintu Tinubu

L-r: Mrs. Serah Sosan, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola & friend

Mrs. Abimbola Fashola & Akintunde Ogunmekan

Sen. Binta Masi with Gov. Ibikunle Amosun

19

Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & Sir Kesington Adebutu

Sir Kesington Adebutu & Mrs. Abimbola Fashola

Gov. Olusegun Mimiko greeting Sir Kesington Adebutu

Hajia Abba Folawiyo & Sen. Oluremi Tinubu

Engr. Olawunmi Gasper (right)

Bashorun Dele Momodu greeting Sir Kesington Adebutu

20

(Middle) Chief Oyekunle Alex-Duduyemi

Mr. Bayo Fatusin & Gov. Olusegun Mimiko

Veteran Pa Jimi Solanke, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Prince Damola Aderemi

Prince Damola Aderemi (right)

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Chief Lai Amoje & Prince Damola Aderemi

Amb. T. Okanlawon, Prince Damola Aderemi, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Chief Kenny Martins & Tunde Oshinowo

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Dr. Peter Obafemi

Sen. Binta Masi & Hajia Hamida Ibrahim

Mrs. Mulikat Olasehinde & Mrs. Jaiye Abijo Edgal

21

Chief Kenny Martins & Sen. Major Gen. Mohammed Magoro

(L ) Hon. Jide Sanwoolu

Mr. & Mrs. Olamiji Adebutu

Moji Olaiya & Ester Aroworade

Ester Yeribo & Jokotade Adesola

Abisola & Kehinde

22

Hon. Prince Hakeem Adeyemi & Bosun George Oladele

Mr. & Mrs. Segun Shobule with Otunba Ola Kukoyi (m)

Olori Oba of Lagos

Chief Onafowokan & wives

Abisola Tebitel, Mobolaji Dasaolu, Adeola Awe, Tola Kakanfo & friend

Hon. Adedayo Bombata, Mrs. Titilayo Olaniyan & Hon. Shadimu Alao

I heartily wish Sir Kessington Adebutu a very happy birthday and many more years in good health, happiness and his-usual-prosperity.

Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President of Nigeria his is a man who believe in the saying “Teach a man how to catch fish rather than giving him fish to eat” so that they can be on their own.

My wish and prayer to this gentleman to the core is good health, long life and many, many more successful years to serve his fatherland.

Oba Riliwanu Akiotu 1, Oba of Lagos

T

A

cross the board, Sir Adebutu has a blatant disposition and burning sympathetic compassion towards the less-priviledged, so much so that he would often go out of his way to seek them out. This further sets him apart such he may be regarded as a first rate philanthropist, who does not count the cost, but assesses the impact of his generosity. His passion and drive is to see lives changed through the blessings God has placed in his charge.

Oba Dr, Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, Osemawa of Ondo Kingdom

Y

our longevity and robust health is not surprising because you have lived all your mature and golden life for others.

You are not only a lover of God, but also a very generous and magnanimous supporter of His work and His children.

Most importantly, you are one of those who understand that man came to the world naked, and will return to his maker naked.

Happy birthday, and be assured that your labour of love cannot be in vain.

His Eminence, Dr. Samuel ‘Emeka Uche, Prelate, Methodist Church of Nigeria 23

Hon. Hamane Henbe, Hon. Sergius Ogun, Hon. Omosede Igbinedion & Hon. Akinfolarin Mayowa

Seun, Bisola & Bolanle

Kofoworola Alao, Kelechi Nwogu & Bolanle Shobakin

24

Prince Allan Oyelekan , Princess Alaba-Komolafe, Chief (Mrs.) Taiwo Odukoya & Mrs. Remi Babington

Kofo Lana & Fela Fagbola

Sen. Iyiola Omisore & Chief Yinka Omilani

Princess Omotade, Sen. Olorunnimbe Mamora & Alh. Lateef Adams

Alh. Lateef Adams & Mr. Tunde Oshinowo

Mr. Tunde Oshinowo, Sen. Binta Masi & Sen. Olorunimbe Mamora

(R-l) Sen. Olorunnimbe Mamora & Sen. Binta Masi

Mrs. Funke Oladipo & Mrs. Ronke Shokefun

Mr. & Mrs. Akinfenwa with Abolore Shittu

Atinuke Elegbede, Olanike Ajiwe & Margaret Aweh

Ronke Banjo & Lape Runsewe

25

Prince Allan Oyelekan, Tolulope Adedotun & Akinwunmi

Bayo Odusami, Wale Evedemi & Dipo Abdul

Gbenga Adeyinka & Ms. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas

Mr. Oladele & Mrs. Coker of HSSL Global

26

Yinka Okuwa, Bukky Odukoya, Funmi Adedotun & Chief (Mrs.) Taiwo Odukoya

Cutting of the Cake

Amb. Walter Carrington & wife, Arese

27

Pa Jimi Solanke

Sir. Victor Olaiya & Tuface Idibia

Mike Aremu

Tuface Idibia

Aremo Olusegun Osoba & wife

Chief Kesington Adebutu with Grandchildren

28

Hon. Desmond Elliot (right)

Mr. & Mrs. Hakeem Alobo-Bakare

29

Pastor Idowu Iluyomade (2nd left)

(Hon. Agunsoye, Hon. Gbajabiamila, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, Hon. Leo Ogor & others

Mrs. Obi & daugther

“

30

I

t is hard to beat a man that never gives up.� Those are the words of Baba Ruth, one of the very first five men to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

They are words I am sure Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu is very familiar with, even if both men are legends of different games. As he doggedly fought the dire conditions of his youth to rise to the pinnacle of his chosen trade, Sir Kessington must have trained his body and mind to resist the urge to submit to defeat.

A people lover and friend of the poor! A fine gentleman and an inspiration to us all! Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu, I salute you!

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Governor, Lagos State

I

admire and love your energy, particularly the way you share your giftsfor living fully with your family and friends, the integrity you bring to your work, the joy you find in helping others and your enviable achievements in the field of commerce.

You exemplify everything that is dear and noble; character, intelligence, kindness and love, which all comes easily to you. I am a living witness of your generosity and charitable lifestyle.

Best wishes on behalf of myself and the good people of Lagos State.

His Excellency, Akinwunmi Ambode, Governor of Lagos State aba Ijebu, as he is fondly called by his admirers and clientele, belongs

B

Bayo Fatusin, Mr. Tope Abere, Lai Oriowo & Mr. Tunde Oshinowo

(R ) Hon. Desmond Elliot

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Amb. Walter Carrington & wife, Arese

From 2nd left: Chief Bisi Olatilo & Mr. Dapo Abiodun

(L-r) Sen. Binta Masi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila

Mr. Tunde Oshinowo, Prince Damola Aderemi, Amb. T. Okanlawon, Otunba Ola Kukoyi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

From right: Sen. Fatimat Raji Rasaki, Princess Omotade & Bashorun Dele Momodu

31

Mrs. Omotade & Sen. Fatimat Raji Rasaki

Otunba Lai Oriowo, Mr. Tope Abere & Mr. Bayo Fatusin

32

Sen. Buruji Kashamu & Mr. Tayo Ayeni

Aremo Segun Osoba, Senator Olorunimbe Mamora & Mr. Gbenga Isiaka

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Alh. Lateef Adams

Olorogun Sunny Kuku & Tayo Ayeni (L-r)

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Amb. T. Okanlawon & Prince of Zulu

Amb. T. Okanlawon, Prince of Zulu & Prince Damola Aderemi

(R ) Sen. Binta Masi & Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas

33

Fehintola Omo-Izirein, Mrs. Omotunde, Sebina Iwenjore, Funmilola Adebutu, Moranugba Owoaje, Mrs. Oshifowora & Miss. Biola Badmos

Gboyega Isiaka, Sen. Teslim Folarin & friend

34

(l) Tope Onaofowokan & wife

Chief Ola Kukoyi (r)

Hon. (Dr.) Abubarka Amuda-Kannike, Mr. Abisoye Fagade, Chief Gabriel Afolabi & Alhaji Lukman Atanda

Mr. Abisoye Fagade & Chief Gabriel Afolabi

35

Justice Sola Oguntade, Alh. Rasaq Okoya & Chief Onafowokan

Mr. & Mrs. Tajudeen Okoya, Sade Okoya, Kemi Oguntade

Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Aremo Olusegun Osoba & wife with Mrs. Abimbola Fashola

(R- L) Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Kayode Fayemi & Mrs. Serah Sosan

Sir Adebutu Kesington, Justice Sola Oguntade & Alh. Rasaq Okoya

Sir Adebutu Kesington, Justice Sola Oguntade, Alh. Rasaq Okoya & Chief Onafowokan

to the generation of trail blazers and illustrious sons of our dear state. Indeed, Chief Adebutu’s successes in business epitomize one of Steve Job’s quotes – “I’m convinced that about half of what separates the successful entrepreneurs from the non-successful ones is pure perseverance.

Happy birthday Baba Ijebu!

Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Governor of Ogun State bear personal testimony of the impact of his initiative to the growth of a Lagos lottery fund, being monies paid as licences and charges to the Lagos State government which grew to N6 billion when I left office, and which was available for government to spend on good causes like education, healthcare, children development and other public spirited purposes.

I

36

Association of friends

From pioneering lotto business and putting the money back for public benefit, Sir Kessington Adebutu proves that the lotto is indeed the stock exchange of the common man.

Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, former Governor of Lagos State have enjoyed his deep friendship, advice, reliability, and great character… he is a complete gentleman, a great achiever and a man of common kindness and wisdom.

Bola A. Ajibola, former Judge, International Court of Justice e thank God for your life and what you are doing for the less-priviledged in our society. You will continue to be like “a tree planted by the rivers of waters that bringeth forth his fruit in his due season, his leaf

I

W

shall not wither, and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper”.

Psalm 1:3 We salute your courage and benevolence.

Mrs. Chioma Ohakwe, on behalf of Bethesda Home for the Blind esington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation (KAAF) had procured internet access to many higher institutions’ school fees portals and this is now being utilized for instant confirmation of each candidate’s indebtedness to his/her university, polytechnic or college of education.

I congratulate Sir Adebutu, the philanthropist per excellence and wish him many more years in good on this wonderful planet earth.

Muda Akanni Akinyemi, Executive Director, Ogun State University Development Foundation

K

King Sunny Ade

37

CHIEF (MRS.) ADENIKE ALABI CELEBRATES 70 YEARS OF GOD’S GOODNESS IN IBADAN, OYO STATE Story: Babatunde Martins Photo: Abraham Falodun

Celebrant, Chief (Mrs.) Adenike Alabi

S

Celebrant & husband, Chief Adediran Alabi

he was delighted beyond words and found it an uphill task containing her joy. But that was expected. It was the kind of special moment that a milestone birthday presents in the life of an individual, more so when it’s their 70th birthday and especially when they have the good fortune of celebrating it in the company of their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, it’s the sort of stuff everyone dreams of and prays for.

Such was Chief (Mrs.) Adenike Alabi’s delight as she clocked 70 and rolled out the drums in the ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo State. It was a moment that perfectly captured the goodness of God in her life and one whose significance, words cannot sufficiently describe.

A committed Christian with a passion for all things godly, the day began at the Cathedral of St. Peter Church, Aremo, Ibadan. It was indeed a momentous day as family, friends and loved ones of the Alabis came clad in different stylish attires, wearing bright smiles to celebrate a worthy matriarch.

The Officiating Minister, who led other clergy men, described the celebrant as a person who has an incomparable love for God evidenced by her kindheartedness and love for people. He described her as a very frank person when it came to baring her mind on Celebrant, children & their spouses, L-r: Alhaji Adigun, Dr. & Mrs. Otukoya, Mrs. Damilare Alabi, Mr. Sina Alabi, Mrs. issues. He also said that she would always Sharon Alabi, Mr. Akin Alabi, Mrs. Iyabode Adigun & Mr. Ayo Alabi inconvenience herself to satisfy people, urging her children to emulate their mother. The Minister to the altar for special prayers. The pastor urged the con- Centre, where guests were pampered endlessly with of God then prayed that the Almighty God would give gregation to stretch forth their hands towards the Alabi food and drinks. The Legend, King Sunny Ade and his her good health so that she might be able to fulfill the family and shower blessings on them. The soul-lifting band were on hand to provide quality entertainment. It was a fitting celebration for the gorgeous Mrs. Alabi service ended with inspirational hymns. purpose of God for her.

A lively reception soon followed at Ibadan Civic who many guests described as a woman in a million.

The man of God invited the celebrant and her family

38

THANKSGIVING SERVICE

Celebrant & husband, Chief Alabi at the Thanksgiving service

Celebrant & last son, Akin Alabi

Scripture reading by Yemi Otukoya, celebrant’s daughter

Celebrant’s sons: Sina, Ayo & Akin Alabi

The Alabis with family friends & Minister

Sina Alabi & Bolade Travels

Chief & Mrs. Emiola Adesina

Celebrant & husband taking Holy communion

39

Dr. & Mrs. Otukoya

Alhaji & Mrs. Adigun

Celebrant & husband with officiating Ministers

Chief & Mrs. Lawal

THE RECEPTION

L-R: Aliu, Leye, Bayo, Sesan, Akeem, Marcus & Kele

40

Mr. & Mrs. Popoola

Celebrant’s grandchildren, Top: Taiwo & Kehinde Adigun, Bottom L-r: Layomi, Ireoluwa, Anjola, Myah, Boluwatife & Obaloluwa

Akin Alabi with Engr Tony & Mrs. Ifeoma Obi

Engr. Yombo Adeyemo, Mrs. Ojo & Sina Alabi

L-r: Omolayo, Omolola, Omolade & Mary Umukoro

Tola Ola, Yemi Otukoya & Mijaye Ogwu

Chief & Chief (Mrs.) Bode Amoo (Bode Foam)

Mr. & Mrs. Archibong with Segun Agbede

Mrs. Iyabode Adigun, Muyiwa Alabi & Tayo Ladipo

Bukola Enyioha & Yemi Macaulay

Craze Clown & the celebrant

41

Skuki with the celebrant

Senator & Mrs. Teslim Folarin, Akin Alabi & Alhaji Yinka Taiwo

Skuki, Moses Abhiele & Sheliroy

Alhaji Lamidi Ajadi & Alhaji Abiade

Oloye & Mrs. Teslim Folarin

Azeez 9ja Predict & Yemi Macaulay

42

Ronald, Toyin, Bukola & Oosha

King Sunny Ade with his band

ALL THE FUN AND FASHION AT

OVATION CAROL 2015 IN LAGOS AND ACCRA Story: Tunde Martins Photo: Abraham Falodun, Segun Lawal, Ken Ehimen, Solomon Ekhaiyeme & Funmilayo Adeyemi

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Tony Elumelu, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi & Femi Otedola on stage

Femi Otedola presenting a cheque to Oba Dokun Abolarin & Olori on behalf of Ovation

I

t has been the most-prestigious, most-talked about, most glamorous yuletide event in recent years, and the 2015 OVATION Carol, sponsored by telecommunications giant, Globacom lived up to that A-list profile.

The 2013 and 2014 editions were held in Ghana, prompting OVATION readers in Nigeria to clamour for the most entertaining event of the year to return to its traditional home, Lagos, Nigeria-and their prayers were answered That was not all, OVATION decided to give its readers and friends a double dose of fun this year as another lively and fun-filled carol event was held at the top-rate Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, Accra, Ghana to celebrate the 10th anniversary of UBA Ghana. This of course was powered by the might of Africa’s Global Bank, UBA. It was in Lagos that the OVATION Carol 2015 groove train began-and as expected, it was as glitzy and

Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi with Bashorun Dele Momodu

glamorous as it was classy and fun-filled. The crème de la crème of society were as usual present to partake in this unique evening of praise, thanksgiving and inspiration.

The venue was none other than the prestigious Eko Hotel & Suites and it was as if OVATION and Globacom had taken over the entire hotel and its vicinity on that day.

From the main entrance of the top-star hotel, huge banners of the main sponsors flew proudly, every inch of the venue had different signages of a Glo Ambassador, it was such a spectacular sight to behold.

Inside, the event Manager and decorator, TSoule Amodu and his team were at their creative best, apart from laying out an intimidating green carpet, they enhanced the walkway and the venue with lovely pieces.

The comperes for the evening were celebrated actor and former Delta State Commissioner, Richard Mofe-

Damijo (himself a Glo Ambassador) and our own delectable Daala Oruwari of OVATION TV. They steered the event professionally and masterfully with no hitches at all. Of course it must be mentioned that Charterhouse Nigeria was in charge of Production while Soundcity and all its affiliate stations beamed the event live!

The first performance of the night was from an upcoming artiste, F.A from Liberia. Later, rising Ghanaian star, Stone Bwoy lit up the stage with an electrifying performance.

Omawumi, the “If You Dey Ask Me” crooner and queen of Naija hip hop was next and she really wowed many as she dished out some of her old songs while introducing new ones.

Popular gospel musician, Gbenga Adenuga, then took centre stage; his medley of gospel songs was soulstirring, and as he hit the notes of the popular tunes, the audience was on its feet, singing along gleefully.

43

Chris Emechete with Sylvia Eden Emechete

Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi

James Gardner & Juliet Ibrahim

Azuh Arinze & Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi

Mr. & Mrs. Zakky Adzee

Mr. Benny Obazy (BEVISTA)

Kemi Adewunmi & Amira Ibrahim Alfa

Abiodun Koya

44

Chidi Mokeme

Mr. Leke Alder & his daughter, Olumide

Mrs. Seun Olagunju

Shola Adeshina, Mrs. Bolaji Momodu with Kanyin Adeshina

Femi Tejuoso, Ope Tejuoso, Yomi Akintemi with Segun Akintemi

Prince Damola Aderemi

Mrs. Ariyike Fadahunsi & her daughter, Mr. & Mrs. Adekoya Adeghite Kokoma

Ronke Apampa

Mr. & Mrs. Dafe Oruwari

Ken-Calebs Olumese

Isaac Adegbite

Mr. & Mrs. Azuh Arinze

Mrs. Tai Elemosho-Okesanjo & Azuh Arinze

Dr. Modupe Abiola with Elizabeth

45

Fred Amata, Kemi Otegbade & Mrs. Amata Kenny

46

Folusho Leigh with Sandra Ajayi

Segun Ogunsanya with Dayo Adedayo

Chukwudi Akajudo, Bayo Fatusi & friend

Omowunmi Akinnifesi

Mr. & Mrs. Akin Ajibola

Lepacious Bose

Mabel Bassey & friend

Sunny

Benny Obaze & guest

Jordan & friends

Zakky Adzee with Biodun Kupoluyi Demilade Alao with Bamidele Salako

Mr. & Mrs. Segun Akintemi

Mr. & Mrs. Solomon Ekhaiyemhe

Josiah Abiola & friend

Chaste Inegbedion

47

The Junaid family: Tomiwa, Funke, Yinka, Damilola with Papa

Pastor Soji Adenikan, Kufreabasi James, Mrs. Kemi James, Anietie James, Doris Osademe & Segun Inawole

Kamara Adeyemi, Fatimah Adeyemi, Gloria Moses, Mr. & Mrs. Aroyehun with Olaniyi Aroyehun

Yemisola Adesina, Biola Dina, Olufunke Odunsanya, Hakeem Odunsanya with Tunji Allen

48

The Usherettes

Mrs. Olabode Falodun with her children, Blossom & Jethro

Sandra Ajayi & son, Mayowa with Adediwura

Lanre Alfred

Biodun Kupoluyi, Hon & Mrs. Steve Ayorinde & Yinka Oyedeji

Another spectacular feature of the OVATION Carol 2015 was when the award-winning US based Opera singer, Abiodun Koya, stepped on stage to thrill the guests. As usual, she started in a somber mood and gradually built up momentum.

Her performance was so gripping that when she was making her exit, the scream of ‘more’ echoed from every corner of the massive hall. But as time was not on anyone’s side, their wishes could not be granted.

One of the major highlights of OVATION Carol is to preach and spread a message of hope-and this year, the Chairman of Ovation Media Group, Bashorun Dele Momodu revealed that a school from Osun State was going to be the 2015 beneficiary of our yearly award.

Bashorun Momodu then invited Orangun of Oke Ila Orangun, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, and his lovely wife, Olori Sholape as well as Billionaire businessman, Mr. Femi Otedola, the Chairman of Forte Oil, to join him on stage. Our Chairman and Mr. Otedola then presented a cheque of N1million to Abolarin College, a not-for-profit School established by the Monarch for Children in his community.

In his speech, an elated Oba Abolarin thanked OVATION for the donation and also used the opportunity to thank Mr. Otedola for his immense support to the school.

The monarch revealed that he wrote letter to Forte Oil years back requesting for financial support for the school and the company sent in a donation of N1million. This gesture, he stated, was very commendable and he then went on to shower OVATION, Globacom and Forte Oil with royal blessings.

Thereafter, it was soon the turn of DJ Cuppy to take centre stage. DJ Cuppy whose real names are Ifeoluwa Otedola is one of the hottest Disc Jockeys in town and she did not disappoint. The daughter of businessman Femi Otedola and crew put up a pulsating performance that got a standing ovation from the audience!

80s American R&B /Soul singer, Evelyn Champagne King was the surprise package for the year and she delivered big time.

She electrified the stage with her hits “Love Come Down”and “I’m in Love”. She was very interactive as well, allowing a male fan to boogie with her and act as her back-up singer for many minutes to the delight of all present.

One of the hottest commodities in the Nigerian music scene at the moment, Wizkid hit the stage next.

This time guests did not just stand around their seats singing along, they actually bombarded the front of the stage to dance and capture the moments with their phones for posterity.

Mr. & Mrs. Ojukwu Onwuzuike

The high point of the evening was when Star Boy performed his hit “Ojuelegba”. The audience roared in jubilation. He really titillated the audience.

The show was brought to a superlative and memorable end by Evangelist Ebenezer Obey (Baba commander) and his band. Beginning with the popular song “Keresimesi”, the veteran performer thrilled with a medley of his evergreen songs, like the creative musician that he truly is, while on stage he composed a special song for both UBA Chairman, Tony Elumelu and Forte Oil Chairman, Mr. Femi Otedola. For Elumelu, the chorus was “na so so good na him you dey do, Elumelu Elumelu…this resonated in the audience so much so that everyone sang along.

Buoyed by the support of these celebrated Nigerian entrepreneurs, the Evangelist spent over an hour moreon stage-a fitting finale to what was a glorious Lagos Edition of OVATION Carol 2015.

A few days later, the fun train landed in Accra Ghana, and the venue, Movenpick Ambaassador Hotel was transformed to a breath-taking, red-themed heavenly and convivial atmosphere by Red Capet Events led by Gabriella Medie. Everywhere was red, bold, bright and beautiful as banners, with UBA’s wellknown logo emblazoned on them, were placed at strategic points around the venue.

