THE COLOURFUL 81ST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS OF CHIEF GABRIEL IGBINEDION’S LIFE IN ENGLAND, NIGERIA AND

SINCE 1996

DANGOTE CEMENT TAKES OVER AFRICA

THE COLOURFUL 81ST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS OF

CHIEF GABRIEL IGBINEDION’S LIFE IN ENGLAND, NIGERIA AND SOUTH AFRICA

© OVATION 2016

TAHIRAH ABDULAZEEZ WEDS TAJUDEEN SAGAYA IN ILORIN, KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

FAMILY CELEBRATES THE LIFE OF

DEACONESS VICTORIA

OLATUNDE

ISSN-1362-7309 Issue 164

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

BAZE

UNIVERSITY ABUJA,

NIGERIA LEADS THE WAY IN QUALITATIVE EDUCATION AS IT CELEBRATES ITS 2ND CONVOCATION CEREMONY IN GRAND STYLE Story by: Babatunde Martins Photo: Abraham Falodun

L

The Founder and Pro-Chancellor, Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed

The Chancellor, Alh. (Dr) Ahmadu Abubakar, The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Michael Hood

Alh. Yusuf Maitama Sule, Danmasanin Kano

Former Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’l & Mrs. Rose Okwechime, Board of Trustee Member

The Emir of Zazzau, Alh. Shehu Idris

ocated in a picturesque and scenic part of Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Baze University has emerged as one of the leading private universities in the country which puts premium on qualitative education and inculcating time-tested values on students. Little wonder that from only 17 students at inception in 2011, its student population has risen to the present 1,400 which is a testimony to the fact that its

Founder's vision of creating a world class institution equipped with first-rate human capital, cutting edge technology and imparting knowledge that is relevant in the 21st century world, has been a huge success. In deed any parent who wishes to give the children top-rate university education at an environment that is sane, serene and well-equipped should, not think any further than Baze University located near the National Judicial In-

stitute in Jabi. It is because of its sterling track record of just a few years that the Management rolled out the drums in grand style to celebrate its second convocation ceremony held within its own expansive campus grounds. The 2-day affair began with an intellectuallystimulating lecture delivered by no less a person than the diplomat extraordinaire, Nigeria's longest serving Ambassador/Permanent Representative to the United

7

THE LECTURE: NIGERIAN STATE & NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT BY PROF. IBAHAIM GAMBARI

Guest Speaker at the Second Convocation Lecture, Prof. (Amb.) Ibrahim Gambari

Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed

Baze University Lecturers

A cross section of guests at the Second Convocation Lecture

A cross section of staff at the Second Convocation Lecture

Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Prof. Michael Hodd, Mallam Nafiu Baba-Ahmed & Sen. Datti Baba-Ahmed

8

Board Members, Staff & guests

THE CLASSY DINNER

From L-r: The Registrar, David O. Ogbonna (Esq), Sen. Baba-Ahmed, his wife, Mrs. Aisha Baba-Ahmed, Hon. Justice S.M.A Belgore, Alh. Ahmadu Abubakar, Mrs. Rose Okwechime & Prof. Michael Hodd

The Pro-Chancellor, Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed

The Chancellor, Alh. Ahmadu Abubakar, Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed & Board of Trustee Member, Hon. Justice S.M.A Belgore

Mrs. Aisha Baba-Ahmed with some guests at the dinner

Ibrahim Mai Deribe, Dhul-kifl Yahaya Abba, Faisal Nura Imam & Nasir Mohammed Bello

The General Manager, Mr. Andrew Nwosisi with some staff of Abbey Mortgage Bank

Robert Kerr (US Embassy), Prof. James Reagan McLaurin, Bilikisu Salawu & Kevin Sludds

9

Dr. Catherine Okafor (Dean of Law) & Lady Mrs. Tinu Kanu Ivi

Mazi Emma Kanu Ivi FCA. (Director – Abbey Mortgage Bank Plc), Air Vice Marshal Olufemi Soewu & Air Vice Marshal Osita Obierika Ph.D

Fatima Abubakar, Maimuna Abubakar & Aisha Deribe

Mrs. Huraiya Dawal, Aisha Idris & Fatima B. Maccido

Senior Academics of Baze University

The Pro-Chancellor & family members

Jessica Acka, Olaitan Amoo & Precious Nwankwo

Sauda Dalhatu, Fatima Dalhatu & Mrs. Affiah Dalhatu

10

Guests from United Bank for Africa (UBA)

The Registrar & Pro-Chancellor

Board of Trustee Member, Hon. Justice S.M.A Belgore

Former Minister of Power & Steal, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu

Board of Trustee Member, Mrs. Rose Ada Okwechime

Staff of Baze University & guests

The Pro-Chancellor, his wife & some guests

Lecturers of Baze University

Graduants

Students

Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed with his family members

The guest artiste, Di’ja, performing at the event

11

THE CONVOCATION CEREMONY

Class of 2015 Grandaunts

The Chancellor, Alh. (Dr) Ahmadu Abubakar

Amb. (Prof.) Joy Ogwu (Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations)

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Michael Hodd

Hon. Justice S.M.A Belgore

12

Mrs. Rose Okwechime

Alhaji Aliyu Modibbo Umar PhD

Alhaji Umaru Shehu Ndanusa OON with Sen. Ibrahim Mantu CFR

Special invited guests

Yovan Maric & Vice Admiral U. O. Jubril (Rtd)

Special invited guests

Alhaji Umaru Mutallab & wife

Special invited guests

Special invited guests

Gen. Haliru Akilu with Amb. Alh. Yusuf Maitama Sule

Former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku & special guests

Stanley Jegede (Phase3 Telecom), Pro-Chancellor & their wives

13

Prof. Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’i

Nations and presently a UN Under Secretary-General, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari. Speaking on the topic: “The Nigerian State and National Security", he began thus "I would like to begin this lecture by thanking the Vice Chancellor and the Governing Council and Senate of the University for the Excellent Contributions to enhancing the quality of education in Nigeria. "I also thank especially Senator Dr. Datti Baba-Ahmed, Founder and Pro-chancellor of this University for his enormous contributions to our great country, after serving as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, by establishing this Institution of higher education. " In doing so, he recognizes the pivotal role of education in the development of any society. As Nelson Mandela reminded us “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to

Distinguished guests

change the world” However, teachers, administrators and students in institutions of learning, at all levels, do not and cannot exist in isolation from the larger society."

A cursory look at newspaper headlines and other news on global television screens, would suggest that the contemporary experience in Africa is one of perennial conflicts and wars; failed or failing states and national insecurity. Yet, starting with Nigeria’s own experience, there is a glimmer of hope that the negative trends can be reversed especially if the African peoples take advantage of new opportunities for change and socio-economic development”.

Thereafter, Pro-Chancellor, Sen. Yusuf Datti-Ahmed Phd delivered a short closing remark where he revealed that Baze University would continue to build, maintain

Guests & parents

Guests & parents

Parents

14

David Ogbonna (Esq)

Senior Academics of Baze University

Staff & Special Guests

and advance quality and excellence. "We will continue to be a distinctive quality-based educational institution making the difference in the nation's history through the positive impact of its service and graduates' output .Our motto " We Learn to Live" will continue to be the driving force for our future growth and development" .A few hours later, everyone was well-dressed and ready for the next event of the day: The Convocation Dinner.

The lively and fun-filled ceremony saw special guests, Board and Faculty members, students and their families freely mingling, unwinding and generally enjoying a great time. The highest point of the evening was not the cutting of the Convocation Cake which elicited quite an applause, it was actually the pulsating performance of super singer, D'ija who brought guests, young

The Pro-Chancellor, Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed

Baze University Staff

Graduants

Special invited guests

Special invited guests

Special invited guests

and old, to their feet-and deservedly got a standing ovation when she was making her exit.

What can be described as the most important part of the celebration unfolded the next day on October 3, 2015 with the Convocation Ceremony which was held at the imposing Abdulsalami Abubakar Multi-Purpose Hall of the University. After the usual opening prayer and singing of the Nigeria National Anthem, the Convocation proper began with the invitation of Chancellor, who then made a declaration with the words "I now declare this Assembly open as the 2nd Convocation ceremony of Baze University Abuja constituted for the purpose of awarding Degrees and granting of Prizes.”The Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Hodd in his speech said

Traditional rulers & guests

that the institution was established and equipped to attain high academic excellence. He noted that the institution has continued to focus on its most important role of helping to mould and strengthen generations of Nigerian students and even students from outside Nigeria to be well educated and well-behaved global citizen. Furthermore, he revealed that 10 students obtained First Class degrees in their respective fields of study in the 2014/15 Academic Session. Prof. Hodd stated that the university had four Faculties- Engineering, Management and Social Sciences, Computer and Applied Science and Law, and that Baze University had reached advanced stages to commence academic work on other disciplines such as Medicine, Pharmacy and Environmental Science. In her

Visiting Vice-Chancellors

speech, former Minister of Education, Hajiya Ruqqayatu Rufai, declared that Nigeria cannot afford to be a nation with the highest number of out-of-school children. According to her “We need to develop our education system in order to develop our nation”, she said.

Rufai attributed the slow pace of development in the country to lack of quality education which promotes skills and research development. She maintained that government must address access to education alongside quality of education and the development of teachers who impart knowledge. While commending Baze University, she congratulated the graduates especially, the 10 First Class students, urging them to represent their alma mater well in their various fields of endeavour. The day's Guest Speaker, Prof. Joy Ogwu who is Nigeria's Perma-

15

Baze University Main Entrance

New Faculty of Engineering Block

Reception Area

IT Lounge

State of the art Auditorium

Fully equipped Library

nent Representative to the UN challenged the students to actively participate in international and national politics by voting during elections, expressing dissent constructively and impacting positively on their various communities.“If you do not speak for your voices to be heard, others will speak for you,” she said.

Former Nigeria Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Sule, also commended the academic exploits of the university, noting that it was important to “educate our boys and girls because Nigeria is destined to play a very important role not only in Africa but the world.”

While challenging the present government to allocate more funds to the education sector, he admonished the graduates “You are the potential leaders, the future and vanguard of the revolution as well as solution to our

16

Chemistry lab

problem and answer to the future it holds.”

The Best Graduating Student, Miss Ohunene Salima Ahmad from the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences who bagged a First Class degree and aspires to be a Lecturer, commended Baze University for giving all students a solid foundation, in terms infrastructure and manpower, to soar and realise their full potentials.

Attributing her success to hard work, she stated “I feel very accomplished and I am happy that my hard work paid off. I don’t think I did anything special to distinguish me from others, maybe I worked harder than the rest of the students. I barely had a social life and I think at the end, it paid off.” The highlight of the convocation ceremony were the awards presented to some graduating students and the naming of structures of the

institution after some notable Nigerians. The Mosque was named after Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar; an auditorium after Muhammad Sanusi (Emir of Kano); Library after Professor Attahiru Jega; a Work Station after Nura Imam and a building after Member, Board of Trustees, Mrs. Rose Okwechime.

The event was attended by many celebrated Nigerians like the former Minister of Defence and former Executive Governor of Kano State and now Senator, Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ibrahim Mantu, former Executive Governor of Kebbi State, and FCT Minister, Alhaji Adamu Aleiro, elder statesmen Mallam Adamu Fika, Alhji Umar Mutallab, General Haliru Akilu, and Alhaji Yayale Ahmed.

Sports facilities-Basketball courts

WHEN CHIEF GABRIEL IGBINEDION TURNED 80 Story: Micahel Effiong Photo: Adekoya Adegbite, Ken Ehimen & Abraham Falodun

W

hen you shall eat of the fruit of your hands, You will be happy and it will be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine Within your house, Your children like olive plants Around your table. Behold, for thus shall the man be blessed Who fears the LORD.�

Psalm 128: 2-4" This Bible passage encapsulates the whole essence of the 80th birthday celebrations of Esama of Benin, Sir (Chief) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion.

It was a time to thank God for His blessing and the the entire House of Igbinedion to celebrate.

This was why for the first time ever, Igbinedion's children, grand children and great grand children from all corners of the globe all

congregated in Benin to celebrate the Patriarch of the House of Igbinedion, The Esama of Kingdom.

It is remarkable that over the years, the Esama has always put God at the forefront of his celebrations and this is because, as he told this ,reporter in an exclusive interview his life would be nothing without the remarkable wand of God. Perhaps the Esama realised that at 80 he has so much stories to tell and so much wisdom to pass along to his younger friends and family members.

His children, grand children and great grandchildren would at least have the opportunity during this period to sip from his river of wisdom and most importantly learn the true history of their forefathers. He actually spent time with them in the

course of the week.

The Esama whose favourite Christian Chorus is " My hands are blessed with the blessings of the Lord; Anyone I touch, surely must be blessed, Anything I do, will be magnified, My hands are blessed, with the blessings of the Lord" told this reporter that he had always believed that God is an important factor in his life and that is why he always celebrates God during his birthdays.

From his modest upbringing, he has been able to overcome adversities, and through a dint of hard work and ingenuity, he has today become one of Africa's most recognisable billionaires-and he adduces it all to the Grace of God. 17

18

CONGRATULATORY LETTER FROM

POPE FRANCIS

Chief Gabriel rIgbinedion receiving Pope Francis XVI’s congratulatory letter from Most Rev. (Dr.) Obiora Akubeze, Archbishop of Benin Diocese

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion with Most Rev. (Dr.) Obiora Akubeze

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

19

THE PATRIARCH HOSTS THE HOUSE OF IGBINEDION

Sir Gabriel & Lady Cherry Igbinedion

The Patriach of the House of Igbinedion

Mrs. Mabel Amadi (first daughter), celebrant & wife with Chief Lucky Igbinedion, first son

Barr. Mike Igbinedion & wife, Romali, Chief Lucky Igbinedion & wife, Chief (Mrs.) Eki Igbinedion with Bright Igbinedion & wife, Barr. Mina

Barr. Michael, Hon. Charles, Chief Lucky, Bright & Dr. Fred

Hon. Efosa Igbinedion, Etinosa, Osaretin, Edugie, Ekpen, Ewemade, Omoregie & Osadolor Igbinidion

Hon. Efosa Igbinedion with Raquel Igbinedion

20

Mrs. Philomena Osawaru, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Barr.

