Blingz Magazine (award edition 2019)

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Biola Adebayo The Award Edition

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N500

High Quality & Creative Prints at Affordable Prices

‘Cards that speaks’ collection

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ROME was not built in a day as a popular saying goes. Firstly, I want to thank God for the progress in the entire company; Baa Events, Blingz Magazine, Blingz Prints Nigeria and all the subsidiaries.

The main aim of introducing the Blingz Event Awards was to create a healthy competition to improve events and entertainment in this part of the country and also to create a standard in the events industry. I am so happy that my dream is gradually coming true. In the past two years we recorded over 50% improvement in the events industry, new events springing up and the old ones improving their standards. The Blingz Event Awards’ Unriddle Conference, a free conference put together as a social responsibility, was a very good help in educating the people in the events industry and entrepreneurs generally on how to build their Romes.

Talking about Rome, we are not trying to build our own in a day. We are taking time on improving our brand while sustaining our credibility as the major fuel that keeps us going is the feed backs. We know the effect our credibility has on the industry, and our standards too. We will never take that for granted. We will keep working hard to improve in every area while also appreciating the support we get all the time.

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Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Akintola Ayinde Editorial Steven Jay-ayejoto

ZLATAN IBILE YNORTH AFOUDA

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Biola &Adebayo

F L I G H T

Woli Agba

W I T H

OP E N S U P O N T H E I R C O M E BAC K S

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Columnists Ibukun Mochiah Omodehinde Iretomiwa Afouda Samuel Aanuoluwapo Loyin

Visuals Reetchy Arts Llory Jones Studios Production Blingz Printz Nigeria

Photography Olere Photography OSG Photography Obless Photography Dotun Omiyale Photos Judalinks Photography Dakinz Photography Diamond Media

Blingz Magazine is published by Blingz Printz Nigeria Editorial ofď€ ce: 34, Oyo Road, Coca-Cola Area, Sango, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. baamultimedia@gmail.com www.blingzmagazine.com Blingz Magazine is a periodical production of baa multimedia. The law prohibits any part or whole usage of this publication without the consent of the publisher/editor-in-chief.

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20 WOLI AGBA 21 BIOLA ADEBAYO 22 BLINGZ EVENT AWARDS (MEET THE WINNERS)

7 UNRIDDLE CONFERENCE 18 BEA NOMINEES PARTY 28 CMB GREEN GALA 29 MY BLINGZ EVENT AWARDS EXPERIENCE 10 ZLATAN IBILE 11 MR & MRS PRESTIGE 14 AUNTY LOLADE 17 ENTREPRENEURSHIP (YNORTH)

CONTENT 4 blingzmagazine.com

DRESS YOUR OCCASION Simplicity and Brilliance

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ouths and entrepreneurs in Ibadan were thrilled and enlightened at the Unriddle Conference organized by Blingz Magazine.

Some of the dignitaries who attended the events as panelists were Segun Ogundipe (Laf Up), Bankole Ogunseye (DJ Banky), Kunle Olaniran, Demola Moreklue, Kayode Adebayo, Oladidupo Akinpelu, Wole Sawe and others. Moderators for different panels included Afouda Samuel, Oluwatoyin Salau (Yellow Sisi), Tosin Adeniyi (Heisha), and Babatunde Ojobaro (Mr. Rain).

The convener of the conference, Akintola Ayinde, also presented awards to the panelists and the moderators while those who attended the event appreciated the brand for organizing the event as it answered their questions and pointed them in the right direction. One common comment on the lips of everyone in attendance was CLASS!

Afouda Samuel

The event which took place at Mauve 21, on the 18th September, 2018, offered solutions to different challenges faced by entrepreneurs when relating to business, branding and event management amongst other things. The event also catered for those who are interested in learning from industry experts, seasoned professionals and social inuencers.

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Afouda Samuel

Big ups to Blingz Magazine. They are redening some fundamental things in our darling brown-roof city of Ibadan.

Everyone I’ve met so far who was in attendance has something heart-warming to say about the event, the organizers, and especially the “classiness” of the Conference. I am glad and privileged to be a strategic part of the contemporary history.

Timilehin

I had an amazing time at Unriddle Conference. Thank you so much for all the speakers. They did justice to all the topics.

I’m still digesting the new things I learnt

Adejare Sijuade

It was an awesome experience, worth more than what money can ever buy. I went home loaded! My mentee kept on thanking me for bringing her along. Weldone.

Oore Abolade

World class event.

Amazing team.

Davic Obi

Impact you ‘ve made will always be appreciated.

Thanks for organizing Unriddle Conference. I learnt a whole lot.

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K

apaichumarimarichopaco, an uncanny slang that originated from the lips of Naija's famous Zanku Daddy, Zlatan Ibile is one of the many trademarks ascribed to the 24 year old singer. On an interview on NL TV, he was asked what the slang meant and he replied evasively saying it meant a thousand things. That said, it is therefore safe to describe kaparichu…chopaco as a quirky word that describes the artiste himself, a neonhaired trendsetter with a unique style and taste of street pop.

The Zanku (Legwork) crooner, an Osun State indigene was born November 28th 1995 as Omoniyi Temidayo. He grew up mostly in Lagos and Abeokuta, where he had his secondary and tertiary education. He graduated from his secondary school in 2011 without passing Mathematics in the WASSCE and decided to retake it the following year. It was during this sit-at-home period that he started following his friends to a studio. In the process, he got hitched with music and discovered a hidden air and talent for the latter.