49

Prince Adedamola Aderemi & family

Abiola, Tobi Sanni Daniel, Glory with Keona

Mr. & Mrs. Kennedy Uzoka

Foluso Adeagbo & Kemi Aderemi

Mr. Ralph Lewu & Wole Adama

Senator Toks Afikuyomi & Funso Lawal

Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Oriuwa

Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo (MD, Fidelity Bank) & wife

50

Mr. & Mrs. Larry Ofuokwu

Mr. Kunle Coker, Mr. Femi Otedola & Mr. Segun Shebanjo

Mr. Albert Okumagbe & Sen. Toks Afikuyomi

Mr. Gboyega Durojaiye with Dr. Bose Durojaiye

Folusho Ade Adeagbo, HRM Oba & Olori Adedokun Abolarin, Femi Otedola & Prince Adedamola Aderemi

Tony Elumelu, Femi Otedola & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu & UBA, DMD, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Bode Opeseitan of Globacom

Adeola Olatunji, Idowu Iremiren, Mrs. Bolaji Momodu with Christy Nkah

Ijegbao Christian with Chizoba Oriuwa

Chinedu & Olufunke Okoli

51

Uju Ojimba, Eunice Efole & Yetunde Oduwole

Pekan Momodu & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Thayo Ladipo, Funlola Jeje & Funke Adeaga

Mr. Feyi Bali, Mrs. Adeola Bali with Mrs. Abimbola Ogundipe

Sharon Ekong, Taiwo Jinadu, Eunice Afolabi with Kehinde Jinadu

Mr. & Mrs. Henry “Oldskool” Alade & wife

52

Otunba Femmy Carrera with Adebola

Olamide Maya, Abiola Maya with Morian Ojikutu

Aderemi Abiola & Shola Omoshebi

Mrs. Kemi Effiong James, Doris Osademe with Kufreabasi James

Chidi Okohalum with Mrs. Adebisi Taiwo Martins

Sekina Okujade with Tinuke Odumosu

Jane Ezeh with Ayobami Adedeji

Dani X Buki TJ

Damilola with Ronke Soetan

Mrs. Ayo Olunloyo with Mr. & Mrs. Abiona

Fehintola Sotomi, Sunmisola Oloruninsola with Adetutu Sotomi

Rotimi, Kenny Ayeni, Nike Larinde with Hon. Wale

Tosin Omah, Funmi Ajagbe with Bukky Odeyemi

53

Tunde Alaran, Dele Salako, Adekoya Adegbite, Michael Effiong with Tope Brown

Azuh Arinze, Dr. Julius Nwokoro, Mrs. Nkoli Azuh, Mrs. Nwokoro & Michael Effiong

Koya, Tunde, Segun, Abraham & Dele

Victoria Akanta, Comfort Frank & Bolaji Badejo

Tosin Alo, Mrs. Alo, Temi Ajayi, Timi Alo & friend

Amaechi Okpara with Mr. & Mrs. Ifeanyi Ogar

(R-l) Mr. & Mrs. Inocent Ogar with Abimbola Adeniji

Afolashade Aluko, Titi Olugboye & Kenny Izuorah

54

Esther John, Folarin Dare & Yetunde Aluko

Fointama Beiziache, Mr. Anponsah Quaino & Didiea Sourou of UBA

Charles Aigbe, Divisional Head, UBA (left)

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Eniafe Momodu with Prince Damola Aderemi

Mrs. Fadahunsi, Tope Animashaun & Seun Animashaun

Sylvia Eden Emechete & Chris Emechete

Mr. Rotimi, Mr. Koya Adegbite, Mrs. Ayeni & Mrs. Obayemi

Faith & Sandra

Mercy Ekwueme, Lateef Momoh & Raymond Atimah

55

Amb. T. Okanlawon, Seyi Orolugbagbe & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Oritshefemi & Manager

Bridget & Cynthia

Shola Abiona & Ayo Olunloyo

Eventrix crew

Efe Ebor, Terso Achineku & Debbie

Mr. Owolabi Adejumo & Mr. Adeyemi Akeju

Sandra & Funmi

56

Sandra & Bolarinwa

J.Y, William Kenny & CKY

(Right) Jide Sanwo-Olu

Waliyah, Dembi, Eniafe Momodu & Adelowo

Enitanyole Momodu with Eniafe Momodu

Subomi Plumptre & Dele Odugbemi

Korewa Momodu with Ife Durojaiye

Bukky Sogem & Adenike Adewusi

Mr. & Mrs. Ewah Lawrence

Yasmeen (m) & friends

Idowu Ogungbe with kids

57

Dayo Adedayo (right)

Emeka Oparah (r)

Tomi Alao, Mayowa Ajayi, Dayo Onifade, Rafiu & Rafia

Yaw (middle) with Fred Amata & son

Ameachi, Sandra Ajayi & KC Nwaonu

Mr. & Mrs. Aremu

58

Sylvia Ughujowhovwo (Face of Delta) with Tony Elumelu

Mr. & Mrs. Folarin Ogunsanwo

Oba Adedokun Abolarin & Olori with Mrs. Bolaji Momodu

Eniafe, Korewa and Toluwalase

Mrs. Tolulope Alo & Temitayo Ajayi

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Prince Damola Aderemi, Prince Yemi Aderemi & Seyi Orolugbagbe

Goke Dokun & Wale Adebajo (British High Commission)

Top Artiste Manager, Sunday Are & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bukky Soyemi, Adenike Adewusi & Faith Abak

Bashorun with Daala Oruwari & her parents: Dafe & Dammy Oruwari

59

HSSL Global Directors: Dele Coker & Ayo Olowoporoku with Mr. & Mrs. Aremu

Mr. Yemi Orolugbagbe & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Mrs. Tai Elemosho-Okesanjo (Montai)

Toba & Charity

Thayo Ladipo, Funlola Jeje, Funke Adeaga,

Med & Faaizah Anjolaiya

Goke Dokun & Wale Adebajo (British High Commission)

60

Wale Jafojo & Yetunde Onabanjo

Mrs. Toyin Seriki & Dr. (Mrs.) Bose Durojaiye

Susan Eyo-Honesty & Bashorun Dele Momodu

(R-L) Foluso Adeagbo, Prince Femi Tejuoso & Segun Akintemi

R-l: Mrs. Bukola Aroyehun & sister with Bashorun

Hakeem & Taiwo Anjolaiya

Bernice Ibiam with Glo Colleagues rocking the carol

King Bome Ojoboh & Aigbe Uwadiale

61

Modupe Afikuyomi & Tokunbo Junior Afikuyomi

Mrs. Bisi Oyetayo (right)

Mrs. Kemi Aderemi

The Aderemis

MD Marat Facilities

Francis & Bashorun Dele Momodu

62

Oladele Ogunlana & Yemisi Ogundipe

Mrs. Onisemo & Mrs. Obembe

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mrs. Modupe Afikuyomi

Waliyah Abiola, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mrs. Bolaji Momodu

Mr.& Mrs. Ezeome

Funmilola Adeshina, Kanyinsola Adeshina, Mrs. Bolaji Momodu & Shola Adeshina

Seun Soyinka (right) & friend

Ome, Ono Bello & Ilona Pinka

Tope & Tosin

Dr. Julius Nwokoro, Mrs. Edith Azuh & Mrs. Tina Nwokoro

Femi & Ope Tejuoso

63

Adetunji Iyun, Hakeem Odusanya, Olufunke Odusanya & Biola Dina

Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Peter Babafemi

Femi Awoyemi

Otunba Funso Lawal & family

Bukola Aroyehun, Olaniyi Aroyehun & Folasayo Tunji-Shoyinka

64

Micheal Effiong & Mike Dada

Peris, lydia, Judy & lisa

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Mrs. Bolaji Momodu & Ronke Soetan

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mr. Segun Shebanjo

R-l: Abidakun Oladimeji Rodas, Yomi Adeleke, Akinola Waheed, Bolaji Orire & Janet Jacobs

Eniafe & Junior Momodu

Michelle Eyo, Dolapo Ajila & Ejiro Umukoro

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Bamishebi Richard

Mr. Segun Adebowale & Jordan

65

Bashorun Dele Momodu

Mrs. Funmi Ajayi (R)

Tony Elumelu, Charles Aigbe & Loye Amzat

Tony Elumelu, Mrs. Bunmi Amzat & Loye Amzat

Mr. & Mrs. Azuh Arinze with Mr. Tony Elumelu & Charles Aigbe

Cynthia Joseph, Idowu Iremiren, Christy Nkah with Adeola Olatunji

66

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Francisca Ezeh

Mr. & Mrs. Tunde Martins

Fesal Anjolaiya, Akeem Anjolaiya, Micheal Effiong & wife, Kemi with Doris Osademe

L-r: Mr. Femi Otedola, Prince Adedamola Aderemi

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Micheal Effiong

Segun Adesanya, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Michael Effiong & Wale Jafojo

Oba Adedokun Abolarin & Segun Lawal (Iroko)

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Femi Otedola’s Personal Assistant

67

Abraham, Prince Aderemi, Tope, HRM & Olori Abolarin with Bamishebi

Bolaji Momodu, Ohi Momodu & Tsolue Amodu

Eunice Efoli, Great Ohiri & Benny Obazele (BEVISTA)

Rebbeca, Blossom, Abraham, Olabode & Ibukun

Abraham, Ken, Koya, Liza, Segun & Akintunde

Micheal Effiong & Charles Aigbe

Segun, Bammy, Bewaji & Dele

Dolapo Ajila & friends

68

Femi Otedola & Mrs. Seun Olagunju

Akin Ajibola & Seun Ajibola

Comperes: RMD & Daala Oruwari

69

OMAWUMI

GBENGA ADENUGA

70

DJ CUPPY

ABIODUN KOYA

71

f.a

WIZKID

Wizkid, the star boy

72

EVELYN CHAMPAGNE KING

73

74

OVATION CAROL CELEBRATES

UBA GHANA AT 10

By Ben Dzakah

&Bashorun Dele Momodu presenting a special plague to Mrs. Abiola Bawuah, MD, UBA Ghana & her executives

Mrs. Abiola Bawuah, MD, UBA Ghana & management staff of UBA dancing to a song from Bashorun Dele Momodu, Chairman, Ovation Media Group

75

Mrs. Abiola Bawuah, MD, UBA Ghana

Wizkid & Efya

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Kwabena Kwabena

Adesupo Adedayo, Kwawu Aduansere & Usman Isaaka

Gbenga Titiloye (left)

Kuukua Korsah, Bashorun, KKD & Nana Anhoma Niamah

Michael Effiong & Iyiola Ayoade

Princess Wendy (Mc of the night)

Mrs. Abiola Bawuah(l)

Michael Yirenkyi

Makeba Boateng & Nikos Chronios

76

Gabriella Medie of Redcarpet and Events& Gwen Gyimah Addo

Priscilla & Evelyn Nartey

Lady Patience, Kuukua Korsah & Victoria

Monalisa (l) with friends

Mr. & Mrs. Hammond with Mr. & Mrs. Dzegble Divine

Queenie Addo & Roselyn Amachey

Raymond & Abigail

MendyD, Ebuah & K’Lade Neufville

Sameer Capta, Lamooini Capta & Gabriella Capta

77

Bashorun Dele Momodu with guests

Efya with friends

Nikki, Jessey, Winnie & Abigail

Mr. & Mrs. Gabby Okyere Darko

Usman Isaaka with staff of UBA

Michael Effiong, Editor, Ovation International with Nadia Buari

Usman Isaaka (left)

Usherettes

78

Mrs. Abiola Bawuah, MD, UBA Ghana & Mrs. Theresa Ayoade

Bashorun Dele Momodu with guests

Usman Isaaka & Esther Gadagbui

Albert & Akua

Usman Isaaka & Sameer Capta

Mr. Balogun of D’Den & friend

Franklyn Oreh, Denis Vincent & Justice Brown

Elizabeth Quarshie

Mrs. A.J Sarpong

79

Wenniba Youth Choir

With top-notch dĂŠcor in place and the Production prowess of Charterhouse Ghana in full flow all was set for the OVATION Carol 2015 in Accra specifically organized to celebrate UBA Ghana at 10.

TV Personality Princess Wendy was the compere for the evening and was later joined by handsome Master of Ceremonies, KKD-and it was such a lively evening.

Guests were thrilled by top-rate artistes like: AK Songstress, Becca, Efya and Kwabena Kwabena who all gave the audience a night to remember.

What could be described as the most memorable moment of the evening was the presentation of a special plague by OVATION Media Group Chairman, Bashorun Dele Momodu to Mrs. Abiola Bawuah, MD/CEO, UBA Ghana and her Management team.

Just like in Lagos. Wizkid was the star of the evening, this time, he, it was, who rounded off the evening. Wizkid was joined at some point by the popular duo, R2Bees (with whom he had recorded a Collabo), together they literarily brought the house down and closed the curtains on a truly terrific evening of undiluted fun.

AK Songstress

Efya & KKD

Kwabena Kwabena performing

80 Amazing Efya Efya performing

Becca performing

Wizkid in full flow

81

Divine Dzegble, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, Former Speaker, Lagos State & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Theresa & Iyiola Ayoade of CharterHouse

Sunday Are & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Dan LarteyJnr. (left)

82

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Alhaji Rasaaque Animashaun

Lady Hedwig & Vanessa

Toks Afikuyumi Jnr. (2nd left) with friends & Fremah Mensah

Mr. & Mrs. Akin Ajibola

Isaac & Shirley with guest

83

Far right: Gabriella Media (Red Carpet Event)

84

Daniel, Michael Yirenkyi & Isaac Mensah

Lady Patience, Esbee, Shadia Buari, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Nadia Buari

Bashorun Dele Momodu dancing with Nadia Buari

KKD with guest digging it out

Wizkid at his best

85

AT METRO FM’S FYNE 2.0 CONCERT IN LAGOS

Ife Ajagbe receiving an award at FYNE 2.0 from Mr. Steve Ayorinde, Lagos State Commissioner of Information & Strategy

Cordelia Okpei, GM, Metro Fm

Controller Programmess; Fred Nwaulune, GM Radio One 103.5FM, Funke Treasure, Lagos State Commisioner for Information & Strategy; Mr. Steve Ayorinde & GM, Metro FM, Cordelia Okpei

Seyi Law & Koffi anchoring the event

Seyi Law presenting prizes to staff

I

t was an evening to show appreciation as well as have fun when staff of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN)-owned radio station, Metro FM gathered for the Fyne 2.0 Concert.

The urban radio station which has the amiable and experienced, Cordelia Okpei as General Manager showed its muscle with the array of entertainers that performed that evening.

86

From Jessy Jagz to Victoria Kimani, Sound Sultan, Solid Star and Praiz to DJ Rolland and Kenny Black, there was no dull moment throughout as Seyi Law and Koffi also provided matured comedy.

The occasion was also used to honour and appreciate some members of staff who had performed creditably well during the year.

Metro FM’s OAP, Jolla

Metro FM OAP, Ife Ajabe

Metro FM OAP, Nwadiuto Okoye

Metro FM OAP, Ona Oboloko

Metro FM OAP, Moses Humphrey

Metro FM OAP, Sunday Imonah

Metro FM OAP, Tolu Stevens

Metro OAP, Rexx

Sound Sultan

87

Victoria Kimani

Solid Star

Ada & Arewa on stage

Alex O

Baba Fryo on stage

Kenny Black

Jesse Jagz

Koffi

88

DJ Rolland

MRS. MOJI TEJUOSO CELEBRATES 50TH

BIRTHDAY WITH A CLASSY HIGH SOCIETY PARTY Story: Adebimpe Odumade Photo: Segun Lawal

Celebrant with family

Alhaji Rasaq Okoya (father of the celebrant) & Oba Adedapo Tejuoso (father inlaw of celebrant)

Sen. Lanre Tejuoso, Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki, Mrs. Toyin Saraki, Mrs. Moji Tejuoso, Ogun State First Lady, Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun & Oba Adedapo Tejuoso

Mr. Kola Abiola, Biola Ayeni & Tunde Ayeni

Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Pastor (Mrs) Olayide Bakare

I

t was a show of absolute joy and gratitude for the Okoya and Tejuoso families when they rolled out the drums to celebrate the exultant and much expected entry of Princess Moji Tejuoso, the eldest daughter of billionaire businessman, Chief Razaq Okoya, into the golden league.

The beautiful birthday ceremony was held in a Chinese restaurant at Isaac John Street, G.R.A., Ikeja, Lagos with family, friends and loved ones in attendance to mark the special and landmark occasion with her.

The atmosphere was glamorous with decorations a

crafted in cream and gold. Guests were delightfully welcomed to the event by Elegant Ushers, and they were settled in with sweet smiles and utmost courtesy.

Just as it is known that the music provider in any event is the pivot through which the event revolves, the organizers rightfully reserved the all important function to one of the best in the industry, DJ Odone and music formed a soothing backdrop throughout the occasion.

The celebration got off the ground with an opening prayer by Pastor Ola Vincent Odulele, as the celebrant, who was fashionably dressed in a figure-hugging gold

and cream gown took her place, highly overwhelmed by the love and moral support exhibited by her family.

Among the dignified personalities that graced the occasion were Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki and his wife, Toyin; Ogun State First Lady, Mr. Olufunso Amosun, Chief Rasak Okoya and his wives- Kuburat Olayinka and Folashade; Justice Adesola Oguntade (Rtd) and wife, Modupe; Oba Adedapo Tejuoso and his three wives-Omolara, Yetunde and Adebisi; Senators Gbenga Ashafa, Solomon Adeola Yayi, and Ben Murray-Bruce; Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Pastor Tunde Bakare and wife; Prince 89

Sen. Lanre Tejuoso (l) & Pastor Paul Adefrasin (r)

Otunba & Mrs. Bimbo Ashiru, Mrs. Moji Tejuoso, Sen. Lanre Tejuoso & Mrs. Ronke Sokefun

Former Speaker Oyo State House of Assembly, Sen. Mosurat Sumonu, Prince Gbolahan Dada, Sen. Lanre Tejuoso, Mrs. Moji Tejuoso & Sen. Bukola Saraki

H.E (Mrs.) Olufunsho Amosun, Mrs. Moji Tejuoso & Pastor (Mrs.) Olayide Bakare

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Mr. Tayo Ayeni & Sen. Lanre Tejuoso

Dr. Kweku Tandoh, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Sen. Lanre Tejuoso, Mr. Segun Awolowo & Mr. Wole Oshin

Sen. & Mrs. Lanre Tejuoso with Sen. Ben Bruce

Mrs. Moji Tejuoso, Mrs. Bola Awolowo with friends

90

Mr. Kayode Odukoya, Mrs. Moji Tejuoso & Mr. Tayo Ayeni

Mrs. Moji Tejuoso during her thank you speech

Pastor & Mrs. Femi Paul with Sen. Lanre Tejuoso

Sen. Lanre Tejuoso, Hon. Moji Tejuoso & Sen. Solomon Olamilakan (Yayi)

Gbenga Obadina, Folusho Adeagbo, Sen. Lanre Tejuoso, Kayode Tejuoso & Chief Tayo Oluwole

Mr. & Mrs. Koya Lanre & Prince Femi Tejuoso

Olori Labisi Tejuoso, Olori Yetunde Tejuoso & Olori Omolara Tejuoso

Oba Tejuoso with Justice Oguntade (Rtd) with celebrant and family members

Mr. & Mrs. Kester Ifeadi with Sen. Lanre Tejuoso

91

Hon. Funmi Tejuoso, Mrs. Moji Tejuoso, Olufunsho Amosun, ,Sen. Lanre Tejuoso & Justice Bukola Adebiyi

Retired Justice & Mrs. Adesola Oguntade

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Mr. Tayo Ayeni & Sen. Lanre Tejuoso

Sen. Lanre Tejuoso & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Chief (Mrs) Shade Okoya & Alhaja Kuburat Okoya

Mr. Segun Sebanjo & Sen. Lanre Tejuoso

Mosun Oyefesobi, Bolajoko Adeyemi, Kemi Okoya & Lola Okoya

Mrs. Wosila Okoya-Serike with Mrs. Labake Adeola

92

Pastor & Mrs. Femi Paul & Moji Tejuoso

Ogehene Francis, Mrs. Moji Tejuoso & Joy Nunieh

Dr. & Mrs. Tunji Abimbola & Celebrant

Top DJ, Collins, Prince Kayode Tejuoso & Mr. Kola Abiola

Sen. Lanre Tejuoso, Prince Tokunbo Sijuwade, Mrs. Moji Tejuoso, Mr. Segun Awolowo & Mrs. Bola Awolowo

Mr. Tayo Ayeni with Mr. & Mrs. Odukoya

Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mrs. Toyin Saraki

Official Photographer to the Senate President, Tope Brown & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Tokunbo Sijuwade, Kayode and Funmi Tejuosho, Kayode and Kemi Odukoya, Segun and Bola Awolowo, Tayo Ayeni, Kola Abiola, Tunde Ayeni, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Bimbo Ashiru, Yewande Amusan, Ronke Shofekun, Segun Sebanjo, Wosilat Okoya-Seriki, Tokunbo Akerele and many more.

The opening remark was deliver by Senator Lanre Tejuosho, the eldest son of Osile of Oke Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso and the loving husband of the wonderful celebrant. He eulogized his wife as being a good wife, mother and grandmother among others.

In a section of the hall stood the elegant birthday cake which was conceived as an imaginative expression and later actualized into visible elegance.

The two-tier cake was adroitly crafted in white and gold. The cake had the shape of a castle and certainly

appealed to all. It was a beauty to behold.

In this tribute, Segun Awolowo, the grandson of the late sage and nationalist, Chief Obafemi Awolowo decrribed the celebrant’s new way of life quoting from Psalm 16 Vs 1- 6. ‘’Preserve me, o God for in thee do I put my trust.

O my soul thou hast said unto the Lord; but to the saints that goodness extendeth not to thee; but to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight; their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips. The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup; thou maintainest my lot.

The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a godly heritage’’. The tribute was to show the

humane side of the celebrant, an aspect of her life which many who viewed her from afar would inevitably never have known.

The ceremony went smoothly with the cutting of the cake which was followed by a speech by Princess Tejuoso where she warmly appreciated her family inlaws and guests, showing how indebted she will always be to them.

The toast was proposed by Mr. Chris Bola, where he raised a toast and prayed for greater things to happen in the life of the celebrant. From then on, guests were entertained with a variety of victuals: As expected, the party soon dove-tailed into a dance session and guests boogied old skool jams till well into the night.

93

THE SUPERLATIVE ENGAGMENT OF

ROLARI OMOTEJU SEGUN AND BENEDICT HAGOP JACKA Story: Rukayat Adebayo Photo: Segun Lawal

P

ure, undiluted and unconditional love filled the air at the New Afrika Shrine, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos as the grand-daughter of the late King of Afro beat, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Rolari Omoteji Segun and her Australian beau, Benedict Hagop Jacka tied the nuptial knots in a lavish traditional wedding ceremony.

Rolari Segun is the first daughter of popular fair complexioned former dancer and co host of the popular Television program on TV Continental, “Your View” Yeni Kuti. Yeni is also the first daughter of Fela and Manager of Femi Kuti, her brother. The bride’s paternal grandmother, is famous novelist and writer, Mabel Segun.

Ushered into the beautifully decorated venue by cultural dancers alongside family and friends, the groom sparkled in his traditional attire.

For a handsome young man with Australian roots, it was quite easy for him to pull off the African look effortlessly.

After Benedict went through the required rites which involved prostrating for his bride's family and paying obeisance to the elders present. He greeted everyone and then took his seat, waiting patiently for his belle. Accompanied by the Aso Ebi ladies, the bride who is a graduate of Leeds University in the United Kingdom looked stunningly beautiful in her gold and wine traditional attire as she swept into the hall.

While praying for her daughter, Yeni Kuti shed tears of joy and was consoled by friends. The bride's late father was the renowned broadcaster; Femi Segun and he was represented at this occasion by his brother, Gbenga Segun. The spectacular event also witnessed the coming together of the Kuti and Segun families to support the young couple.

Guests turned up in large numbers as expected. The live band set the venue in a lively mood as the couple took over the dance floor for their official first dance after which the bride changed into a lovely brown sequined gown.

A 3-tier pink and gold coloured cake was cut by the couple after which they were joined on the dance floor by their respective families, friends and well-wishers.

Guests that graced the event included the former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola, King of Fuji music, K1 De Ultimate, comedian Teju Babyface, Kenny Saint Best, publisher of Encomium magazine, Kunle Bakare, Hon. & Mrs. Babatunde Ogala, Patrick and Ireti Doyle, Shola Sholeyin, Chocolate City President, Audu Maikori, Carol King, Jahman Anikulapo, Essence, Makin Soyinka, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru and Lagbaja.

94

Mr. Mrs. Keith Jacka, groom’s parents

Mr. & Mrs. Keith Jacka having fun with the traditional MC

Cross section of bride’s family

Bride’s family praying for the groom

Yemisi Kuti, Gbenga Segun, Benedict Jacka & Ms. Yeni Kuti

Mr. & Mrs. Keith Jacka with Groom, Benedict Jacka

Groom, Benedict with his friends

95

Bride entering the reception venue

Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN geeting the bride, Rolari Segun

Bride’s family praying for the couple

Groom’s family praying for the couple

Groom’s family praying for the couple

Bride with family the Seguns

Gbenga Segun, bride, Rolari Segun & bride’s mother, Ms Yeni Kuti

Mr. Babatunde Fashola,SAN, Rolari Segun & Mrs. Yemisi Kuti

96

Femi Kuti & Rolari Segun

Groom Parents: Mr. & Mrs. Keith Jacka with couple

Minister of Power, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, groom, Benedict Jacka & Mrs. Yemisi Ransome-Kuti

Bride’s uncle, Femi Kuti & groom, Benedict Jacka

Mr. & Mrs. Imoukhuede

Ms. Yeni Kuti & Babatunde Fashola

Segun Bucknor & Andrean Pizziloni

Fadekemi & Bimbo Olusola-Sowoolu

Seun Segun Shojobi, Dare Ajayi & Bola Omotayo

97

The couple

The lovely couple cutting their cake

Micheal Deelen & Dr. Olaokun Soyinka

Mrs. Funke Oyinsan & Princess Yanju Audifferen

98

Doyin Ogunjobi, Dbany Ojo, Stella Obe & Deola

Vera Adesanya & Femi Kuti

Bride with friends

Dr. Olaokun Soyinka, Barr. Moremi Soyinka-Onijala & friend

Mrs. Yeni Kuti with Your View Presenters

Mrs. Wilnett Dawodu, Mrs. Dotun Ademola & bride’s mother, Ms. Yeni Kuti

Uche Ugbade, Audu Maikori, Femi Kuti & Paul Okeugo

Ireti & Patrick Doyle

Mr. & Mrs. Audu Maikori

Mr. & Mrs. Babatunde Ogala

99

Carol King, Samantha Richard-Dike, Lorraine Richard-Dike & Bisi Adegbite

Temi Melissa & Kiki Zoe

Dame Nneka Mba & Vera Adesanya

King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal & Mide Martins

Mrs. Aderibigbe, Mrs. Bose Alahi, Mrs. Eniola Salu & Lesley Ikomi

Essence & Kenny St. Best

Nseobong Okon-Ekong, Funso Arogundade & friends

Prince Dayo & Mr. Makanju

100

Mide Kuti & Micheal Deelen

THE SUPERLATIVE WEDDING OF

YEWANDE ADEOSUN AND ADEMOLA ADEFARASIN

IN NIGERIA AND ITALY Stor: Tunde Martins & Efemena Collins Photo: Adekoya Adegbite & Dragan Mikki (Florence, Italy)

R

enowned Hip hop Star, Tuface Idibia was not mincing words when he sang in his award-winning hit track, African Queen ”Just like the sun lights up the earth you light up my life.” This must have echoed in the ears of Ademola Emmanuel when he met his belle, Yewande.

This song may indeed still have been echoing when the families of Adefarasin and Adeosun gathered at the Lekki Pennisula Colliseum hall, Lagos on a bright Saturday afternoon to witness the nuptials of their children.

Ademola Adefarasin, son of Pastor Wale Adefarasin, General Overseer, Guilding Light Assembly and nephew to popular savvy Preacher, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, while his sweetheart Yewande is the daughter of a Former Minister of Transport, Chief Oluwole Adeosun.

The event venue was laid out exquisitely to reflect the sense of the occasion and various traditional accessories were placed at strategic parts of the venue by the organizers to create a lively atmosphere that was full of colour and tradition.

As it is typical in Yoruba culture, the bride’s family were the first into the venue and were all seated and waiting for the arrival of the groom’s family. Yewande’s parents both beautifully decked in the same matching traditional attires in the midst of extended family members who came to celebrate the auspicious day with them were full of joy.