Mabel Amadi & Bright Igbinedion

Hon. Charles Igbinedion & family with his father, Esama of Benin

Hon. Charles Igbinedion & wife, Pastor Angela

Chief Lucky Igbinedion & wife

Bright Igbinedion & wife, Barr. Mina

Dr. Osa Osunde & wife, Patience (nee Igbinedion)

Barr. Mike Igbinedion & wife, Romali

Hon. Efosa Igbinedion with Raquel Igbinedion

Lucky Igbinedion with Lady Mabel Amadi Dr. Fred Igbinedion & wife, Duni

Mrs. Philomina Osawaru & children

Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Igbinedion

Mr. Idemudia & Esohe Ikhide

Mr. Orhue Ehimika with his wife, Edekin

21

Chief Igbinedion with wives of The House of Igbinedion

Lady Cherry Igbinedion with daughters: Orobosa, Ivie & Hon. Omosede

Celebrant’s children and grandchildren

Lady Mabel Amadi & children with The Esama

Omorodion Igbinedion & Wimnie Igbinedion

The Esama with Barr. Mike Igbinedion & family

22

Joshua Junior, Nikoleta Mazzeo & Francesca Mazzeo

23

Orobosa, Lady Cherry & Ivie

Osa Osunde & wife, Patience

Aize Igbinedion, Benita Igbinedion, Ehi Igbinedion & Etiosa Igbinedion

The Amadi family

24

HISTORIC VISIT TO OKADA, IGBINEDION’S ANCESTRAL HOME

Egie Igbinedion & dad, Bright Igbinedion, Dr. Bisi Olatilo & Esama

Bright Igbinedion & son, Barr. Mabel Amadi & daughter, Ebube with Esama

Sir Gabriel with grandchildren

Orobosa & Amenze Igbinedion

Dr. Fred Igbinedion, daughter & wife, Duni

Mrs. Zena Enaholo, Esamas first grandchild with Barr. Mina Igbinedion & Chief (Mrs.) Eki Igbinedion

Chief (Mrs.) Eki Igbinedion with Zena & Honourable

Dr, Fred & Barr. Michael Igbinedion

25

Mrs. Zena Enaholo, Ivie, Minna, Bright, Amenze & Orobosa

Prince Alexander Akenzua, Esama’s grandchild, his mother, Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, Lady Cherry & Ivie Igbinedion

Lady Cherry Igbinedion & Mrs. Mina Igbinedion

26

Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Lucky Igbinedion with Bright Igbinedion

Chief Igbinedion’s being welcomed to his home town in Okada land

Lucky Igbinedion, Esama, Bright & Bisi Olatilo

Lady Mabel, Barr. Mina, Patience, Ivie & Orobosa

Chief Igbinedion & his wife with kingsmen in Okada

Chief (Mrs.) Eki Igbinedion, Bright Igbinedion, Lady Mabel Amadi & Lady Cherry Igbinedion

27

Lady Cherry Igbinedion & Chief (Mrs.) Eki Lucky Igbinedion

Chief Igbinedion & his grandchildren

28

Chief Igbinedions children

Cleopattra, Esosa Igbinedion, Imade Igbinedion, Zoe, Osasu Igbinedion & Chiamaka Amadi

Dr. Fred Igbinedion, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Hon. Charles Igbinedion & Barr. Mike Igbinedion

Brighty Igbinedion & Lady Mabel Amadi

Nosa Igbinedion & Etinosa Igbinedion

Nnaemeka Amadi & Merk Igbinedion

Cleopatra Igbinedion & Mrs. Tomi Igbinedion

Omorodion Igbinedion & Osaretin Igbinedion

David Igbinedion, Osaretin Igbinedion & Igbinosa Igbinedion

Dr. Ehi Igbinedion with Mr. & Mrs. Ebi Enaholo

The Igbinedions: Derek, Steve & Daniel

29

Time for lunch with The Patriarch

Chief Igbinedion celebrating with his grandchildren & great-grandchildren

30

Esama with first grandchild, Mrs. Zena Enaholo

Emilo Christofis, Mrs. Ehi Christofis (nee Igbinedion) & Sofia Christofis

THE HOUSE OF IGBINEDION

31

THANKSGIVING SERVICE AT GOD’S HISTORIC CHURCH

Chief Igbinedion & his family

Chief Igbinedion & his wife, Lady Cherry

Barr. Mike, Dr. Fred, Hon. Charles & Bright

Grandchildren of celebrant

Natasha Anetor, Paul Anetor, Philomena Osawaru Igbinedion, Desphil Osawaru & Dumonet Osawaru

32

Amenze Igbinedion

Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Persanl Staff of Esama: Ernest, Williams & Uyi

Barr. Mike Igbinedion

Omosede Igbinedion

LAUNCH OF A BIOGRAPHY, CHIEF GABRIEL IGBINEDION THE LIVING LEGEND IN IBADAN

Sir Gabriel Igbinedion & Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State

Sir Gabriel Igbinedion

Chief Lucky Igbinedion

Emeritus Prof. O. O. Akinkugbe

Prof. Nelson O. Fasina (Book Reviewer)

33

Chief A.K Mohammed, Elder J.T. Idehen (JP) with Apostle (Dr.) W.O. Osadiaye

Osa Osunde with Abudu Lawani

Hon. Charle Igbinedion, Chief Evelyn Igbafe Omokhodion with Dr. Isaiah Osifo (JP)

Barr. Mike Igbinedion, Dr. Fred Igbinedion with Hon. Brigbt Igbinedion

Dr. Georgina Odaibo, Dr. C.B.N Ogbogbo with Moyofade Ipadeola

Prof. I. F. Adewole, Chief (Dr.) Lucky Igbinedion with Prof. Eghosa E. Osaghae

Hon. Agharese Idubor with Dr. Fred Okhomina

Prince Obajide Ilugbo (Compere)

34

Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh with Pastor Afolayan Daniel

Prof. Eghosa E. Osaghae (VC, Igbinedion University) with Prof. I. F. Adewole (VC, University of Ibadan)

MORNING DEW BIRTHDAY SERVICE

Vote of thanks during the church service at his resident

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion with the officiating minister

Akure Regent, Princes Adetutu Adesida-Ojei and Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Ife High Chiefs

35

BIRTHDAY SERVICE AT ST. GABRIEL THE ARCHANGEL CATHOLIC CHURCH

Otumfuo, Nana Osei Tutu II, The Asantehene with Sir Gabriel & Lady Cherry Igbinedion

36

Rev. Agbonlahor with Sir Gabriel Igbinedion

Chief Achike Udenwa, Prince Abubakar Audu, celebrant & Obong Victor Attah

Sir Gabriel Igbinedion with Capt. Hosa Okunbo

Dr. Raymond Dokpesi & celebrant

Otumfuo, Nana Osei Tutu II, The Asantehene with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Mike Igbinedion, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Dr. Fred Igbinedion

37

Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Wife of Ooni of ife, Olori Morisola Sijuwade

Amenze Igbinedion

Orobosa Igbinedion

Mrs. Hines

Barr. Mina Igbinedion

Mr. Garrick Egboigbe

The Enaholo family

Hon. Charles Igbinedion

38

Mum Enid Harris

Lady Mabel Amadi

Chief Lucky Igbinedion

Dr. Fred Igbinedion & family

Celebrant’s grandchildren

Obong Victor Attah

Chief Tom Ikimi

Professor Osariemen Osunbor

Mr. Alan Omorogbe

Senator Ogbeha

Sen. Chris Ngige

Mr. Steve Oronsaye (r)

Mondi Aigbedion & Michael Effiong

Abudu Lawani & Osa Osunde

39

The Esama thanking God and his guests

Sir Gabriel Igbinedion & Gov. Adams Oshiomole

Olori Morisola Sijuwade, Arch. Mike Onolememen & Mrs. Eki Igbinedion

Alhaji Adamu Muazu, Chief Tony Anenih & Dr. Kema Chikwe

40

Amenze Igbinedion singing special number for her dad

From 2nd left: Celebrant with Prof. (Sir) Victor Uwaifo

First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun & Dapo Abiodun

Bamisebi Ojo, Michael Effiong, Folorunso Okenla & Bashorun Dele Momodu

The Igbinedions

Oba Muraino Adedini & his Olori

Igbinedion’s son with wife & children

Alh. Adamu Muazu, Obong Victor Attah, Chief Achike Udenwa, Sen. Ehigie Uzamere & Prince Abubakar Audu

41

THE GRAND RECEPTION

42

Olori Morisola Sijuwade & The Asantehene

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Chief Tony Anenih, Alh. Adamu Muazu, Arch. Mike Onolememen & friend

Alh. Adamu Muazu & Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Sir Gabriel & Chief Tony Anenih

Chief Tony Anenih, Chairman of the occasion,delivering a speech

43

Chief Mike Inegbese & wife, Mary with Esama

Basketmouth

Chief Eduwu Ekhator with Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion with Ambassador Joe Keshi & wife, Dayo

44

Chief Okwezileze Nwodo

Chief Lucky & Chief (Mrs.) Eki Igbinedion with their daughters

Oba Muraino Adedini & his Olori with Chief Igbinedion

Lady Mabel Amadi & olori Morisola Sijuwade

Mike Igbinedion, Sen. Uzamere, Sen. Ngige & Alhaji Idi Farouk (far right)

Apart from the usual solidarity and goodwill visits from people of all walks of life, the highest point of Chief Igbinedion's 80th birthday was his historic visit to his homestead Okada, Edo state, accompanied by members of his family: His wife, Lady Cherry and children, led by former Edo State Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, his grand children led by Mrs. Zena Enaholo and his great grandchildren.

It was an emotional moment for the Esama of Benin as he made a triumphant entry with a convoy of cars, heralded by many of his townspeople and chiefs. He took his family to the very house he

spent his early years and also showed them other places of significance in the town, which he single-handedly transformed by establishing the Igbinedion University Okada.

Of course, as a man who does not joke with his tradition, there were series of prayers and breaking of Kolanut.

Thereafter, he hosted everyone to a kingly banquet at his imposing home located in the heart of Okada Town.

On September 11 proper, there was the Interdenominational Morning Dew Service and also another wonderful church service at the St. Gabriel The Archangel Catholic Church.As usual the

Esama with children and grand children

T

Senator Mathew Uroghide, Dr. Bisi Olatilo with Capt. Hosa Okunbo

u jouis alors du travail de tes mains, tu es heureux, tu prospères. Ta femme est comme une vigne féconde. Dan l’intérieur de ta maison, tes fils sont comme des plants d’olivier, autour de ta table. C’est ainsi que L’Eternel bénit l’homme qui craint L’Eternel Psaumes 128:2-4.

Ce passage biblique résume tout le sens même de la célébration du 80eme anniversaire de l’Essama de Benin, Sir (Chief) Gabriel Igbinedion. Ce fut un moment pour rendre grâce à Dieu et pour célébrer avec l’ensemble de la maison des Igbinedion.

C’est la raison pour laquelle que pour la première fois, les enfants, les petits-enfants, les arrière-petits-enfants des Igbinedions, de tous les coins du globe, se sont réunis à Benin pour

célébrer le patriarche de la maison des Igbinedion. C’est remarquable que depuis des années, L’Essama a toujours placé Dieu en première position lors de ses célébrations et il a fait comprendre à notre reporter lors d’une interview que sa vie n’aurait aucun sens sans la main de Dieu.

Peut-être que l’Essama a remarqué qu’a 80 ans, il a beaucoup de choses à raconter et beaucoup de sagesse à transférer à ses plus jeunes amis et aux membres de sa famille. Ses enfants, ses petits-enfants, ses arrière-petits-enfants, auraient l’opportunité de puiser dans le puits de sa sagesse et surtout de connaitre l’histoire de leurs aïeux.

Comment at-il passé son temps au cours de la semaine ?

45

Peter Igbinedion (2nd right) with his father ( children

Chief Mike Inegbese & wife, Mary sharing a joke wit Ovation Editor, Michael Effiong

Mr. Steve Onasanya & Arch. Mike Onolomemen

46

Agbonb Igbinedion (right) & friends

cream of Nigerian society turned up in their numbers to celebrate the life the great son of Africa.

His 80th birthday was not a local affair as he was honoured in far away Kumasi, Ghana by the revered Asanti King, The Asantehene Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II with a one-of-its-kind Durbar.

This kind of colourful and grand durbars are reserved for select indviduals of great significance, According to the Asantehene in an interview with Ovation, Chief Igbinedion deserved such an honour for his sterling contribution to African

unity, and for impacting mankind through his various businesses and philanthropic gestures.

That was not all, the Asantehene also hosted a superlative dinner for the Esama, his family and friends at his Manhyia Palace. Many Asanti Royals were there to felicitate with a strong Nigerian continent made up of chiefs, captains of industry and the House of Igbinedion.

No doubt, it was another memorable celebration for a man who despite not being in government continue to host grand celebrations and attract the cream of society to his events.

Chief & Lady Cherr with daughters: Orobosa, Ivie, Hon. Omosede & Amenze

Senator Ehigie Uzamere, Mrs. Angela Omokore, Mrs. Patience Osunde & Dr. Hosa Okunbo

Alhaji Idi Faruk with Bright Igbinedion

Barr. Omosede Igbinedion & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Dr. Fred Igbinedion & Oscar Onyeama, DG, Nigeria Stock Exchange

47

48

Mrs. Angela Omokore, Dr. Hosa Okunbo & Barr. Omosede Igbinedion

JOLLITY TIME

Shuga Band

49

ASANTEHENE HOSTS THE ESAMA IN KUMASI, GHANA

Nana Osei Tutu II, The Asantehene with Sir Gabriel Igbinedion

R-l: Lady Cherry Igbinedion, Chief (Mrs.) Eki Igbinedion, Lady Mabel Amadi, Barr.

Mina Igbinedion & Bini chief

Mr. Bright Igbinedion & Hon. Charles Igbinedion

50

Chief Lucky Igbinedion & The Otumfuo

Mrs. Patience Osunde & Mrs. Philomena Osawaru

Bright Igbinedion, The Asantehehe & Chief Lucky Igbinedion

The Esama’s grandchildren

Mr. & Mrs. Garrick Egboigbe

51

L’Essama dont la chanson préférée est ‘’Mes mains sont bénies avec les bénédictions du Seigneur, toute personne que je touche sera sûrement bénie, tout ce que je fais sera élevé, mes mains sont bénies avec les bénédictions du Seigneur’’, a déclaré à notre reporter qu’il a toujours cru que Dieu est un facteur important dans Sa vie raison pour laquelle il célèbre Dieu à chaque anniversaire.