ZLATAN IBILE T E E R T S RAVE

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However, his fame and small fortune did not come without hardwork and dedication, and so on being admitted into Moshood Abiola Polytechnic in 2012, he continued working on his music. And in 2014, this paid off as he went ahead to win the Airtel One Mic Campus Tour after an "electrifying" performance at the grand nale, defeating ve other nalists to drive home a brand new KIA Picanto, as well as a full artiste makeover and a recording deal with ID Cabasa's Coded Records. In 2016, he graduated with a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Business Administration from the aforementioned higher institution, giving him the time to focus full time on his passion.

Zlatan's breakthrough however came in 2017, when a much-awaited collaboration with Olamide yielded My Body, a banger that went straight to becoming a hit. The success of this song was further highlighted when DMW boss, Davido, posted a video of himself dancing to the hit on his instagram page. The post quickly garnered over a million views and helped with further publicity of the song. It was on the background of this gesture that a lasting friendship was forged between Davido and Zlatan, stirring many rumours of a record label signing. This was later conrmed to be untrue.

Before his rst major hit, My Body, he had

released a couple dozen songs which were not as successful, some of which include: O Dope Gan, Odun Yi and Oladimeji. Nonetheless, in 2018, after making waves with his viral dance step, Zanku, he released a song titled after the dance – Zanku (Legwork) that also became a hit almost as soon as it was released. That was right after being featured on Chinko Ekun's hit track, Able God. In early 2018, the friendly relationship with internet sensation, Segun Wire and Zlatan Ibile turned sour when Segun's family sent thugs to beat Zlatan on the allegation of him maltreating Segun. Zlatan had earlier fallen in love with Segun's music talent and had promised to help him. Things however went south when Zlatan later alleged that Segun's family members were using the little boy to extort money from people. Zlatan further challenged his family members and was forced to renege on his promise after being molested and attacked by hoodlums who were allegedly related to Segun's family. This is however in the past, as the artiste has moved on from the unfortunate incidence.

Zlatan is a colourful artiste, as he rocks dyed hairstyles comfortably. His fashion sense isn't exactly unique, but marshes up a mix of eccentric Nigerian street style and mainstream fashion. He is fond of nice shoes, sparsely-ripped jeans and T's. His music style draws a lot inspiration from the streets, as much as his dressing, and can be described as a straightforward mix of street vibes…edgy, fast-paced and very catchy. Zlatan is currently in a relationship with Seyi Awonuga, who some believe to be his longtime girlfriend. The Bum Bum crooner is rumoured to worth between twenty and fty thousand US dollars. In his garage is a collection of cars which include: an Inniti Fx35, a black Mercedes and a Hyundai Elantra. A few weeks ago, the budding artiste made headlines when he purchased a white brand new Mercedes Benz C300 4matic worth 14 million naira for his girlfriend as a birthday gift. He also recently acquired a posh house at Lekki and enjoys a lifestyle of afuence. As a fastrising artiste, much is expected from Omoniyi Temidayo. And as he continues dishing out songs this 2019, there is a mix of hope and skepticism of him scaling the hurdles to retain his seat at the top of street-inspired raves. However, whatever will become of his career, only time, consistency, creativity and hardwork will tell.

Kapaichumarimarichopaco!

Born ADETORO, Adewale Abdul-Warith in Ibadan, I had my primary and secondary education in Ibadan. Thereafter, I proceeded to obtain a degree from the University of Ilorin. While my teacher asked me to "be a lawyer in my country", I've always wanted to be a soldier, of which life eventually made me a gallant one. I was named Ikpeba after the Super Eagles player when I was young due to my love for football and style of play.

Even though my height was a disadvantage, I didn’t see it as one. A big shout out to my teachers who had to deal with my troubles. I was an easy pick for nicknames and I didn’t mind those I got; likes of 'kokoro ewa' (Bean weevils due to my size and how I inltrate), 'baba kuete', 'landlord', 'thyroxine' and so on. Growing up, I spent time among the locals and on the streets because it is who I am and where I come from - Oranyan. I started music from my backyard with a rough background and like everyone keeping it real. I'm booked for greatness. I fear God and respect humans because it's the way best to stay humble. Give me yam and nice fried eggs any day, I'm down for it; I carry myself well and with pride in colour white, though I'm cool with other colours too. I smile big so I shine bright and I'm not okay until you smile back, for real. Music to me is a 'feel' or 'sense' owing to one's stand and judgment of the situation.

My single debut Aiye/Ayé which in Yoruba implies LIFE is a song inspired by true events and real life situations. It's about happenings and realities in our society and relates the individual and collective strive in our society towards living a fullled life. It also captures the inuence of environment, economy, family and relations, and society on the nature of individual choices or options of what we call HUSTLE. The song also chants prayers of blessings, joy, happiness, mercies and success in all endeavours. It prays for wealth, health, prosperity and a good life. The song reminds one that #ayéopemeji and so it is important that this one #ayé is really worth living well.

Available on

arrowdracogram

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MEET

Abejoye Elizabeth Ayomide

Fajebe Oluwadamilare Micheal

Ilaje, Ondo State Student, The Polytechnic, Ibadan Mass Communication

Ogun State Ex-Student, The Polytechnic, Ibadan Mass Communication

Other Contests: MISS SMART - Top 5 MISS HOSPITALITY (OYO) - 2ND RUNNER UP

Other Contests: MR ASCOM - Winner MISTER OYO STATE - 2nd King FACE OF WESTERN NIGERIA - Winner

Agencies Modeled for: KBS MODELS (INSTAGRAM)

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WHAT IF ?