101

...AT THEIR COLOURFUL TRADITIONAL WEDDING

102

...BRIDE GETS READY

103

SWEET MOTHER OF THE BRIDE, CHIEF (MRS) JENNY ADEOSUN AND SON

104

Groom’s Parents: Pastor & Mrs. Adefarasin

Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, Mrs. Genny Adeosun (bride’s mother) & Oluwole (bride’s brother)

Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Gov. Abiola Ajimobi & wife, Florence

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode, H.E Florence Ajimobi & Gov. Abiola Ajimobi

Mrs. Genny Adeosun, Oba Gbadebo Aremu (Alake of Egbaland)

Pastor Itua Ighodalo & Otunba Femi Pedro

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Dr. Oba Otudeko

Mr. Adewale Adeosun & wife (L)

Dr. John Abebe, Pastor & Pastor Mrs. Wale Adefarasin

Tunde Folawiyo, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo & Otunba Femi Pedro

105

After they had settled down, the traditional comperes ushered in the groom’s family into the hall and he, alongside members of his family, danced in and took their sits opposite that of the bride’s family.

According to Yoruba custom, the groom's family is required to present a collection of traditional items to the bride's family and the Adefarasin family came fully loaded with items including big tubers of yams, honey, salt, palm-oil, Alligator pepper and baskets of fruits.

The two families exchanged letters: the proposal letter from the groom and the acceptance letter from the Adeosun family.

With the local comperes conducting affairs, Ademola was ushered into the hall. He looked all happy and beamed from ear to ear in his majestic Agbada and cap topped up with coral beads. He danced 106

into the hall with his friends and prostrated before the bride’s parent like a well-groomed Yoruba son. He was showered with prayers. Afterwards, he proceeded with his friends to prostrate flat before his own parents who also prayed for him. It was time for Yewande to arrive and she was dressed like a Bini maiden.

Bini brides are known for their elaborate beaded bridal wear-complete with a crown and accessories.

The hair which is the most important part of the look is made into a high bun hairstyle known as Eto-Okuku that is typically created with coral beads that are sewn into her hair. The coral bead accessories, accentuated the regal look of the bride with her beaded necklace and a poncho-like beaded top called the ewu ivie in Bini language as she made her first appearance into the venue. She was later joined by her mum’s family members who are from Edo State. The bride’s mother

was proud to see her daughter decked in Bini traditional attire. This aptly signified that Yewande did not forget where her mother was from because that her first appearance and outfit for the day was to honour her mum’s heritage and culture. This was indeed one of the moments to treasure at the glamorous event.

Adedamola’s anticipation was apparent but he did not wait too long before his African Queen joined him in the special seating area created for them.

She knelt before both families who prayed for her.

She was asked by the compere to pick an item from the numerous gifts brought by her in-laws and she picked the Holy Bible to the delight of guests. Again, according to tradition, she was handed a cap, to show the house that she knows whom the cap fits and who was really her man. She made no mistake, she walked

Her Excellency Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, Mrs. Genny Adeosun, bride , Little bride & Oluwole Adeosun

The bride with parents

107

Mrs. Genny Adeosun, Her Excellency Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, couple, Gov. Abiola Ajimobi & Oluwole Adeosun

108

Oba Aremu Adeyinka Gbadebo (Alake of Egba) praying for the bride & groom

Groom about to unveil the ring

straight to Ademola, knelt down and placed the cap on his head. She passed excellently and earned herself applause from guests.

During the ceremony, it was obvious that the couple were so in love that they shared bright smiles and constantly glanced at each other. Musical entertainment was from the legend himself, Evang. Ebenezer Obey and his band, and they serenaded the esteemed guests with his enjoyable music. Yoruba traditional dancers from Abeokuta also performed to the delight of guests.

Sumptuous and local dishes with exotic drinks were made available for all to savour too.

The excitement never stopped as the heartthrobs exchanged rings and kissed passionately. Then they proceeded to cut their well-crafted cake and this segment was coordinated by the First lady of Oyo State, Mrs. Modupe Florence Ajimobi, who also proposed the toast.

After the toast, the newlyweds proceeded to the dance floor as guests also enveloped them there showering In tuthe couple with wads of notes.

As an expression of their appreciation, the familes ensured that guests also went home with different souvenirs.

Notable dignitaries that was part of the beautiful union Included OVATION Magazine publisher, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode, Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Fmr. Deputy Governor of Lagos, Chief Femi Pedro, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Dr. John Abebe and Alake of Egbaland, HRM Aremu Adegboyega Gbadebo.

Weeks later, the couple, their family and friends were in Florence, Italy for the church ceremony to seal their years of friendship and love. The church and the reception venue chosen for this occasion were not only historic but scenic. The celebration of love turned out a very unforgettable experience for all those who attended.

109

Couple with groom’s parents

Bride’s father appreciating the Alake, the Governor, wife & other guests

Oba Aremu Adeyinka Gbadebo (Alake of Egbaland) praying for the bride & groom

110

Couple with the Ajimobis

Mrs. Genny Adeosun, Mrs. Bisi Ediesere, the couple & Adewole Adeosun

111

H.E Prof Yemi Osinbajo, Pst Ituah Ighodalo

Otunba Femi Pedro, Mr Tunde Fowler & Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode

Oluwole, Adewole, Matthew, Buchi & Pst. Mrs. Adefarasin

Groom’s parents with Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode

112

Erelu Abiola Dosunmu & Princess Latifat Lamoliatte

Aisha Falode & Pastor Ituah Ighodalo

Buchi & Matthew Adeosun

Pst & Pst Mrs. Adefarasin, H.E Prof. Yemi Osinbajo

Mr. Willie Anumudu & Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Otunba Femi Pedro

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode & Hajia Abba Folawiyo

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode, Gov. Abiola Ajimobi & wife & Otunba Femi Pedro

Sen. Yinka Omilani, Pst & Pst (Mrs) Wale Adefarasin

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Gov. Abiola Ajimobi

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Pastor Wale Adefarasin

113

Hon. Titi Oseni , Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mr. Rotimi Obey

Pastor Ituah Ighodalo with Gov. Abiola Ajimobi & wife

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi

(R) Olori Ladun Sijuwade

Her Excellency Modupe Ajimobi, groom’s parents, Mrs. Genny Adeosun (bride’s mum)

114

(R-L)Madam Bisi, Olori Gbadebo, H.E Modupe Ajimobi, H.E Abiola Ajimobi & Oba Aremu Gbadebo

Oluwole Adeosun with sisters

(R-l) Lawunmi Bibilari, Joke Adewusi & Femi Olaseinde

Olori Yetunde & Olori Labisi Tejuoso

Chief Kunle & Iyadun Okenla

Oluwole Adeosun & Dayo

Chief Ladi Williams,SAN, Pst Wale Adefarasin & Pst Yomi Kasali

Mr. & Mrs. Kojo Williams

Bride & groom with Pst. Ituah Ighodalo

Bolaji, Ajibola, H.E Abiola Ajimobi, H.E Modupe Ajimobi & Ajijola

Olori Yetunde & Olori Labisi Tejuoso with Olori Ladun Sijuwade (m)

115

Otunba Lekan Osifeso & Erelu Tola

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Adewole Adeosun

Erelu Tola, Mrs. Bisi Abiola, Vicky & Alh. Ope

Nonso, Couple & Salewa

Mr. & Mrs. Olu Okeowo

Mr. & Mrs. Bosun Oredola

Mr. Victor Gbolade Osibodu with Mr. & Mrs. Alabi

116

Pastor Dotun Ojelabi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

The Ajumobi family

Otunba & Mrs. Femi Pedro with Chief & Chief (Mrs.) Ernest Shonekan

Enitan Allen, Joke Sogunro & Ranti

Mary, HRH Pelebo Banigo, Sen. Daisy Danjuma & Lorreta

(middle) Mrs. Funmi Osunsade

Sam & groom

117

Ovation Tv Producer, Enitan Okesanya, Rotimi Obey, Wendy, Ebuwa & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Nkiru Anumudu, Eyamba Henshaw, HRH Pelebo Banigo & Lorretta

Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande, Hajia Abba Folawiyo & Erelu Abiola Dosunmu

Mr. & Mrs. Ayininuola

118

Pauline, Omolere, Pat & Ramat

(R) Mr. & Mrs. Musa

Mary, Funmi Dokpesi & Pat

Ada & Tchik Tchik

Oyin & Hon. Titi Oseni (m)

Abiba, Yewande & Abimbola

Chief & Mrs. Rasheed Gbadamosi & Sen. Yinka Omilani

119

Abimbola, Adepeju, couple, Bisola, Kolapo Ajijola & others

120

Sen. Daisy Danjuma, Genny Adeosun, HRH Pelebo Banigo & Lorretta Jibowu

Mrs Chioma Madubko (M)

Mr. Victor Oshibodu (left)

Zainab, Dipo with Tino & friend

Mr. & Mrs. Tunde Fowler & Pst. Yomi Kasali

Dayo, Oluwole & Derin

Mrs. Enitan Akerele (right)

Evang. Ebenezer Obey & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Evang. Obey performing

121

YEWANDE ADEOSUN AND ADEMOLA ADEFARASIN SEAL THEIR LOVE IN FLORENCE, ITALY

...PREPARATION

122

Ademide with Pst. & Pst (Mrs.) Wale Adefarasin

Lucy Smyth, Tom Cambel-Caty & Isabelle Newton

Golsen Yilmaz & Edward Burge

Gorellie & Wale Shasanya

Dami Agbaje & Lotte Goos

Genny with Pst. & Pst (Mrs.) Wale Adefarasin

Samao Edewor, Folake Fajemirokun & Tobi Edun

Josh & Kanyinsola Joseph

Enyinna Anumudu, Ore Runsewe, Tinomakoni & Zainab

123

124

125

126

127

The couple recieving the Holy Communion

The couple taking the Holy Communion

128

Pastor Wale Adefarasin & Ademide

Ify & Adeolu

Rotimi, Motolani, Gbeminiyi, Tino & Adeolu

Bride & groom

Justice Pedro with H.E. Florence Ajimobi

129

Enyinna, Chris & Rotimi

The lovely couple

130

Yewande Adeosun

Tino, Gbeminiyi, Ify & Ezinne

Ademola Adefarasin

Couple with mothers

131

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Dr. Dosekun

Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Pastor Wale Adefarasin, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Femi

Tosin & Funmi Oyetunji

Tope, Yinka Ogundipe, Bola Adefarasin, Yemi & Sharon Adefarasin

Mrs. Alimah & Mrs. Wosilat Seriki

Reni & Adeola

132

Tolu

Canitta & Tamara

Abiba

133

134

Tino, couple & Zainab

Basharun Dele Momodu greeting the bride

Bride’s mother, Genny Adeosun, couple, Araba & Aisha

Bashorun Dele Momodu with couple

135

136

Groom’s men

137

Genny & H.E Florence Ajimobi

Danny (singer)

Oluwole performing role of a Toastmaster

Olumide proposing a toast

Bride & groom with Kayouha

The wonderful couple

138

Josh & Kanyinsola

Yemi Adeolu & Pastor Paul Adefarasin

Ademola, Genny Adeosun, Oluwole & Olumide Adeosun

Adewole, Adeolu, Ademola, Yewande, Genny, Peju, Oluwole & Olumide

Ezinne, Gbeminiyi, Tope & Motolani

Groom’s father & bride share a dance

Bride & groom in rocking the dance floor

Oluwole & bride

Ore, Bisola, Gulsen, Moji & Rametu

Ify, Tino & Ezinne

139

The bride

Mena

140

Mena & bride

Toye with couple

Mr. & Mrs. Ademola Adeyemi-Bero

Datari & Margaret

Nana (R)

Funke & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Carol & Paul

Pastor Wale Adefarasin & Mrs. Genny Adeosun

Loretta Jibowu & Stella

(L) Tawa & Olubayo

H.E Florence Ajimobi, Kay & Jumoke

Pastor Wale Adefarasin & Mrs. Genny Adeosun

141

Derin Agbaje & Abimbola

Mimi, Lady-Yvonne

Lanre & Sola

Hon. Bayo, Justice Oke Lawal & Justice Pedro

Ezinne, Folabi & Pat

142

Fatima & Folake

Femi & Kofo Dosekun

Canitta, Tamara & Bunmi

Josh & Dope

Sola, Genny & Dr. Jumoke

Mairama, the couple, ify, Ademideb & Afolabi

Lolade & Oyetunji

Lotte & Dami

Gozy & bride

Yewande & Adepeju

Yewande & Teni

143

144

H.E Modupe Ajimobi, Kay, Genny Adeosun & Deri

H.E Modupe Ajimobi & Genny Adeosun

Genny & Adepeju Adeosun

Abiba, Derin & Abimbola

Reni & Adeola

145

Tino & Zainar

Ademide & Yetunde Adeosun

The blessed couple in a happy mood

Adeola & Peju

146

Bolaji & bride

Abimbola, the bride & Bolaji

Dayo & Dupe

147

Simisola & Yewande Adeosun

Ezinne, Yewande Adeosun & Afolabi

Loly & Isabella

Gozu & Yewande Adeosun

Loretta Jibowu, Genny Adeosun & Tobi

Loretta Jibowu & Genny Adeosun

Libo, Aisha, Genny, Abiba & Oluwole

148

Josh & Ademide

DJ. Larizzle

The couple in showing off their dancing skills

Kanyin, Ademola, Kitan & Konmi

Tuni & the bride

Aisha, couple, Genny Adeosun & Buki

Sola, Amina, Bisola, Aisha, couple, Genny & Buki

Dami, Genny & Adeola

Tomi, Oyinda & Genny Adeosun

Bolaji, Tobi & Oluwole (Junior)

Bisola, Genny Adeosun & Jumoke

Sayo & Tomi

149

Locy, Chris, Tom & Isabelle

Locy, Ademola & Tom

Folake & Konmi

Aj & Ademola

Bisola, Genny, Abimbola, Moji & Abiba

150

Jumoke, Kay, Tolu & Tito

GOODBYE

MAMA HID AWOLOWO Story: Michael Effiong Photo: Adekoya Adegbite, Ken Ehimen, Segun Lawal & Tope

"I do not hesitate to confess that I owe my success in life to three factors: The grace of God, self discipline and a good wife.

She is beloved and respected by all our friends and acquaintances.

She has courage of a rare kind.

I have that too. But I am no match for her at all at her exercise of infinite patience and forbearance under all manner of circumstances.

-Awo

N

ever in the recent history of Nigeria have we had such a spectacle of a funeral. On Wednesday, November 25, 2015, Chief (Mrs.) Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo would have lived 100 years on the surface of the earth, but rather than celebrate her birthday, the whole of Nigeria rose in unison to celebrate her life in death.

It may actually take another century to find such a remarkable woman, who held no public office but became so influential and famous that she had to be honoured with a state burial funeral-a funeral extravaganza that combined many ceremonies and held the whole nation spell-bound for almost two whole weeks, a funeral that brought the President, Vice President, former Presidents, Heads of State, the Senate President, countless Governors, former Governors, Legislators former and serving, Ministers, State Commissioners, business moguls, university egg-heads, religious leaders, iconic musicians and thousands to one location at the same time, a funeral that in years to come would enter the realm of fables for being pitch-perfect and well-orchestrated.

How did Mama HID, as she was fondly called, become such a legendary figure?

The answer may actually help to put in context the role of the wife in modern society or indeed help to change long-held beliefs that the girl-child is a second class citizen.

In his now famous letter to HID by her husband, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a remarkable figure himself, aptly captured in Tola Adeniyi's Biographical work "The Jewel", Awolowo, the Sage”, the great Awo poured his heart out thus: "It is, I think, pertinent that I should, at this

juncture, say a word or two about my wife and what she meant to me. Throughout all the changing fortunes of my life since I married her in 26 December 1937, my wife, Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo (nee Adelana) has been to me a jewel of inestimable value.

She is an ideal wife; and I am sure she too regards me as an ideal husband.

"The outpouring of her love and devotion to me and our family is exceeding and beyond words. She is a resourceful businesswoman and in this regard a worthy upholder of the traditions of her mother (Madam Oyesile-Adelana) and her grandmother (Chief Adebowale Oyesile) both of whom are successful traders.

With my wife on my side, it has been possible for us to weather all financial storms. Because of her charm, humility, generosity and ever ready sympathy and helpfulness for others in distress. she is beloved and respected by all our friends and acquaintances. She has courage of a rare kind-I have that too. But I am no match for her at all at her exercise of infinite patience and forbearance under all manner of circumstances.

She absorbs without a word of complaint all my occasional irritability. By her unique virtues, she has been of immeasurable assistance to me in the duties attached to me as a public man. She has taken more interviews and listened to far more representations from members of the public that I have time or sometimes patience for.

"I do not hesitate to confess that I owe my success in life to three factors: The grace of God, self discipline and a good wife. Our home is to us (and our children), a true haven. A place of happiness and imperturbable reclusion from the buffetings of life.

"It is on record that to my wife's credit that she

never made a financial demand on me throughout my stay in the United Kingdom. Besides, she always sent me good news about herself and the children; but when I returned home, I learnt that she had passed through many anxious times with four children the oldest of whom was only five when I left home, and the youngest of whom arrived four months after my departure..."

Without any shadow of doubt, no tribute on HID would ever beat this one penned as far back as 1960, 23 years after they got married on December 26, 1937.

These words brought to fore the true character and essence of the Matriarch, it showed that she was made of sterner stuff, and she was what the Yoruba would call Obinrin meta (A 3-in-one woman). Therefore, it should not surprise anyone that she was still standing proudly and very relevant many years after the demise of her husband.

As everyone who is close to the Awolowo family knows: She has been a pillar of strength despite her own personal losses and tragedies: She had the misfortune of burying her first son, husband and later, a daughter and another son leaving just two daughters.

She was the only surviving child of her parents and for this reason it was even more painful for her to also lose her children in her lifetime. Yet she did not become reclusive or withdraw into a cocoon, she knew that many looked up to her for direction and fortificationand she did not disappoint.

It is certainly for keeping faith with the Awo legacy, not dropping the ball for one minute that hundreds trailed her remains from Apapa, Lagos, to Ibadan, Oyo State and eventually joining thousands of others from North, South, East and West of Nigeria, and from all corners of the globe to Ikenne, in Ogun State, a town made popular by the Awolowos, to pay their last respects to the Yeye Oodua.

Her shocking death was announced to the world by the eldest child of the Awolowo family, Mrs. Omotola Oyediran. According to her “I want to assure you that Mama had a beautiful exit. This morning she had a full day. She had a usual family meeting. She presided over the meeting. Shortly after that, we decided to invite her to the meeting which we were holding in preparation for her centenary and she came in and we all got up and sang a song: ‘Mama wa ara yin ale (Our mother you will have sound health…)’ and she blessed us.

“But, I must say that it is a lesson. I must thank God for what He has done for us. I want to assure you that she went home peacefully and completely fulfilled. Shortly before she left she had all her three generations present at her bedside for which we give God the glory”. This was September 19, 2105. And from that day, the meetings which were held to prepare for Chief (Mrs.) HID Awolowo's centenary was turned into that of her burial plans.

151

HID Awolowo daughters with President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo & wife, Oludolapo (HID's granddaughter), Mrs. Toyin Saraki, wife of Senate President with Governors' wives

The funeral activities began in earnest on Sunday 15th November from the famous Awolowo Estate, in Park Lane, Apapa, Lagos where a lying in-state and a Christian inter-denominational Service unfolded at the same venue. This was where her 24-karat gold plated handmade masterpiece, a casket manufactured by Batesville Promethean Casket Company was unveiled.

The Casket, purchased for the family by the famous Lagos-based undertakers, TOS Funeral Home, caused a huge stir, just like the Awolowo transparent coffin which was first used in 1987. The special coffin was at work in Lagos.

From the Centre of Excellence, her remains were moved on Monday, November 16th to Ibadan where the funeral party briefly stopped at the Awolowo’s Ibadan residence in Oke-Bola area of Ibadan which she shared with her husband in the hey days of their political dominance of the Western Region and Western Nigeria.The huge crowd that had turned out to show

152

their love and pay their respects slowed down the procession and this meant that the short lying in-state event that had been planned for Oke Bola had to be shelved as there was to be a a commendation service at Agbeni Methodist Church. This commendation service was attended by many dignitaries including the Governors of Oyo and Osun States, Abiola Ajimobi and Rauf Aregbesola respectively and their wives as well as the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode.

Also in attendance was former First Lady of Ekiti State and wife of the Minister for Solid Minerals, Mrs Bisi Fayemi.

On the same day, her remains were laid in-state at the premises of their media empire, Tribune House in the Imalefalaafia area of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital to commemorate the 66th anniversary of the founding of the newspaper organisation which she chaired till death. Thereafter the cortege proceeded to Ogun State where it was received at the Sagamu junction by the Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, the Deputy

Ayo & Yemisi Subair with Prince Adedamola & Princess Kemi Aderemi

Governor, Mrs Yetunde Onanuga, and most of the Ogun State cabinet members including Bimbo Ashiru, Leke Adewolu, Dayo Adeneye and Yewande Amusan (who had travelled with the family as an adopted granddaughter) and the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa. The procession stopped in front of the Liyangu Ruling House compound in Sagamu and along with Governor Amosun, everyone danced to the outskirts of Sagamu where it then drove to Ikenne.

In Ikenne, the family, still accompanied by Governor Amosun danced from the junction of the town to the palatial family home of the Awolowos where Mama HID laid in-state until her burial on 25th November 2015, the day she would have turned 100 years old.

Everyday that she laid in-state, Mama HID received a change of apparel and shoes just as she would have done had she been alive.

The Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo & wife, Dolapo with The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, greeting Alhaji Kashim Imam, Sen. Saminu Turaki & others

Chief Ernest Shonekan, General Oladipo Diya (Rtd.) & Otunba Gbenga Daniel

General & Mrs. Obasanjo discussing with Former Governor Rotimi Amaechi

Vice President greeting Alhaji Kashim Imam

Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN (m)

Olori Yetunde Tejuoso (left)

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Otunba Funsho Lawal

153

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Alhaji Aliko Dangote & Chief Olabiyi Durojaiye

Senator Daisy Danjuma & Former Governor, Chibuike Amaechi

Gov. Abiola Ajimobi & Hon. Ladi Adebutu

The Vice President in a tete-a-tete with Cross River Governor Prof. Ben Ayade

Ministers

154

Chief Ayo Adebanjo & Alhaji Lai Mohammed

Alhaji Lateef Jakande & wife with Alhaja Sinatu Ojikutu

(Far right) Chief Olu Falae

Dr. Doyin Abiola & Mrs. Vivienne Ogde

Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN & Dr. Kayode Fayemi & Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu

155

Mr. Segun Awolowo with Mrs. Toyin Saraki

The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora

Tuesday, November 17th kicked off with orations/tributes by different groups which included Afenifere, Yoruba Unity Forum, Yoruba Council of Elders, National Youth Service Corps and Oodua Foundation. As was the case on each day that HID laid in state in her home in Ikenne, there was a service of songs. Every day throughout the activities, Evangelist Funmi Aragbaiye joined the choir to belt out melodious religious tunes.

On Wednesday, November 18, 2015 it was time for the public presentation of a biography titled "In the Radiance of the Sage (The Life and Times of Mama HID Awolowo" authored by Prof Wale Adebanwi in Ikenne. The Chief Presenter of the book was former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar who caused quite a stir that day when he presented the book with a cash donation of N10million! Former Speaker of the 156

Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, Governor of Ondo State

House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole, and Juju music maestro, Commander Ebenezer ObeyFabiyi were among the prominent faces at the event.

Later that same day a service of songs by the Anglican Church of Nigeria, Diocese of Remo’s Women Group was held and Ikenne Town came alive with praises and prayers.

On Thursday, November 19th, it was the turn of universities that had conferred honorary doctorate degrees on Mama Awolowo to shower her with orations and tributes. This ceremony was followed in the evening by a Service of Songs by the Christian Association of Nigeria.

The early hours of Friday was for "Ode-Iyalu" and as announced by the burial committee that afternoon, there was a Muslim prayer session which was followed

Sen. Daisy Danjuma (right)

by tributes by Ikenne Development Association and the Liyangu, Awolowo, Ligu-Ogodo-Adebowale families and Sodeke Descendants. That was also the day that major members of the Ife Council of Chiefs were on ground to pay their last respects through tributes and messages of condolence to the highly respected Yeye Oodua of Ife. The very popular Nigerian entertainment industry was not left out in the celebration of Mama, on Saturday, November 21. Theatre artistes like the Ogunde Yoruba Theatre and groups led by Chief Jimoh Aliu and Mr. Adebayo Salami hosted an evening of soulful songs, rhythmic dance routines and good drama tagged "HID Unto Glory". A Service of songs by choirs from various churches including the Mountain of Fire Ministries rounded off that wonderful day.

President Muhammadu Buhari arriving Ikenne

The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki

Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State

The Apostolic Church conducted its own Service of Songs on Sunday, November 22 while different women organisations celebrated the great HID on Monday 23 November 2015. In the Afternoon, Ogun State stood still as indigenes gathered to pay a special tribute to their beloved matriarch at the Sagamu Stadium. The tributes were led by the Chief mourner, the Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun. He was ably assisted by his wife, Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun, past and present national and state leaders from Ogun State, including former Head of Interim Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, General Oladipo Diya, fromer Governor Segun Osoba, the Deputy Governor, Mrs Yetunde Onanuga, Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and his wife, Erelu Bisi. Also present were former Osun State Governor, Bisi Akande and a leading Afenifere chieftain, Ayo Adebanjo. Ebenezer Obey was on the bandstand at the colourful event. The evening of Monday, November 23 was allocated to the Methodist Church of Nigeria and they hosted a Service of Songs.

Tuesday started very early for the family with the traditional “Woro” dance held for notable Remo personages. Promptly at 1.00pm there was a private prayer session for the Awolowo family conducted by the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye.

In the evening, the Remo Diocese of the Anglican Communion organised a spirit-lifting Christian Wake for Mama HID, who was their Diocesan Mother. Ladi Soyode, one of her grandchildren rendered a powerful poem which he had first written in honour of his grandmother on the occasion of her 80th birthday , twenty years earlier. The poem aptly renamed “Ascension” was suitably adapted for the occasion.