Issu d’une famille modeste, il a su vaincre les adversités, et par le travail assidu et l’ingénuité, il est aujourd’hui devenu un des milliardaires africains les plus reconnus et il attribue tout cela à la grâce de Dieu.

A part les œuvres de charité et de solidarité envers les personnes de tous milieu sociaux, le point le plus marquant de la célébration du 80eme anniversaire de Chief Igbinedion est la visite historique à sa ville natale d’Okada dans l’Etat d’Edo, avec tous les membres de sa famille: sa femme, Lady Cherry et ses enfants sous le guide de Chief Lucky Igbinedion, ancien gouverneur de l’Etat d’Edo, ses petits-enfants sous le guide de Mme Zena Enaholo, et tous ses arrière-petits-enfants.

52

Ce fut un moment très émouvant pour l’Essama qui a fait une entrée triomphale avec un convoi de voitures, tous acclamés par les habitants et les chefs de sa ville natale. Il a conduit sa famille à la maison où il a grandi et leur a aussi montré d’autres endroits qui lui sont chers dans sa ville natale qu’il a tout seul transformé en y construisant une université, The Igbinedion University Okada.

Bien sûr, étant un homme qui ne blague pas avec la tradition, il y a eu des séries de prières et des noix de cola cassés. Apres cela, il a convié tout le monde à un banquet dans sa grande maison située au cœur d’Okada.

Le 11 septembre, il y a eu un culte religieux interdenominationnel au petit matin et également un culte religieux en l’église catholique, St. Gabriel The Archangel Catholic Church. Comme d’habitude la crème de la crème de la société nigériane est venue massivement pour célébrer la vie de ce grand homme d’Afrique.

Son 80eme anniversaire n’était pas une petite affaire car il a été honoré dans une ville très éloignée,

à savoir Kumasi au Ghana, par le chef Ashanti, l’Asantehene Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II avec un durbar exceptionnel. Ce genre de durbar de plusieurs couleurs est réservé à des personnalités importantes données, selon l’Asantehene lors d’une interview avec Ovation. Chief Igbinedion mérite cet honneur pour sa contribution remarquable à l’unité africaine, et pour son impact positif sur l’humanité à travers plusieurs affaires et aux œuvres caritatives.

Ce n’était pas tout car l’Asantehene a organisé un grand diner pour l’Essama, sa famille et ses amis dans son palais Manhyia. Plusieurs rois Ashanti étaient présents ainsi qu’une grande délégation composée de chefs, des magnats de l’industrie, et de la maison Igbinedion.

Ce fut sans aucun doute une autre célébration inoubliable pour un homme qui, bien qu’il ne soit pas dans le gouvernement, continue d’organiser de grandes fêtes et d’attirer la crème de la société à sa demeure à Benin dans l’Etat d’Edo.

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY DURBAR

53

MAIN DINNER

54

THANKSGIVING AT CENTRAL BAPTIST, CHURCH, BENIN

55

H.E. CHIEF GABRIEL IGBINEDION’S THE LION OF OKADA

SUPERLATIVE

81ST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

IN ENGLAND, NIGERIA AND SOUTH AFRICA Story: Michael Effiong Photo: Adekoya Adegbite, Segun Lawal & Ken Ehimen

It is always astounding to find hundreds turning out yearly to honour this remarkable entrepreneur, and the fact that the crowd hardly ever reduces is a testimony to Chief Igbinedion's clout, connection and the many lives he has touched and impacted throughout his sojourn on earth.

56

H

aving carved a niche for hosting elaborate events to mark his birthdays and thank God for his life every year, nothing short of a classy and colourful celebration was expected when Esama of Benin Kingdom, Sir Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CON turned 81-and at the end of the three weeks of festivities, the billionaire businessman did not disappoint; it was another superlative celebration that was fitting for a living legend. It was one birthday celebration that reverberated in London, England, Lagos, Nigeria and Johannesburg, South Africa.

The celebration for this year's birthday actually kicked off at the luxurious Claridges, the most iconic five star hotel in Mayfair, London.

The hotel renowned for its classy design and flawless service was where Ghana's numero uno

monarch, The Asantehene, HRM Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutut II and his wife, Lady Julia hosted the Esama of Benin Kingdom.

The event attended by Members of the British Parliament like Lord Boateng, top diplomats including the Jamaican High Commissioner to the UK, Mrs. Aloun Ndombet-Assamba as well as Nigerian and Ghanaian guests.

The evening of good gourmet meal, fine wine and light speeches was cosy but classy. In his remarks, the Asantehene said Chief Igbinedion was a bosom friend, whose friendship has blossomed to that of a brother. He said Igbinedion is one man that has been a blessing to Africa and it was a pleasure for him to witness his 81st birthday. He prayed that God should grant the celebrant more years in good health.

THE PARTY AT THE CLARIDGES IN MAYFAIR, LONDON Photo: Bukola Grace

Amb. H. E. Mrs. Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, Lord Boateng, Esama, Lady Julia & Asantehene cutting the cake

Asantehene & wife Lady Julia dancing

Amb. Victor Smith: Ghana High Commissioner to UK (right)

Amb. H. E. Mrs. Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, Jamaican High Commisioner to UK

57

58

THE CELEBRATION BEGINS IN BENIN EDO STATE... WITH SOLIDARITY VISITS

Dawn Butler, Member of the British Parliament for Brent Central said she was thrilled to attend an event attended by two great Africans. She urged that Africans and their brothers in Diaspora need to unite. She commended the two men for forming this kind of friendship.

Mrs. Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, The Jamaican High Commissioner to the UK said she was proud of the Esama of Benin for the way he has carried the Bini culture and elevated the Bini tradition worldwide. "This is one aspect of Chief Igbinedion that I find very fascinating and I applaud him for this. I wish him well as he begins the celebration of his 81st birthday" In his remarks, an elated Chief

Igbinedion thanked the Otumfuo whom he insisted on calling a dear brother for his love for The House of Igbinedion.

He prayed God to give His Majesty a long and fruitful reign, noting that he prays that the Otumfuo will greatly impact his people during his reign. He thanked all that attended the evening, jocularly adding that he hopes to see them again next year when he would turn 82!

With wonderful cultural displays and week-long visits from groups and organisations from across Nigeria and beyond, the birthday celebrations proper, as always, landed in Benin City, Edo State in South South Nigeria.

The celebrations hit a high tempo on his

Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion & his wife, Lady Cherry Igbinedion

A

près s’être créé une réputation à cause des cérémonies bien élaborées qu’il organise chaque année pour marquer ses anniversaires et pour remercier Dieu pour sa vie, une célébration grandiose et riche en couleurs a été organisée lorsque l’Esama du Royaume de Bénin, Sir Chief (Dr) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CON a eu 81 ans – et à la fin des festivités qui ont duré trois semaines, le richissime homme d'affaires a été à la hauteur. C’était une autre grande célébration digne d’une légende vivante. C’était une célébration d'anniversaire qui a résonné à Londres au Royaume-Uni, à Lagos au Nigeria et à Johannesburg en Afrique du Sud.

La célébration de l'anniversaire de cette année a débuté au luxueux Claridges, le plus emblématique hôtel 5 étoiles à Mayfair à Londres. L'hôtel qui est reputé pour son design élégant et un service irréprochable, était l’endroit où le monarque numero uno du Ghana, l'Asantehene, GRH Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutut II et son épouse, Lady Julia, ont accueilli l’Esama de Bénin. La cérémonie s’est déroulée en présence des membres du Parlement britannique, de hauts diplomates, y compris le HautCommissaire de la Jamaïque au Royaume-Uni, Mme Aloun NdombetAssamba ainsi que des invités nigérians et ghanéens.

Chief Igbinedion with Peter Ogar

59

Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion & his son, Chief (Dr.) Lucky Igbinedion

Chief Igbinedion with Buba .O. Wakama (Edo State Commander, NDLEA)

Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion with Edo State NDLEA officials

Chief (Dr.) Lucky Igbinedion with Sir Victor Uwaifo

exact birthday, September 11, 2015.

This was the day that the real celebration unfolded-and as it has been the case for many years, the day kicked off with a top-notch Morning Dew Interdenominational Service held on the lush grounds of the celebrant's expansive home, in GRA Benin.

Attended by Christian Ministers from different denominations, business and political associates; family and friends, the event kicked off as early as 6.30 am and despite the downpour, the giant marquee erected to host the prayer session was filled to capacity.

It is always astounding to find hundreds turning out yearly to honour this remarkable entrepreneur, and the fact that the crowd hardly ever reduces is a testimony to Chief Igbinedion's

60

clout, connection and the many lives he has touched and impacted throughout his sojourn on earth.

The Opening prayer was by Rev C. Agbe Davies. About Sir Gabriel, the man of God stated "You are a gift to the continent of Africa. That is why we are proud to associate with you. Every year you gather pastors from different denominations to praise God, that is shows that you know that all you have done has not been by you power but God's mercy and that is why he has continued to bless you. And in all sectors you have remained second to none.

There was also a very deep sermon

by Rev. Felix Omobode, the President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria where he harped on the need for service to God and walking in God's way. After

Chief Osula Curtis Iyeke with Esama

La soirée pendant laquelle des repas copieux, des bons vins ont été servis et pendant laquelle de courts discours ont été prononcés, était très simple et très classe.

Dans ses remarques, l’Asantehene a déclaré que Chief Igbinedion était ami de longue date et qu’il est comme un frère pour lui. Il a déclaré qu’iIgbinedion est un homme qui a été une bénédiction pour l'Afrique et ce fut un plaisir pour lui d'assister à son 81e anniversaire. Il a prié pour que Dieu accorde plusieurs années et une bonne santé au célébrant.

Dawn Buttler, membre du Parlement britannique pour Brent Central, a dit qu'elle était ravie d'assister à un événement en présence de deux illustres Africains. Elle a

declareé instamment que les Africains et leurs frères de la diaspora doivent s'unir.

Elle a félicité les deux hommes pour avoir formé ce genre d'amitié. Mme Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, hautcommissaire de la Jamaïque, a pour sa part déclaré qu'elle était fière de l’Esama de Bénin pour la façon dont il a promu et élevé la culture Bini partout où il va. "Ceci est une caractéristique de Chief Igbinedion que je trouve très fascinant et je l'en félicite pour cela. Je lui souhaite tout le bonheur dans la célébration de son 81e anniversaire".

Dans ses remarques, Chef Igbinedion très ému, a remercié l’Otumfuo qu'il a appelé un frère très cher pour son amour pour la maison des Igbinedion. Il a prié Dieu pour qu’Il donne à Sa Majesté un règne long et fructueux, notant qu'il prie pour que

Chief Igbinedion with Unity Bank Benin City staff

Chief Igbinedion with Access Bank Benin City staff

Chief Igbinedion with St. Raphael Catholic Church members

61

ITV/Independent Radio staff singing & praying for Esama

Elder Ogbeide presenting a gift to Esama

62

Bright Igbinedion & his father with ITV/Radio staff

Esama, Elder Ogbeide (GM, ITV & Lady Celerina M. Ojomo (Chairman) ITV/Radio Board

63

Prof Edwin Okoro, Prof. E. Oluwole Akande, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae & Mr. Victor Ogiemwonyi

64

Chief Igbinedion’s long-time Secretary, Mrs. Tessy Egware (left) with guests

The Esama with Vice Chancellor Igbinedion University, Okada, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae

that, the service went into auto pilot.

There was a prayer session for Chief Igbinedion and family and a special session for praise and thanksgiving including a rendition by the Choir from the Brotherhood of the Cross & Star (Olumba Olumba) As expected at ceremonies such as this, Chief Igbinedion is not someone who goes for the ordinary, therefore, this segment for praising God is dear to his heart: The ever cheerful celebrant was almost always on his feet, singing along and dancing to the glory of God. Then there were speeches. Before this segment began there was a one minute silence for the Ooni of Ife, Oba

Okunade Sijuwade, who was a close friend of the Esama of Benin. Infact, the PRO Ife Traditional Council acknowledged the closeness of both men and said that a group of Monarchs from Ife had come to felicitate with the Esama because of the long-standing relationship between Chief Igbinedion and the House of Odua. He showered prayers on the celebrant, wishing him many more years of accomplishments on earth.

Rev. Omo Okundaye also prayed for the Esama while Evangelist Margaret Agbonifo thrilled the whole congregation with a spiritually-lifting prayers before delivering her shower of

l’Otumfuo dirige bien son peuple pendant son règne. Il a remercié tous ceux qui ont assisté à la soirée, et plaisantant, il a ajouté qu'il espère les revoir l'année prochaine quand il aura 82 ans!

Avec de magnifiques performances cultuelles et des visites de groupes et d’organisations à travers le Nigera et ailleurs, la célébration de l'anniversaire proprement dite, comme toujours, a atterri dans la ville de Bénin, dans l'Etat d'Edo au Sud du Nigeria. Les célébrations ont atteint un niveau élevé au jour exact de son anniversaire, le 11 Septembre 2015. Ce fut le jour où la fête même a commencé et comme on a

l’habitude de le faire depuis plusieurs années, la journée a débuté avec un culte religieux interdénominationnel dans les beaux jardins de l’immense maison du célébrant, à GRA à Bénin.

Assisté par les ministres chrétiens de différentes confessions, des associés d’affaires et dans la politique, de la famille et des amis, la cérémonie a débuté dès 06h30 et en dépit d’une forte averse, le chapiteau géant érigé pour accueillir la session de prière était archicomble.