Ahmed sat bleeding at the emergency room of the hospital he was brought to. He held the small towel he had been given by a passerby against his head. He could feel the start of a slight headache. He was lucky to be alive.

Earlier that day...

Bbggrrrring bbggrrrring “Give your life to Jesus today! Without Him, you are nothing” Bbggrrrring bbggrrrring "Tomorrow may be too late! What if you die today? Are you sure of eternity?"

Bbggrrrring bbggrrrring "Only Jesus can save you" Bbggrrrring bbggrrrring the bell rang annoyingly.

Ahmed stirred from sleep. He was really annoyed as he put the pillow over his head.

He hated when these early morning preachers came screaming and ringing their bells every morning. He was not interested in their message, and as far as he was concerned, they constituted a nuisance to the community. He made a mental note to raise this at the Landlords’ Association meeting later that day. Enough was enough.

He got up sluggishly and hissed. The sound of the bell felt like someone was drilling a hole into his brain. He sat down by his bedside table and rubbed his temple slowly. He got up and leaned his head against the door to his room. He lived in a block of ats, and was one of the three occupants of the one bedroom section of the building. He walked into the living area and unplugged his laptop from the socket at the corner of the room. It was just 5.35am, and he could no longer sleep.

Ten minutes later, Ahmed was dressed and ready to go jogging. He tied the lace of his second sneakers, picked up his headphones and made to open the door. Suddenly, he heard a loud 'pop' coming from the kitchen. He rushed there wondering what was wrong. He looked around the kitchen and couldn't nd anything. He concluded that it must have been his mind playing tricks on him. He went back to the sitting area, unlocked the door and stepped out.

The morning dew made the atmosphere look foggy. It was quite cold, and a light drizzle showered gently. He pulled the hood over his head as he started jogging. He had just passed the Green's house, which was a good 5 minutes jog from his house, when he suddenly realized that he had forgotten to lock his front door. He became very furious with himself. This was Lagos. How stupid could he have been to forget to do something that important? he thought to himself. He turned swiftly and ran all the way back to his apartment to do the needful. He muttered prayers all the way as he imagined the worst. He sighed in relief when he opened the door and found out that everything seemed intact. He went round his small apartment again just to be sure before stepping out and locking up. He pulled his hood over his head once again and jogged away.

Oshodi! Oshodi! Oshodi Oke! screamed a bus conductor as people rushed towards the bus. Ahmed jogged by and looked at his watch. It was already 6.15am. He was feeling very irritated and on edge. Since the incidence earlier, all sorts of things had happened to him. He had almost fallen into a ditch, and a car had sped by splashing a puddle of water on him. He was beginning to have weird thoughts about death as well. Worst still, the morning message by the preacher about eternity kept creeping into his mind. He had tried severally to refocus, but he found himself constantly thinking about her words, “What if you die today? Are you sure of eternity?” He shook his head as he continued jogging.

A short story by Ibukun Mochiah

Barely two minutes later, he heard a loud noise and felt a sudden commotion behind him as he saw two people speed past him. He turned around swiftly to see what had happened. The sight before him made his blood run cold. He felt the rush of adrenaline and found himself running as well. The pedestrian bridge he had just passed under had given way crushing some cars and people. A particular huge billboard seemed to be slowly coming down, and people were running helter-skelter in panic. His heart pumped in fear as he ran. He could hear the creaking sound as the billboard fell. The shouts and screams were horrifying. He slowed down gradually as a thought slipped into his mind. “What if you were one of the victims, where would you have ended up today?” He stopped abruptly at the thought. His heart continued to beat frantically as the fear of losing his life enveloped him. He had never really given thought to eternity, but suddenly, the thought of it seemed to engulf him.

He looked around him and realized he was totally out of his usual path. He was in a daze as he made his way back on track. Trafc had built up terribly. He watched as the Lagos State Emergency Service ambulance made its way towards the bridge. At the same time, his mind was in a turmoil as it dawned on him that he was a coward.

“You could have helped you know?” he thought. “You didn't have to. What if you had gotten injured?” a voice countered. “You could have, if you had no fear of death” he heard another voice say. He became so disturbed that he didn't know when he stepped into trafc, facing an on-coming vehicle.

In what seemed like a split second, he heard the crunching of metal and plastic as two vehicles collided. Ahmed found himself thrown to the curb, at on his face. The car had hit him on the side, and from a passersby point of view, it could have been fatal. He felt the slight trickle of blood down his face. His ears were ringing and he couldn't really make out what was going on around him. Few seconds later, a crowd had gathered round him. Some with pure water, but one in particular gave him a small towel to stop the bleeding. He was lifted off the oor and sat up.

He could hear an intense argument going on between the affected drivers. While he was still trying to catch his breath, the owner of the vehicle that had hit him stormed towards him looking very angry. "Oga, you no dey look road?" He said angrily. "I could have killed you! What's wrong with you?" Ahmed watched in silence as the man went on and on in anger. The crowd who were idly watching the spectacle before them suddenly turned against the man and started raining curses on him. They couldn't fathom how a man who had just hit someone would be more concerned about the reason he had stepped into his path and not even try to get him medical help. The crowd eventually prevailed on him to take Ahmed to a nearby hospital.