The event was coordinated by Rt. Rev. Michael

Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & wife with mama Awo’s daughters

Otunba Jimi Adebisi Lawal & Governor Nasir El Rufai of Kaduna State

Olusina Fape, Bishop of the Remo Diocese.

The service began as usual with a song "Hark My Soul taken from the A& M Hymn Book-and then the service was on auto pilot with readings from Psalms 130, 81 and other portions of the Bible as well as songs and loads of prayers. There were also words of exhortation where the congregation was urged to emulate the passion that Mama HID had for God and her penchant for helping the less privileged.

On D-Day, Ikenne literarily stood still. The organisers had expected the unprecedented vehicular and human traffic and so made adequate arrangements.

The funeral service was not an all comers affair as the venue, Our Saviour's Anglican Church, sat only 690 guests and since seats were at a premium, only a select few got the special access passes into the church.

The other guests had to make do with watching the service on big screens provided at Obafemi Awolowo Square and the Apostolic Church both located in Ikenne Town.

A good number of people, who lined the streets, raised their smart phones like periscopes and went to work as the funeral cortege made its triumphant passage. What mattered was not seeing the pageantry unfolding before their eyes but actually living it. These bystanders actually had the rare opportunity of close contact with the funeral cortege which was made of horse-drawn carriage surrounded by police horseriders, with pall bearers from Broadway Services bearing the remains of Mama in her now famous sparkling 24-karat gold casket.

The carriage provided by Kenny Osude of Broadway Services was followed by her two living children: Mrs Tola Oyediran and Dr (Mrs.) Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu and their spouses, Professor

Kayode Oyediran and Dr Gbolahan Dosunmu as Mr. Tayo Soyode, father of the wife of the Vice President, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo. The grandchildren and their spouses, including the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo SAN and Prince Adedamola Aderemi, a Director of Ovation International, his wife, Princess Olukemi and most of the great grandchildren also joined the procession. It was quite a spectacular sight to behold!

For such an auspicious occasion, it was no surprise that The Most Rev. Dr. Nicholas Okoh, Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of Anglicans in Nigeria was the Preacher for the day. He was ably assisted by Bishop Olushina Fape, Bishop of Remo. Of course, The Rt Rev (Dr.) M. Olusina, the Diocesan Bishop was there with a powerful team: The Revd. J.O. Adejuyigbe and The Revd. J.O. Ezekiel served as Curates, Ven. Erinle the Vicar of the Church served and the Guest Organist was Mr. Kayode Oni. Mr Sesan Ogumusi was Organist/Choir Master and Mr. Ajewole Onayemi was verger. Apart from the Prelate and the Bishop of Remo there were 12 Archbishops and 47 Bishops present at the funeral service. They were joined by more than 200 other priests and two large choirs.

The guests in church represented the creme de la creme of Nigerian Government, business and social life. They included former heads of state, Yakubu Gowon, Olusegun Obasanjo and Ernest Shonekan.

There were about 16 Governors, including the host Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and his wife Funso, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and his wife, Serifat, Akinwunmi Ambode, Governor Atiku Bagudu, Governor Waziri Aminu Tambuwal, Governor Nasir El 157

Rufai, Adams Oshiomole and his wife, Lara, Governor Rochas Okorocha, Governor Olusegun Mimiko and his wife, Olufunke, Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo, Alhaji Abdulaziz Yari, Governor Kashim Shettima, Senator Abiola Ajimobi and wife, Florence, Professor Ben Ayade, Senator Bindo Jubrilla and Alhaji Aminu Masari.

Former Governors included, Lateef Jakande, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, National Leader of APC and his wife, Senator Oluremi, Aremo Segun Osoba, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and others.

The Ministers included Audu Ogbeh, Babatunde Fashola, Kayode Fayemi, Rotimi Amaechi, Adebayo Shittu, Ogbonnaya Onu amongst others.

Amongst the numerous members of the National Assembly past and present there were: Senator Olabiyi 158

Durojaiye, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora and family friend, Senator Lanre Tejuoso.

The business world was well represented by business moguls, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Tunde Ayeni, Oba Otudeko, Otunba Funso Lawal, Otunba Subomi Balogun,Otunba Adekunle Ojora,and a galaxy of other stars.

Other notable personalities were General Oladipo Diya (rtd), Pastor E. A Adeboye, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Olanihun Ajayi, Chief Taiwo Alimi, Chief (Mrs) Opral Benson, Olori Ladun Sijuwade, Prince Tokunbo Sijuwade, Princess Yewande Onile-ere, Senator Daisy Danjuma, Jimi Lawal, the Poet and former Secretary to Chief Awolowo, Odia Ofeimun, Senator Gbenga Obadara, Mrs Doyin Abiola, Florence Ita-Giwa, wives of Oba Adedapo Tejuoso and a host of

others.

The Most Revd. Okoh poured encomiums on the late HID and then urged the government to quickly check the rising wave of terrorism in the land.

Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki attended with his wife, Toyin and also represented President Muhammadu Buhari at the Church service. In his short speech he urged the children and other family members of the deceased to uphold the good name of the Awolowo dynasty.

The Church service was in itself exhilarating, a fitting finale for the blue-blooded Matriarch, there was a solo performance by Mrs. Oluwemimo Anifowose and lots of other hymns that ensured that there was no dull moment and Mama would be remembered with smiles and a sweet after taste.

Prince Damola Aderemi (HID's son in-law), The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (HID's son in-law) with Segun Awolowo (HID's grandson)

Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Prince Damola Aderemi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, Prncess Kemi Aderemi (HID's granddaughter) with Chief Olusegun Osoba

Princess Kemi Aderemi with Chief Olusegun Osoba

Mrs. Omotola Oyediran, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, Amb (Mrs.) Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu & H.E Mrs Oludolapo Osinbajo

Former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan with Prince Damola Aderemi

Segun Awolowo Jnr. greeting Alhaji Lateef Jakande, his wife & Alhaji Sinatu Ojikutu

159

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Senator Daisy Danjuma

Prince Tokunbo Sijuwade & Chief (Mrs.) Opral Benson

Mrs. Onileere, Dr. Abiola, Iya Oge Opral Benson, Hajia Folawiyo & friends

Muyiwa Ige & sister, Mrs. Funso Adegbola with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Funmi Odunsi, Gbolaja Ajayi, Bashorun Momodu & Prince Tokunbo Sijuwade

160

Last Picture of Bashorun Dele Momodu with Chief Dr. (Mrs.) H.I.D. Awolowo

The service of what would definitely be Nigeria's Funeral of The Century was rounded off at a few minutes after 1.00pm. At about 1:57pm, the remains of the late matriarch were laid to rest beside her late husband inside the famous Awolowo Mausoleum after prayers were offered by clergy men and family members.

This was a strictly private affair!

President Muhammadu Buhari landed in Ikenne at about 2:10pm in a helicopter and headed straight to the Awolowo residence. He spent a considerable amount of time with the Awolowo family and some VVIP guests, signing the condolence register and then taking photographs with each generation of the Awolowo family and their spouses. He also took pictures with other dignitaries and was so in tune with the festive celebratory nature of the event that when the impromptu MC, Segun Awolowo Jnr, asked the President to take pictures with himself, his wife, Bola and his mum, Hajia Abah Folawiyo, the President smilingly obliged.

After the interment, there were two receptions for family and guests at the home of the Awolowos and Obafemi Awolowo Square. Chief Ebenezer Obey performed for the guests of the two surviving children at the family home whilst King Sunny Ade and Adewale Ayuba performed for the grandchildren and great grandchildren at the Obafemi Awolowo Square. There was much dancing and rejoicing by everybody.

Incidentally, the day also marked the 26th wedding anniversary of the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, Dolapo and they cut a wedding cake on the occasion to the felicitation and cheers of family members, several Governors and

cabinet members at the Obafemi Awolowo Square. It was indeed a joyous day for them.

Commenting about the funeral ceremony afterwards, Mr President stated: "Let me appreciate those who have come to participate in this ceremony.

When I was in the car, I discussed with the Governor of Ogun State about the Late Mrs. Awolowo and what the nation is doing for her. While Chief (Obafemi Awolowo) was all over the country and the world, she was effectively managing the family. So, she earned this. May her soul rest in perfect peace.

"And for you that have, for weeks, been gathering friends, associates and facing all the logistics problems, day and night, I congratulate you for a very successful burial of the late Mrs. Awolowo.

"I came back last (Tuesday) evening from Iran and I had to make sure I do not miss the last rites for Mrs. Awolowo because she earned it. This is the third time I have been here, and I hope the family will try and continue to hold together as they have been doing" The President's comments were not too different from an official condolence letter he had sent earlier that formed part of a hefty book of tributes that was distributed to guests during the occasion.

In that letter dated November 19th, Mr. President wrote "I join millions of admirers of her late and revered, Chief Obafemi Awolowo in mourning Chief (Mrs.) Awolowo who will be long remembered and celebrated as the famous spouse and pillar of strength of the late nationalist, political leader and sage"

CUTTING OF THE WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CAKE BY THE VICE PRESIDENT AND HIS WIFE

The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Governor Abiola Ajimobi, Governor Rauf Agbesola & other dignitaries

161

Chief Dr. (Mrs.) H.I.D. Awolowo

Chief Obafemi Awolowo & wife, HID Awolowo

162

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, described the death of the matriarch of the Awolowo family as a great loss. According to him "Nigeria has lost a role model of distinction, a highly disciplined and principled woman, a trustworthy ally and dependable politician who equally made her mark in the business world. She was a woman of valour and a friend indeed."

In his own tribute, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode stated "Mama did not only support from behind the scene.

When Awo was incarcerated, she stepped up to take his place and played an active role in the politics of Western Nigeria" Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, noted that the demise of the matriarch of the Awolowo family, Chief (Mrs.) Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, was the end of an era. He continued: “We join the entire progressive family, Awo political movement as well as the whole Yoruba race in mourning as well as celebrating the glorious transition ...

"They set examples for politicians when they were here with us. The couple typified the best of what politicians should strive to be in our society.�

"We believe there will be a celestial celebration of reunion of a couple that exemplified harmony and true wedlock.

Even in death Mama remained a rallying point for the Awolowo political dynasty until her last breath on earth.

"To the best of my knowledge, Mama was an ideal wife, a loving mother, an astute woman and committed political leader."Her death certainly has left empty the sociopolitical house of the Yoruba race and the Awolowo dynasty.

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, noted that the death of the Awolowo matriach, Chief Mrs Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, was a collosal loss not only to the Yoruba nation but also to the Nigerian Federation and Africa at large. He described the deceased as a loving, obedient, loyal, committed and persevering wife who stood strongly by her late husband, Chief Obafemi Awolowo during his political travails.

"Even after his death almost three decades ago, she has been strong, keeping the family together and playing motherly role to the Yoruba nation and the Nigerian Federation"

SAHARA GROUP CELEBRATES 2OTH ANNIVERSARY IN GRAND STYLE Story: Tunde Martins Photo: Segun Lawal

Mr. Tony, Cole, Mrs. Mina Cole, Former Governor Rotimi Amaechi & Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi

Mo Abudu, Tonye Cole & Dr. Sylvia Cole

I

t was a night of fun, entertainment and reward when employees of Sahara Group from Nigeria, Africa and the rest of the world joined other stakeholders at Landmark Events Centre, Lagos to celebrate its 20th anniversary, rejoice over a fruitful year as well as honour exceptional members of staff..

The annual Sahara Group End-of-the-Year ceremony has become renowned as a classy one-of-itskind shindig in Lagos and as usual this one attracted quite a number of leading lights in the Nigerian society, and the additional flavour of the 20th anniversary meant this was going to be extra special.

The beautiful evening which was tagged “switch ” started with a cocktail segment which afforded guests the opportunity to sip drinks, enjoy some canapés and relish soothing music from the popular Sharp Band.

A few hours later, the main event commenced with the singing of the Nigeria national anthem by Rakia Aniest. This was immediately followed by the first performer of the night, Kelly Handsome.

Handsome’s electrifying performance gave an

Tonye Cole, Minister of State, Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, Debola Williams & Dr. Sylvia Cole

inkling that it was going to be a night of first-rate entertainment-and indeed that was what it turned out to be at the end.

The host of the night, Buchi then invited one of the company Directors, Mr. Kola Adesina to deliver an opening speech.

In his speech, Mr. Adeshina noted “tonight is not the night for speeches, it is a night of fun and I do not want to bore you with speeches. So, I urge everyone to get ready for pulsating fun”. He did not however leave without thanking members of staff for their dedication and hard work throughout the years.

Next to hit the stage was an eclectic combination: Titan dancers and Simon, the man with no hands who strums the guitar a well as late Jimmy Hendrix. His dexterity caught the attention of everyone and they were all soon on their feet applauding and dancing till he finished his performance.

To add some spice to the occasion, some extraordinary awards were presented to staff. The most appealing male and female staff, the most humorous

staff (male and female), best dressed staff (male and female), the lone ranger award, the Efiko award and then the best team.

The high point of the event was when Sahara Group CEO, Mr. Tonye Cole invited a staff who has worked for the company for all of 15 years for a special recognition. He paid special tribute to Engineer Ogungbemi for his dedication, discipline and immense contribution to the growth of the organization.

To express his heartfelt appreciation to this wonderful staff, the Group CEO shocked everyone by prostrating flat right on stage! It was an embarrassed Engr. Ogungbemi who had to beg his boss to stand up before he did. The scene was hilarious yet instructive because it showed the depth of the company’s appreciation of this remarkable staff.

Other artistes who performed that night included: Olamide, Wizkid, Psquare and Juju Maestro, King Sunny Ade. The party was so exciting that guests danced till the wee hours of the next day.

163

Sam Nwajoku, Richard Aisuebeogun, Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi & Managing Director, Sahara Group,Tonye Cole

Barr. Sam Nwajoku, Richard Aisuebeogun, Kola Adeshina, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, Tonye Cole & Emmanuel Gbahabo

Toyin Igbenoba, Dozy Mmobuosi, Tosin Mmobuosi & Bukky Innih

Kemi & Jummy

Kola Adeshina, Rotimi Amaechi, Olu Akpata, Tonye Cole & Emmanuel Gbahabo

Mr. & Mrs. Okugbemi, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, Kola Adeshina & Tonye Cole

164

Abiola Aloba, Lanre Alfred, Tonye Cole & Kunle Bakare

Ken Etim & Family with Tonye Cole

Chris Peiris, Chuks Iroche & Aliyu Buba

Dr. (Mrs.) Sylvia Cole & Gbemi Towobola

Oby Okeke, Seun Solanke & Tolu Badejo

Titi Aikhomu, Bukola Aluko, Yemi Aluko, Bose Ajibade & Wale Ajibade

Beatrice Osamor, Mobola Akin-Fatodu, Kitan Arogundade & Oluwatosin Agboola

Mrs. Adenuga-Taiwo, Bunmi Ashebu, Mrs. Bose Ajibade & Mrs. Funmi Alagbada

Wura & Wonu

165

Olamide Performing

Psquare performing

166

Wizkid performing

Staffers who have spent 5 years

Engr. Ogungbemi being acknowledged for his 15 years of service

Staff of Sahara Group

King Sunny Ade Performaning

167

FAMILY AND FRIENDS CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF MRS. COMFORT OZOLUA IN EDO STATE Story by: Babatunde Martins Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

T

“

his is to inform you that I have moved on, I got a call from God my heavenly Father on May 2015 informing me of the completion of my new home.

You all know that I have been working on this project all my life, sending up all necessary building and finishing materials and getting ready to receive the ultimate call.

The Chief Architect, our Lord Jesus Christ, has inspected my new home and has given the final approval that I can move in and change my address. My beloved ones, my new home is completed and what a beauty to behold. There are twelve gates that enter into the city, the streets are paved with gold and every day is glorious just like you have been told by our Redeemer. Trees with fruits grace my garden and I can talk and walk with my Father anytime without fear.

I have lived in Ohia, Enugu, Ibadan and Sabongida Ora, but none is as magnificent as my new home. There is nothing but absolute peace, joy and happiness. No more pain of any kind total serenity”. These were the words of Late Comfort Odarume Ozolua before she died.

Yayo as she was fondly called by everyone who knew her was a mother to the core. She was a mother so rare, an embodiment of love and kindness who touched countless lives and will be cherished by those who came in contact with her. Her generosity, humility and decent values endeared her to many.

Madam Ozolua lived for her children and her future was her children, she did not have a life of her own. She was focused and single minded in her protection of her children and devotion to their well-being and success.

That was why all her children came from far and near to celebrate this indefatigable woman who made sure they were always focused on success.

The burial party was like a carnival, because the sleepy town of Sabongida-Ora in Edo state was bom-

168

barded by people from all walks of life. Convoy after convoy of exotic cars shook the town into life, and indication that the Ozolua family had many connections.

Proceedings began with a lying-in-state in her home town. Family and guests who came were clad in customized white T-Shirts with Mama’s picture emblazoned on them.

Next item on the programme was the Christian wake-keep at her home in Sabongida-Ora, Edo State.

From about 4pm there was a service of songs and Venerable John Ibukun who co-ordinated the service with the assistance of other men of God was full of praise for the departed.

According to him, Madam Ozolua had done her bit throughout her earthly sojourn and he believed that she was resting in the bosom of the Lord.

While charging the congregation to emulate the good deeds of Madam Ozolua, he urged them to live worthy lives, so that when they were gone, people would have good things to say about them.

Venerable Ibukun described Madam Ozolua as a pillar who was also extremely caring. He told everyone that “ she will be missed by all the church members of St. James Anglican Church, because she was a mother to us”.

Then he invited the children of Yayo to the altar and urged the entire congregation to stretch their hands towards them and shower them with prayers. The choir took over and thrilled till late into the night.

One of Mrs. Comfort Ozolua’s daughters who had become a Muslim, Ehiweme (Hajia Bintu) also organized a Fidau prayer session for her mum, she had invited Muslim clerics to the house.

The Imam who handled the prayer session commended Hajia Bintu for organizing the session of prayers for her mother and he prayed that Almighty Allah would

grant Mrs. Comfort Ozolua Al-Jannat.

The next day, there was a funeral service at her church, St. James Anglican Church, Ovbiare, Sabongide-Ora. Family, friends and well-wishers clad in different attires stormed the church and the church auditorium was jam packed. Many who came late to the service could only find seats outside the church and watched the service on a big screen.

Rev’d. Canon James I. Eseigbe, The Vicar who handled the proceeding said “It is very painful to lose one’s parent, even at an old age.” He also said he is rest assured that Madam Comfort was dinning and winning with her Creator. He praised the children for giving their mother such a befitting funeral.

He noted in his sermon “We try to be philosophical about life and our purpose on earth. Some get it right, while others don’t, because our true worth are not material things. But the positive imprints we leave in the lives of those we meet during our walk through life is very important, Madam Comfort Ozolua got it right.” The man of God who praised the children for honouring their mother noted that the departed will be terribly missed because she was a true pillar in the vineyard of the God. Rev. Canon Esesigbe then charged the children not to forget the legacy that their mother left behind. A legacy of hard work, and service to God. The well-attended service soon came to an end and the late Madam Ozolua was interred after a private ceremony.

The interment over, there was a superlative reception at an open field in her home town, Sabongida-Ora where the Ozoluas treated guests with excellent victuals.

The Shuga Band were on hand to provide entertainment.

Led by Akin Tofowomo, the band thrilled guests for many hours.

LYING IN STATE

The Ozolua family

169

Ozolua Family

Prof. Asiku, Hajia Bintu Kago & Modupe Ozolua

Umukuthum, Tobi Ogunmowo & Salma Ogunmowo

The family

Hajia Bintu Kago & Mrs. Salma Ogunmowo

Hajia Bintu Kago, Umukuthum, Tobi Ogunmowo & Mrs. Salma Ogunmowo

170

Ya Gumsu Mai Deribe, Safia Saad & Rikia Gambo

Sunny Ozolua, Bunmi Ozolua, Eugene Ozolua & Mrs. Kaka

Officiating Ministers

L-r: Mrs. Williams & Ronke Fakoyade

( R) Muni Atta

Yuwa Usman & Chief (Mrs.) Remi Agbowu

Lola Okon & Asmawu Baba

171

Salma Ogunmowo, Eugene Ozolua Junior, Sunny Ozolua, Bunmi Ozolua, Doris Ozolua, Ugine Ozolua & Mrs. Kaka

172

R-l: Mrs. Ann Farouk, Muni Atta, Mrs. Adeboye, Yuwa Usman & Mrs. Ladejobi

FIDAU PRAYER

Billikisu Ahmed, Hajia Bintu Kago, Hajia Rikia Buka, Balarabe Kyata & Hajia Memuna

Cross section of guests

Hajia Bintu, Justice Iyabo Yerima & Ronke Fakoyede

Aisha Hassan Kastina, Murija Aliu & Umu Kago

Hajia Bintu Kago, Lara Isa Shaibu & Abibat Sherif

Chief Remi Agbowu, Mrs. Hassan Katsina, Hajia Bintu Kago & Larabe Isa Shaibu

Justice Iyabo Yerima, Hajia Jumai Ahmed & Hajia Muyiba Dankaka

Crossection

173

CHURCH SERVICE

Arrival of the family

Hajia Bintu, Mr. & Mrs. Kayode Ogunmowo

Mrs. Kaka, Sunny Ozolua & Eugene Ozolua

Demola Ozolua, Mrs. Bunmi Ozolua & Doris Ozolua

Kayode Ogunmowo & Abubakar Amodu

Cross section

174

Winnie Agbowu

Hajia Bintu Kago & Salma Ogunmowo

Umu Kago & Ramat Ogunmowo

R-l: Abdul Amodu

Mr. & Mrs. Ogunmowo

David Ozolua with his brother

Dr. Ray Ozolua

Mr. & Mrs. Aikhoje

175

176

RECEPTION

Hajia Bola Shagaya, Hajia Bintu Kago & Mrs. Adeboye

Hajia Bintu Kago , Hajia Bola Shagaya & Yuwa Usman

Hajia Bola Shagaya & Mrs. Hassan Katsina

(R-l) Aisha Hassan Katsina, Yeluwa Shata, Hajia Adiza Hassan Katsina, Hajia Bola Shagaya, Amb. Marina Yusuf & Morija Aliu

Cross section of guests

Hajia Bola Shagaya, Hajia Bintu Kago, Sunny Ozolua & Eugene Ozolua

Jummai Musa , Henrrieta Asabo & Saa Ringin

Hajia Bintu Kago & Sunny Ozolua

Hajia Bintu Kago & Eugene Ozolua greeting Chief Asije

Mrs. Salma Ogunmowo, Modupe Ozolua & Jackline Yawa

177

Modupe Ozolua, Hajia Bintu Kago & Salma Ogunmowo

Modupe Ozolua & Prof. Asiku

Hajia Zulfau with the Ozoluas

Yagumsu, Aisha Galadima & Rakia Gambo

Yagumsu & Rakia Gambo

Umu Kago & Aisha Hassan Katsina

178

Halima Maman, Yaka Obande, Bintu Kago, Arch. Ramatu & Baby Buka

Bello Kago, Safia Saa’d, Kago Umu & Saidu Kago

Hajia Bintu Kago & Aisha Babangida

Cross section of guests

The Ogunmowo’s

Cross section of guests

(middle) I D Ogungbe

Umu Kago, Hajia Bintu Kago & Mrs. Barbra Okoye

Crossection guest

Hajia Zulfau & her niece

Bridget Yako & Chief Remi Agbowu

179

Hajia Bintu Kago & Mrs. Hassan Katsina

Modupe Ozolua

Prof. Akasi & Modupe Ozolua

Cross section of guests

Cross section of guests

(r-l:) Hajia Murije Aliu, Jummai Musa, Yelua, Hajia Bintu Kago, Adija Hassan Katsina & Amb. Marina Yusuf

Adiza, Hajia Bintu, Umu Kago, Aisha & Yelua

180

Cross section of guests

Hajia Bola Shagaya & Madam Vera

Chief Zuliat Belo-Osagie & Hajia Bintu Kago

Aisha Babangida (m)

Winnie Agbowu (left)

(middle) Hajia Zulfau

Muni Atta, Abiba Sheriff & Hajia Rabi Adamu

Hajia Fati, Aziza & Hajia Ayi Sambo

Mrs. Mawu Blel & Mrs. Ann Farouk

Mrs. Adeboye (right)

181

SELF-RELIANCE ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT PROGRAMME (SEAP) MARKS 15TH ANNIVERSARY IN GRAND STYLE Story: Funmilayo Adeyemi Photo: Koya Adegbite & Funmilayo Adeyemi

Dr. Oladokun Olatunde & family cutting the cake

I

n just 15 years, Self-Reliance Economic Advancement Programme (SEAP) which began as a mustard seed has grown into an oak, touching lives, spreading smiles and uplifting the economic wellbeing of people across Nigeria.

Little wonder that the organization which has metamorphosed into SEAP Micro Finance Bank hosted two funfilled days of festivities in Ibadan, Oyo State during which it thanked God for His Goodness, engaged in charitable endeavors and rounded it all off with a glamorous and grand black-tie dinner.

SEAP Micro-Finance Bank which prides itself as the numero uno in the sector is dedicated primarily to economic empowerment of the underprivileged, capacity building and improvement of the socio-economic condition of the poor.

Conceptualized by Dr. Olatunde Oladokun (JP), SEAP is committed to the promotion of MSMEs in Nigeria and has been pivotal for the growth of many of them-and some came during the celebration to recount their success stories and give commendable testimonies.

Nationally, SEAP has affected so many lives across 23 states in Nigeria.

The organization currently has about 500,000 active savers and about 400,000 active borrowers who were among the poorest when they took their first loan.