C’est toujours étonnant que des centaines personnes se déplacent chaque année pour honorer cet entrepreneur remarquable, et le fait que la foule ne

65

Chief Igbinedion, Prof. (Mrs.) Ngozi Ugochukwu & Amb. Emmanuel Ugochukwu

Prof. (Mrs.) Ngozi Ugochukwu, Amb. Emmanuel Ugochukwu & Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Crystabel Obadigie, Chief Igbinedion & Mr. Obadigie

66

Chief Igbinedion & Justice Constance Momoh

BIRTHDAY FRIENDLY MATCH BETWEEN NOLLYWOOD

FC AND CRYSTAL FC

Chief Igninedion taking the kick off of the novelty match

Crystal FC team players

Nollywood FC team players

Chief Igbinedion in a handshake with Okey Bakassi (comedian) as Chief Luck Igbinedion looks on

Chief Igbinedion in a handshake with Akpororo (comedian )

Chief Igbinedion in a handshake with Victor Osuagu, actor

67

The Esama showing off his dance step with Victor Osuagu

Tricia Obi, Nora Igbokwe, Vivian Okoro, Joan Chijioke, Abii Maribel & Victor Osuagu

(from second left) Ernest Aibangbee, Mr. Alan Omorogbe, Bright Igbinedion, Pastor Ize-Iyamu & Michael Effiong

Hon. Efosa Igbinedion & Omoregie

Cross section of fans

Presentation of birthday card by Crystal FC to the Esama

68

Chief Igbinedion presenting the trophy to the captain of Crystal FC team, winners of the match

THE MORNING DEW INTER-DENOMINATIONAL SERVICE

The Igbinedion family: Sir Gabriel, Lady Cherry, Chief Lucky, Lady Mabel Amadi & Hon. Charles.

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & his wife Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Lady Mabel Amadi with Bright Igbinedion

Hon. Samuel Ikom with Hon. Omosede Igbinedion

Mrs. Patience Osunde

69

Orobosa Igbinedion with Pastor (Mrs.) Angela Igbidion

Steve Igbinedion & Hon. Leo Ogor

Dumonet Igbinedion & Eghosa Igbinedion

Chief Dan Orbih, Sen. Matthew Urhoghide & Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu

Publicity Secretary, PDP, Edo State, Chris Nehikhare & Mr. Orobosa Omo-Ojo

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu

70

Oba Muraino Adebanjo Adedini & his Olori

(from left) HRM Alhaji Dr. A. Y. E. Dirisu & HRH E, Eluojierior

HRM(Oba) Aikpaogie with Oba Akadiri Momoh, Olukare of Ikare

Fatima Khalifa & Andrea Diana

Chief & Mrs. Osula

Cross section of traditional rullers

Dr. Hajia C.B.R. Dirisu (The Queen mother of Okpella Kingdom) & Chief Amos Osunbor

Chief Lucky Igbinedion with Honourable

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion with traditional rulers

Hon. Asamoah Boateng, former Ghana Minister & Eze Nneli

71

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & his wife, Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Pastor (Mrs.) Margaret Agbonifo with Rev. (Dr.) Felix Omobude

Apostle (Dr). W.O. Osadiaye, Esama & Lady Cherry with traditional rulers

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion with Mrs. Faraday Orumwense

72

(left) Rev. Prof. Eghosa Osaghae

Bishop Okuonghae Philip, Pastor Noah Papele with Aposle Hilary Esezobor of Olumba Olumba Obu Church

Rev. Fr. Alfred Agbonlahor

Rev. (Dr.) Felix Omobude

Chief Amos Osunbor, Esan of Benin

Sir Victor Uwaifo

Representative of Ife Kingdom with Chief Igbinedion

Chief Igbinedion with HRM Ehizojie Ehiojerior, Onojie of Igueben

Chief Igbinedion & Chief Amos Osunbor

The Choir of Olumba Olumba church (Brotherhood of the Cross & Star)

Dr. W. O. Osadiaye (JP), Chairman, C.M.D Dewosco & his wife

Lady Mabel Amadi

73

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & his wife, Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Hon. Agharese Idubo & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Chief Igbinedion greeting Mr. Osaro Egbobiameni, SAN

Mr. Willington (left) & Mr. Garrick Eboigbe (right)

Sen. Matthew Uroghide, Hon. Sam Ikon, Hon. Omosede Igbinedion & Chief Dan Orbih

74

Collins, Etiosa,Osamuyi Ighodaro, Elder Ogbeide, Omoregie, Ernest Aibangbee & Steve

Dr. Raymond Dokpesi with GM AIT Benin

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING TO GOD AT CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCH

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion prasing God

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Lady Cherry Igbinedion

75

Sen. Ben Obi, Dr. Lucky Igbinedion with Chief Tom Ikimi

The Otunba Adekunle Ojora & wife, The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora

Dr. Lucky Igbinedion with Chief Lucky Imasuen (right)

Dr. Lucky Igbinedion with Hon. Justice & Mrs. S. O.Uwaifo

Mr. Ricky Tarfa,SAN, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, & Joe Odegba

Hon. Omosede Igbinedion with Orobosa Igbinedion

Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae & Prof. I. F. Adewole

Chief Raymond Dokpesi & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

76

Chief Lucky Imasuen with Mr. & Mrs. Charles Igbinedion and their daughter

(left) Revd. Dr.T.Olu Aibinuomo

The Igbinedion family

Gods Choir of Central Baptist Church, Benin

Prof. Eghosa Osaghae with Prof. I. F. Adewole

Oba Muraino Adebanjo Adedini and his Olori

Bridget, Joy, Christy & Tessy

Barr. Oni Edigin & Dr. Alan Omorogbe

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

prayers.

Described as a global Enigma, who bought his first house in the UK in 1964, and his first house in Nigeria in Felele, Ibadan also in the 60s, Chief Igbinedion was also praised for his pan-Nigerian outlook to life by HRM Igwe Elder Elias Nneji from Anambra State."He is a man who spreads love and joy to all corners, God will continue to bless you" The Monarch said. In the same vein, the Onogie of Igueben, HRH Ehizogie Ehinojeiro noted that Igbinedion has cast his name in stone with his great achievements and urged all to continue to pray for the celebrant.

The Onogie stated that he wished we had 12 men like Igbinedion in Africa who would come to Edo state to celebrate their birthdays, which would mean an active economic activity in the state all year round and they will also employ the amount of people the Esama does. “He is a worthy son of the State,” the Onogie noted.

Chief Osayande Osunbor, the No. 3 Chief in terms of Seniority in the Benin Kingdom said he was personally at the ceremony to show his immense love for the House of Igbinedion and its patriarch who is the Esama of Benin. He wished the Esama more healthy years on

diminue jamais est un témoignage de l'influence de Chief Igbinedion, de ses connexions et de toutes les vies qu'il a touchées et affectées pendant son séjour sur terre. La prière d'ouverture a été dite par Rev C Agbe Davies.

Parlant de Monsieur Gabriel igbinedion, l'homme de Dieu a déclaré: «Vous êtes un cadeau pour le continent africain.

Voilà pourquoi nous sommes fiers de nous associer avec vous. Chaque année, vous réunissez des pasteurs de différentes dénominations pour louer Dieu, ce qui montre que vous êtes conscient que toutes les choses que vous avez accomplies n’ont pas été faites par votre propre pouvoir mais plutôt par la

miséricorde de Dieu raison pour laquelle Il a continué à vous bénir. Et dans tous les domaines de votre vie, vous excellez’’.

Il y a eu également un très profond sermon de Mgr Felix Omobode, le Président de la Communauté Pentecôtiste du Nigeria où il a rabâché sur la nécessité du service envers Dieu et sur le fait de marcher dans la voie de Dieu; il y a eu une session spéciale de louange et d’actions de grâce, y compris une prestation de la chorale de the Brotherhood of the Cross & Star (Olumba Olumba).

Comme prévu lors de cérémonies comme celle-ci, Chief Igbinedion n’est

77

The Igbinedion family during thanksgiving

78

Panoramic view of the congregation

earth. There were goodwill messages from all parts of Nigeria and friends from across the globe.

The session was rounded off with an emotional speech by the Esama of Benin. He first broke into choruses in praise of the Almighty God, then he began by a firm declaration that he would have been nothing today without God. His first daughter, Lady Mabel Amadi gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the House of Igbinedion.

Two days later, inside the Central Baptist Church, Benin, there was another session of prayers and thanksgiving. It was also attended by top Nigerians and close family friends like The Otunba Adekunle Ojora and his wife, The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, Senator Ben Obi and many others.

The church service was soulful and

was co-ordinated by Presiding Pastor, Rev. Olu Abinoumo. It was a spritually ceremony that was lively in every sense of the word. The day was rounded off with a reception at the home of the celebrant.

Next stop for the celebration was South Africa. For this occasion, the billionaire businessman flew hundreds to Johannesburg, South Africa for this segment which featured a Church service at the popular Rhema Church in Randburg and an upscale birthday dinner in Johannesburg.

Before the two official events, there were two others. the first was a welcome dinner and the other was a surprise gift to his wife.

The welcome dinner was hosted in honour of The Esama by none other than the Zulu King, HRM Goodwill

The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora with The Esama

pas quelqu'un qui opte pour l'ordinaire, par conséquent, cette session de louange à Dieu lui était très cher car il était joyeux et était presque toujours sur ses pieds pour chanter et danser à la gloire de Dieu.

Ensuite, il y a eu des discours. Avant le début de cette session, il y a eu un silence d'une minute pour l’Ooni d'Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, qui était un ami proche de l'Esama de Bénin. En fait, le Conseil traditionnel d’Ife a reconnu la proximité des deux hommes et a déclaré qu'un groupe de monoarches d'Ifé était venu féliciter l’Esama en raison de la relation de longue date entre Chief Igbinedion et la maison des Odua. Il a dit des prières pour le célébrant, en lui souhaitant encore de nombreuses années sur la terre. Rev. Omo Okundaye a également prié pour l’Esama tandis que l’évangéliste Margaret Agbonifoa a ravi toute l'assemblée avec une priere

très touchante.

Décrit comme une enigme mondiale, qui a acheté sa maison au Royaume-Uni en 1964, et sa première maison au Nigeria à Felele à Ibadan également dans les années 60, il a également été félicité pour sa vision pan-nigériane par Sa Majeste Royale Igwe Elder Elias Nneji de l’Etat d’Anambra. "C’est un homme qui répand l'amour et la joie à tous les coins; Dieu continuera à vous bénir", a déclaré le monarque. Dans la même veine, l'Onogie d’Igueben, SAR Ehizogie Ehinojeiro a noté qu’Igbinedion a gravé son nom dans la pierre avec ses grandes réalisations et il a exhorté tout le monde de continuer à prier pour le célébrant. Il a dit qu'il aimerait qu’il y aie 12 hommes comme Igbinedion en Afrique qui viendraient dans l'Etat d'Edo pour célébrer leurs anniversaires, ce qui signifierait une 79

80

IGBINEDION SHAKES SOUTH AFRICA WITH GRAND 81ST BIRTHDAY DINNER AND THANKSGIVING Story: Michael Effiong Photo: Adekoya Adegbite & Segun Lawal (Live in South Africa)

Prince Attah (Representative of Asantehene), Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & Prof. Olu Aina arriving the Sandton Convention centre

Zwelithini Kabhekuzulu. The dinner was at the Hilton Sandton The Esama had bought a lovely mansion in highbrow, horse country, Saddlebrook Estate, Kylami-and he shocked everyone when he invited the King of Zulu, HRM Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu to present the papers of the palatial mansion to Lady Cherry.

Many of the guests from Nigeria invited to attend the 81st birthday dinner scheduled for the Sandton Convention Centre were not aware that the stylish Esama of Benin, fondly called Esama of the Universe, had such a magnificent property in the Rainbow country.

Guests were first taken on a tour of the property which is a picturesque gothic building with massive columns, well-laid lawns and since it is located in South Africa’s horse country, had stables that the Igbinedions could convert to their taste. The layout and the furnishing are stunning and grand, an architectural masterpiece, pristine and stately.

81

KING OF ZULU HOSTS CHIEF GABRIEL IGBINEDION AT THE HILTON, SANDTON

Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion in warm handshake

Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

82

Onogie of Igueben, HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie greeting King Zulu

Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini, King Zulu wife, Nompumelelo Mchiza & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion (Esama Of Benin Kingdom) & King Goodwill Zwelethini of Zulu Kingdom

King Goodwill Zwelithini & His Queen

Prof. Victor Uwaifo, Prof. Olu Aina , HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Father Ehigie & HRH Osagie Ikhumhen

(Middle) King Goodwill Zwelithini & His Queen

Prof. Victor Uwaifo, Prof. Olu Aina, HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

From 3rd left: Prince Osama Erediauwa & Hon. Idubo Agharese

King Goodwill Zwelethini of Zulu Kingdom

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion (Esama Of Benin Kingdom)

83

King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion introducing the Prince of Benin Kingdom, Prince Osama Erediuwa to the king

84

85

A TOUR OF CHIEF IGBINEDION’S GIFT TO WIFE, LADY CHERRY: AN EXQUISITE MANSION IN SADDLEBROOK ESTATE, KYALAMI

King KaBhekuzulu read the legal documents of the property and it was revealed that Chief Igbinedion had in actual fact given the magnificent mansion to his Jamaican wife, Lady Cherry on behalf of the Thompson Family Foundation

86

87

88

89

90

91

92

93

...PRAYER TO OPEN THE LOVELY PALATIAL MANSION

Opening Of the new home by King Goodwill Zwellithini

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion give thanks to God

94

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion give thanks to God

King Goodwill Zwelithini Of Zulu Kingdom & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion enjoying the scenic view of the mansion

King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion taking a tour of the property

Ovation & Biscon crew live in South Africa

95

King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion during the presentation Kola nut

Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion during the cutting of Kola nut

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini at the presentation of Kola nut to the King Zulu wife, Nompumelelo Mchiza

Jamica High Commissioner to UK, H.E Mrs. Aloun Ndombet-Assamba , Lady Cherry Igbinedion & Paulette Redwood

96

Lady Cherry Igbinedion, Nompumelelo Mchiza, Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini as Chief Gabriel Igbinedion presents book to HRM

. . . PRES EN TATION OF DOCU MEN TS TO LA DY CHERRY

Lady Cherry Igbinedion (nee Thompson) was so exited at this shocking gift and expression of love by her husband and promised to take good care of the property

King Goodwill Zwelithini Presenting house Document to Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Lady Cherry Igbinedion with Queen Of Zulu Kingdom

(R-L) Oba Adebayo Adedini , HRH Osagie Ikhumhen & HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie

HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie, Chief Igbinedion, Zulu King & Lady Cherry Igbinedion

97

THE STATELY DINNER AT THE SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE, JOHANNESBURG

Barr. Mike Igbinedion , Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & Bright Igbinedion