Present Time Ahmed was still shaken as he watched the scene before him. He could see the injured bodies from the collapsed bridge before him. They had been brought to the same hospital as he. The screams of pain mingled with the smell of blood made his head ache badly. His heart was heavy, and he was lled with fear and sorrow. He had lost his headphones at the scene of the accident. He felt a sharp pain on his left side and winced. No one had attended to him yet. The man who had hit him was all grumpy and impatient. Some passersby had followed them to ensure he was given the proper treatment he needed. He moved gently as the pain subsided. All he could hear in his head were her words, “What if you die today? Are you sure of eternity?”

He began to shiver. “What do I do?” he thought to himself as he watched in horror as the woman who lay on the stretcher to his right breathed her last. Because if you acknowledge and confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and in your heart believe (adhere to, trust in, and rely on the truth) that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 AMPC

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C a n w e m e e t y o u ?

My name is Oyeleke Ololade Grace. (Then, ideally the use of ď€ rst and middle names before the surname is considered more appropriate.)

What does the brand "Aunty Lolade's Kitchen" stand for?

Aunty Lolade's Kitchen is all about fusion. We strive to bring together cuisines from around the world under one roof, provide something different to excite your taste buds and at the same time something familiar so it feels just like mom's! Think home-made, think Aunty Lolade's Kitchen!

Why did you start your business?

Growing up with my father was so much fun! I grew up to eat a lot of fresh and homemade food which makes life wonderful and gives healthy living. My late father has a garden where he planted practically everything edible from vegetables to peppers and fruits.

However, the world is changing. A lot of people prefer to eat processed foods, preserved veggies and the likes.

How long have you been cooking?

I started cooking when I was 6years old. My late father taught me how to cook.

Thereafter, when I was about 10years, I stayed with my grandmother who taught me most of the local dishes I know. In my 20s, I started on my own.

So right now your bank account must be fat (laughs) (laughs) Amen! A wise woman once said, and I quote "You can only become truly accomplished at what you love. Don't make money your goal, instead, pursue what you love doing and do them so well people can't take their eyes off you"- Maya Angelou What is it that you do?

I provide Uber-delivered homemade food. Fresh from the market to my kitchen to your bowel (laughs). Aunty Lolade's Kitchen is your best homemade food kitchen. We don't stock anything in the freezer! We get it all fresh! We make your meal especially for you.

What are you grateful for?

I'm grateful for a whole lot. I'm grateful for life. I'm grateful for the gift of creativity.

Sometimes, I don't even know what magic I'm going to create next, but as soon as I put my apron on, it ends up being an absolutely delicious delicacy! I am grateful for family and friends, and their support and prayers too. I'm grateful for valuable relationships. I am grateful for exceedingly pleasant customers.

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EVENTS COORDINATION

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YNORTH

SEUN BAMIRO: PUSHING ENTREPRENEURSHIP BEYOND BREAKING POINT

W

hy not YNorth? is a punny phrase Seun Bamiro uses at interviews when talking about his brand, YNorth Wears. Bamiro Babalola Oluwaseun, as he is addressed ofcially is no small CEO in Nigeria. His company, YNorth Wears is no doubt one of the nation’s leading clothing brands. With over 20 outlets across Nigeria, YNorth Wears continues to grow in size and coverage, and not just in Nigeria, but also internationally.

Seun, YNorth’s Founder and CEO, is an innovative entrepreneur who created YNorth Wears after ve different business projects of his all collapsed between 2005 and 2010.

He sold Tampico drinks on the tarmac of Ikorodu, invested in a networking venture in 2007, bulk SMS and Forex later on, before nally hitting gold with the launch of his fashion brand that originally started as a shoe brand in September 2010.

The fashion boss cum motivational speaker and life coach started on the ladder to success after entering in for a National Diploma in Computer Science at the Lagos State Polytechnic, on graduating from Government College, Ibadan in 2003. He states that his decision to study computer science was due to the inuence of Bill Gates and the success of his multibillion dollar company, Microsoft. “In fact, I decided to study computer science because I was inuenced by Bill Gates. You know that those days, we were made to believe that you could be as rich as Bill Gates if you study computer science. But when I was in school (Lagos State Polytechnic), I got to know that Bill Gates didn’t just become the richest man in the world because he understands all the elements of [the] computer, but because he understands the business side of the job [as well].”

However, it wasn't this that wholly inspired the YNorth founder’s entrepreneurial drive and resilient spirit, it was also as a result of real life circumstances that affected the people around him. He says, "When I nished secondary school, I went to Lagos to visit my older cousins. They had concluded tertiary education about ve years ago and still didn't have jobs. I got really discouraged and could not imagine myself in that situation... I told myself I would never write a CV for any job.”

started some research while in school. And with a stroke of luck, a networking company in Malaysia sent him an invite for a seminar in Lagos. It was at this seminar that he acquired most of his knowledge on leverage and marketing.

In a short time, money was made but was later lost over a course of ve years - it was an unending cycle of bad business decisions, until 2010.

In 2010, his girlfriend (now wife) inspired the turnaround of Segun's ill-fated ventures by buying him a pair of leather slippers. The pair of slippers drew so much attention that Segun's friends had to start asking where he had them made. And in a twist of fate, he was making a prot of ve hundred naira from every pair made by the original shoe maker, by selling the slippers. The idea was dynamite! It only took a few months and two hundred thousand naira for him to create an outstanding brand, YNorth wears.