The four-in-one ceremony kicked off at Livingspring Chapel Hall with an End of The Year Party for clients which was anchored by popular TV host, Yemi Shonde. Proceedings began with an opening prayer by Pastor A.A. Olatunde, followed by the singing of the Nigeria National Anthem and the SEAP Anthem titled “Our SEAP Is Marching 182

Dr. & Mrs. Olatunde

On”.

Guests were welcomed by General Manager, SEAP, Deaconness Bukola Olatunde Sanya who soon yielded the floor for a number of speakers: Dr. Kenneth Okakwu, Director, Lift Above Poverty (LAPO) Institute For Micro-Finance & Enterprise Development who spoke on the importance of Feedback Mechanism and Excellent Customer Relations, used the opportunity to commend Dr. Olatunde and the SEAP team for their years of innovation and tenacity.

A Representative of United Nations on Disability, Barrister Adekanmbi Ayodele; who has visual impairment, spoke on How To Work and Succeed in the midst of challenges. Before his inspiring speech, he urged Goke Bajowa and his Band who were on standby to play the song “Iwoko Lodami” which brought to fore the fact that no human should be underestimated because God created all men equal and in His image.

Stating that there is ability in disability, Ayodele urged his audience to always think positively and to challenge themselves with their challenges instead of always challenging God. The ceremony gradually moved on to when Dr. Oladokun Olatunde surrounded by his family, clients, staff and associates cut a well-designed cake.

Dr. Olatunde then delivered the closing remarks where he stated that he wanted everyone to be focused on the Kingdom of God rather than money. He went on to thank God for keeping the organization healthy despite many betrayals by hitherto trusted individuals.

He expressed optimism that SEAP’s future was far brighter than its past and noted that the next 15 years would be

END OF YEAR PARTY

Dr. Kenneth Okakwu, Barr. Adekambi Ayodele, Pst. & Pst (Mrs.) Adelekan with Dr. Oladokun Olatunde

Pst. (Mrs.) Adelekan & Dcns. Olatunde

Dr. Kenneth Okakwu & Barr. Adekambi Ayodele

Cross section of SEAP members

Olusola Aiyedun & Chief Mrs. Ololade Akinyemi

Bilewunmi Mufutau, Chief Awolola Hammed & Ayangule Tunde

Funmilayo Osunbure & Tope Bajo

Mrs. Arogundade Nike, Mrs. Adeola Akintola & Pastor Ige

Mrs. A. Bamiseye & Mrs. Ajibola Idowu

Ibrahim Memuna & Mr. Ekewe Idowu

183

Pst Olusola Adelekan (Chairman, SEAP Board of Trustees)

Prophetess C.M. Oladele

Onadeko Oyinkansola (pupil on Seap scholarship)

Pastor Olatunde Oladokun

Dr. Oladokun Olatunde & a member

Presentation of cheque to an active & reliable saver

Pst. Adelekan & Pst. Akinyemi Joseph (EXCO)

Dr. Okwakwu (LAPO) presenting cheque to a SEAP member

Dr. Okwakwu (LAPO) presenting cheque to a SEAP member

Mrs. Dosumu (NOA State Coordinator) presenting cheque to a member

184

Pst. A.A Olatunde presenting gift to outstanding members

Pst A.A Olatunde presenting gift to outstanding members

COMMISSIONING OF REGIONAL OFFICE

Pastor Olatunde Oladokun

New Seap Regional Office

Miss. Oyinkansola Olatunde Presenting a bouquet to Mr. Yinka Fatoki

Mr. Yinka Fatoki with Pst. Olatunde Oladokun Commission the Regional building

Dignitaries at the commissioning of the regional office

185

Mr. Shiaka Omokhagbo Dirisu, Mr. Yinka Fatoki, Pst. Olatunde Oladokun, CSP. Tajudeen Olawuwo & Pst. O. Adelekan

Dcns. Bukola Sanya-Olatunde (SEAP General Manager)

Mr. Yinka Fatoki

Mrs. Ireti Ayorinde, Mrs. Olasumbo Bamigbade, Mrs. Awude Oyenike, Mrs. Ayobo Folakemi & Mrs. Adewuyi (SEAP Operation Managers)

Mrs. Daramola & Mrs. Olatunde

Barr. Adekambi Ayodele, Olamide Alabi & Mr. Shiaka Omokhagbo Dirisu

B.O Olatunde, C.A Idowu & Sunday Idowu

Mrs. M.I Orowale, Mr. T.M Ayanniyi & Mr. J.O Fijabi

186

Mrs. Ojo, Mrs. Adebiyi, Rev. (Mrs.) V.A Babatunde & Mrs. Adeoye Yemisi

Mrs. Ayorinde, Mrs. Busayo Ajao & Mrs. Funke Adegbite during praises & worship

COMMISSIONING OF KING’S WAY INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL

Mr. Yinka Fatoki & Pst. Olatunde Oladokun

Pst. & Mrs. Olatunde Oladokun & Mariam

Miss. Oyinkansola Olatunde presenting the bouquet to Pst. & Dcns. Olatunde

Dr. Olatunde Oladokun Commissioning King’s Way Hospital

Pst. Yinka Silas (Zonal Pastor RCCG Glorious Parish, Ilorin) praying at the dedication of King’s Way Hospital

Well-wishers at the hospital dedication

187

Dr. Wale Olatunde (CMD), Pst. Olatunde & well-wishers at the commissioning

Modern equipments at the King’s Way hospital

Pst. Olatunde dancing amidst staffers & members

filled with immense achievements. Later, some guests stepped out to openly endorse SEAP, praising the company for its track record of integrity and its penchant for helping the needy.

Thereafter, special gifts were presented to active and reliable savers across the nation, then Deaconess Bukola Sanya-Olatunde delivered the Vote of Thanks while Prophetess C.M Oladele closed it all with prayers.

The next day could be termed SEAP Day: Yes, that was the day the organization literarily shook the ancient city of Ibadan. SEAP Commissioned its Regional Office, dedicated the well-equipped King’s Way Hospital and of course, entered into a session to relax and unwind at a sumptuous dinner.

The Commissioning of the Regional Office located on Yemetu Road, Ibadan began with an opening prayer

by Pastor (Mrs). Bankole of the Redeemed Christian Church of God after which Deaconess Bukola SanyaOlatunde delivered the welcome address. Mr. Yinka Fatoki, Executive Secretary, Bureau of Investment, Promotion & Public Private Partnership, the Representative 188

Dcn. Oladehinde Olatunde at the dedication of the hospital

Representatives of Healthcare Int’l.

of Oyo State Governor, HE Abiola Ajimobi was the one who formally opened the new office to the glory of God. The occasion was enlivened by SEAP’s choir. Clad in blue and yellow Tee shirts, they gave an electrifying performance magnifying the Almighty God for His mercy and blessing on the organization. Pastor Olushola Adelekan’s vote of thanks rounded off this segment of the day’s celebration.

Dignitaries who graced the event included, DPO Yemetu Police Station, CPS Tajudeen Olawuwo, Head of Development Finance Office CBN, Shiaka Omokhagbo Dirisu and Representative of United Nation on Disability, Barr. Adekanmbi Ayodele amongst others Next port of call was the dedication of King’s Way Hospital. According to Dr. Olatunde, the main reason for opening this facility is to provide excellent family-centered and quality health care to all clients in a unique and passionate manner that meets or exceeds the expectation of those they serve. The hospital has state-of-the-art equipment with qualified and highly trained healthcare

personnel.

SEAP’s upscale 15th Anniversary reached a crescendo with a classy and colourful dinner party held inside the University of Ibadan Conference Centre, Ibadan. Well-dressed staff and their family members in their hundreds stormed the venue which was stylishly decorated. Mrs. Kemi Oluwole’s Total Events was at its creative best to ensure that everything was in tip top shape and the event flowed seamlessly.

Perseverance is indeed the act of true heroes. During the dinner party, staff were awarded according to the number of years they had served the organization. The star of the evening was the oldest staff of SEAP, Mrs. Ayorinde Iretiayo, who had spent 15 good years in the organization! She was presented with the sum of three hundred thousand N300,000, expensive gifts and a standing ovation by all present.

With Tee Sax dishing out excellent music, guests later hit the dance floor to catch some fun which turned out to be a fitting finale to a wonderful celebration.

THE COLORFUL DINNER

Olatunde Oladokun’s family

Mrs. Kemi Oluwole with Pst. & Mrs. Oladokun

Omotoso Tajudeen Adebare, Adeoti Gbolagade & Mulekaile Adeyeba

Adedokun Adekunle, Saibu Abisola & Olowookere Rotimi

Samuel Adebunmi, Adeshina Ezekiel & Julius Bamidele

Adewole Samuel, Igewe Mathew, Osunjimi Seyi & Okosun Michael

Omojowo Odun & Omowunmi Adetayo

Oyinlola Ikeoluwa Oyindamola, Fadiran Anuoluwa Elizabeth & Adefunmilola Adeyinka

Abiodun Melaye, Oluropo Adesina & guest

Ayano Daniel, Ayorinde M. Emmanuel & Olaniyi Kayode

189

Mrs. Nike Daramola & Mrs. Mariam Akinbola

Mrs. Ige, Pst. Olatunde & Mrs. Ayoola

Pst. Olatunde, Barrister Adekanbi & Olamide

Pst. Olatunde, Mrs. Ayodabo & child

Pst. Olatunde, Alhaja Goroso & Secretary

Asst. Pst Arinola, Pst. Silas, Pst Olatunde & Mr. Opaleke

190

Mrs. Daramola & friends

Pst. Olatunde with staffers

Pst Olatunde & Mrs. Adewuyi

Mrs. Iretiayo Ayomide & Pst. Olatunde

Pst. Yinka Silas

Mr. & Mrs. Feranmi Akinbola

Pst. Olatunde congratulating his staff

Ilorin City Choral at the event

TY Jokes at the event

Pst. David Olanrewaju Presenting gift to Master Samuel

Evang. C.M Oladele presenting gifts to staffers

Mr. S.O Dirisu presenting gift to Mrs. Adewuyi

191

Pst. Olatunde & SEAP tTechnical Department

Pastor Olatunde, Pharmacist Omoyeni & Mrs. Ayorinde

Mrs. Ayorinde & Pharmacist Omoyeni

Cross section of awardees

Pst. Olatunde, Mrs. Bola Olatunde & Dcn. Oladehinde Olatunde

Pst. Olatunde with friends

Management staff with SEAP Director

SEAP Direct with Tee-Sax & crew

192

Mrs. Ayorinde with Ilorin staff

Pst. Olatunde with staffers

Pst & Mrs. Akpan with Dcns. Bukola Sanya-Olatunde

Mr. & Mrs. Adetunji with Dcns. Bukola Sanya-Olatunde

Dcns. Bukola Sanya-Olatunde with friends

Ife Adeyemi, Ife Adeyanju, Ayodeji Ogunsanya, Tobi Laniyan & Mariam Akinbola (Public Relations Department)

Akanbi Babatunde, Olusegun Babayemi & Oyewole Tosin

Laniyan Samson, Popoola S.L & Adegbite Timi

Mrs. Bamigbade Olasunmbo, Majekodunmi Agnes, Adewuyi Abidemi Alhaja & Alhaji Ajao Lookas

Pst Olatunde with bank officials

Cross section of the awardees

Prophetess C.M Oladele praying for the awardees

193

MEET THE NEW OMOWONUADE OF OWU KINGDOM,

PRINCESS ADENRELE ADENIRAN-OGUNSANYA Story: Babatunde Martins Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

Princess Adenrele Adeniran Ogunsanya, Olowu of Owu & Olori with the King makers of Owu Kingdom

S

ociety matriarch and former Secretary to Lagos State Government, Princess Adenrele AdeniranOgunsanya, added another feather to her cap, when she was conferred with the Chieftaincy title of Omowonuade of Owu Kingdom.

The Chieftaincy ceremony was performed by His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Olusanya Adegboyega

194

Dosunmu Amororo II, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Abeokuta, Ogun State. The palace of the monarch played host to guests that attended in droves to celebrate with the ever cheerful Princess and grassroots politician. The ceremony which was witnessed by eminent Nigerians, was part of the weeklong activities to commemorate the 10th coronation

Princess Adenrele Adeniran Ogunsanya receiving her certificate

anniversary of Oba Dosunmu.

After the new Omowonuade had been decorated with the paraphernalia of her new traditional title, she hosted her guests to a classy party. A colourful assemblage of family and friends it was that graced the event, and they were treated to a grand reception.

Owu chiefs stepping into venue

Arrival of the Olowu of Owu

High Chief Lamina Sasi (Sasi of Lagos) , Chief Adesoji Ajayi-Obembe (Obanikoro of Lagos), Baba Eto & Sen. Olorunimbe Mamora

Baba Eto greeting Olori Kuburat Oyefusi

Baba Eto with a political group

Sir Abiodun & Lady Tokunbo Akinyemi with Baba Eto

Princess Adenrele Adeniran Ogunsanya with the Olowu of Owu

Princess Adenrele Adeniran Ogunsanya receiving royal blessings from his Royal Highness

195

Princess Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya paying homage to the King

Baba Eto with Princess

Princess Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya taking her oath of office

Princess Adenrele Adeniran Ogunsanya receiving royal prayers

196

High Chief Lamina Sasi, Chief Adesoji Ajayi-Bembe, Oba Richard Abayomi Ogunsanya, Olowu of Owu & Olori, Olori Kuburat Oyefusi & Sen. Olorunimbe Mamora

Princess Adenrele with chiefs of Owu Kingdom

Princess with His Royal Highnesses

Princess Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya, Sen. OlorunimbeMamora, Oba Richard Abayomi Ogunsanya & Olori

R-l: Oba Richard Abayomi-Ogunsanya & Olori, Princess Adeniran Ogunsanya, Oba (Dr.) Adeoriyomi A.O.Oyebo & Olori

Princess Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya with leaders of political group

Michael Effiong & Gbenga Olunloyo

197

Princess Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya with Olowu of Owu & Olori

Olowu with the Kingmakers

Michael Effiong & Princess Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya

Princess with family members

198

A GLORIOUS FAREWELL FOR

SIR EBENEZER ADEBOWALE ALDER Story: Tunde Martins Photo: Ken Ehimen

L

ife is like a pilgrimage with definite entry and exit dates.

Philippians 3:20-21 “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself”. The following Bible passage explains that there is life beyond the grave and that death is the last chapter in time but the first chapter in eternity.

It was the comfort derived from this biblical pasage and the knowledge that Sir (Chief) Ebenezer Adebowale Alder had gone to a more glorious home that comforted his family and spurred them to stage a superlative funeral ceremony. The deceased was a man who many refered to as an embodiment of truth, love and sincerity-and was therefore well celebrated.

Sir (Chief) Ebenezer’s journey to the great beyond began with a wake keep service at Methodist Church of The Trinity, Tinubu Square, Lagos.

Family, church members and loved ones gathered to pay their last respects to a Knight and perfect gentleman.

The following day, an impressive funeral service took place at the same church The high calibre audience in attendance at the service included Nigeria’s Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, Oludolapo Osinbajo; Mr. & Mrs. Jimi Agbaje, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Pastor Paul Adefarasin and Pastor Sam Adeyemi and his wife, Nike Adeyemi amongst

others.

At exactly 11:00 am, the church service kicked off with a processional hymn “Who Are These like Stars Appearing”. This hymn was coordinated by the church organist, Bro Ujiro Henry Onewokae.

Thereafter, there was the rendition of the deceased’s favorites hymn, before a bible lesson was taken from the book of Solomon Chapter 3 vs 1-9.

In the course of the sermon, Rt. Rev. Oladapo Omolola Babalola described the deceased as a loyal soldier for Christ and a true defender of the Christian Religion who expressed his faith through his profession.

According to him, “Sir Alder, in his service was hardworking, always present and punctual at brigade practice and church engagements. He was a disciplinarian, who did not condone lapses and unruly behavior and was submissive and supportive to church authority.” The Reverend gentleman advised the congregation to seek the kingdom of God first and to be good in their dealings because everybody’s deeds on earth would outlive them.

As one of the “four founding fathers’’ of the Association of Methodist Brigade (AMB), the casket was swathed with the banner of the association and the Boys Brigade marched round the casket in the church to honour their own, Sir Ebenezer. This action added pomp and pageantry to the funeral service.

It was after the recessional hymn, that everyone filed out of the Church to the Ikoyi Cemetery.

199

Pastor Sam & Pastor (Mrs.) Nike Adeyemi with Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder

Mrs. Grace Emmamuel (nee Alder) & Mrs. Kehinde Akinwunmi (nee Alder)

Officiating Ministers

Mrs. Morenike Alder & Dr. Bisi Ogunbase

Mrs. Atinuke Olashore & Mr. Bimbo Olashore

Mrs. Tayo Ladipo & Mrs. Adeola Bali

Mr. & Mrs. Jimi Agbaje

200

The Alder family

Dr. Tony Rapu

Pastor Sam Adeyemi

Mr. Leke Alder

John Darlington

Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder with Lady Bolanle Alder

Hon. David Adekunle Ogunnaike & Mrs. Modupe Onilude

Dr. & Mrs. Tony Rapu with Pastor Sam & Pastor (Mrs.) Nike Adeyemi

The Alders with Pastor & Mrs Adeyemi with guests

Mr. & Mrs. Jimi Agbaje with Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder

The Olashores & The Alders

201

Ambassador & Lady Remi Esan, Lady Alder with Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder

Pageantry in honour of Sir Alder

Bose Onabanjo, Biodun Ajanaku, Sumbo Rapahael & Yetunde Isidola

Demola Ogidan, Toyosi Akinwunmi & Emmanuel Azioka

202

Mr. & Mrs. Olajide Alder

THE FUNERAL

Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder

Mrs. Abosede Onabanji, Olajide Alder, Mrs. Yetunde Isisaha & Mrs. Seyi Davies

Ambassador Remi Esan, Mrs. Doyin Esther with Sir Peter Olorunfemi

Mrs. Grace Emmanuel, Mrs. Oluwakemi Oke, Mrs. Seyi Davies & Mrs. Kehinde Akinwunmi

203

At the cemetery, prayer was said by Rt. Reverend Oladapo Omotayo. It was at this point, the clergy men joined hands and chorused, “Ebenezer Adebowale Alder go forth, Christian soul, from this world in the name of God the Almighty Father, who created you, in the name of Jesus Christ, the son of the living God, who suffered for you, in the name of the Holy Spirit, who was poured out upon you. Go forth, faithful Christian!”

Thereafter, the white and gold casket was lowered into the grave, amid tears. After the final prayer was said, family and friends proceeded to City Hall, Lagos Island for a reception.

The hall was beautified, with superb décor. The colour code for the gathering was a dual combination of Royal Blue and White and guests turned out in their numbers. The event was anchored by ace comedian, 204

Teju Babyface who thrilled guests with rib-tickling jokes. Real band entertainment also spiced up the event with an electrifying performance while mouthwatering dishes, assorted beverages were available.

Sir (Chief) Ebenezer Adebowale Alder was born on Thursday October 13, 1932 to Mr. & Mrs. Victor Bankole Alabi Alder of the Methodist Church of Trinity, Tinubu Square, Lagos.

Sir Alder is a descendant of Chief Emmanuel Soyeni Alder of Kesi in Abeokuta, a one-time Trustee of Methodist Church of the Trinity, Tinubu and the Most Rev. Patriarch J.G. Campbell, the Founder of the African Episcopal Church Nigeria respectively. He is also the great- grandson of the Salako Jakande of Oluwo Aina Jakande family of Lagos. He attended Eko Boys’ High School. Mushin, from 1950-1954 and also took correspondence courses in Commercial Art,

Building Construction and Principle of Draughtmanship.

Sir Ebenezer Adebowale Alder worked with the Federal Ministry of Information as a Graphic Artist and retired in 1990 as Principal Art Production Officer Grade One after 35 years of service. When Nigeria modified the superscription on her Coat of Arms from “Unity & Faith” to “Unity & Faith, Peace & Progress” Sir Ebenezer designed the graphics. For many years, he designed the calendar of the Federal Republic. He was an incorruptible civil servant at the Federal Ministry of Information.

His activities at Tinubu Methodist Church include: member of the Choral Society from 1958-1974, member of the Trinity Methodist Youth Club during which he served as Social Secretary and General Secretary of the Club up to 1965, pioneer Secretary of

Pastor Paul Adefarasin

Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder with Pastor Ituah Ighodalo

Mr. Frank Nweke, Mr. Leke Alder & guests

Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder with Pastor Itua Ighodalo

205

RECEPTION

Teju Babeface

206

Maryam Ojikutu & Yemisi Moiett

Isioma, Ebere, Funmi & Kemi

Mrs. Kofoworola Olaniyi, Mrs. Titilola Akinsulie & Mrs. Modupe Aiyebola

Mr. Leke Alder with His Excelency, Prof. Yemi Osibajo & wife, Dolapo

Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder with His Excelency, Prof. Yemi Osibajo & his wife Pastor (Mrs.) Dolapo Osibajo

His Excelency, Prof. Yemi Osibajo & his wife Pastor (Mrs.) Dolapo Osibajo

Ms. Bimbo Alashe with Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder

Mr. Gbolade Osibodu, Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder with Sola Adeayo

207

Engr. & Mrs. Richard Akintayo

Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder with friends

Mr. & Mrs. Leke Alder with Teju Babyface

Mr. Ajibola Ogundipe, Mrs. Temilolu Ogundipe with Leke & others

Mr. Mike Igbokwe & his wife, Mrs. Udorah Igbokwe

the Local and Circuit Youth Councils in 1962, President of the Youth Council for seven years.

He served the Boys’ Brigade Lagos Battalion Council as PRO , General Secretary and was later elected as the Adjutant of the Council from 1987 to 1990, Vice President and Acting President from 1999 to 2003 at the death of the incumbent President.

He handed over to an elected President in 2003 and was made Honorary State Life Vice President. Sir Alder was creative minded, and one of the “four founding fathers” of the Association of Methodist Brigades (AMB) in 1990. He composed the AMB Anthem and designed its logo as well as served as Vice President (male) for 12 years.

As a Graphic Artist, Sir Alder designed logos for the following: Methodist Church Nigeria, the Methodist Merit Awards (robes and medals of Knight of 208

Yetunde Fasipeji, Miriam Ani & Debola Samuel

John Wesley (KJW), 150 years of Methodism in Nigeria, Methodist Church Calendar for ten years and the Methodist Church Nigeria Youth Association in 1961. He also designed the Lagos State Youth Association in 1967, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) logo in 1968, the African Episcopal Church Nigeria logo in 1968, and the logo of C&S Church of Christ. He designed in 1993, the Methodist merit awards (robes and medals for Knight of John Wesley (KJW) and Knight of Charles Wesley (KCW). He designed the logo for the celebration of 150 years of Methodism in Nigeria in 1992 and designed Methodist Church calendar for 10 years.

He was the Secretary of Alder Descendants Family Union for 22 years, Vice President and finally President in 2002. He became the President of Ipinlaiye Campell

Descendants Union in 2002 and was the Manager of St. Stephen’s (WAEC) School, Lagos. He was the Secretary of Salako Jakande Ruling House and Vice Chairman of Jakande Chieftaincy Family. He was “Chief Bajogbimo” to the African Episcopal Church Nigeria, adviser to the Archbishop of The African Episcopal Church Nigeria on Religion and Evangelism and the Registrar of African Episcopal Church of Nigeria Theological Institute. He was also Patron of the Lads & Lasses Brigades Nigeria of the African Episcopal Church.

He was knighted by the Methodist Church into the order of John Wesley in March 2013. Sir Ebenezer Adebowale Alder is the author of several books on family history and training manuals for the Boys’ Brigade. He is blessed with children and grandchildren.

SILVERBIRD GROUP CELEBRATES 35 YEARS ANNIVERSARY IN STYLE Photo: Solomon Ekhaiyeme

Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, Gov. Ben Ayada, Mrs. Margaret Bruce (mother of Senator Ben), Lai Mohammed & H.E Hajia Aisha Bagudu

W

ords are not just enough to describe the colour, the glitz plus sheer pomp and pizzaz that took over the classy Convention Centre of Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the venue of Silverbird’s 35th anniversary celebration.

It was a pot-pourri of fun and history as Silverbird which started small, but today has TV and Radio Stations, cinemas, malls and franchises within and outside Nigeria, went the extra-mile to celebrate this landmark occasion in the midst of an assemblage of the cream of Nigerian society including a bevy of beauty queens from all corners of the continent.

Even before the clock struck six, guests had begun to sashay on the red carpet that stretched all the way from the corridors and walkways of the Expo Hall down to the lush newly-renovated Convention Centre.

Everyone was there to honour the great media empire, especially to pay tribute to Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, its Founder.

Inside, the hall was creatively decorated and as guests made their way to their seats, they were titillated by soft tunes provided by experienced DJ Jimmy Jatt and talented DJ Humility.

The evening’s comperes were On Air Personalities: Ikponmwonsa Osakioduwa fondly called IK and Yvonne Ekwere aka Vixen. They took charge throughout except when top Comedian, Basketmouth joined them on stage to very great comedic effect.

For many in the audience, it was a feeling of nostalgia while for the younger ones it was an historical excursion as a documentary, Evolution: The Past and Future was screened at different times in the course of the evening.

The documentary attempted to take everyone through the key moments in Nigerian politics and entertainment, which also helped to lay a background for the birth of Silverbird.

Attention of all was aroused when the documentary began with Nigeria’s old National Anthem “Nigeria We Hail Thee”, and the Narrator, Jacob Akinyemi Johnson (JAJ) who is one of the oldest and best hands in the

business, and long-standing member of the Silverbird family began by discussing the birth of Nigeria, the joy of independence and the sadness of the Nigerian Civil War. The documentary, then went on to reveal that Siverbird had its roots from the family business, Domino Stores which was owned by late Mr. William Murray-Bruce, father of Senator Ben Murray-Bruce.

Speaking about Domino, the current Chairman, Mr. Michael Murray-Bruce said one of the earliest lessons he learnt from his father was excellent customer service-and he revealed that it was one ingredient that has helped the family grow in business.