Lucky Igbinedion , Bright Igbinedion , Mike Igbinedion & Charles Igbinedion

Lady Cherry with her guests

98

Lady Cherry Igbinedion & daughter, Orobosa

Lucky Igbinedion greeting the Bini chiefs

The Chiefs of Benin Kingdom

Okagun Of Esanland, HRH Osagie Ikhumhen , HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie, Onogie of Igueben & wife

Oba Adebayo Adedini & Olori with Dr. Bisi Olatilo

(left) Folorunsho Okenla

Anita Ugbor, Dr. Abiye Sekibo, Bruce Coral & Tony Amakiri

Richard Nwakanma with Mr. & Mrs. Audu

2nd left’ Mrs. Selina Jutla (chief Igbinedion’s long-time UK Secretary) with guests

Anna & Antoine

Amechi Chukwurah, Nonye Omotola & Adetunji Omotola

Dr. Phil, Carl & Pheza Nzehaus

99

Chief Igbinedion, Sen. Amori, Sen. Ben Obi, Bright Igbinedion & Hon. E.J. Agbonayinma

Bright Igbinedion & friends

Father Micheal, Lucky Igbinedion, Father Chima & Father Augustine Ehigie

Dr. Francis & Angela Mason

Prince Bisi Olatilo & Elder Idehen

Selina Jutla, Bright Igbinedion & Mrs. Hines

100

Cegare Cremona, Deborah Lary & Lucky Igbinedion

Prince & Princess Osama Erediauwa

Hon. Charles Igbinedion & wife, Angela (middle)

Hon. Charles Igbinedion, Lucy Igbinedion & wife, Angela Igbinedion

Mr. & Mrs. Hlengiwe

Mr. & Mrs. Vonani Mabunda

Guica & Princess Lesego

R-L: Chief Lucky Igbinedion with Oba & Olori Adedini

Peter Akpatason, Olisah Smith & Hon. E.J. Agbonayinma

Elizabeth Mckenzie, Ian Mckenzie & Jeanine Fincher

Mr. & Mrs. Khan with Mr. & Mrs. Cajee

101

Albert Egbe, Michael Effiong, Prof. Victor Uwaifo & Mrs. Egbe

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Edo-Ogie with Hon. & Mrs. Charles Igbinedion

Mr. Micheal Effiong , Folorunso Okenla , Hon. Agharese Idubor & Dr. Bisi Olatilo

There was a prayer session to open the property after which Chief Igbinedion informed everyone that he has specially invited his friend, the Zulu King to make an announcement and he passed on a white envelope to the South African monarch.

King kaBhekuzulu read the legal documents of the property and it was revealed that Chief Igbinedion had in actual fact given the magnificent mansion to his Jamaican wife, Lady Cherry on behalf of the Thompson Family Foundation!

Lady Cherry Igbinedion (nee Thompson) was really elated by this

102

shocking gift and expression of love by her husband and she promised to take good care of the property. Interestingly, her eldest daughter, Omosede already has her own section of the mansion.

Chief Igbinedion stated that he decided to present the documents which were only ready that same day on September 17, 2015 as his appreciation for the love and support that he had received over the years from the ever cheerful, Lady Cherry.

The adventure to South Africa continued at the top-notch Sandton Convention Centre, with a black-tie dinner. The event was coordinated by

Bright Igbinedion with Bini chiefs

activité économique active dans l'état pendant toute l'année et qui reunirait le nombre de personnes comme le fait l’Esama. Il est un digne fils de l'État, a noté l'Onogie. Chief Osayande Osunbo, le n ° 3 en chef en termes d'ancienneté dans le royaume de Benin a déclaré qu'il était personnellement venu à la cérémonie pour montrer son immense amour pour la maison des Igbinedion et son patriarche, l’Esama de Bénin. Il a souhaité à l’Esama des années plus saines sur terre. Il y avait des messages de bonne volonté de tous horizons du Nigeria et d’amis à travers le monde.

La session a pris fin par un discours émouvant prononcé par l’Esama de Bénin. Il a d’abord commencé par chanter des louanges à Dieu, puis il a

fait une ferme déclaration qu'il ne serait rien aujourd’hui sans Dieu. Sa première fille, Barr. (Mme) Mabel Amadi a remercié au nom de la maison des Igbinedion. Deux jours plus tard, dans la Central Baptist Church de Bénin, il y a eu une autre session de prières et d’actions de grâces. Elle a été assistée par de grandes persnoonalites nigerianes et des amis proches comme L’Otunba Adekunle Ojora et son épouse, L’Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, le sénateur Ben Obi et beaucoup d'autres.

Le culte dans l'église était très calme et il a été coordonné par le Pastor Rev. Olu Abinoumo. La journée a pris fin avec une réception à la maison du célébrant.

Prochain arrêt pour la célébration était l'Afrique du Sud. Pour cette

Barr. Omoregie Ogboro & Orobosa Igbinedion

Mrs. Selina Jutta & Bright Igbinedion

Micheal Effiong & Prof. Victor Uwaifo

Lady Cherry Igbinedion

Hon. Omosede Igbinedion

Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Fasedemi

Lucky Igbinedion & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Hon. Charles Igbinedion & wife, Angela

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Edo-Ogie

103

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & wife, Lady Cherry

Bright Igbinedion & King Goodwill Zwelithini

Pastor Ray McCauley & daughter with Lady Cherry

Pastor Ray greeting Chief Gabriel Igbinedion as Bright Igbinedion looks on

Mrs. Aloun Assamba (Jamaican High Commissioner to UK) with Sir Gabriel Igbinedion

Mrs. Aloun Ndombet Assamba greeting Pastor Ray McCauley & daugter

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & Pastor Ray McCauley with daughter

occasion, le richissime homme d'affaires a emmené des centaines de personnes par avion à Johannesburg, en Afrique du Sud pour cette partie qui comprend un culte en l'église Rhema Church à Randburg ainsi qu’un dîner d'anniversaire haut de gamme à Johannesburg.

Avant ces deux événements officiels, l'Esama a fait une surprise à sa propre épouse, Lady Cherry Igbinedion. L’Esama avait acheté une belle maison, à Saddlebrook Estate, Kylami -il a choqué tout le monde quand il a invité le roi des Zoulous, Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu à présenter les papiers de la demeure palatiale à Lady Cherry. Beaucoup d'invités ont été invités à assister au dîner du 81e anniversaire prévu au Sandton Convention Centre et ils n’étaient pas au courant que l’élégant Esama de Bénin, affectueusement appelé Esama de l'Univers, possède une telle propriété. Les invités ont d'abord effectué une visite de la propriété qui est un bâtiment magnifique gothique pittoresque avec des colonnes massives, des

104

pelouses bien établies et puisqu’ielle se trouve dans le horse country en Afrique du Sud, elle possède des écuries que les Igbinedions vont certainement convertir.

La disposition et l'ameublement sont superbes et grandioses, un chef-d'œuvre architectural majestueux.

Il y avait une séance de prière pour inaugurer la propriété, après quoi Chief Igbinedion a informé tout le monde qu'il a spécialement invité son ami, le roi zoulou à faire une annonce et il a passé une enveloppe blanche au monarque d'Afrique du Sud. Le Roi kaBhekuzulu a lu les documents juridiques de la propriété et il a été révélé que Chief Igbinedion avait, en réalité, offert la magnifique demeure à sa femme jamaïcaine, Lady Cherry au nom de la Thompson Family Foundation!

Lady Cherry Igbinedion (née Thompson) était tellement excitée à cause de ce cadeau choquant et qui est une expression de l'amour de son mari et elle a promis de prendre soin de la propriété. Fait intéressant, sa fille aînée, Omosede a déjà son propre appartement

de la maison. Chief Igbinedion a déclaré qu'il a décidé de présenter les documents qui étaient seulement prêts le jour même, le 17 Septembre 2015, en guise de son appréciation pour l'amour et le soutien qu'il a reçus au cours des années de la très joyeuse, Lady Cherry.

L'aventure en Afrique du Sud a continué au Sandton Convention Centre, où un black-dîner a été organisé pour lui par ses enfants et a été coordonné par M. Bright Igbinedion et sa femme, Barr. Mina qui habitent Afrique du Sud. La soirée a commencé avec des cocktails et canapés, après quoi les invités ont été escortés à leurs sièges par des femmes d’accueil magnifiquement vêtues pour le démarrage proprement dit de l’événement. Le décor était céleste et l'ambiance électrisante, et on pouvait remarquer la touche de l'élégance d’Igbinedion.

Rev. Ray McCauley de Rhema Bible Church a fait la prière d'ouverture, après quoi les Maîtres de

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion ( Esama Of Benin Kingdom) & King Goodwill Zwelithini Of Zulu Kingdom sharing a joke

King Goodwill Zwelithini & his Queen

H.E. Aloun Ndombet Assamba , Lady Cherry Igbinedion & Chief Gabriel

Mrs. Margaret Ramaramisa & Amb Uche Ajulu Okeke

Pastor Ray McCauley delivering the opening prayer

105

Sherry Karola

Hon. Agharese Idubor

Dr. Bisi Olatilo

Amb. Uche Ajulu Okeke

Sen. Ben Obi

Prof Olu Aina

106

HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie

Sen. Ighoyota Amori

H.E. Aloun Ndombet Assamba

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & King Goodwill Zwellithini

King Goodwill Zwelithini

Presentation Of gift to Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Lady Cherry Igbinedion & King Goodwill Zwellithini

Mrs. Aloun Ndombet Assamba & King Goodwill Zwellithini

HRH Eilogieror Ehizogie, Lady Cherry Igbinedion, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, King Goodwill Zwellithini & his Queen

107

Amb. Uche Ajulu Okeke, Lady Cherry Igbinedion, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, King Goodwill Zwellithini & Lucky Igbinedion

Hon. Omosede Igbinedion with embers of the Federal House of Representatives

Hon. Samuel Ikon greeting The Esama

Bright Igbinedion greeting King Goodwill Zwellithini

Mrs. Dayo Keshi, Chief Igbinedion & Amb. Joe Keshi

ADV. M. Luphondo, ADV. T. Tshitaka, MS. L. Jobela, MS. D. Nkosi, Bar. O. Ogboro & MS. S. Semenya

Mr. Peter Aaron, Azita Hemmings (Wayne) & wife, Mr. Bright Igbinedion & wife

108

Bright Igbinedion with friends

Orobosa Igbinedion & Ivie Igbinedion

Hon. Omosede Igbinedion with Hon. Akeem Adeyemi & wife

Hon. Omosede Igbinedion (r)

Rev. Margaret Oghosa Agbonifo

Miss Igbinedion, a guest with Mr. & Mrs. Prince Alex Akenzua Bright Igbinedion

Lucky Igbinedion & Azita Hemmings & wife

Zulu Tv Reporter

Mr. Mike Dada

109

Hon. Samuel Ikon,Hon. Nanim Ila, Hon. Peter Akpatason & Hon. E.S. Agbonayinma

Farai Gundan,Helen Asrat & Chloe Khati

Micheal Effiong & Mike Dada

Mike Igbinedion & Segun Lawal of Ovation

Zulu King & Queen with guest

110

111

Amb Uche Ajulu Okeke with guests

Sen. Ighoyota Amori with Ovation TV presenter, Daala Oruwari

112

113

THANKSGIVING SERVICE AT RHEMA BIBLE CHURCH, RANDBURG

Lady Cherry Igbinedion , Pastor Ray MCcauley & Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

Mr. Bright Igbinedion and wife, Barr. Mina who are both domiciled in South Africa.

The evening began with cocktails and canapes,after which guests were escorted by well-clad usherettes to their seats for the event proper to begin. The decor was heavenly and the ambience electrifying, it had the Igbinedion trademark of elegance written all over it.

Rev. Ray McCauley of Rhema Bible Church delivered the opening prayer after which the Comperes: Sherry Karola, ace Broadcaster, Bisi Olatilo and Hon. Egharese Idubor took centre stage.

There were speeches by Nigeria Consul-General to

114

South Africa, Ambassador (Mrs) Uche J Ajulu Okeke, Amb. (Mrs,) Mrs. Aloun Ndombet-Assamba (who flew in from London), Senator Ighoyota Amori, and the Zulu King, HRM Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu.

After his speech, the Zulu King then presented a regal chair to the Esama of Benin. This turned out to be the highest point of the occasion.

Sir Victor and his band thrilled guests with a solid live performance, while guests danced to a medley of top hits from the Deejay. It was another lively and funfilled evening.

The 81st birthday of Chief Igbinedion was

Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & wife Lady Cherry being intorduces to the Church

rounded off in the House of God. There was a special thanksgiving service at the Rhema Bible Church, Randburg where the Presiding Pastor, Rev. Ray MCauley personally introduced the Igbinedions to the Church and telling his thousands-strong congregation that the Esama, an accomplished African businessman was in the house to thank God for his 81st birthday-the cheers and applause was deafening.

He went on to pray for the House of Igbinedion and all the guests that had joined them for this celebration of great joy. The man of God therefore sealed the week of celebration with divine blessing.

Pastor Ray McCauley

A Cross section of chiefs

Lucky Igbinedion, Bright Igbinedion, Sen. Ben Obi & guests

(R-l) Prof. Olu Aina & Lucky Igbinedion

Micheal Effiong & Hon. Sam Ikon

Senator Amori, Mike Igbinedion & Barr. Omoregie Ogboro

R-l: Dr. Bisi Olatilo, Chief Igbinedion & guest

Bright Igbinedion & a top gospel artiste

Mike Igbinedion, Prince Atta & Bright Igbinedion

115

Mrs. Mina Igbinedion, Chief (Mrs.) Tessy Hart, Hon. Oyinbo Ukuta & Princess Futhi Zulu

Chief Lucky Igbinedion & Former Minister, Dr. Abiye Sekibo

Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, Prince & Princess Akeem Adeyemi & Dr. Bisi Olatilo

Senator Amori, Sen. Obi, Sir Gabriel & Dr. Sekibo

Folorunso Okenla with Etiosa, PA to Chief Igbinedion

Mrs. Selina Jutla (left) & other guests

116

Zulu Prince making a presentation to Sir Gabriel

cérémonie, Bisi Olatilo et l'hon.

Egharese Idubor sont montés sur scène.