However, things did not take off smoothly. From devaluation to plummeting sales, the newly-born child that was YNorth started to grow weary; they had to rethink their sales strategy. This was what birthed the idea of collaborating with popular supermarkets to boost sales. And yes, it worked! After ve years, the shoe brand nally opened their rst retail outlet.

On an interview on ibadankiniso.com, the father of two recalls how sales began to improve: "We had so much excess left unsold. I had to start thinking of how to sell them. I walked up to Crown Chemist at Challenge and I bargained with them to help sell them, and after 7 days, they called for more. From there we moved to Foodco..." As at November 2016, YNorth had about 40 sales outlets scattered across the nation.

The Ibadan entrepreneur is a great advocate of Made in Nigeria products. In June 2018, the fashion entrepreneur made this comment: "I felt Nigerians depended so much on foreign fashion products and it has really killed our economy and also depreciated our cultural values. The need for Nigerians to look good and trendy in Nigerian made fashion products with affordable prices really spurred me into the business.”

The Ijebu-Igbo indigene is not one for mediocrity. From slippers to shoes, and today, shirts, Seun Bamiro has shown us just how achievable dreams really are. Thanks to him, YNorth wears is today, more than a mere shoe brand – it is an internationally competitive fashion brand! So why don't you forget about those imported Yiger boots and instead, think YNorth!

With a strong resolution, innate determination and the power of the internet at hand, Seun

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NOMINEES PARTY BLINGZ EVENT AWARDS

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A f r i c a

Photo Credit: Dakinz Photography

kayocollections

HOST

WOLI AGBA

BLINGZ EVENT AWARDS CONVENER IPM

Born November 20 to a clergy father, Ayo was inuenced by the church environment he grew up in. As a last child among older siblings, he was his own playmate. This developed his air for portraying various characters.

While in secondary school, his friends urged him to study Theatre Arts because he made them laugh a lot. He studied Economics. Fate however sealed this young man's destiny. Known for his energetic, funny performances; Ayo never fails to leave ribs cracking and hands clapping at his ingenuity. After latching on to Instagram, the dance dramatist was reborn like a phoenix to meet an even greater audience.

Today, the comedian cum music artiste and event compere is happily married to the beautiful Princess Olaife Ajewole and the union is blessed with a boy. He has also established a comedy school. We hopefully expect to see Woli Agba at greater stages ministering to an even greater audience than before.

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HOST

BIOLA ADEBAYO

BLINGZ EVENT AWARDS ACTOR NOLLYWOOD

Biola Adebayo is a Lagos-based superb actress from Southwest Nigeria. She had her primary and secondary education in Lagos and in the North. She had her B.Sc in History and International Relations at the Lagos State University and further proceeded to the University of Lagos to earn a Masters degree in Public Administration. She started her career in 2003 by playing some roles in some of Wale Adenuga Productions. She featured in some TV dramas such as Super Story and Papa Ajasco. Her rst movie role was in an English production. The rst Yoruba movie she featured in was Ojabo Kofo, and it was produced in 2003. She also featured in Sikiratu Sindodo and some other movies. She became popular and came to limelight when she featured in a Yoruba movie titled Eyin-Oka in 2004 hence the name ‘Biola Eyin-Oka’ by her fans.

She has produced 5 movies altogether. Her rst movie was produced in 2008 titled March 15th, while two others titled Jokotola and Two Weeks followed in 2016. She also produced Sixteen in 2017 and One Hour in 2018.She has been in the industry for 17 years.

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BLINGZ MEET THE EVENT WINNERS AWARDS Muyiwa Ademola is a Nigerian Nollywood actor, lm-maker, lm producer and director. His notable works have earned him so many awards and nominations within and outside Nigeria. He is also known to be one of Ibadan's best support when it comes to the events sector in the entertainment industry.

MUYIWA ADEMOLA

MAYORKUN LIVE, IBADAN

EVENT SUPPORTIVE ACTOR OF THE YEAR (MALE)

MUSIC EVENT OF THE YEAR

LOUD IN IBADAN 2

REMOTE

COMEDY EVENT OF THE YEAR

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR (COMEDY)

DJ BANKY EVENT DJ OF THE YEAR

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Bankole Ogunseye popularly known as The Incredible Dj Banky is one of the house hold names in the city of Ibadan, Nigeria. Of course, what is an event without some good jamz?? DJ Banky is known far and wide for his incredible skills and ability to cook up fantastic music to spice up your events.

Olayiwola Tolulope popularly known as Remote is a creative, talented and spontaneous comedian in the city of Ibadan. Apart from performing in several comedy shows in Ibadan and beyond, he had his maiden comedy show sometime last year which he tagged "Remote In Control" and is planning the second edition which would be happening on the 28th April, 2019. He doubles as an OAP on Thirty-Two FM.

TURN IT UP WITH BIG B, 8.0 EVENT PLANNER OF THE YEAR

DATINA DESIGNS FASHION DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

Datina Designs is a fashion designing outď€ t owned by Mrs Atinuke Smith and is located in the city of Ibadan. Datina Designs is a ready-to-wear clothing line and showroom where people can get wears of varying sizes and designs.