The President of Silverbird, Mr. Roy Murray-Bruce was full of thanks to his brother, Ben for his vision and mentoring. Stating that Silverbird had gone through many challenges but he was happy that 35 years later, it was still standing and ready to achieve more especially exploring the opportunities provided by new technology.

The documentary took everyone in Nigeria’s musical evolution from the days of Rex Lawson, E.T Mensah to Bobby Benson, Fela and Ebenezer Obey, and in the film including from Ogunde, Afolayan to Living in Bondage-and then it weaved everything together with the birth of Silverbird.

It took everyone through the company’s years of organizing major concerts, beauty pageantry, programme syndication to the adventure into television, radio and cinemas.

It did not fail to mention the impact that

Silverbird had made, turning ordinary girls into superlative beauty queens. Names like Lynda ChubaIkpeazu (a three-time Member of the House of Representatives, Bianca Ojukwu, Sabina UmehAkamune, Nike Oshinowo, Regina Askia, Agbani Darego, the first black African Miss World and Omowunmi Akinnefesi were mentioned. It also revealed how Senator Ben passed on the baton of organizing the pageants to his brother, Guy MurrayBruce.

However,it was when Senator Ben Murray-Bruce was invited on stage that the missing links in the documentary fell into place, as the gentleman who started the journey and nurtured the company, his story was very compelling.

“I am deeply honoured and grateful to God for giving me this opportunity to stand here before you today. I am grateful to my parents, my late father and my mother who is 89 years old, my brothers, sisters , my beautiful wife , Evelyn, children and all those who have stood by me all these years”The Senator now

The Murray-Bruce Brothers, Agbani Darego, Senate President, Bukola Saraki, past & present Senators

209

Cutting of cake with the dignitaries & beauty queens

Alhaji Lai Mohammed (Minister of information & Culture), Senator Bukola Saraki (Senate President), Senator Prof. Ben Ayade & Senator Uche Ekwunife with wife & the Psquare crew

Hajia Aisha Bagudu (First Lady of Kebbi state) (right)

From 2nd left: Agbani Darego, Omowunmi Akinnifesi, Monachi Abi & other guests

Odein Ajumogobia & wife

210

Princess Ann Iyang, Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen & Kenny Saint Best

Hon. LyndaChuba-Ikpeazu (former Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria) with friend

Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of information & Culture delivering the speech of Mr. President

Ben Murray-Bruce with kid star, Ozzy Bosco

Mrs. Megha, Patience Yisa & Mr. Megha

Mr. & Mrs. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen

Dr. & Mrs. Precious Ogboru, Dr. Isi Irusota with Mr. & Mrs. Remi Aboderin

fondly called “Mr. Commonsense” began.

He went on to thank President Muhammadu Buhari, who was represented by Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River, Senators, House of Representatives members and the beauty queens who had come from other African countries.

Speaking with passion and candour, he noted that his dream in life was to be a Historian, have a Phd in Political Sceience and become a Teacher. According to him “That was my true love, not enetertainment, certainly not media. All I wanted though was to succeed.

Senator Murray-Bruce who confessed he was a tee to taller and had never smoked said ideally he was a misfit in the entertainment industry but he got into it because it was fun and paying the bills.

He regaled the audience with his many challenging moments, how he was almost accused of planning a coup because of a concert th he was organising through Black MusicAssociation and Stevie Wonder who was billed to perform wanted a firm commitment that he would be able to meet and greet the then President, how a Frenchman almost got him into trouble when he tried to get him involved in a Fela project when the famous artiste was incarcerated and the loss of over $10million dollars during the Miss World Pageant that was eventually moved to London, England.

He talked about the pain of losing a friend Don Cornelius (Founder of Soultrain) who committed

suicide and linked it with the Nigerian situation where he noted that there were many people on the brink of suicide in the country because of different forms of challenges or for something as small as being hungry.

According to him “All Nigerians have opportunity to be successful but we lack Power. I have a bill in the Senate where we will raise $1billion yearly for 10 years. I am not taking any money from government, I have found this money myself-and I will urge the President, Senate President and all Nigerians to support this bill”. The money will be for alternative energy which will ensure that every home in Nigeria will have power” He challenged young Nigerians not to give up but think of creative ideas to contribute to the nation. He noted that he was in public office not because he wanted a job or was not busy, but he truly cares about Nigeria and contributing to its growth. He challenged the All Progressive Congress (ACP) to ensure that it provides the change that all Nigerian desired when they voted the party into power.

He rounded off thus “Someone asked what kind of education I have. I told him I have only a Bacherlor’s Degree in Business Adminstration but I have a PHD in Common Sense” And the entire hall rose and showered him with a deafening applause.

A couple of people were invited to speak about Silverbird at 35. Mr Jide Asoma, who had been with Senator Ben from the very start recalled the rough beginning when Ben Bruce’s father loaned them his 504

Station Wagon, LAD 5520 and Ben would insist that he would drive because he was the company’s President.

They had no money to pay people to distribute flyers and paste posters, so himself, Skidd (Ikemefuna) and Ben used to do it themselves at night, including hanging banners. Bola Salako, JAJ and Agbani Darego all spoke and paid glowing tribute to the Senator and wished the company a more successful future.

Later on, Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who represented the President, came on stage to deliver the President’s speech. He congratulated Silverbird on its landmark celebration and noted that the government desires to partner with the organization to achieve its job creation objectives.

“Let me start by congratulating the management and staff of Silverbird on this occasion of the 35th Anniversary of the company. It will not be an exaggeration to describe Silverbird as an iconic company in our Media and Entertainment Industry, going by what it has achieved in the past 35 years. He also used the opportunity to discuss the government‘s decision to ensure that we attain Digital Switch Over”.

Thereafter, Ben Murray-Bruce’s mother, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Senate President Bukola Saraki and Cross River Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, Agbani Darego were all invited to join the Silverbird Founder, and together, they cut the lovely anniversary cake.

Guests enjoyed good quality musical entertainment from Daddy Showkey, Tuface to Psquare. It was former Minister, Odein Ajumogobia who closed proceedings with a wonderful thank you speech.

211

Senator Lanre Tejuoso

Prof. Pat Utomi & wife

Henry Odein Ajumogobia

Omowunmi Akinnifesi

Monachi Abi

Tee Mac Omatshola

212

Senator Florence Ita-Giwa

Uncle Sam Amuka-Pemu

Lancelot Imasuen & Kennt St. Best

AYANGBUREN OF IKORODU,

OBA KABIR SHOTOBI SPEAKS ABOUT HIS PEOPLE AND PLANS

Story: Rukayat Adebayo Photoshoot: Sunmisola Oloruninsola & Photo: Funmilayo Adeyemi

His Majesty Oba Kabir, Shotobi, Ayangburen of Ikorodu

213

O

ba Kabiru Adewale is a man of many parts; Scholar, Businessman, Academia and Engineer. These prolific credentials have not in anyway beclouded his sense of traditional responsibility as he answered the call to occupy the traditional stool of his forebears, first functioning as the Odofin of Ikorodu, and then becoming the all important Oba of thepopular Lagos Town. In this no holds barred interview, the monarch revealed everything that makes him thick including a look at his days before royalty.

Excerpts:

Congratulations on your installation as the new Ayangburen of Ikorodu

Thank you very much.

How would you describe the experience

It is lovely. It’s my birthright, and I feel good about it.

You were once the Odofin of Ikorodu, and now you have been crowned king, how do you compare the two

They are different things entirely; being a chief is different from been a king. A chief is just a community leader while a king is a paramount ruler. The difference is very clear. As a king, you are to look after your subjects including the chief, who is very submissive to the king. He reports every situation to the king and follows a laid down procedure in his activities. The king is the custodian of the tradition, he makes his subjects happy, speak on their behalf, and works in partnership with the government for the growth of the community.

How do you intend to handle the responsibility

As a former Odofin, I know the town very well though there is more to it now as a king. My primary responsibility is to make sure that there is peace in the community, which will lead to developing it commercially. This is because Ikorodu is noted for commercial activities, and you know that lots of people are now migrating to Ikorodu as the largest industrial area in the whole of Lagos State, even in West Africa.

I really want to work on that aspect of our town; to make sure all the logistics and infrastructure are in up to date status. So we are going to work with the government to achieve these.

What are your priority projects and the innovations you intend to bring to Ikorodu

I have done a lot of compilations. When I joined the race to become king, I had my manifesto ready, and there was a lot that I wrote. I have already started those projects that I listed. Firstly, on culture, we have started enhancing the beauty of the town as well renovating and reconstructing parts of the rural areas within the town. Just imagine the first palace in Ikorodu has no toilet and pipe borne water; I have already settled that for people residing there. Secondly, the road network in Ikorodu. This is one aspect I can do without the help of the government. Because there is mass migration into Ikorodu to ease Lagos Island of its population, there should therefore be facilities to serve the population.

We are presently working on suitable housing programme for the city.

I remember when I was young; precisely in the 60s, you can hardly count up to 10 vehicles on Ayangburen Road. But now, it is a competition between human and vehicular traffic. So, we are going to work with the government on this project. Electricity, as you know, is a Federal Government project, but we have to back it up with transformer for the rural dwellers to have basic amenities that I mentioned earlier. We need hospitals also, and are working to upgrade the General Hospital we have. I am not saying government is not working, they have just a built clinic, and the structure is right there. But it’s not even enough. I went there last December, because every December or January we need to go and visit the first baby of the year, along with the former king. Some of the women who were expecting babies don’t even have beds to be delivered on; they were putting to bed on the floor; the fact that it is a modern maternity home notwithstanding. So, we need to assist by providing more land for them to upgrade to a teaching hospital, because the Ayinke House in Ikeja is chocked, so if we create more hospitals it will reduce the burden of Ayinke and Island Maternity. We also have a polytechnic that can be upgraded to a university. We have lands that can accommodate both. I am also begging our Baales not to sell the lands meant for schools, markets and hospitals.

This is because if you want the government to build a school or hospital, you have to provide the land for 214

them. So, we want more schools; we want to upgrade our polytechnic to university; we want our hospital to be upgraded to teaching hospital and also the housing estate must be improved upon. Though the government is trying, but we want more.

If it is possible, within a year. I know the Governor is a listening Governor, and his men have visited Ikorodu. It is from the Ikorodu Senatorial District that we appointed the governor. Definitely, he is going to listen to us.

How do you plan to achieve all these even with the help of the government

What has changed about you since you became king

Within the short time I have been in office, I have been able to construct a modern toilet and pipe borne water for the first Olaja Palace that was built over 400 years ago. There is no bank in Nigeria that is not in Ikorodu. Those are not from the government, they are from private individuals, and they are really investing in Ikorodu. But we still need the road networks, because we need to create an enabling environment for investors to come in. And the king cannot do it alone, so our mandate is to give the government the blueprint that will guide them to put the road network in place.

The investors are ready to pay their tax, and we know how to sanction them to encourage them to do the needful. We will continue to talk to the government so that some of the seminars that are held in Lagos can be held in Ikorodu. We are doing a lot to put structures in place so that people can come in.

In how many years do you intend to achieve these

Change has been part of my life; transformation to a boy, to a student, to a graduate, an adult, socialist and now, a traditionalist. Series of changes have taken place. I have been to a kind of a ‘university’ only those who are ready to be king attend. When you are there, you will be transformed. There are lots of things that I been doing before that I cannot do now. I can’t kiss my girlfriend in the public any more. I can’t hug my girlfriend in the public like before I can’t chase any woman in the public. I can’t eat in the public. There are limitations to what I can do in the public. As a king, you are supposed to be a role model, who should not be found wanting in behavior as well as a good listener. It has actually changed and transformed me. People, who come to pay homage to me make a lot of requests, for example, the Methodist Church were here this morning, and they blessed me, but they didn’t leave until they have made one or two demands of me. They want me to outlaw the “ORO” festival from taking

place in the day time; they want it during the night.

Maybe, the Oro people wanted to appease the gods, and they ban the church from playing music, and you know they can’t function without playing music. I have to listen to both parties and balance my judgment. So I try to examine at how I can accommodate everyone. If I have issues, I call all my subjects, my lieutenants, and we look at them together, and decide how to go about them. So, it is a decision that is not only my idea, and the praise goes to all, and not the kabeyesi alone; that have been my practice.

Can you lead us into your background, where you grow up

I am a native of Ikorodu; son of the soil. I was born here in Ikorodu Maternity Home then. I went to Methodist Primary School which is about half a kilometre from my house. There was nothing like cars then, and we enjoyed trekking. I later went to United Commercial School, but didn’t finish before I was taken to Lagos, and I got admitted to Methodist High School, my dad as an Alhaji was not happy so I had to change to Zumratu Islamic Grammar School. Soon after, I worked briefly with a tourist company, Tourist Hotel Industry at Victoria Island, and while I was there, I was doing part time studies at the Federal School of Arts and Science. From there, I got another admission to the University of Lagos, which was followed with a Lagos State scholarship. In due course, I got admission to study overseas, so I left Nigeria and I studied at Nongradona Agriculture and Steel University in the United States of America. But before I left, my family got me married to my very beautiful and charming wife, and we had children. So, I refused to have another wife abroad. After school, I was posted to West African Portland Cement for my National Youth Service. At the end of the scheme in 1998, I was given automatic

employment. I rose from Trainee Engineer to Deputy Chief Electrical Engineer before I retired in 2004. I was attracted to West African Portland Cement because I had the intention of going back to USA since they promised me an official home, scholarship for my children and all it takes to have a standard living; I had five children, but lost one at the age of nineteen when he was about to enter the university. Of the remaining children, one is a lawyer, another is working with the Lagos State Tax Office, yet another, a sociology graduate is still searching for employment while the last one is studying Engineering at OSUTH. I became the Odofin, and served for a period of five years.

Subsequently, the family took it up further, stood by me and here I am today. I really appreciate what they have done, especially Ikorodu people; they really worked hard to get me into this office, and I promise that I will not disappoint them, God willing, and with my great team, we will get there.

How did you meet your wife

When I was in the secondary school, I was like a play boy. I had many girlfriends. I met my wife in Lagos, in Lafiaji where I lived and she got attracted to me. For her, I disowned others. We started dating in 1994 and got married in 1998.

What are the things that kept the relationship going

She is a very domestic woman, a good home as I hardly had time for the children. I didn’t see my children growing because I was always in and out of the country. She has been very supportive, and I love her.

Before you became the king, what were the challenges you faced

During our own time, once you know how to

manage your boss, you won’t have any problem. I was very obedient and humble and I knew how to serve my predecessors, and they were all interested in attending my coronation because I was an exemplary workerThese experiences gave me the background to face any challenge even as a king now. One of my major challenge borders on the division Ikorodu; we want them to become one.

As a Muslim and a king you are supposed to perform some traditional rites, are there any conflicts

No, there is no pastor or imam that will crown a king. It is still a traditional rite. I am kabiru, I am a Muslim and I have been to hajj twice, so that will not take my belief away from me; culture is quite different from religion; there is nobody that doesn’t have cultural heritage. It just has to be balanced.

What is your typical day like

It’s always busy How will you describe Governor Ambode’s administration

It is too soon to comment. He is good because he has worked at the local government. I am sure he will do well.

What is your best food

Dodo and beans. When I was working, my wife will always welcome me with two bottles of star, but now things have changed.

Who is your favorite artiste

King Sunny Ade Do you have a favorite book

Engineering books as at that time, but now, I do more of newspapers.

What will you like to be remembered for as a king

I pray to surpass my predecessors, and insha Allah, I want to turn Ikorodu around, in a way you can’t imagine. I want to turn Ikorodu into a a model city.

215

I pray to surpass my predecessors, and insha Allah, I want to turn Ikorodu around, in a way you can’t imagine. I want to turn Ikorodu into a a model city.

216

HIS CORONATION RECEPTION

R-l: Olori, Ayangburen with speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mubashiru Obasa & wife

Prominent daughter of ikorodu: Princess Aderenle Adeniran-Ogunsanya

His Royal Majesty, Ayangburen of Ikorodu

Ayangburen with Otunba Femi Pedro (3rd left) & guests

Ayangburen & Olori with Hon. Jimi Benson

Doyin Ogbara & Folake Ogbara

217

Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mubashiru Obasa & wife with Sen. Olorunimbe Mamora

218

Senator Olorunibe Mamora

219

King Sunyy Ade (left)

Iyalode Abidemi Abimbola, Iyalode Akarigbo- Folashade & Otun Iyalode Akarigbo Oyinlola

220

Alhaja Sukurat Modupe Sanni, Alhaja Bisi Eleja Arewa & Alhaja Risikat Mohammed Yinka Aregbesola, Biodun Durojaiye, Kadijat Kasimu & Ayobami Babanumi

Dele Daada & Tunji Olamiju

Bunmi Agusto & Nike Kekereowo

Mr. Ade & Jimmy

Mrs. Yemi Elias, Mrs. Kikelomo & Princess Yinka Egbeyemi

221

OVATION RECALLS

THE FUNERAL OF MOVIDA BOSS, AKEEM

By Funmilayo Adeyemi

SHODIENDE

The deceased, Akeem Shodeinde in the casket

The deceased, Akeem Shodeinde

Mrs. Shodeinde

Engr. Lekan Shodeinde reading his tributes

Engr. Austin reading his tribute

Barr. Dumo Lulu Briggs reading his tributes

Pastor Shonibare, Pastor Gerald Adeoye & Pastor Isreal Oyeniyi

S

adness and pure grief was evident, the air was indeed sombre as Akeem Shodiende, the owner of wave-making Movida Nite Club and the “General� of Lagos night Club scene was laid to rest during a very private ceremony.

There was a funeral service at the Havillah Events Centre, Oniru Estate, Lekki, Lagos which was attended by

222

Mrs. Bolanle, Mr. Sheriff Oladele Shodeinde & Mrs. Shodeinde

close friends including top businessman, Dumo Lulu-Briggs and Nollywood star, Iyke Ogbonna before his remains were ferried in a motorcade to the Ikoyi Cemetery where he was interred after a short session of prayers by some Christian Ministers.

Sodeinde, a native of Abeokuta, has a young daughter and was 45 years old.

Akeem’s friends

Chief Nobert, Mrs. Bolanle & Mr. Sheriff Oladele Shodeinde

The bereaved family

At the grave side

Family performing dust to dust rite

Akeem’s friends: 3rd left: Frank Okamigbo

Iyke Ogbonna, Lisa Omorodion & a friend

223

ENIYE OLATOYOSI OYEGUN WEDS

UMASO JOHN EKETU Story: Eric Elezuo Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

T

he Bible was not mincing words when it declared that, he who finds a wife has most definitely found a good thing. A wife as the holy book describes, is a hamper of companionship, joy, support and happiness.

Consequently, it was a moment of joy when Umaso John Eketu a Flight Officer in the Nigeria Air Force wedded, his soul mate, Eniyemamwen Olatoyosi Oyegun, the delectable daughter of the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie Oyegun.

The preparations for the church service, which took place simultaneously at both the bride’s and groom’s residences, was an exercise in professionalism as various make-up artists, maids of honour as well as groom’s men took centre stage, and did their best to put the couple of the day in the best of shapes for their special day.

224

Presentation of their marriage certificate

Cross section of guest

225

Couple with parents & Officiating Minister

Chief & Chief (Mrs.) John Oyegun & Sen. Bukola Saraki

Sen. Bukola Saraki & Chief Bisi Akande

Gov Adams Oshiomhole, Aremo Olusegun Osoba & Otunba Niyi Adebayo

With the groom dressed in the Air Force ceremonial blue uniform, the elegant bride in resplendent white wedding gown and the guests in diverse attires, all roads led to the prestigious Archbishop Vining Memorial Church in the heart of Ikeja, GRA. The service, which kicked off at 12noon with a roll call of top shots in the APC and Nigerian political landscape, had the Right Reverend Olusegun Adeyemi as Officiating Minister with other men of God giving the needed helping hand. The ebullient minister of the gospel, in his message, exalted the institution of marriage, and 226

praised the young couple for doing what what was right before God, and doing it the right way. He went ahead to join the ever happy couple in holy matrimony, thereby bringing together the families of Oyegun and Eketu in a hall filled to capacity with veritable witnesses.

The wedding train moved to The Haven GRA, Ikeja where the reception was held. Stern looking security details drawn from the State House Security, Abuja, provided water tight security, ensuring that only those who should be there gained entry.

At the venue, a military styled parade was staged for the couple, Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu

Chief & Chief (Mrs.) John Oyegun, Chief Eketu & daughter

Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & Chief & Chief (Mrs.) John Oyegun

R-l: Chief John Oyegun, Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & former Edo State Governor, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor

allowing them to inspect a guard of honour mounted by gun crossing soldiers in a show of solidarity, pomp and pageantry. Afterwards, the sword used by the leader of the parade was handed over to the bride as a token of conquest for the cutting of the marriage cake.

The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, who led the Federal Government delegation, was very prominent during the church service, before duty stopped him from relishing the flavours of the reception party.

Among dignatries that attended the wedding ceremony were the former interim chairman of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande; the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu; the House Deputy

Chief Whip, Mr. Pally Iriase, representing the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, represented by the former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Femi Pedro; Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; Oyo State Governor, Mr. Abiola Ajimobi; Plateau State Governor, Barr. Simon Lalong; former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Segun Osoba; former Governor of Old Anambra State, Chief Jim Nwobodo; Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Oluranti Adebule, who represented Governor Akinwumi Ambode; Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and his wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; Chief Executive Officer of 227

Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau State (left)

Mr. & Mrs. Macauley Iyayi

The couple & their families receiving God’s blessings

Juli Pharmacy, Prince Julius AdeluyiAdelusi; Senator Isiaka Adeleke, Senator Gbenga Ashafa, Mr. and Mrs. Steve Orosanye, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Senator Dino Melaye, Mr. and Mrs. Macaulay Iyayi, Lagos APC Chairman, Chief Henry Ajomale, Otumba Niyi Adebayo, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor and a representative of the wife of the President, Mrs. Aishat Buhari.

In his speech, The father of the bride, who doubled as the father of the day, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and who had excelled in the Nigerian political terrain, even as a former Governor of Edo State, was all smiles as he stated that he has handed over his delectable daughter to another ‘John’, believing that the special care he, as the first ‘John’ gave to Eniye, will be sustained, and even improved upon by the second ‘John’.

The colourful event, packaged by Whittyliz Events, was top notch. The event planners ensured that there was enough to eat, chew and drink. Even as the couple exited the reception venue to begin their marital duties at about 4pm, many were still seen eating and drinking without restriction or inhibition.

228

Prince Julius Adeluyi-Adelusi

Ceremonial Military rite out for couple

Sen. Bukola Saraki, Couple & Gov. Ibikunle Amosun

Chief John Oyegun, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu & guests

229

RECEPTION

230

Chief Jim. Nwobodo, Chief Bisi Akande & Chief John Oyegun

Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Aremo Olusegun Osoba & Prince Segun Olusegun

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Dr. Idiyat Oluranti Adebule

Ndidi & Grace Egbagbe

HRN. Sunday J. Eketu, Chief F. J. Eketu & Mrs. Chief F. J. Eketu

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa (right)

Eze Robin O. & wife

231

Chief Bisi Akande with Chief John Oyegun & wife

Emmanuel, Ijeoma & Konye

Eng. Kevin Njweaka, Catherine Ugbe & Awele Van Nwoko

232

Faith Osedehi & Ike Odigie-Oyegun

Yvonne Asuen, Iro Omobogie, Uyi Okoyomo & Edward Duke

Uncle Sam Amuka-Pemu & Chief Bode Emmanuel

Bini chiefs

Bola & Kayte

Lady Belinda Ogiefa & Aghware. U. Ann

Tobore Oghenekaro, Osayi Oghenekaro, Tejiri Oghenekaro & Tega Oghenekaro

Sen. Osita Izunaso & Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche

Chief & Chief (Mrs.) Asemota

233

CUTTING OF THE WEDDING CAKE

234

Mrs. Omogie, Hon. Ken & Anselm Ojezua & guest

Philips Shekwu & Aliyu Bello

Bunmi & Doyin

Stanley Ogundana, Erezimena Mukoro & Segun Lawal

235

THE LOVE-FILED WEDDING OF

OLUWATONI IDOWU AND ADENIYI SHEDOWO Story: Tersoo Achineku Photos: Abraham Falodun

Couple, Adeniyi & Oluwatoni Shedowo

Groom and Bride, Adeniyi & Oluwatoni Shedowo

Groom & Bride

Couple with Groom’s Parent Mr & Mrs Isaac Shedowo

L-R Adenike, Olufunke, Couple, Adeyemi , Adeyinka Shedowo Couple with Groom’s Parents & Siblings

A

merica’s sweet heart Celine Dion labels the art of falling in love as being so amazing, you could literally touch the moonlight. Although fairytale-like in description, the hit musician’s concept of love cannot be easily debunked as it sometimes, accurately defines the feeling one gets when faced with the one person he or she has been crossed by the painless arrows of cupid.

A simple example of a couple who are obviously still basking in the euphoria of love so much that they show brightness which would make the lunar body green with envy, are Oluwafunmilayo Adeniyi Shedowo and his lovely soul mate, Oluwatoni Abiola Idowu. The couple, definitely lost in the aura of love took their already flawless relationship to the next level with a lovely wedding ceremony that outlined the perfection of their affection.

Preceding the wedding, a fantastic engagement 236

ceremony had been organized by the families of the couple and as expected, it was indeed momentous. The engagement programme, which took place at the Functions Hall, Jogor Centre, Liberty Road, Ibadan, was indeed spectacular and served as an occasion for the introduction of the two families.

Kick starting events of the day and following tradition, the groom, Oluwafunmilayo, accompanied by his friends, all clad in lush Aso Oke attires danced into the hall with glee, amidst the fanfare of the guests.