Il y avait des discours prononcés par le Consul Général du Nigeria en Afrique du Sud, l'ambassadeur (Mme) Uche Okeke J Ajulu, Mme Aloun NdombetAssamba, sénateur Ighoyota Amori, et le roi des Zoulous, Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu. Après son discours, le roi zoulou a ensuite fait une présentation spéciale d'une chaise royale à l'Esama de Bénin. Ce fut le point le plus élevé de l'occasion. Sir Victor et sa bande ont ravi les invités avec une solide performance live, tandis que les invités ont dansé sur un medley des tubes du DJ. Ce fut une autre soirée animée et amusante.

Le 81e anniversaire du chef Igbinedion s’est terminé dans la Maison de Dieu. Il y a eu un spéciale culte d'action de grâces en l'église Rhema Bible, Randburg, où le pasteur principal, le révérend Ray McAuley, a personnellement presenté les Igbinedions à l'Église et a raconté à son immense congrégation que l’Esama, un homme d'affaires africain accompli était venu pour remercier Dieu pour son 81e anniversaire-les acclamations et les applaudissements étaient assourdissants.

Il a continué à prier pour la maison des Igbinedion et tous les invités les ont rejoints pour cette célébration de grande joie.

THE COLOURFUL WEDDING OF

TAHIRAH ABDULAZEEZ

AND

TAJUDEEN SAGAYA

IN ILORIN, KWARA STATE, NIGERIA Story: Rabiat Omeiza Photo: Abraham Falodun & Segun Lawal

L

ove...the feeling of ecstasy that beclouds the mind, touch of agreement that entangles souls, the taste of extraordinary affection that unites hearts...when two souls agree, two minds mingle and two hearts beat togther the ultimate decision to transform the feeling into marriage is awesome and mind blowing. The joy of marriage is a lifetime goal cherished by all especially in this part of the world. Marriage is not just an agreement between bodies, but that of hearts, souls and families.

This was the kind of scenario that dashing Tajudeen Sagaya, the son of Engineer Olanrewaju Sagaya, the Zaana of Ilorin and Chairman/CEO, Yola Consultants and gorgeous, Tahirah Abdulazeez, the beautiful daughter of Dr Umar Faruq Abdulazeez, the Tafidan Ebira of Ilorin found themselves when they invited friends and family to witness their nuptials in the ancient city of Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State The beautifully planned wedding ceremony which spanned three memorable days kicked off on a Thursday evening, with a 'Waka night' ceremony which is an all-night ceremony of dance and prayers. The high point is usually the musical performances and bands who thrill guests with the Islam-influenced traditional music fondly called, Waka.

117

THE STYLISH WAKA NIGHT

The Musical group of Jaigbade Alao

Jaigbade Alao

Engr. Sagaya, Alhaji Tunde Badmus, Prof. Naalah & Amb. Nimota Akanbi

Engr. Lanre Sagaya & Engr. Jerome Bello

118

General Hassan, Engr. Suleiman Yahaya & friend

Engr. Lanra Sagaya

Alhaji Badmus, Engr. Sagaya & Dr. B. Oyekan

Alhaji Yahaya, Engr. Sagaya & Alh. Abdulai

Amb. Nimota Akanbi & Guest

Alhaji Badmus, Alhaji Saro & Engr. Sagaya

Engr. Jerome Bello , Dr. A.K. Gomih, Engr. Sagaya & the Edems

Vice Admiral Ayinla, Engr. Lanre Sagaya, Engr. Godwin Abayomi & Segun Oyekunle

119

Tunde Imoyo, Lere Awokoya, Engr. Sagaya & Alimi Abdurasak

Belgore, Haroon, Sagaya & Salami

120

Sagaya, Justice Haroon & Salami

Belgore, Haroon, Sagaya & Salami

Engr. Sagaya & Prince Ajibola Afonja

Groom’s friends, brothers & cousins

Prof. Naalah, Lawal Garba, Sagaya & Col. Ishola

121

BRIDE PREPARING FOR WALIMAH WITH HER AUNT, RAFA ATTAH

122

THE WALIMATUL QURAN BEGINS...

The traditional 'Waka' night was held at the family house of the groom’s father. The Ile Olosan Oke Apomu Sagaya' compound and the venue was filled with guests and family as the lead artisite, Sheikh Lahdan 'Oba oni Waka' put up a scintillating performance.

The waka is a compulsory rite for the elders to celebrate with the incoming wife. Sheikh Lahdan 'Oba oni Waka' offered praises, preached and gave advice to the couple. The groom was also part of the fun as he proceeded into the various rooms in the family house to greet and notify the elderly women of his presence, they in turn prayed for him and his father, the host and his bride-to-be.

The next ceremony was the Walimatul Quran. This is a formal ceremony to commemorate the completion of marital rites and recitation of the Holy Quran.

The bride-to-be, Tahirah Abdulazeez sat before the Imams and Islamic clerics who wanted to test her deep knowledge of the Holy Book especially her ability to recite key verses.

Clad in a beautiful cream flowing apparel and a veil with dazzling stones which she complemented with a Karen Millen wrist watch and a Russell and Bromley silver shoe. She had a flawless facial transformation as a result of the magical touch of Moh-Makeover. But it was not her looks that drew wonderful applause, it was her excellent and flawless recitation of all the verses put before her.

After she recited the Quran before her immediate family and the Imams, she moved from house to house within the massive compound, reciting same portion of the Quran to her extended family members. She was accompanied

by her friends while making the rounds.

The handsome groom, Tajudeen Sagaya, also did his Walimat the same day. He was also made to recite Quran verses to Islamic Clerics and in the presence of his family members and close friends. He wore a brown and white-striped agbada, a white scarf knotted carefully over his cap completed his dressing for this very religious aspect of the wedding ceremony.

The love birds were later united when the beautiful bride-to-be arrived at the grooms' home later that day in a gorgeously put together light brown and white striped aso-oke traditional attire.

She was also made to recite some verses of the Quran before she was warmly received by the Shagaya family and all those present. The Islamic Cleric prayed for the couple and also gave them some useful marital tips.

The classy engagement ceremony was held at Roemichs Marquee Event Centre in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital. The hall was filled to its capacity as it hosted a lot of people from different parts of the world and Royal fathers from different ethnic groups.

The hall was decorated luxuriously in the colour of the day: gold and orange, and everything was stylishly arraned by the very innovative, Roastal Flowers.

The table arrangement was superb.

Each table had beautiful centre pieces, fruit stands, lovely gold charger plates, gorgeous napkins, with admirable chandeliers dropping from the rooftop droping just above every table. A beautifully designed three-tier cake by Andy Clarke Cakes stood boldly on the cake stand . Indeed, everything was prim and proper.

123

Bride during her Walimah with Nafisa Dauda (l) & Sawdah Rimi (r)

124

Dr. Umar Farouk Abdulazeez & Rtd DIG Alhaji Yusuf

(L-R) Gbolahan Shodeinde, Abdullahi Yusuf & Jabbar Abdulazeez

Alhaji. Badmus, Engr. Sagaya & Prof. I. Gambari

125

Bride’s sisterS: (l-r) Sanira Adebiyi, Zainab Abdulazeez & Halima Harling

Bride’s mother flanked by her close friends

L-r: Bride’s mother, Ahmed Abudlazeez, Morenike Abdulazeez, Mrs. Fatai Abdulazeez & Mohammed Abdulazeez

GROOM AT WALIMAH READING THE HOLY QURAN

Mothers of the day with Dr. Farouk Abdulazeez & groom

Bride’s brothers: Ahmed & Mohammed Abdulazeez, groom & Alhaji Abdul

(l-r) Tijani Abdulazeez, Ahmed Abdulazeez, Dr. Farouk Abdulazeez, groom, Folarin Sagaya & Farouk Abdulazeez Jnr.

127

Bride’smaids dressed for the Walimah

Dr. (Mrs.) Maryam Shagaya, Hajia Bola Shagaya & bride’s mother

Close friends & family members with the bride’s mother

Cheif bride’smaid, Nafisa Dauda, bride & Kubrah

The grooms' parents and family members were the first to arrive and they were serenaded by soft tunes from the Wheels of Steel courtesy DJ Baggis as they settled into their seats awaiting the arrival of the bride and her entourage.

The Ebira cultural troupe and Ebira Women Association ushered in the bride's parents amidst drumming and singing. Not very long after their arrival, the resplendent bride was ushered in through the champagne gold walkway by her close friends, cousins and sisters, clad in a peach and champagne gold buba and 'aso-oke' supplied by BisBod traditional wears.

The couple both wore matching attires as they wore outfits made from the same champagne gold and peach Aso-Oke. The family of the groom soon made a presentation of gifts to their in-laws as it is the norm at any African traditional wedding ceremony. All the items were warmly and whole-heartedly accepted by the family of the bride. This singular act of accepting the gifts by the bride's family meant that they had accepted that their daughter can now be a member of the Sagaya family.

Little wonder that not too long afterwards, the groom took off her dazzling champagne gold veil to behold his Lovely Princess and went ahead to present her to the whole world with glee.

Later, with so much joy and laughter, the couple went ahead to cut their beautiful cake as officiated by the Master of Ceremonies.

The musical icon, King Sunny Ade, was the Main Act for the day and he swept the couple , their families and guests off their feet with his evergreen beats.

Tajudeen and Tahirah were formally joined as man and wife according to Islamic tenets during the Nikkah ceremony a day later. The ceremony

128

was conducted by an Islamic cleric, with the approval of the parents of the couple or their representatives.

The beautiful Roemichs Marquee Event Centre was the venue, and like the other ceremonies, it was also wellattended by gorgeously dressed guests.

Gracefully dressed, the couple arrived the well decorated venue in grand style. The groom chose a white flowing agbada while the bride rocked a beautifully made white bedazzled dress, a nicely tied white head gear and a glittery white veil over her perfectly made up face. They made quite an entry as the bride had on her most priced asset all through: a charming smile that revealed her perfect set of shiny white teeth.

The Muslim clerics were already seated in the exotic venue, and were reciting the necessary Quran verses that was meant for the 'Akhdul-nikkah'. The parents of the bride and groom were both present to witness this historic occasion.

Alhaji Mamman and Dr. Lanre Badmus officiated the ceremony and declared the long-time friends and soulmates, husband and wife to the delight of all present who could not help but cheer and applaud. Later, Ambassador Abdulwahab Adeyi presented them with a Quran, blessed their matrimony, and implored them to abide by the teachings of the Holy Quran.

A grand reception rounded off the 3day celebration and this time the couple adorned sparkling full English wedding attires. The day was colourful and glamorous and one cannot not but mention the excellent work of Yinka Okeowo of Magna Events who put it all together of course Roestal Flowers added a touch of class to it all.

Futhermore, firms like Honey Lips, Sizzling fingaz, Oval Tart caterers, Mandies cocktails, Labash Cocktails

Bride reciting Surat Baqara to the mother of Oke Apomu

Bride after reading to members of groom’s family

Groom during Walimah at Oke-Apomu Mosque

Groom, Amb. Abdulwahab & Imam Ojibira

and Sweet Craving Desserts all ensured that guests had first-rate service in terms of food and drinks. And the famous K Squared took care of Security.

The dashing groom and his delectable bride had a change of attire for the reception party. The bride with her hands and feet decorated in henna, beautifully made up by Mamza Beauty, and styled in a beautiful silver dress by Hudaya, accompanied her beau in his blue fitted suit, into the venue.

They were the cynosure of all eyes as they danced into the venue escorted by their groom's men and bride's maids.

The best man, Folarin Sagaya and the Chief bride's maid, Nafisa Dauda were the cheerleaders of this wellorchestrated scene-while DJ Baggis dished out the couple's special numbers which were hot Nigerian songs.

The couple took their seat in their lavishly decorated couple's tent, which had a sparkling white gazzebo and backdrop, with special lightings and chandeliers hanging over their heads like royalty, and a beautiful white couple's side stool. They were smiling all the way as they stared into the unbelievable crowd of guests that came to celebrate with them.

The mothers of the couple wore matching attires of green lace, the bridesmaids rocked baby pink dresses and the groomsmen looked sophisticated in their black suits and gold ties.

The Ebira and Yoruba cultural troupes showcased their dance moves as they entertained the guests. There was also a live band on standby and it was none other than Demola Olota and his group.

129

130

Alh. Laaro Bolaji & Alh. Babafila

Engr. Sagaya, Engr. A. Oyekan & Dr. Oyekan

Alh. Belgore & Engr. Sagaya

Dr. Gomih & Admiral Ayinla

Alhaji. Belgore, Engr. Sagaya & Engr. Oyekan

Alhaji Belgore, Yusuf Ali (SAN) & Engr. Sagaya

The groom, Engr. Sagaya, Amb. Gambari, Engr. Sagaya & Alh. Belgore

131

Amb. Gambari & Engr. Sagaya

The groom

Chief Imam of Ilorin

132

MC Ajebo, the Master of ceremonies did not perform below expectation as guests really enjoyed his joke. He actuallly coordinated the cutting of the cake and it was such an enjoyable moment as the comedian teased the shy bride when she fed her Prince Charming a slice of cake.

He it was who later invited invited AVM Edem (Rtd) to officiate the exchange of rings.

The reception also witnessed the Presentation of the Holy Quran to the Couple by Nigeria’s former Ambassador to Lebanon, Alhaji Adeyi Soon, it was time for the couple to show their dancing skills and the bride gave the groom a run for his money with her twisting and turning routine. DJ Baggis who was again on the wheels of steel reeled out good music that enlivened the atmosphere. No sooner had they finished the couple's dance, that the floor was declared open-and

Demola Olota took centre stage, thrilling guests till well into the night.

As expected for an event organised by two prominent families, it was attended by celebrated Nigerians such as Hajia Bola Shagaya, Alh. Tunde Badmus, Ambassador Nimota Akanbi, Professor Naalah, Vice Admiral Ayinla, Dr. Ayo Gomih, Rtd DIG Alh. Yusuf, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, Ambassador Abdulwahab Adeyi, Yusuf Alli,SAN, Alhaji K. Belgore, Colonel and Mrs. Ogar, M.T Mamah, Bayo Ojo,SAN, Prince Ajibola Afonja, Senator Bayo Salami, Dr Funsho Onafowokan, Emir of Kazaure, Elerin of Erinle, Senator Rafiu Ibrahim, Representatives from Julius Berger, Admiral Toye Sode, Gov. Abdulfatah Ahmed and Her Excellency Omolewa Ahmed, Chief Kola Jamodu, Jimoh Ibrahim, Representatives of Oba of Lagos and Nigerian Professional Engineering Bodies, among others who were there to ensure the wedding was a memorable one for the couple.