CHOC PARTY THE 7TH

DEMO-PUMPIN

ALTERNATIVE EVENT OF THE YEAR

EVENT COMPERE OF THE YEAR

Mr JAY Couture is a unique home of men fashion, based in Ibadan, Oyo State and is owned and operated by Mr Jubril Aliyu. He started his fashion designing career in 2013 and has since then been on the fast track to becoming the premiere home of fashion for classy and stylish

LAROC FASHION SHOW FASHION EVENT OF THE YEAR

30 BILLION PARTY (SWITCH) CLUB EVENT OF THE YEAR

Egbeleke Ademola Owolabi, popularly known as Demo-pumpin, is a dynamic, funny and talented online publicist, comedian and event MC (compere) based in Ibadan. He is also known for his series of short skits on Instagram

MR JAY COUTURE

HONOURABLE AT 40

ICEBREAKER OF THE YEAR (NEXT RATED)

BRAND PROMOTIONAL EVENT OF THE YEAR

Laroc Fashion Show is a platform to showcase creativity in the fashion world. In our own way, we like to call it a fashion concert because it's a combination of both fashion, music, comedy and dance. Laroc fashion show had it's maiden show on the 14th of October 2018 at Jogor center ibadan. It had top designers in the fashion world as well as dignitaries from far and near. It was indeed one of the best to have hit the city of Ibadan. The blingz Award as the fashion event of the year has done the talking already.

We hope to see you all at LaRoc fashion show 2019.

KING OF BOYS

BABATUNMISE

IFE (IFECTIVE TOUCH)

MOVIE PREMIERE OF THE YEAR

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR (GOSPEL)

EVENT PLANNER OF THE YEAR

blingzmagazine.com 23

Tonye photography is a young and dynamic photographer in the city of Ibadan. He is known for his superb, crystal clear photographs of events within and outside Ibadan.

TONYE PHOTOGRAPHY

RIPPLES CATERING & EVENTS

EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

EVENT CATERER OF THE YEAR

Kingsley Adeyemi Olakunle popularly known as Keanzo is a talented and creative artist and has ofď€ cially become a household name in this city of Ibadan. He has released a couple of singles and songs in collaboration with other artistes.

DEXTERITY PLUS

KEANZO

EVENT DECORATOR OF THE YEAR

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR (MUSIC)

BROADNET CONCEPTS

MAUVE 21

LAYKAY SAX

EVENT VIDEOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

EVENT CENTRE OF THE YEAR

LIVE BAND OF THE YEAR

FEMI SOLAR LIVE BAND OF THE YEAR

Oladele Oluwafemi Emmanuel popularly known as Femi Solar is a native of Ipoti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.

He had his primary, secondary and tertiary education in the city of Ibadan. His career started with training in Music adverts, Jingles and Scripts reading and later ventured fully into music. His musical band name is Femi Oorun Solar & the Sunshine Jasa Band. He is one of the most preferred artist when it comes to having a live band for occasions and events in Nigeria. In 2013, he had a successful musical tour of United States of America and South Africa. He also organized an All-white party to launch his music video in 2016.

ALAGA TOH PORSHE

XQUISIT USHERS

OTENIARA

TRADITIONAL ANCHOR OF THE YEAR

EVENT USHERS OF THE YEAR

MAKEUP ARTIST OF THE YEAR

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OB SECURITY

CYMBALS

WOLI AGBA IPM

EVENT SECURITY COMPANY OF THE YEAR

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR (DANCE)

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR (ALTERNATIVE)

Absolute Success Travels and Tours popularly known as U Fit Fly is an Ibadan based traveling agency that professionally cater for the traveling needs of individuals and organizations, Ever since they were established, they have been a strong support and are continually contributing to the development of the entertainment industry

R2FM

U FIT FLY

EVENT SUPPORTIVE MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR

EVENT SUPPORTIVE BRAND OF THE YEAR

TOYIN ABRAHAM

BOX18 MEDIA

WHATSUP IBADAN

EVENT SUPPORTIVE ACTOR OF THE YEAR (FEMALE)

EFFECT COMPANY OF THE YEAR

EVENT PUBLICIST OF THE YEAR

THE EXPERIENCE NATIONAL MUSIC EVENT OF THE YEAR

The Experience 13, an annual Christian concert, had its 13th edition on Friday, 7th December 2018 at the Tafawa Balewa Square with the theme "Jesus Our Peace".

It is a Christian concert organized annually by House on the Rock Church.

This edition had over 500,000 people in attendance from different parts of the world and millions were said to have streamed online. The event was anchored by Banky W and Alibaba, and had lots of politicians and dignitaries from various works of life.

The Experience 13 featured top gospel artistes from Nigeria and across the globe such as Don Moen, Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, Timi Dakolo, Travis Greene, Nathaniel Bassey, Vicki Yohe, Chioma Jesus, Tope Alabi, Eben, Tim Godfrey, Glowreeyah, Planet Shakers and ADA to mention a few.

OXYMORON OF KENNY BLAQ

CALABAR CARNIVAL

BON

NATIONAL COMEDY EVENT OF THE YEAR

NATIONAL ALTERNATIVE EVENT OF THE YEAR

AWARD EVENT OF THE YEAR

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H O N O R A R Y A W A R D S Based on their consistent and immerse contribution and support to events, the following brands were given the Honorary Awards.

BIG BOLAJI Bolaji Olanrewaju popularly known as Big B is a musician with a fantastic sense of humor. He has since the inception been a major support and has contributed immensely to the development of events in the city of Ibadan. His annual event "Turn it up with Big B" has also created several platforms for several artistes and comedians.