Still reeling from ecstasy of the groom’s entrance, the bride followed. Oluwatoni, draped in beautiful beads and a lovely Aso Oke and escorted by her beautiful friends and female members of her family, got a standing ovation from guests who indeed appreciated the exquisite bride.

With the introduction of the couple done with a short prayer the letter of proposal was presented by the

family of the groom. Assured that their daughter was in the right hands, the bride’s family signed the proposal to the approval of the guests. And in turn presented an acceptance letter. To solemnize the engagement, a short prayer followed and with the engagement ring slipped into the couple’s fingers, it was official, Oluwafunmilayo Adeniyi Shedowo and Oluwatoni Abiola Idowu were engaged.

The church ceremony, which took place days later at Saint Anne’s Church, Molete, Ibadan, served as a honeypot for the convergence of friends, families and well-wishers of the lovers who trooped in en-masse to provide moral support.

The groom, decked in a smart tuxedo that James Bond would have stolen, wsa handsome. He was complemented by an equally beautiful Oluwatoni who looked superb in a beautiful wedding gown that looked like something out of a Cosmopolitant.

Bride with her parents

The Couple: Adeniyi & Oluwatoni Shedowo

Eyesorun Bosede Adejugbe with groom’s parents & Mrs Joyce Aluko

Mrs E.E Kehinde, bride, Oluwatoni with Princess Titi Osunmakinde

Eyesorun Bosede Adejugbe with Mr. & Mrs. Shedowo groom’s parents

Oluwasegun & Agbonmeore Balogun

Folashade Osheyemi Arogundade & Afegbai Igem

Mr. & Mrs. Taye Odebunmi, groom’s father & Tolu Fadahunsi Esq.

Groom with parents Mr. & Mrs. Isaac Shedowo

237

Couple with Ven. Collins Babalola

Couple, Adeniyi & Oluwatoni Shedowo

His Grace Most Rt Rev Bishop S.A . Abe -Blessing the couple

Ven. Rev Tunde Onatemowo, Most Rt Rev (Dr) S. A . Abe with Couple and other officiating Ministers

Groom’s father, Mr. Isaac Shedowo signing the Marriage register

Bride’s mother, Mrs. Balogun signing the Marriage Register

Seun Shedowo, Couple & Tola Smith

238

Mrs. Christiana Thomas & Mrs. Jumoke Alimi

R-l: Otunba Alex Akinnadeju, Justice J.O Akinyede (rtd) The Olode of Ode Ekiti, Oba Samuel Aderiye II & His Olori, Mr. & Mrs. Shedowo (groom’s parent), Eyegba Abike Sonoiki & Prof. Akin Oluwatosin

L-R Mr Shedowo, Cheif (Mrs) Joyce Aluko , Couple , Mrs Grace Shedowo & Prof.Akin Oluwatosin

L-R Sola Agbaje , Prof. Oluwatosin, Mrs Abike Omowaye, Dr Okunbolade, groom’s father, groom’s sister (Adenike), Couple, groom’s mother, Mrs. Adetunla, Mrs. Funmi Agbaje & Dr. (Mrs.) Mary Okunbolade

Seun, groom with his parents Mr. & Mrs. Shedowo

Groom with groom’s men & ring bearer

L-r: Mojisola, Jumoke, Tolu, Damilola, Funmi & Odun

Couple with Bride’s maids & Little bride

Mrs. Adesuyi Woleola & Mrs. Owanikin Tosin

Couple with family

L-r: Boluwade, Adekoje, groom’s father, Couple, Tolu Fadahunsi esq; Barr. Akin Adepoju, groom’s mother & Gbenga Adeyeye

L-r: Groom’s mother, Bose, Couple, Mrs. Adegbenro, Jide Ogundare & groom’s father

239

Mrs. Solape Balogun bride’s mother & friends

Mrs. E.E Kehinde & Mrs. Solape Balogun (bride’s mother)

Mrs Waye Awe, Mrs. Funmi Okunlola & Mrs. Fayoke Famuyibo

Pastor & Barr. (Mrs.) Samuel Adetunla

Elder & Chief (Mrs.) Bamidele Akintayo

Chief (Mrs.) Abike Sonoiki, Chief (Mrs.) Funke Ogundana & Olori Tunji Adeniyi

Fred Akinola Elegbe (MC)

Funmi Thomas, Olayinka Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Ojewande & Yewande Oyinkansola

240

Couple & Shedowos groom’s parent & siblings

L-: Seun, Nike, groom, Adeniyi & Mr. & Mrs. Shedowo (groom’s parents & sibling)

Couple cutting the cake

Bride’s 1st meal to her husband

Nuptial kiss (Deeper)

Bride still performing her 1st official duty

Groom feeds bride

Nuptial kiss (Deep)

Nuptial kiss (Deepest)

241

SUPERLATIVE SEND OFF JEFFRY Story: Rukayat Adebayo Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

HAWKINS

Sen. Ibikunle Amosun, Tonye Cole, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Mr. & Mrs. Hawkins, Rotimi Amaechi & Dr. Kayode Fayemi

L

egendary American football player, late Vince Lombardi said ''The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand''. Being a man of vision and exemplary character, it was no surprise that friends, well-wishers and notable dignitaries honoured the invitation to bid Mr. Hawkins farewell, after serving as Consular General.

The ''cowboy' themed farewell party was held at in the highbrow, Banana Island, Lagos. Guests trooped in twos and threes, looking wonderful in

242

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffry Hawkins

their jeans and lumberjacks. Cowboy hats were made available for those who did not come prepared for the party. It was fun galore.

Dignitaries present at the event included the Publisher of OVATION International Magazine, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Former Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Former Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amechi, Dakuku Peterside, Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, Kayode Akintemi and oil tycoon, Tonye Cole.

Guests were treated to sumptuous delicacies as well as exciting and fun games. There was also a fund raising segment in which the attendees con-

tributed immensely.

Ambassador Terence Culley was the one who introduced the outgoing Consul General to the audience. According to him, prior to his posting to Nigeria, Jeffrey Hawkins had been Director of the Office of Near East and South and Central Asia in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor from September 2010 to 2012. He was an Adviser to the Assistant Secretary on human rights policies for the Near East and South Central Asia region and managed millions of dollars of human rights programmes.

Dr. Dakuku Peterside, Dr. Kayode Fayemi (m) & guests

Barr. (Mrs.) Manuela Izunwa, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, Dr. Kayode Fayemi & Bob

Efuru, Kingsley, Pearl & Bovi

Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Jeffry Hawkins & Tonye Cole

From right: Pastor Paul Adefarasin & guests

Mary Ann, Mark & Matt

From 2nd left: Mary Ann, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Kayode Akintemi

243

Mr. Kayode Akintemi, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Mr. Rotimi Ameachi, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Dakuku Peterside

R-l: Nneota Egbe, Sulaiman Ayedei, Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bovi

Tony Cole

244

Jimi Agbaje & Rotimi Ameachi (Transportation Minister)

Jeffry Hawkins & Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola Gov. of Osun State

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola & Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi

Rauf Aregbesola, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Pastor Paul Adefarasin

Mr. Hawkins served as Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) at United States Embassy, Luanda, Angola between September of 2008 and August of 2010. As DCM, Mr. Hawkins was the Ambassador’s senior advisor on policy and management and oversaw the operations of the Embassy, including some 50 American diplomats and 135 Angolan staff, as well as an $80 million Assistance budget.

Prior to arriving in Angola, Mr. Hawkins was United States Consul in Lille, France, where he was responsible for American relations with north-

ern France.

Between 2004 and 2006, Mr. Hawkins served as Deputy Chief of Mission in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.

Mr. Hawkins worked as Political and Economic Counselor in Kabul, Afghanistan in 2003 and 2004.

While in Kabul, Mr. Hawkins played a key role in activities with major implications for United States foreign policy, including the drafting of the Afghan constitution, preparations for Afghanistan’s first post-conflict elections, and coordination with NATO and the United Nations in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

He has also served as acting Deputy Director of the State Department’s Office of Central Asian Affairs, Desk Officer for Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, Political Officer in Islamabad, Pakistan, Deputy Consular, Section Chief in Chennai, India and Political Officer in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

Prior to joining the State Department, Mr. Hawkins was a Presidential Management Intern at the United States Department of Commerce. He is the recipient of numerous State Department awards, including the Meritorious Honor Award and the Superior Honor award.

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & Rotimi Ameachi

Tonye Cole, Gov. Ibikunle Amosun & Otunba Bimbo Ashiru

Former Gov. Donald Duke, Nneota Egbe & Bob

Pastor Paul Adefarasin & Gov. Ibikunle Amosun

245

AT THE

NASCON DISTRIBUTOR AWARDS 2015

Overall Best Performing Distributor, Sani Adamu Trader, who won SUV, cash prize, products and expense paid trip to Dubai

Aliko Dangote delivering speech

Mr. Farr & Mrs. Ayeni and the 2nd Overall Best Performing Distributor, Ali Balarabe

F

or staying loyal and contributing to its steady growth, National Salt Company of Nigeria PLC, a member of the Dangote Group hosted a lavish dinner to celebrate its distributors during the NASCON Distributor Awards 2015 in Lagos.

The fun-filled event saw distributors smiling home with assorted prizes but the star of the night was Sani Adamu Trader, the Overall Best Performing Distributor who was rewarded with products, a cash prize, brand new Toyota Fortuner as well as an all-expense-paid trip to Dubai. 20 other customers went away with branded tricycles and products In his opening speech at the ceremony, President/CEO of Dangote

246

Mr. Olakunle Alake and 3rd Best Performing Distributor in Lagos, who won a car, cash prize, products & expense paid trip to Dubai

Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote Thanked the distributors for being part of the winning team at NASCON. Dangote who expressed optimism regarding the future of the company stated “I am very happy and excited for the new management at NASCON. I am positive about the future of the brand�.

He reaffirmed that NASCON remains one of the most innovative subsidiary producing the best and qualitative salt in Nigeria, promising the distributors that next year will be even more rewarding for them.

In her remarks, Chairperson of NASCON, Mrs. Yemisi Ayeni said that the award ceremony was very important because the distributors and

NASCON Board of Directors

L-R: Alh. Ahmed Yakassai, Special Assistant to the President/CE, Dangote Group; Thabo, GMD, Dangote Flour; Knut Ulvmoen, Executive Director, Dangote Group & Yahaya Fufore

Fatima & Hajiya Fatima Wali-Abdulrrahaman, Director, NASCON Board

NASCON customers from Northwest

NASCON customers

L-r: Dr. Chris Ogbechie (PhD.), Director NASCON Board & Mrs. Yemisi Ayeni, Chairperson, NASCON Board

247

Dangote Staff

L-R: Paul Farrer, GMD, NASCON; Alh. Balarabe, one the winners & Bappa, NASCON

Mr. Knut, Hajiya Fatima & Tony Chiejina

L-r: Olarenwaju, Femi & Tunde (Dangote Staff)

NASCON Customers

Distributors at the event

248

L-r: Ruka, Maijidda, Fatima & Aderemi (Dangote Group)

Halima Dangote-Bello, Executive Director, Dangote Group

Halimi & one of the winners, Salisu Sambanjo (Rep.) who won a car

Alh. Sada & Best Distributor, Lagos, Lasol Nig. Ltd

Mr. Knut & one of the winners, Fulcrum Golden Heritage

Hajiya Fatima & one of the winners, Olayiwola & Sons

Engr. Ahmed Mansur, and one of the winners, Joshua Umeh & sons

Alh. Abdu & one of the winners, Alh. Tukur Saburu & Sons

Bisi Olatilo & Aliko Dangote

249

Olakunle Alake, Executive Director, Business Services, Dangote Group & Hajiya Fatima

Omobolanle Onasanya, Dangote Staff rendering the National Anthem

L-r: Mr. & Mrs Ayeni & Aliko Dangote

L-r: Alh. Abdu Dantata, Executive Director, Logistics, Dangote Group & Alh. Sada

Ngozi Ekponubi & Ngozi Ngene (Dangote Staff)

L-r: Engr. Babajide Soyode, Special Adviser to President/CE on Refinery; Usen Udoh, Group Chief HR, & Tony Chiejina, Chief Corporate Communicatio ns,Dangote Group

250

Alh. Yakassai & Engr. Ahmed Mansur, ED, Stakeholder Mgt. & Corp. Comm.

Halima Dangote-Bello, Executive Director, Dangote Group & her Husband, Sulaiman Sani Bello

L-R: Mrs. Ayeni, Aderemi & Fatima

Comedian, Basketmouth entertaining guests

Dance Troupe

L-R: Maijidda Modibbo, Dangote Corporate Communications; Fatima Aliko Dangote, Executive Director Commercial, NASCON & Aderemi Saka, CFO, NASCON

customers were key parts of the company’s success story.

Winners emerged from all parts of Nigeria at the event where guests were given first-rate entertaiment and a few went home with brand new cars. Some of the winners include: Fulcrum Golden Heritage (Best Distributor, West), Joshua Umeh & Sons (Best Distributor, East), Tukur Sabaru & Sons (Most Improved Distributor),

'Salisu Sambajo (Most Loyal Distributor) and Sabo Dankoli (Best Ditributor Northern Region), Olayiwola & Sons (Best Distributor Refined Salt) Others were Lasol Nigeria Limited (Best Distributor, Lagos), Yusuf Abubakar Malumfashi.(3rd Place Overall Best Performing Distributor and Ali Balarabe (2nd Place Best Performing Distributor).

Aliko Dangote & Abdu Dantata

Mariya Aliko-Dangote, Corporate Strategy

Fatima Aliko-Dangote

L-R: Michelle Patrick, ED Commercial’s Technical Assistant and Juliet Eniolorunda, HR, Dangote Fatima Aliko-Dangote Group

251

The Dangotes

Mariya, Zouera & Fatima

L-R: Yetunde, Fatima & Aderemi (Dangote Staff)

L-R: Mr. Knut; Mr. Paul & Alh. Sada Ladan-Baki

Rahama Dantata, Halima Dangote-Bello & Qiftaya Dantata

Aliko & the winners

Musician, Olamide performing at the event

252

Dangote Staff

Brand new car won by distributors

I WANT TO CONQUER YALE -AYODELE DADA, THE 5.0 UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS GENIUS AND RECORD BREAKER REVEALS

By Dele Momodu, Michael Effiong & Eric Elezuo Photo: Ken Ehimen

I was Teacher at a point, taking some students in private lessons, I sold computer accessories like flash drives and others. At a time someone even suggested to me to take up French, that I can become an Interpreter in the Foreign Service, so I went to learn French. I was doing all these various endeavours to save up enough money to realize my true ambition, which was to study Psychology

everyone in the room that he worked hard for his 5.0 GPA! Enjoy his inspirational story.

Could you please give a brief information about yourself

My name is Ayodele Daniel Dada. I am from Ekiti State from a family of four. My mum is a Teacher while my dad is a Retired Accountant. The story broke that I made the highest grade and best result in Unilag, and from the Department of Psychology, and people have been asking me why Psychology, and why I did not take up more challenging courses.

They are also asking whether the feat was something I had been working on. Personally, I would say studying Philosophy was just something I believed in, something I wanted to use to help and impact people’s life through changing their way of thinking.

Can you describe your growing up days

I have always been a quiet and reserved person, not the very vocal or expressive type. I grew up in Lagos with my dad and mum. My dad is a Pastor at the moment. He retired as an Accountant. I attended Hopebay College, Alaba Oro, close to Ajegunle in Lagos. My school certificate result is not that spectacular. I got just a few As and Cs here and there.

There was nothing dramatic about my childhood.

At what stage did you discover the genius in you

It took me a bit of time because my family, friends everyone around me were on me to do the regular courses like Medicine, Engineering and the rest, and wouldn’t let me concentrate on the one I wish. You know how families can put pressure on someone, and when you don’t agree, they think one is stubborn, and because I am not the violently stubborn type, I took my

W

hen the news broke that someone had made a mess of an age-long record at one of the greatest citadels of learning in Nigeria, the University of Lagos, graduating with a 5.0GPA from the Philosophy Department, many people wondered if it was fact or fiction.

At OVATION Media Group, we have had a long tradition of celebrating excellence, especially young Africans who were doing remarkable things, so Ayodele Dada’s story was compelling enough to interest us.

After days of combing his Psychology Department and the University’s Administration Department, speaking to a couple of friends and course mates, we eventually hit the jackpot!

We found this rare gem of a student and not only that, he agreed to come all the way to our office in Ikeja Lagos for this no-holds-barred interview.

At the session, he was so cool, calm and collected, and there was no shadow of doubt in in the minds of Ayodele Dada & Bashorun Dele Momodu during the interview session

253

It will be a huge disappointment if government policy will deny one an opportunity to explore academic growth abroad. I think that people should be encouraged to make a difference and acquire the knowledge they need to be who they want to be. time. I am the kind of person who takes his time and think out what is best for me. It took me a bit of time to get that independence, and when I was able to get it.

I made the best use of it.

How old are you now

I am 29 years old What were you doing between the time you left secondary school and when you got into the university

At first, I was at a crossroad, asking myself what I can actually do in the interim. I was a Teacher at a point, taking some students in private lessons, I sold computer accessories like flash drives and others. At a time someone even suggested to me to take up French, that I can become an Interpreter in the Foreign Service, so I went to learn French. I was doing all these various endeavours to save up enough money to realize my true ambition, which was to study Psychology and generally help people. I made my move when I knew I could fend for myself to an extent, in terms of buying a few things I needed like forms, books and many other stuff.

Would you say going to school at a more mature age positively affected your performance

universities. This is because my mentor, Robert Stanberg of Yale University happens to operate from there. Though I have not made much survey of the university I intend to do that soon.I would want to go to any of the Ivy League Universities, but Yale is where I really want to go.

So obviously, Europe or America will be your choice for a Masters Degree

Yes. What if you are not able to go, because you have to fund yourself. How would you feel if the government of Nigeria says you have to buy foreign exchange at so high a price to fulfil this ambition of yours

from the base level. I think that there is a greater impact we will making in Nigeria than holding out there.

Psychology is not a popular subject in Africa, especially in Nigeria, how does that make you feel? What would you do if you come back to discover that Psychology which you love so much can’t pay your bills

I believe that most of these things are attached to change. Part of this change is what is happening now.

Somebody will ask ‘what did you study?’ and I say Psychology. Now the subject is beginning to get a name and is being recognized. I just need to have a voice, and explain what Psychology can do and more people will key into it. Obviously, Psychologists have not really promoted what they do because if something works for you, you are in a better position to say there is something good for you and that will make you develop interest in it and spread the word to others.

And that’s where change can come.

I will say yes, because I observed that most of my colleagues who got into school just immediately after school were highly distracted. The same would have happened to me maybe if I had not encountered some of these things before, they would have become stumbling blocks. There were things I have seen and experienced that they had not, and that helped me to concentrate.

However, there is another side to it too, when one is older, there is a tendency to become too reflective, you may actually become rigid and secluded. I tried not to become a recluse though and broke out of such attitude.

That will be a considerable complication. It will be a huge disappointment if government policy will deny one an opportunity to explore academic growth abroad. I think that people should be encouraged to make a difference and acquire the knowledge they need, to be who they want to be. For example, somebody like me, I don’t have to waste what I have because I just have to go and get the knowledge, and come back and use it here. We need to go out and get the necessary expertise, compete with the best, learn from the best and come back to make a difference. So if there is anything that attempts to derail or complicate that; I will really be disappointed.

So for four years in the university, you didn’t fail any course

Do you dream of coming back to Nigeria to teach, assuming you go Yale and they want to retain you, how will you deal with such a delimma

In your previous comments, you made mention that prior to your graduation, you kept away from women. So this person you are talking about, is she someone you found in the space of these few weeks

Definitely it will be an attraction to stay because the environment is very encouraging and conducive.

But even at that, opportunities abound in Nigeria.

There are just few structures we need to put in place and promote policies that will be transformative even

No there was always someone around but there was nothing concrete, but now I feel I can actually take our friendship forward. I can actually say it is now time to do the needful.

Yes, I got straight As in all the exams I wrote You mean every time you sat for an exam, you scored straight As. How is that possible

Well, I will say on a personal basis, I had a very good plan, and again God helped me. Because I know that plans can only go so far, but if God does not help the person, it won’t come through. I also decided to get serious and planned well. I laid out a plan to take this opportunity with both hands. More so, there were a few of us who were already talking about being the best on convocation day,that became an extra motivation. So from the get go every exam taken, every assignment, every test, I took seriously.

Are you married

No I am not Any girlfriend… or now you have more girlfriends

Well (laughs heartily) okay, yes. Right now, I am getting more female attention, but there is always this person I have had my heart attached to.

So you made the highest grade in the university

Has anyone offered you scholarship to further your studies

There is none at the moment, but I have a feeling that some people might show some interest in supporting me.

So there is nothing yet

Yes, some people have indicated interest but nothing concrete.

Companies or individuals

They are more of companies than individuals And what is your immediate line of action

I wish to further my education like get a Masters for a start because that will be the only way I can have a better voice.

Here in Nigeria or…

I actually intend to do it in one of those Ivy League 254

Ovation Editor, Michael Effiong, Ayodele Dada & Ovation Publisher, Dele Momodu

Yes. I am very serious. I have not been on a plane before. It is the truth, I have not had cause to travel by air.

Yes The closest person after you in your department made 4.80. At what time and level did you leave her behind

That was in 200 level because we both made five points in our 100 level days. In successive semesters, I maintained my scores, and she couldn’t catch up with me again. It was an interesting battle.

Do you see yourself as the proverbial triangular student, that is, from lecture room to the library and to the hostel

No, I wouldn’t say I was like that. I was not versed in library usage. I created my own library through online research. My library was on my laptop and I even shared my own library with my friends. I believe because we all worked so hard ensured my class made the best result so far in the department, I had time to unwind. I headed social committees in my class, we invited Lanre Olushola for a symposium once, I had my fair bit of socializing and even visited nite clubs, but night outing was not always my thing because I like to sleep (laughs heartily) But most of your friends said they hardly saw you at school-organized social gatherings? How do you react to that

Most times it is because I just come and stay unnoticed, and wouldn’t say much. For me, everywhere I go is an opportunity to learn; from anybody. I am tall, but I can just seat down so quietly that they may not know. We

need not deprive ourselves of the opportunity to learn.

How do you relax

I read books, I do long distance running as part of my exercise routine just to prove what the Romans rightly say that ‘a sound mind is a sound body’, and I also play chess.

Has your school, Hopebay College, tried to reach you ever since this news broke

Yes, they have a reception for me tomorrow (The day after the interview) Have you been invited by President Muhammadu Buhari

No Do you work at the moment, and where

Yes, I work with Proctor and Gamble (P&G). They came to the university and conducted a series of test, and that was how I got in What about National Service

I wish to travel first and go for my Masters, moreover I am close to being exempted from the scheme because of age. Travelling abroad would actually be fun for me.

Where have you travelled to before

I have not travelled anywhere by air before.

Are you serious, that is hard to believe

Yes. I am very serious. I have not been on a plane before. It is the truth, I have not had cause to travel by air.

What is your favorite food

Pounded yam and vegetable (Efo riro)

The 5.0 GPA genius, Ayodele Daniel Dada

The Boss Newspaper Corespondent, Eric Elezuo who taught Ayodele English in Secondary School with the award winner

Ovation Photo Editor, Adekoya Adegbite & Ayodele

Ovation photographer, Funmi Adeyemi, Ayodele & Ovation photographer, Abraham Falodun

Ayodele with Ovation photographer, Segun Lawal

255

FAMILY CELEBRATES THE LIFE OF JOURNALIST PAR EXCELLENCE

CHIEF OLU ADEBANJO Story: Funmilayo Adeyemi Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

T

he death and birth of a person are occurrences which elude the thoughts and wisdom of man himself. No wonder William Shakespeare said of death thus “a necessary end that must come when it must come”.

Nevertheless, people’s consolation lies in the fact that anybody who lived and died in Christ is merely resting, awaiting the resurrection day. It was the realization of this fact that made the children and grandchildren of Otunba Timothy Olufunmilopeda Adebanjo go the extra mile to celebrate a man who many described as an epitome of humility.

256

Otunba Adebanjo was born in Idowa-Ijebu on September 8, 1931. His parents were late Pa John Banjo Agbasale, a direct descendant of Oba Owa Otutubiosun, the 12th Awujale of Ijebuland and the First Dagburewe of Idowa.

He is the founding editor of the defunct Daily Express, former Special Adviser on Information to former President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari and a foremost chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), who worked vigorously for change.

Utilising his wealth of experience, professionalism and intellect, this man of the people whose Otunba Funsegbuwa

THE FUNERAL SERVICE

Gov. Ibikunle Amosun

Omoba Subomi Balogun & wife & Mrs. Yetunde Onanuga (Ogun State Dep. Governor)

Chief Ayo Adebanjo ( right)

Toxie Adebanjo , Mrs. Jumoke Adebanjo & Mrs. Bukky Adebanjo

Otunba Dayo Adeneye (middle)

Alhaji Rasak Okoya & guests

Mama Aiyedun Adebanjo , Mr. Gbenga Adebanjo, Mr. Adeleke Adebanjo & Mr. Laja Adebanjo

Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Omokaro

Alh Musiliu Smith, Mr. Adeleke Adebanjo & Mr. Adelaja Adebanjo

257

Mr. Dapo Abiodun, otunba Alex Onabanjo & guest

Sen. Lekan Mustapha

R-l: Prince Femi Tejuoso & Otunba Bimbo Ashiru

Mr. & Mrs. Leye Idowu

(L-R) Mr. Obasa & Cash Madam

Mr Adeleke Adebanjo

Mr. Gbenga Adebanjo (Biggy)

Justice Sola Oguntade (Rtd.) & Gov. Ibikunle Amosun

Villa gates at Idowa in Odogbolu Local Government Area are always wide open to receive visitors from different communities in Ogun State, campaigned relentlessly for Governor Ibikunle Amosun and President Muhammadu Buhari.