THE ENGAGEMENT/HALL SETTING

133

134

Grwoom with Niyi, Damola, Folarin, Dare, Dj, Rasheed & Bolaji

Groom with groom’smen & cousins

135

Niyi, Olowu, Mumeen Sagaya, Ibrahim Shabba Lafiagi, Folarin Sagaya, Yinka Olowu & Bolaji Sagaya

Groom, groom’s brother & cousins

136

The young Sagayas

Bride’s father, Emir of Kazaure & Elerin of Erinle

L-r: Hajia Bola Shagaya, Groom, bride & Mrs. Bambo Sagaya

Couple with aunties

L-r: Mrs. Adama Oyekan & couple

Two Princes: Engr. Suleiman Adamu & Amb. Gambari

Groom’s brother & best man, Folarin Sagaya, couple & Gani Sagaya

The couple & guests

Mrs. Kunbi Abdulazeez, Mrs. Amina Abdulazeez & Mrs. Fati Abdulazeez

152

Nikkah officiating professor & his assistant

Engr. Lanre Shagaya & Emir of Kazuare

L-r: Bride, Emir of Kazaure, groom, Engr. Lanre Shagaya & Amb. Abdulwahab Adeyi

Couple with members of Koyejo family

Engr. Lanre Sagaya, reps of Julius Berger & the couple

153

Close friends & family of the groom: Ibrahim Yusuf, Damola Adelaja, DJ, Bolaji Ishola, Azeez Gobir, groom, Rasheed Saro, Tunde Mohammed & Yinka Belgore

154

Former IGP Sunday Ehindero & Hajia Bola Shagaya

Former IGP Sunday Ehindero, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Former IGP Musiliu Smith & Prof. I. Gambari

Mrs. Stella Mohammed & daughter, Silifa

Mrs. Feyi Agagu, Mrs. Z. Rasheed & Hajia Bola Shagaya

Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Gen. Hassan & Gen. Amolegbe

Alh. Mahe Rasheed, Engr. Rafindadi & Engr. Kashim Alli

Yusuf Alli (SAN) & Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola

Engr. Babalola, Engr. Bola Adeola & Engr. Teniola Kehinde

Prof. I. Gambari & Prof. S. Adeyemi

155

156

Bride flanked by women of the Sagaya family

THE GRAND RECEPTION

Bride & groom stepping going into the reception venue in grand style

157

Parents of bride & groom dance into hall

158

Bride, groom & friends dancing as they enter the reception hall

159

Bride

Groom

Golfers: Tunde Adelaja, Admiral Toye Sode, Engr. Sagaya & Arc. Olubode

Wedding cake

Family of Engr. Sagaya

Arc. Niyi Aiyegbayo, friend & Engr. Sagaya

160

Engr. Laitan Omolaja, Engr. Sagaya & Engr. E. Osoba & wife

EXCHANGE OF RINGS OFFICIATED BY AVM (RTD) EDEM

161

162

H.E. (Mrs.) Omolewa Ahmed, couple & Kwara State Gov. Abdulfatah Ahmed

Mrs. Faridah Sagaya, groom’s father, Mrs. Omolewa Ahmed, couple, Gov. Ahmed with bride’s parents

163

164

The couple with groom’s family

The couple with bride’s parents

Abdulazeez Oniyangi & groom

Mc Ajebo

165

166

167

Speech by Ambassador Abdulwahab Adeiyi

A toast by best man, Folarin Sagaya

The couple ready for toast

168

Presenting of Quran by Ambassador Abdulwahab Adeiyi

Meji Hassan, Yinka Yahaya & Jubril

L-r: Sefi Abdulazeez, Samira Adebiyi, Fauzi Abdulazeez, Farouk Abdulazeez, Sunday, Zanaib Abdulazeez, Halima Harling & Morenike Abdulazeez

169

Ibrahim Shabba-Lafiaji, Sherrif & Sadiq Shagaya & Abdul Abdulkarim

Hajia Bola Shagaya, her grandson, Sadiq Shagaya with Engr. Lanre Sagaya

Mother, brothers & cousins of the bride

Mr. & Mrs. Gani Olumoh

170

Representatives of Oba of Lagos: Obanikoro of Lagos, Chief Ajayi Obembe (right)

Mrs. Lawal, Mrs. Belgore & Mrs. Andu

Groom & groom’smen (L.R) Tunde Mohammed, Damola Adelaja, Bolaji Ishola, Khalid Abdulazeez, Folarin Sagaya, Rasheed Saro, Dare Adenuga, Jabber Abdulazeez & Yinka Belgore

171

Kwara Arts Council performing

Amina Agoro & Buki Belgore

Enitan Allen & Lady Dupe Dada

172

Sham & Sefiya Afonja

Mrs Logun, Mrs. Bashar & Mrs. Yahaya

Jemila, Bimbo & Amina

Hassan & Akin Ajayi

Henry George brothers with Azeezco

173

His Excellency & First Lady of Kwara State State

Kafaya Raji & friend

174

Sikira Agoyi

Sheriff Shagya, son, Sadiq

Bambo Sagaya, Engr. Sagaya & guest

Saidat Ibrahim & Mariam Smith with Bambo Sagaya

Mrs. Dupe Adelaja & Mrs. Foluke Abdulrasak

Mrs. Adegboye & friend

175

S. Yahaya, Dr. A. Gomih & Engr. Sagaya

Dr. A.Y Gomih, Engr. Lanre Sagaya & Engr. M. Abdulkarim

Groom & Fred Allison

Sisters of the bride

Rotimi Oyekan & guest

Engr. Molokwu, Sam Bazuaye & Tunde Adelaja

176

L-r: Akin Akinnawo, Mr. Terv Akinnawo & Dayo Koyejo

Tony & Bridget Molokwu, Mabel & Ebho Eboigbe

Tinuke Belgore, Engr. Sagaya & Halima Belgore

Taiye Belgore (l) dancing

177

178

Taofeek Sagaya

L-r: Teni Shodeinde, Bilikis Idiaro & Eni Shodeinde

Eto Sha’aba & Mutiat Bello Sha’aba

Yetunde Farodoye & Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Muyiwa Akinbolagbe & Arike Akinbolagbe

Chief Festus Ajani & Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Bolajoko Agunlejika, Muyiwa Akinbolagbe & Mopelola

202

Chief Tunde Aluko, Mr. & Mrs. Akinlolu with Ayo Ayeni

Seyi Orolugbagbe & Ayo Ayeni

Akinlolu Akinbolagbe & Bukola Akinbolagbe

Sola Orolugbagbe, Muyiwa &Akinlolu with Seyi Orolugbabgbe & friend

Prince Gboyega Famoodun & Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori

Seyi Orolugbagbe, Tayo Ayeni & Sola Orolugbagbe

Bolajoko, Prof. Siyan Tomori, Akinlolu Aknbolagbe & Tayo Ayeni

Dosu Akinbolagbe & Mrs. Remi Orolugbagbe

Todun Tomori, Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi LaoyeTomori with Mr. & Mrs. Akinlolu Akinbolagbe

203

RECEPTION

Mrs. Sherifat Aregbesola & Osun State, Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori, Prof. Siyan Tomori & Mrs. Modupe Adelabu

Chief Ope Bademosi & Chief Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Muyiwa Akinbolagbe with friends

Bolajoko with UBA Colleagues

Members Fountain of Hope

204

Segun, Bola George with Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Bisi Ibidapo & Eniola

The Royal Oba Agunlejika Family

Yomi Akintemi, Tokunbo Adegbonmire, Yeside & Funmi Adegbite

Bukola Ayodele, Ajoke Ayeni, Caroline & Labake Okunnubi

Lai Oriowo, Faloye, Muyiwa Akinbolagbe & Kemi Pinheiro, SAN

Sola Orolugbagbe (l), Seyi Orolugbagbe (r) with friends

Lai Oriowo & Hon. Babatunde Ogala

Mrs. Akinlolu Akinbolagbe & Lewis Ayeni

Ayo Ayeni & Dr. Niyi Adedeji

Muyiwa Akinbolagbe & Sen. Femi Okurounmu

Muyiwa Akinbolagbe & Chief Banji Oladapo

205

Ayo Balogun & Mrs. Ola

Pete Adegboye, Tobi & friends

Lola Margaret & friends

Chief Tunde Aluko with Mr. & Mrs. Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Andre, Muyiwa Akinbolagbe & Kunle Williams

Chief Akinola, Prof. (Mrs.) Modupe Adelabu & Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Jumoke Animashaun with Mr. & Mrs. Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Fountain of Hope Society

206

Chief Tunde Odenye & Tunde Oshinowo

Members Fountain of Hope with Muyiwa Akinbolagbe

Lawunmi Bibilari & Alhaji Bashy

Lewis Ayeni, Muyiwa Akinbolagbe, Lanre Balogun & a friend

Muyiwa Ige & Lai Oriowo

Temilola, Mrs. Obileye & Mrs. Ola

Mr. Ademola Adeleke

207

TOP-CLASS CELEBRITIES GATHER FOR THE

AFRICAN WOMEN LEADERSHIP ORGANSATION (AWLO) CONFERENCES IN LAGOS AND HOUSTON

Mrs Alayangi Sylva, First Lady, Bayelsa State, wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo (4th left), Chief (Mrs.) Opral Benson, Elisha Attai, Founder/CEO, AWLO & other guests at AWLO event in Lagos

Former Deputy Governor Lagos State Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, with wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo

T

H.E Alanyingi Sylva, Omeibe Maureen & Dr. Salma Abbasi

he African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO) has been reaching new heights and this year, it not only hosted the 7th edition of its Conference with the theme: African Women: Transcending the globe, breaking barriers at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos, it also hosted a very successful session in Houston, Texas.

During the conferences, there were representatives from the Diaspora, the Diplomatic Corps, the business community and government while

inspirational and dynamic speakers delivered very powerful papers on different areas of interest.

AWLO Founder, Mr Elisha Attai in his speech, stated that the organisation is aimed at driving and influencing change amongst women in regional and local communities-and its efforts have been yielding fruits.

He said that AWLO has contributed positively to the United Nations objectives of creating powerful platforms for achieving gender equality

Mr. Verveide (NBL MDCEO), Mrs. Clementine Vervelde, Elisha Attai, Ezinne Ekanem, Foreign delegate

208

Mrs. Fatima Atiku Abubakar with Dr. Z. Shinkafi Bagudu

Ms. Timipre Wolo, Former Akwa-Ibom Dep. Gov. Lady Valerie Ebe, Former Lagos Dep. Gov. Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Chidinma Chukwujama & wife of the Vice President , Mrs. Dolapo Osinbanjo

HOUSTON CONFERENCE

H.E. Olufunsho Amosun (First Lady, Ogun state) & Professor Uduak Archibong

Sheila Jackson Lee (United State Congresswoman, 18th District Of Texas) , Ambassador Geoffery Tenelaibe with Mrs. Amosun

Ezinne Kufre- Ekanem & Senator Binta

Eno Attai, Naomi Ruth, Barber King & Elisha Attai

Timipre Wolo

Barrister Emem Daniel (AWLO legal Counsel & Secretary) H.E Alanyingi Sylva (Regional President AWLO Africa) & H.E. Olufunso Amosun

Jemiriye

Ambassador Geoffery Tenelaibe & Senator Ita-Giwa

209

Ambassador Geoffery Tenelaibe, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Barber King & Elisha Attai

Dr. Salma Abbasi, Elisha Attai & Maureen Omeibe

and fairness for women all over the world.

"As we gather here again to celebrate and consolidate the gains of activities spanning seven years, we are more than ever committed to the burning ideals of empowerment and recognition of women’s roles across Africa. We are not unmindful of the several barriers and limitations ingrained from past generations of misuse of the abilities of women, but we firmly hold unto the dreams of solidarity and cohesion of members with the implementation of gender

210

sensitive programmes that are focused on improving the lot of women in the African continent and beyond”, Attai declared to a round of applause from his audience.

Each of thed properly executed conference held in technical partnership with LOreal, Maybelline, Amstel, AIT, MultiTV, TVC, Ovation, Studio 115, Good Morning Africa, Nanette Suites, MetroTV, MD Magazine and Be – dazzled were rounded off with award dinners that were well-attended by the cream of society.

MY DREAM FOR

AFRICAN WOMEN

IN LEADERSHIP ORGANISATION (AWLO)-ELISHA ATTAI

E

lisha Attai is a Media/PR Consultant. About seven years ago moved by the lack of platforms for discussing women issues, he set up African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO). The organisation has been hosting conferences and honoring worthy women since inception. In this interview, Elisha discusses his brainchild and more

Tell us a bit about yourself

My name is Elisha Attai. I am a Media/PR Consultant and Founder of the African Women in Leadership Organization. I founded this organization about seven years ago to create a collaborative platform for women leaders across Africa.

What inspired you to establish this kind of organization

Having worked with a lot of African women across the continent, I discovered that if women can come together to enhance, support, and exchange ideas among one another, they will do much better as leaders.

I saw the untapped potentials among them and the need to create a structure for mentorship. I felt that the more experienced ones should pass across their experience to the younger generation and also exchange ideas among themselves. The organization is unique in that it filled an existing void. There was no other cross-continent platform that brought women leaders from across all sectors together before we began and from all indications, we have been accepted for our little contribution.

What is the main objective of AWLO in Africa

The objective is to enhance leadership qualities among our women across the board. And how do we do that? It’s by bringing people that have knowledge, that are advanced in what they do; bringing everybody together and exchanging views and seeing how we can educate and empower one another.

As a man you are organizing such platform, some people will ask why not a woman doing this

I have been asked this question several times, and my answer is why not? For me, I believe it is a combination of destiny and a sense of purpose. I strongly believe I am doing what God wants me to do.

I am so passionate about the ability of women and being a good organizer, I leverage my strength and passion. I see women as better managers and given the influence of my own mother, I know that if we leverage their potentials,they can perform better. Women have great influence and can change lives beginning from the home. Take for example, the issues of corruption and insecurity – don’t you know that if they are better equipped and empowered, they can address these issues beginning at home.