DR SMILE Ogunleye Pamilerin popularly known as Dr Smile is one of the ď€ nest comedians in the country and is based in the city of Abeokuta. He has chosen to set a high standard for comedy in city of Ibadan with his annual show "Dr Smile Unusual". He has also used this event to create several platforms for comedians in the city of Ibadan and beyond.

LAFUP Segun Ogundipe popularly known as Lafup started his comedy career in the city of Ibadan and has ever since been a strong support to events in the city. His events so far have created platforms for several comedians and has brought a lot of them to limelight.

AFRICANA He is the ď€ rst event blogger and publicist in the city of Ibadan and has however stayed relevant in the industry. His intense support for events and brands have gone a long way in bringing development to the entertainment industry in Ibadan.

ORACLE Lastly, Heritage Osofowora popularly known as Oracle is a young, vibrant, dynamic and fast growing orator in the city of Ibadan. He was one of the nominees at the last Blingz Event Awards and although he did not emerge as the winner, he pulled a lot of votes and is making waves in the city with his spoken word poetry. He was given an honorary award for the "Young Person of the Year" at the last Blingz Event Awards.

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MY BLINGZ EVENT AWARDS EXPERIENCE

A

fter a wow experience at the Maiden Edition of Blingz Awards in 2018, and the mind blowing Unriddle Conference that followed towards the end of the year, from the stables of the same producer, I must confess that my personal expectations from the event this year was very high. So at the end of it all, was I disappointed or impressed? I will leave you to draw your own conclusions at the end of this brief writing.

Unlike last year, when I didn't have an idea of who the organizers are, this year I was fully informed, I know the organizers and almost all members of the crew, so one way or the other I had some great expectations before the event.

But then, I was still shocked, my shock this year did not start with the invite, it started with the careful thought invested in conceptualizing the event. As a creative person, I am always excited when I see concepts that are unique and mentally challenging. The artwork that heralded the 2019 edition of the event was guided by a combination of two simple but prominent quotes, that says "Simple is classy" and "Less is more" and I must say, the organizers adhered strictly to these rules all through the execution of this project. The entire branding of the event and its killer concept was very simple and classy.

Likewise, there is an obvious unity of purpose all through the different stages, the artworks or better still e-iers, the unusual invite, the costume of the host and hostess, the red carpet, the entire event venue branding, the ushers, the iconic weighty plaque, and all were consistently uniform and classy all through the campaign.

As we were classically informed of what is to come, I eagerly look forward to what is next, and surprisingly I saw the Nominees Party, which I wouldn't miss for anything, as I had to adjust my schedule and travel down all the way from Kwara State to ensure I experience what the nominees party will look like. The nominees party where nominees were presented with their tickets for the event and the Hosts of the event unveiled was a worthy forerunner for the main event, because people that missed it saw pictures and vowed not to miss the main course. Particularly, the unveiling video was highly commended by some big industry players and once again it speaks

loudly on the intentionality of the organizers. The choice of Host and Hostess is another commendable selection which speaks volume on the thought process of the organizers. Initially it seems inconsistent with the brand being depicted by the organizers, however it turned out to be the beautiful twist needed to blend the event with its host community. Ayo Ajewole (Woli Agba) and Biola Adebayo did justice to the event, they made it fun, funny and lively. I won't be doing justice to my pre-event assessment, if I don't say something sweet about the ight ticket and visa that was issued to nominees and industry players like my humble self. The beautiful creative concept shattered the roof and draw more attention to the event this year than anything else. Everywhere you turned on social media was lled with generous display of the beautifully customized ticket. I am afraid that idea challenges the age long Yoruba adage that says; "I've never seen such, is just an exaggeration meant to scare the person involved" because truly I have never seen such personally. I need to caution some of my friends reaching me to congratulate me when I posted mine on my social media timelines.

As much as I tried to be early at the event, I came a bit late and missed a large part of the show, but the part I met was fullling. The beauty of the venue, its coziness, glitz, glamour, happiness and "industrial" love in the atmosphere was impeccable and heart warming. The few performances I saw were outstanding, it was generally a good show, and typically a classy show, as that is the perfect word that describes the brand, Blingz Magazine, the organizers of the show, as conrmed by their last three events.

Let's not forget that this success is hard earned as the event stood and succeeded against all odds like a heavy downpour and the collation of rescheduled gubernatorial election results that was tainted with violence and murders in some places, as well as the gigantic rumour of violence all over the city.

As a privileged member of the jury that participated in the nomination process, I must salute the credibility of the award, however an integral part of the awards ceremony that was hailed at the Maiden Edition was abandoned this year and that is a minus for the event. Last year,

the voting results were projected on stage and that speaks loudly on the credibility of the award.

I wonder why there is a departure from this excellent tradition this year. It was later after the event that I saw the results being displayed on social media. I believe it would have had a greater effect if projected at the event itself in the process of presenting the awards for each category.

I am making serious effort here not to talk of the huge side talks and distractions like I noticed last year, because this is becoming typical of industry events in Nigeria, but then I believe Blingz Awards can set a new precedent and try to correct this anomaly that is fast becoming a tradition. I am of the personal opinion that meetings and greetings should be reserved for the red carpet area and not transplanted into the main venue where it breeds distraction. This is however not unconnected to the dinner sitting arrangement we have for all entertainment events now in Nigeria. But then, I must commend the organizers for the large presence of good photographers, though their large presence too could cause distractions if not well managed in future, but they added colour to the event, made it more fun and popular.