He developed a scientific template called “Search and Rescue, Search and Recover� to put pressure not only on APC members and admirers but also on professionals, traders, artisans, farmers and other eligible voters, who were yet to determine whom they will vote for.

The importance of convincing every Permanent Voter Card (PVC) holder in each unit of every ward, he would stress, is the gateway to success. While he was on his sick bed due to old age-related disease during the 258

election, he was glued to his television and telephone sets, monitoring, mobilising and strategizing.

The placebo effect towards getting better was the victory of Buhari, Amosun and many other APC candidates at the polls.

Papa Olu Adebanjo got discharged at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, full of praises to the Almighty God and the electorate that change had indeed come.

Amazingly, a change occurred in the life of this elder statesman, an associate of Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and one of the esteemed chiefs and friends of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebu land as he soon relapsed and translated from mortality to immortality on Thursday May 7, 2015, 27 days

before the May 29, 2015 inauguration of his change agents-Muhammadu Buhari and Ibikunle Amosu.

Before the 2015 election, a group of APC party stalwarts came to him to endorse a movement called SIA Vanguards. (SIA stands for Senator Ibikunle Amosun).

Adebanjo reportedly told the group that he was SIA supporter Number One. However, he added that his own SIA was not just as a supporter of Amosun.

The full meaning of his own SIA, he told them, is sincerity, integrity and accommodation. He pointed out to the group that no other person from the APC had come out from the party to contest against Amosun and therefore, SIA Vanguards will not add any value to the electoral victory of Amosun, but will create unnecessary insinuation that some people are more loyal. This posi-

RECEPTION

Abi Adebanj, Mrs. Bisi Shuaibu & Toxie Adebanjo

Mr. Boye Ogunlaja, Otunba Alex Onabanjo, Toxie Adebanjo & Chief Funlola Okunowo

Mr. Akinnola Kongi & Mr. Olukemi Adebanjo

Abi Adebanjo Omokaro & Noel Enemuoh

Yemi Oyegoke, Toxie & Yemi Anenih

Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Toxie & Shola

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Toxie Adebanjo & Mr. Olukemi Adebanjo

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Omokaro & Mr. Wale Babalakin

Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Tokunbo Adebanjo

Toxie Adebanjo , Mrs. Dolapo Shokefun & Mr. & Mrs. Boye Ogunlaja

259

Kola & Ndidi Bello Olatunji, Toxie Adebanjo & Yomi Odunowo

Stella Omokaro, Toxie Adebanjo, Andrew & Abi Omokaro, Andrena Omokaro & Tito

Toxie Adebanjo, Mrs. V.E. Agbontaen, Mr. & Mrs. Omokaro & Mrs. I. Osamwonyi

Mrs. Abi Omokaro, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Toxie Adebanjo, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mr. Andrew Omokaro

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Sen Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Dr. Wale Babalakin

Mr. Dapo Abiodun, Toxie & Sen. Lekan Mustapha

Shola Alawode, Toxie Adebanjo, Mrs. Yemi Awokoya & Abi Adebanjo Omokaro

OVA260

Mrs. Bomi Adeboya, Toxie Adebanjo & Demola Adeboye

Mrs. Bike Okunuga, Toxie Adebanjo, Mrs. Dolapo Sokefun & Mrs. Kofo Oduwole

From 2nd left: Hon. Oye Ojo &n Segun Adsanya

Ola Adebanjo, Toxie & Twin Custom

Sandra Oladele, Mrs. Doris Egbi, Toxie Adebanjo, Joy Opanachi & Chioma Ogbuefi

Mrs. Bisola Nwalodo, Toxie Adebanjo & Abbey Dejonwo

Toxie Adebanjo with Leye & Maureen Idowu

Mrs. Folake Aina, Mrs. Abi Adebanjo Omokaro, Toxie Adebanjo, Mr. Sola Aina & Folusho

Mr. Frank Oluade & Hon. Tayo Oduyingbo

261

Toxie Adebanjo , Mrs. V.E. Agbontaen , Mr. & Mrs. Omokaro & Mrs. I. Osamwonyi

Jumoke Gbajabiamila , Toxie Adebanjo & Oyeladun

tion taken by him put an end to the formation of that group.

On November 23, 1965 the then 31-year old Editor of Daily Express lost his job, an aftermath of the crisis in the defunct Western Region, which made the Coker inquiry instituted by the Federal Government to destabilise the activities and assets of the National Investment and Property Corporation (NIPC). NIPC is owned by the Amalgamated Press of Nigeria, publishers of Sunday Express and Daily Express. The publications had to fold up due to lack of funds. He left Nigeria for United Kingdom to explore some temporary job opportunities.

He came back to Nigeria and joined the Federal Civil Service on December 8, 1966, spent 10 years in service, and retired voluntarily as a Director on December 31, 1976 at the age of 45; and joined partisan politics as he envisaged the military would quit and allow democracy to grow. He came back to Idowa, and picked a job as the first General Manager of Wadai Leather Industry in Ijebu Ode, with Oba Sikiru Adetona as Chairman of the company. The urge to play a major role made him leave this job after a year and 10 months.

Adebanjo joined the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN) as a founding member, and served as Director of Publicity at the Presidential Campaign Office from December 1978 to September 1979. Apart from being appointed Special Adviser to the President on Information Matters, he was also the Sole Administrator of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) and later the Chairman of the boards of NTA and FRCN. However, Adebanjo resigned from these plum jobs and also from the NPN on July 27, 1983 on principle. In his biography “Chronicle of a Federalist” he stated that President Shehu Shagari breached the NPN transition agreement on the office/post of Special Adviser (Information) and Minister of Information as the decision was that if the President had a Special Adviser (Information), there would be no Minister of Information and vice versa. But Shagari appointed the now late Mr. Garba 262

Mr. Sola Oworu & Toxie Adebanjo

Wushishi as Minister of Information in addition to Adebanjo as Special Adviser on Information.

Secondly, he said Shagari consented to the political manoeuvre to change the NPN gubernatorial candidate for Ogun State, Chief Alani Bankole, after Bankole had been democratically elected at a properly constituted state congress of the party, substituting him with late Chief Soji Odunjo. It can only take a principled mind to quit his comfort zone on issues that most politicians will gloss over to keep their job.

The journey of Otunba Adebanjo to the great beyond began with a Church service which was preceded by service of songs and Christian wake keep at his residence.

At exactly 10:00 am, St. Peters Anglican Church, Idowa -Ijebu, Ogun State, where the church service was held, had already been filled to capacity with guests.

This was a glaring evidence that the media icon had positively affected many lives.

The church service began with the Boys Brigade parade after which the Priest received his remains at the entrance of the church as the congregation stood to honour the deceased. With the opening prayer taken by Ven. T.O. Oguntoye, the first hymn titled “Jesus, my cross have taken” was led by St. Peter Anglican church Choir.

After the first and second readings, Rt. Reverend Ogunbanwo gave a soul-lifting sermon. In his sermon, he described Otunba Timothy Olufunmilopeda Adebanjo as a person who served God throughout his life time and feared God. He went further to shower encomiums on the deceased for his contributions to the success of the church’s annual thanksgiving service, lamenting how his demise has created a vacuum.

On a final note, Rt. Reverend Ogunbanwo advised the congregation to fear God because ‘the fear of thy Lord is the beginning of wisdom’ buttressing his point from the book of Psalms.

During the tributes, Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, said: “I received, with pro-

found shock and sadness, news of the unfortunate demise of your beloved husband, father, benefactor and patriarch, Otunba Olu Adebanjo, at the age of 83. Otunba Adebanjo’s exit bears a tremendously devastating import for most people who have followed his life and career’’.

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosu, while paying his tribute, said “I received with shock and grief the sad news of the death of your dear husband, our elder statesman and leader of our great party, All Progressives Congress (APC), in Ogun State, Otunba Olufunmilopeda Adebanjo, on Thursday, May 7, 2015, at the age of 83. On behalf of the Government and good people of Ogun State, I convey our deep condolences to you, and indeed, the entire Adebanjo family.”

Thereafter, the officiating ministers enjoined the congregation to pray for the bereaved family, and the church service was rounded off with the grace by Rt. Reverend Ogunbanwo.

Otunba Olufunmilopeda Adebanjo’s residence in Idowa-Ijebu was shaken to its root when the coffin that bore the remains of the deceased was brought home.

When the coffin was lowered into the grave, many people betrayed their emotions as they couldn’t hold back the tears.

Later, everyone headed to the Fusenguwa Court in Idowa-Ijebu, Ogun State, where a grand reception was held.

The venue was beautifully decorated with flowers and white table clothes. It was obvious that the family had indeed organised a fitting farewell for the giant of a man.

As a media icon that had played real hard in the media firmament, bigwigs from different sectors of the economy graced the event. In attendance were Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Yetunde Onanuga, Publisher of Ovation International Magazine, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Senator Afikuyomi, Alhaji Rasaq Okoya, Dr. Wale Babalakin, and Chief Jubril Martins Kuye.

THE GRAND FAREWELL FUNERAL CEREMONIES OF

CHIEF SOLOMON LEWU Story:Efe Enomen Ebor Photo: Ken Ehiemen

The Lewu family

Kunle Adebayo with Sam Olootu

Mr. & Mrs. Raph Lewu

Ms Gloria Dubi, Raph Lewu, Dr. Ore Falomo, Sir Benjamin Wilcox with Dele Dada

Mr. & Mrs. Raph Lewu, Mrs Josephine Olobasheda with Mr. Mathew Lewu

T

he essence of life is to live and die, and of course continue living in others. That is what legacy is all about. Legacy is living beyond the grave, just as successful people don’t need tombstones; because the people they left behind are their tombstones. High Chief Solomon Adedoyin Lewu was one of those who impacted so much in others that he would be long remembered.

Chief Lewu lived a life worthy of emulation, his noble comportment, and character attracted people to him wherever he went. No wonder everyone who came close to him automatically became his friend, brother or sister. High Chief

Ms. Foluke Lewu with Mr. & Mrs. John Lewu

Solomon was indeed a great crowdpuller. He won the hearts and mind of everyone; his house was one of relaxation, laughter, amusement and happiness for all.

Young Solomon wasn't privileged to go through school. His loving father had to assure him that he would be successful in life whether or not he went to school, and successful indeed he was. He started his life vocation as an apprentice in bicycle repairs, after which he went on to establish his first trade as a bicycle repairer and bicycle parts merchant. Yearning for more, he proceeded to train as a photographer.

263

Mr. & Mrs. Taiwo Okunritemi with Mr. & Mrs. Tanimowo Lewu

Mrs. Tola Aiyewumi with Mrs. Bola Olumudi

Mr. Kunle Dada with Arch. David Adegbite

Engr. Jerom Bello, Mrs Bello with Mr. Dele Daada

Mr. Wole Akinleye & Son

Mr. Bola Ogunsola with Mr. Tunde Akamo

Kola Ologbondiyan, Mr. Raph Lewu with Mrs. Mathew Lewu

264

Mr. & Mrs. Emmanuel Lewu

Sir Benjamin Wilcox, Mrs. Olumudi with Dr. Ore Falomo

Mr. Olobashola, Ade Olobashola, Raph Lewu, Gabriel Lewu with Mrs. J.Olabashola

Col. Yomi Dare (Rtd) Mr. Raph Lewu with Pa J.O. Samuel

With God on his side, he was successful in all his undertakings. Still wanting to be educated, obviously like his numerous friends, he enrolled for evening classes with the then Native Authority where he eventually learnt how to read and write Yoruba Language. Epo, as he was fondly called by his friends, was a man of unity. He fought for the unity, oneness and development of Kabba. In his effort to make everybody one, he named his hotel Unity Bar. His journey to the great beyond started with a lying-in-state in his residence at Ibrahim Taiwo/Cardinal John Onaiyekan Road, Lewu Junction, and as Panoramic view of church

customary to Christian burial rites, there was a Christian wake-keep at St. Augustine College’s field, Kabba, Kogi State, where family, friends and church members came to pay their last respects for the man known to be of all nations.

The following day, the Sacred Heart Catholic Church auditorium was filled to capacity as family, friends and wellwishers, all clad in white, the colour of the day came to pay homage. Those who came early were already seated and waiting in anticipation for the church service to commence.

The service commenced at exactly 10: am with the receiving of the body at 265

Amb. Dr. J.J. Lewu

Mrs. Jerome Bello with Mrs. Nike Ayoola

Mr. & Mrs. Bimbo Ajiboye

Former Kogi State Deputy Gov. Yomi Awoniyi with his wife

Mr. Partrick Ilo with Mr. Raph Lewu

Mr. Raph Lewu with friends

Raph Lewu with Mr. & Mrs. Oyelola

Prince Shola Akanmode, Deputy. Gov. Yomi Awoniyi, Raph Lewu with Mrs. Yomi Awoniyi

the church entrance, where the men of God sprinkled the body with holy water as the children escorted his remains into the church auditorium.

Officiating Minister, His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Martins, who led other men of God, commended the children and the family of Chief Lewu for giving their father a befitting burial. The Minister of God then quoted 2 Cor. 3:1-3 to butress his point that Chief Lewu made an impact and not to be forgotten in a hurry. “Do we begin again to commend ourselves? Or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistles, 266

written in our hearts and known and read of all men. For as much as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the Living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.”

He also continued and said that “We have not come here to mourn Chief Solomon Adedoyin Lewu. We have come to celebrate a legend and a star that death has made a hero by advertising his good works and the lives that he touched within the short period he lived because life is not about duration, but about contribution. Rather than disgrace Chief Prince Richard Akanmode, Hon. T.J. Yussuf, Mr. Kola Ojo, Raph Lewu with Prince Shola Akanmode

Mrs. Lewu with friends

Mr. & Mrs. Lewu with friends

Wale Adegbite, Olumide Adeoye with Niyi Adegbite

Mr. Gbite Ademikanra, David Adegbite, Raph Lewu, Dr. Falomo with Sir. Benjami Wilcox

Amb. Dr. J.J. Lewu, Mrs. Bola Olomudu, Raph Lewu with Jimi Olomudu

Sam Olowu, Raph Lewu, Ms Gloria Dubi with Kunle Adebayo

Mr. & Mrs. Dupe Ejeh with friends

Mr. A.U. Mustapha, Raph Lewu with Dele Bankole

Itohan Obano, Gloria, A.U. Mustapha with Sharon Daniel

267

Mr. & Mrs. Raph Lewu with Capitalfield family

Mr. & Mrs. Lewu with Prince Damola Aderemi

Mr. & Mrs. Aboderin

Ronke Adedayo, Omoze Adedayo with Tunrayo Adaghe

Wale Agbeyanji, Tola Alabi with Ayo Ajayi

Wale Agbeyanji, Tola Alabi with Ayo Ajayi

Tobi Adams with Seun Oworu

Solomon, death has made him more popular than life.�

The Minister of God then invited the family for a special prayer session, and the well-attended service came to an end.

Chief Lewu was born in Kabba Town, to the family of Chief Obaribido Lewu and Madam Methelda Boniri Omoesinoniebi Lewu in 1930.

He lived with his parents in Kabba from birth, and due to the love his father had for him, he didn't allow him to go to farm with his other siblings as expected.

Thus, his father used to take him around with him wherever he went.

He trained under the famous Chief N.B. Toluhi, and upon completion of his training in 1957, he proceeded to set up a photography business in Isanlu up to Ife 268

Olukotun and Takete Idde where he took various beautiful pictures of his numerous clients.

As resilient as he was, and after a couple of years, he was introduced into the Contract business by his friend, Mr. Bayo Stephen, alias"Epo". He became a successful government contractor, and executed many remarkable projects for the governments of the old Kwara State, Oyi Local Government Authority, Kogi State and Kabba-Bunu Local Government Authority.

The quintessential businessman also went into the business of beer distributorship, which caused him to travel to various towns and cities outside Kabba. He established profitable business relationships outside the state in the course of doing business, and also went into the retail segment of the business by establishing a hotel,

which he ran from his house.

This became a place where all manner of people from different backgrounds meet to deliberate on how to move Kabba Town forward. Chief Solomon Obaribido Lewu, true to his name was gifted with wisdom to handle even knotty issues of life. This great attribute and his humility made many to seek his opinion over any matter.

He was a Senior Chieftaincy title holder; he took after the title of his father, The Obaribido of Owe Land.

His life is a shining example of a loving father of all as he cared for everybody that crossed his path. He never discriminated against anyone; everybody was welcomed to his home. Little wonder he was given a great burial.

SIR GBENGA BADEJO IS NEW KNIGHT OF JOHN WESLEY Story: Efemena Collins Photo: Ken Ehiemen

Mr. Gbenga Badejo (celebrant)

Sir Gbenga Badejo

Mr. Gbenga Badejo being Knighted

Tomiwa Badejo, Mr. Badejo with Folarin

Mr. & Mrs. Gbenga Badejo

I

t was a day of renowned Chartered Accountant and Management Consultant, Mr. Gbenga Badejo, when the Methodist Church Nigeria, Archdiocese of Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, bestowed on hin the Association of Methodist Recognition Award as well made him a Knight of John Wesley (KJW) The joy was not the celebrant’s alone as family members and friends came to share in the momentous occasion which was as a result of his dedication and commitment to the vineyard of the Lord.

The ceremony commenced with an

opening prayer and short sermon by Reverend Father Edoka Amuta, who thanked the Almighty God for the life of the awardee, praying for a continuation of God’s blessings and provision for him while asking for grace for him to continue steadfastly on the right path..

In his sermon, Rev. Fr. Amuta enjoined the congregation to obey God’s commandments, even in times of hardship. Acknowledging that the nation is facing trying times due to the economy, he urged people not to lose their principles or faith in God. He urged them to emulate, Mr. Badejo who had used his expertise and experience to serve God and humanity.

269

Mr. Gbenga Badejo, Mrs. Felicia Iyabo Stephen with Mrs. Yejide Badejo

Mr. Gbenga Badejo with Achbishop Kolade Steven

Prof. Otunba Sola Adebajo & Mr. Gbenga Badejo

Mustafa & Mr. Gbenga Badejo

Mrs. Sola Adenugo, Lady Yejide Badejo with Lady Folashade Onaeko

Prof. Otunba Sola Adebajo with Mr. Gbenga Badejo

270

Sir Daniel Folorunso Adeyiga, Dr. Dame Oludara Odubogun & Engr. Sir Dapo Onaeko

Primate Samuel Uche with awardees

Mr. Gbenga Badejo & his wife, Mrs. Yejide Badejo

Mrs. Yejide Gbenga Badejo

Mrs. Yejide Gbenga Badejo with Primate Samuel Uche

Sir Bonojo Badejo, Prof. Dame Ogungbe & Mr. Gbenga Badejo Awardees with Primate & Ministers

Mr. Semoore Badejo greets Mr. Gbenga Badejo & Prof. Adebajo

According to him “Mr. Gbenga Badejo has been found worthy both in character and Christian discipline in the course of his secular work, giving his talents, time and other resources to promote God's work in various communities, churches, and in the nation at large.

“He, amongst others, has left indelible impressions and achievements as timeless legacies in the collective memory of the people of God,” Later, he was formally presented with the award by the Secretary of Mrs. Adeyinka Adeniyi, Mrs. Yejide Badejo with Bishop (Mrs.) Ogunlere

Conference, Reverend (Dr.) Raphael Opoko, who said: “Mr. Badejo has distinguished himself in faith and work in the church, and has been carefully and prayerfully chosen.” Afterwards, Adegbenga Olufemi Badejo Bsc. Hons, FCA, FCTI, was ordained a Knight of John Wesley (KJW) by Rev. Opoko.

The church service was rounded off with a closing prayer by Reverend Father Innocent Ndiwii. Thereafter, a modest reception was held within the church premises with the choir providing inspirational music.

271

Mr. Semoore Badejo & Mrs. Yejide Badejo

Sir Kesington Adebutu with Mr. Gbenga Badejo

Sir Gbenga Badejo, Hon. Babatunde Ogala & Gboyega Okegbenro

Sir Gbenga Badejo, Gbenga Alonge & Otunba Adekoya

Sir Gbenga Badejo, Barrister Oyeke & J.A. S. Adigun

Sir Gbenga Badejo & Mrs. Yemisi Ikuomola

272

Sir Olamide Ajayi

Primate Dr. Samuel C. K. Uche

Oba Dotun Abolarin

Mr. Gbenga Badejo & Pa J. O. A. Oguntuyi (OON)

Mr. Gbenga Badejo with Mr. & Mrs. Mustafa

Sir & Lady Bonojo Badejo, Prof. & Mrs. Tola Badejo with Mr. Gbenga Badejo

Prof. Tola Badejo, Mr. Gbenga Badejo, Oba Adedotun Abolarin with Sir Bonojo Badejo

Mr. Gbenga Badejo with Rt. Rev. Okpoko

Wole Sowole, celebrant & Sir. Dipo Onabanjo

Rotimi Idowu, Jojo Dawudu, celebrant, Gbenga Alonge with John Oluwagbemiga

273

AUBAMEYANG WINS GLO-CAF AWARDS AFRICAN FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR

CAF President, Issa Hayatou, Pierre Aubameyang, Mrs. Gladys Talabi; Globacom’s Executive Director, Legal ServicesMinister of Sports, Comrade Solomon Dalung

G

abonese international and Borussia Dortmund striker, Pierre-Emerick Emiliano François Aubameyang, is the new African Footballer of the Year.

The sleek player got the coveted award at the 2015 Glo-CAF Awards gala held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja. And was chosen ahead of Ivorian international and Manchester City of England player, Yaya Toure, who had consecutively won the last four editions and midfielder Andrew Ayew of Ghana and Swansea City FC. The glamorous ceremony, which was organized by sponsors and next generation network, Globacom, was hosted by Supersports of South Africa’s Robert Marawa and Ghanaian Actress and Producer, Juliet Ibrahim. It had in attendance five Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, top diplomats, captains of industry, heads of government parastatals and the crème of African football including Acting President of FIFA and Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Alhaji Issa Hayatou.

Aubameyang’s emergence as Africa’s football king put paid to Toure’s dream of setting a new African record of winning five consecutive African Player of the Year Award. He had in 2014 equaled the record of four Glo-CAF Footballer of the Year Award titles held

by Cameroonian striker, Samuel Eto’o Fils.

The forward scored a total of 28 goals in 21 appearances for club and country, including 18 goals for Borussia Dortmund in the current season, 4 goals in Europa and 4 goals in 2 matches for Gabon. He is known for his speed, having clocked 30 meters in 3.7 seconds, and his capability of playing either as a striker or a winger.

He became the first player in Bundesliga history to score in each of his team's opening six matches of a season. He later extended this record to eight matches, scoring in the team's next two fixtures against Darmstadt 98 and Bayern Munich.

Aubameyang captained Gabon at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring the team's opening goal of the tournament in their 2-0 win over Burkina Faso on 17

274

January 2015. He also scored a brace against Mali on 25 March 2015. He is Gabon's highest goal scorer.

President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria won the CAF Platinum Award. The trophy and certificate were presented to his representative, the Minister for Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung, by Globacom’s Executive Director, Legal Services, Mrs Gladys Talabi, and the CAF President, Alhaji Issa Hayatou. The Sports Minister, Barrister Solomon Dalung commended Caf and Globacom for bringing the Glo Caf Awards back to Abuja, a decade after the city hosted the inaugural edition of the awards in 2005.

Winners in other categories include Mbwana Aly Samatta who won the Africa Player of the Year based in Africa; Allez Casa of Senegal who won the Fair Play Award; while the National team of the year went to Cote d’Ivoire. Coach Herve Renard was adjudged the Coach of the Year, while T.P Mazembe won the Club of

the year. Papa Bakary Gasam was pronounced Referee of the Year. Other award categories were the Most Promising Talent of the Year which went to Oghenekaro Etebo of Nigeria, while the Legend Award was picked by Charles Kumi Gyamfi of Ghana and Samuel Mbapppe Leppe of Cameroon.

Cameroon carted home the Women National team of the Year, while Abdigani Said Arab was pronounced Football Leader of the Year. The Youth Player of the Year Award went to Victor Osimhen of Nigeria, while Gaelle Enganamouit of Cameroon emerged as the Women player of the Year.

In his message to the continent at the event, Globacom's Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr, (GCON), represented by the company’s Executive Director, Legal Services, Mrs Gladys Talabi, expressed his delight with the achievements the continent recorded in the game in the last two years: “We are delighted with

Co-compere, Ghanaian actress, Juliet Ibrahim & African King of Football

Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, Minister of Sports, Comrade Solomon Dalung & Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi

Mr. Udeme Ufot, Omawumi, RMD & Gbenga Adeyinka

From 2nd left: NFF President, Amaju Pinnick & Mr. Femi Adeshina, Special Adviser on Media to President Buhari

Omawumi, Superstar, Salif Keita & Gbenga Adeyinka

the development of the game on the continent; the Nigeria U-17 National team successfully defended the U-17 World Cup, while the performances of African players in other major competitions have been very encouraging. We will continue to support the development of football on the continent.”

On his part, CAF President, Dr. Issa Hayatou, remarked that since 2005 when the partnership with Globacom on the Awards began, Glo-CAF Awards had become a world-class event. He noted that this relationship “perfectly

portrays a successful union between a first-class sports organization and a global brand untied in a common determination: to elevate African football and celebrate Africa.”

The International Conference Centre venue of the gala was electrified by performances by Awilo Logomba from Congo, Salif Keita from Mali, Sunny Ade and D’banj from Nigeria, Shattawale from Ghana, and Black Mambazo from South Africa. Also there were Ahmed Soultan from Morocco and Nigeria’s Korede Bello, Dija, Bez, Ego, Flavour and Omawumi.

275

Bez & KSM thrilling audience

Juliet Ibrahim & Robert Marawa

276

Shatta Wale of Ghana

Black Mambazo of South Africa

The legend, Salif Keita & Omawumi

Ego performing

D’banj

Bez

Bez, Omawumi & Flavour

277