I think it is safe to conclude here that I seriously enjoyed myself, and I am highly impressed once again. It can only get better. However before I log out, I must sound a note of warning to the organizers to be careful in their bid to rapidly expand or better still scale up the award to make it a national award. I will personally advice that they slow down a bit on that expansion bid and ensure they grow into it rather than desperately jump into it. If not well handled, it may have an adverse effect on the credibility of the show. But then, this is me projecting my fears on you. I am sure you know what best to do. Once again; Congratulations to the Organizers Congratulations to the Winners Congratulations to the Nominees and Congratulations to we the attendees.

See you... When next?

AFOUDA SAMUEL

blingzmagazine.com 29

BLINGZ EVENT AWARDS

Registration point

Terminal interview with the hosts

Mrs Ajewole & Dele Omo Woli

Zircon Events, Folakemi Mighty & Chinko

Xquisit Ushers Crew

Valerie’s Hostesses & CEO

Dundun Ng & Triple A Makeovers

30 blingzmagazine.com

Tope & Seyi Fadeyi

Aridunnu

Gee Jokes

Alaga Toh Porshe and friends registering

Wandy Bee Cuisine Crew with Phebe

Attendant with BEA Flight Ticket

Blingz & son

Ladayo Bodunrin

She Baa

Xcave Events

Kayo Clothings

Pelumi

Sisi Ibadan

Arcade Fashion & a Model

Karima & Yetunde Ajanaku

Aunty Lolade & Alapata Express

Y North

Lafup

blingzmagazine.com 31

Mr Emeka & Glory James

Loyin’s Kitchen

Oritshema

Blingz & Reetchy Arts

Yetunde, BroadNet, Babatunmise & Tonye

Yello sisi, Caxtons, Folakemi & Lady Gwen

MC Rapindady

Tundun, MC Apple, Triple A & Dundun

Gbade Adetisola

Aridunnu, Kayo & Dare Another Level

Jibola, Omoh & Bukky

MC Apple, Blingz & Extersee

T Famous, Remote, Khadija, Dan & Apple

Irasa Crew

Mrs Akanji

Mr Yinka Ogunwobi & Wife

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Molara, Mr Jay & Mariam

Phebe & PR Man

Biyi Adeleke

Moreklue

Roy, Tundun, Whatsup Ibadan & Don Tee

Gee Jokes, Folakemi, Pricherman, Dapo King & Motunde

Trog, Amos, Ibadan Pride, Glory, Chinko

Dotun Omiyale & Lypix

Wale Ozolua & Friend

Afouda & Family

blingzmagazine.com 33

Mrs Ayinde & Mrs Adeyemo

CMB Crew

Caxton, Dapo, Pricherman, Folakemi & Rotimi Johnson

Extersee, Mimi & Adetoun

CMB Crew

Rapindady & Think it

Timothiz Apparel

Alaga Toh Porshe

Xquisit Ushers

Lady Gwen, K Bayo & MC Remote

OSJ

Khadija & T Famous

Oteniara & friends

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Wandybee cuisines

Demo Pumpin’s Award Winning Speech

IPM

MC Obama presenting an award to Cymbals

Babatunmise Award Winning Speech

Keanzo’s Award Winning Speech

MC Remote Award Winning Speech

Tonye’s Award Speech

Pastor Chinko, Rotimi Johnson & Aridunnu

Peteru congratulates Demo Pumpin

13th Disciple & Woli Agba

CEO, Mr Jay Couture, on his winning speech

Cris da Lectura

Alaga Toh Porshe drama after receiving an award

MC Caxton & Wife presenting an award

Wale Ozolua, K Bayo presenting and award

blingzmagazine.com 35

Biola Adebayo presenting an award to 32FM

MC BBO performing

Dayo & Kemi Adeď€ oye

Yellow Sisi and CEO, Valerie’s Hostesses

Datina Designs award winning speech

Demosha presenting an award

Proprietor, Valencia Schools, presenting an award

Sultan & Laykay Sax performing

Mister Rain & wife

Proprietor, Valencia Schools, presenting an award

Sultan & Laykay Sax performing

Mister Rain & wife

Trog presenting an award to CEO, BroadNet

ATM

Wole Sawe Award Winning Speech

36 blingzmagazine.com

Xquisit Ushers

African Award Winning Speech

Ripple’s Catering receiving an award

Y North presenting an award to Box 18 media

Mr Water presenting an award LaRoc Fashion

Award Presentation

Rapindady, BKGMB and Keanzo

Rotimi Johnson & MC Obama

The Family performing

Ifective Touch’s Award Winning Speech

Biola Adebayo & Woli Agba

Oracle Performing

Irasa Crew ready to present an award

Alaga Toh Porshe Remarkable Celebration

CEO, Wandy Bee presenting an Award

blingzmagazine.com 37

Christiana Dre

Unique Chops & Drinks

Ifective Touch, & Broadnet

MC Remote

Lafup, Woli Agba & Demo Pumpin

Babatunmise, Tonye, Broadnet & Tundun

Derayo, Datina Designs & Glory James

Zircon Event, Ifective Touch &

Derayo, Lafup, Glory James & Yetunde

She Baa & Blingz

Zircon Event, Dundun Ng & Glory James

Lypix, Y North & Blingz

Mr Jay & friends

38 blingzmagazine.com

Dami & Remote

THANK YOU BLINGZ EVENT AWARDS DEEPLY APPRECIATES YOUR SUPPORT

REETCHY ARTS

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07055012389 @blingzmagazine

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