What have you accomplished since you set up this platform

We have made steady progress. Every year since 2009 when we started, through our annual conferences we have created a platform for women leaders across Africa to interact. Our conference highlights their issues and helps them to structure and function well as leaders whether in politics, business, and other spheres of influence. Other organizations have also emerged as a result of our initiatives. For example, the Women For Change Initiative which is currently headed by the first lady was given birth to after our 2010 conference in Abuja. As you can see, the influence of this organization contributed to the achievement of the 35% leadership stake given to women by the present administration. In addition, we have encouraged many to stand for elective positions.

We have consistently created opportunities for them to network, receive training, and get access to business opportunities both here at home and abroad. Last year, in collaboration with the Black Caucus in the State of Georgia Senate, we brought them together with US Lawmakers and women leaders in Atlanta Georgia.

A lot of women think that men always intimidate them when it comes to leadership. What is your take on that

I think that kind of intimidation always comes from men that are insecure. But you know, everyone is work in progress. Given the prevailing culture across Africa, we are also bringing more men on board as active partners. Not only to support the women but to make necessary adjustments in the way we view and appreciate our women. I believe that people do better when they know better. Real men support and encourage women. But beyond the men, I have also seen that many times the women themselves pose greater challenges to one another. I encourage them to stop blackmailing each other, but should work together especially in setting examples for the younger generations. Women need to support each other much more than they are doing now.

So you are saying that women are a problem to themselves.

What I’m saying is that some of the major challenge we had before was caused by disunity among women but that is beginning to change. They are doing better now, but much more needs to be done.

Talking about a long way to go, a woman presidential

candidate in 2011 appeared to have only one vote meaning that she voted for herself. In a society like Nigeria, women are more in number, why can’t we have women supporting their fellow women to attain such level as president, governor.

What is the problem with women attaining that height in leadership

There are many factors at play here both cultural and religious in leadership structures. And, this is not just a Nigerian problem but a challenge that has persisted across the world. In over 200 years of existence, the greatest democracy in the world, USA, is yet to produce a female President. I am not suggesting that we wait for them, but just to let you know that all hands must be engaged to make this work.

It is one thing to encourage women to run for office, it is yet another to create a conducive environment for them to do so. In this election, we have a woman as a candidate after party primaries. That is a right step, but we must continue to encourage them. We must create more awareness, educate, and re-educate where necessary to make sure everyone is on board.

During the famous Patricia Eteh time, she had a lot challenges before you knew it, she was kicked out. What do you think about that

Do you think it happened because of her gender? I don’t think so. We have had more men booted out of the lower and upper chambers. It is what happens in politics. I am not sure how she handled it with regards to her own personal leadership style and abilities. And again, as I have said, it is for such reasons we must help them become more effective leaders. It is one thing to get into a leadership position, and it will be even much a greater disaster to repeat the mistakes of men.

But we also have women who recorded great progress in their positions. Look at the late Dora Akunyili, where would the fight against fake drugs be without her resilience and outstanding leadership?

What did you think is the weakness of such women who fall from grace

I do not see it from the point of weakness. I only see need for improvement. Such issues are not gender based because anybody in leadership can fall from grace. This is why what we do is important. We are not just creating opportunities for women, we also want to ensure they do not repeat the mistakes of men.

Do you have any forthcoming conference you are about to host and what do people expect from you

Yes we have, we started the global conferences last year. And after the conference, we had a lot of calls, emails, and enquiries from women in diaspora especially in the US. So last year we were actually invited by the Senator of Georgia to bring the event to Atlanta. So from this year, it’s going to be two conferences a year; one in Africa, one in America. The first in Lagos Sheraton for African conference then we go off August to Houston, Texas for the global conference. Our theme for this year’s conference is African women transcending the globe and breaking barriers.

What are African Women in leadership doing to curb rape

Rape should have no place in human societies and those caught in such inhuman atrocity should receive the maximum punishment possible. As an organization, we have made this as part of our conversation. Raising a strong voice of advocacy and helping women leaders who directly with victims.

Did your growing up prepare you for such things you are doing now

Yeah, I would say that I have been influenced so much by my mum. I love my mum and she kind of preepared me for this, I grew up in a Christian background. My father was a Pastor of The Apostolic Church though he is late now. So I grew up been nurtured in a very morally sound environment, and I grew up to see the values that my mum placed in the family. I think that has influenced me to respect women.

What I’m doing now is supporting women, I may be Founder but everything here is being run by women.

Despite civilization, some men still believe their wives are made for the kitchen. They do not think they should get involved in the corporate world, or politics. What is your take on that

As I have said before, everyone is work in progress. There are many cultural and religious barriers that must be broken, and these are not the easiest of things to change. Therefore, while we work with the women, we must also help the men to understand that women have much more to offer than a place in the kitchen. I understand that there are men like that but I want you to know that it has more to do with culture and environment than it has to do with any particular man. For example, when such men move to more advanced societies like the USA, everything changes.

You see some of them play active roles in the kitchen.

It is for this reason, I said earlier that we must all work together to create a conducive environment to harness the potentials of our women. And the fact that an African man like myself founded this organization is a testament that change is on the horizon. And not just myself, I can tell you that there many others working behind the scene with us on this project. And this year, we look forward to honoring some of them.

How do you identify such men

These are men who understand the value of women

in their lives and are playing very active roles in promoting our cause. They have set specific examples and have made significant contributions towards women’s empowerment.

What challenges are the organization facing at the moment

Running any successful organization can be tasking especially when I combine this with my work. But I think the greater challenge is funding because sometimes you are limited and not able to expand the vision as much as you would love to. Right now, we are looking for a secretariat that can be solely dedicated to all the departments we have. We have discussions with major companies like HP to set up a dedicated training center, but we need to have a place to do that. We are looking forward to a TV/radio station that can focus solely on women development and women issues.

Why is that when most women leave an office; they hardly have a successor

That is where we come in. It is for such reasons we decided to create a structured mentorship platform where women can empower emerging women leaders.

These leaders cannot all do it by themselves. We are encouraging women leaders everywhere to come onboard and use our platform to pour what they have into young women. We have more Akunyili’s, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala’s, and Mo Abudu’s in our young women. We just need to help them especially given the difficulties of our present environment. Leadership is about improvement and we cannot improve if we do not have a generation that will do better than we are doing right now.

What is your definition of an African Woman

An African woman is a special creature of God with sound moral values that defines the true meaning of a woman being a helper, a home builder, and a nation builder.

Amongst the entire award you have, which is the most cherished for your role on women cause

The one from the United Nation is one award I got last year, I cherish it so much. It was one of the biggest awards I received, for the United Nations to honour a man for supporting gender development in Africa. The next one will be the award given to me by the senate of Georgia, the ordinary citizen award. That motivates me too because the reason for all these is to make me do more.

Your wife must be a lucky woman. How did you meet your wife

We met in Lagos here, in the church. Today we have two girls, two boys. She is a lucky woman; but I’m even a luckier man to have her and her support. She has been a strong pillar to all of this.

What is your vision for this establishment

My vision is to see a continent that gives women equal opportunity.

Do you have any regret

No regret but I would say losing my father a week to our 2013 conference was the only regret. That was really a shock to me.

What is your philosophy about life

The world is big enough for anyone. Hurting someone or blackmailing someone should be the last thing anyone can think of.

What kind of women do you expect in your conference

It is open to every woman because I believe every women is a leader.

211

LADY UCHE IKEBUILO GOES HOME IN GRAND STYLE

The family members

W

Mrs. Uche Ubachukwu & Lady Ngozi Okonkwo

212

Tears for Late Lady Uche Ikebuilo

illiam Shakespeare was right when he wrote: “When beggars die, there are no comments seen: the heaven themselves blaze forth the death of princes.”

The heavens really blazed for the death of Lady Uche Ikebuilo whose burial was like a carnival because her children and family rolled out the drums to properly celebrate her.

The year 2015 will forever remain evergreen in the hearts of the family of late Lady Uche Ikebuilo because she impacted on the lives of a lot of people.

That was why hundreds of mourners came to pay their last respects and express support for the bereaved family.

Her journey to the great beyond commenced with a funeral service at the Anglican Church of Christ Nnewi. The requiem mass was officiated by the Rt .Rev. Prof G.I.N Okpala (JP.ON) Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese and The RT Rev. Dr.

Samuel Ezeofor, Bishop of Ogbaru were the Officiating Priests at the funeral service.

At the entrance of the church, the Rt .Rev. Prof G.I.N Okpala (JP.ON) received the body of the deceased and said “With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our mother, Uche Vero Ezebuilo, for burial. Let us pray with confidence to God, the Giver of life, that He will raise her to perfection in the company of the saints”. After the service, guests proceeded to her husband’s country home in Ichi Town, Ekwusigo L.G.A of Anambra State where Lady Uche Ikebuilo JP (Oduludinma) was laid to rest.

Lady Uche Vero Ikebuilo was the mother in-law of Chief Emma Bishop Okonkwo.OFR, Chairman, Ekulo Group of Companies. She was a woman of simple disposition whose penchant for peace among people irrespective of tribe, sex, or religion was commended by many.

Sir Emma Bishop Okonkwo & his boys

Condolence entourage of Sir Emma Bishop Okoronkwo

Chief (Sir) Emma Bishop Okonkwo,OFR with Jenny Chang

APGA National Chairman, Chief (Sir) Victor Umeh & wife, Lady Prisca Umeh

Chairman Capital Oil Ltd, Chief Ifeanyi Uba Exchanging Handshake with Chief Emma Bishop Okonkwo

Chairman Mega Chem Nig. Ltd, Mkpu Ogiliga, Pharm Sam Ubachukwu & Barr.

(Mrs.) Tessy Okeke

Chairman, Orange Group, Chief Sir Tony Ezenna, OFR & wife, Lady Lizzy Ezenna

Chief Charles Odunukwe And Chief & Jonathan Uzo Okafor

Chairman Ibeto Group, Sir Cletus Ibeto (Omekannaya) & Chief & Mrs. Oscar Okeke

Eselu Uga, Chief Chris Uba with Sir Emma Bishop Okonkwo

213

General Ibrahim Babangida commiserating with the husband of the deceased, Chief G.M. Ikebuilo

Husband of the deceased, Chief G.M. Ikebuilo, Ichie Okenyi

Igwe Eze Ugo Ato II of Ezenifite Aguata, Igwe Bob Orji & Igwe Arch. J.o Okpalaezecha, Nnam Oshi

Igwe Ka Igwe, Igwe Peter Anugwu of Mbaukwu exchanging pleasantries with Ex Governor Peter Obi

Friends of Lady Ngozi Okonkwo

Lady Ngozi Okonkwo with her friend, Mrs. Ngozi Udokoro

Lady Ngozi Okonkwo with her friends

214

Mr. Sunil Ram & Jenny Chang

Chief Sunny Okonkwo

Sir Emma Bishop Okonkwo with Sir Chika Okafor, Chicason Group Ltd & others

Senator Andy Uba Consoling The Ikebuilos

L-r: Mrs Ann Maxwell, Hon. Ngozi Udo Okoro, Mrs. Uche Duru, Lady Chinyere Annie Okonkwo & Lady Glo Ace Comedian, Julius Agwu, Lady Ngozi Okonkwo & Chief Ifeanyi Nwankwo (Orange)

Adaeze Obiaga, Nnenna & Nkechi Okonkwo

Rtd Comptroller of Customs & Member Federal House of Reps, Chief Jerry Alagbaoso with others

Flavour performing

Sir Morocco Maduka performing

215

FAMILY CELEBRATES THE LIFE OF OLORI

AMOKE ADEREMI

Story: Babatunde Martins: Photo: Ken Ehimen

The Aderemi family

Late Princess Amoke Aderemi

W

Chief Sammy Olagbaju with Folake St. Mathew-Daniel

hen Olori Beatrice Amoke Aderemi died, there was shock, then sorrow and torrents of tears. The reason for these emotional outbursts was the fact that she touched many lives during her life time.

Olori Amoke had a special attribute that everyone,

216

Cross section of family members

Balogun & Princess Omidiora

especially all women will miss a lot. She was intelligent, hardworking, loving and caring, carrying herself with dignity. She was a woman of few words but filled with action.

Her regal burial ceremony began with a service of songs in Ile-Ife, Osun state. Then there was a procession

to the Palace of the Ooni of Ife. There, close family members paid a courtesy call on the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade.

From Glass House in Ile Ife, her remains were moved in a colourful cortege to her home where another Service of Songs was held. Extolling the virtues

Family members with Princess Folake St. Mattew-Daniel

Damola, Mrs. Obianuju Aderemi, Adedamola, Prince Adelekan Aderemi with Oreoluwa

Folake St. Mathew Daniel

Mr. Segun Fasola, Mr. & Mrs. Genga Okunsanya, Princess Folake St. Mathew-Daniel with Mrs. Bola Fasola

Ms. Tokunbo Iyamu with Princess Folake St. Mathew-Daniel

Mrs. Tayo Okunsanya with Princess Folake St. Mathew-Daniel

of Olori Aderemi, the Man of God who steered the event stated “Mummy of Excellence, to believe the news of your demise is too hard for everyone to take.

That you are gone from our midst physically is unbelievable. How can this heavy blow be taken? How can the vacuum created in millions of hearts be filled? Who will answer your name in matters relating to charity, guidance, directions, useful advice, unconditional hep, benevolence and commitments to matters affecting millions of people?

Oh! A mighty tree has fallen indeed.” He

then urged the family to be strong because Olori had gone to be with the Lord.

The next day, there was a funeral service at St. Peter’s Church, Iremo IleIfe. The service was soul-lifting and many were spitually fortified by the kind words of the priests and moving choruses by the Choir. The service over, Olori Aderemi was interned at a special area on the grounds of the St Peter’s Church, Iremo, Ile-Ife. Hours after, the family hosted their friends and wellwishers at Gitty Event Centre in Ile-Ife.

217

Princess Folake St. Matthew-Daniel with Mrs.Obianuju Aderemi

Pastor Uche, Mrs. Olukumi Aderemi, Princess Jaiyeola Aderemi with Prince Adelekan Aderemi

Mrs. Olukunmi Aderemi with Princess Jaiyeola Aderemi

Oreoluwa, Prince Adelekan Aderemi, Damola with Kofoworola Aderemi

Oreoluwa, Demola, Afolake St. Matthew Daniel, Adedamola with Adeola Afolabi

Princess Folake St. Matthew-Daniel with her late mum

218

The Aderemi family with Ooni of Ife Oba Okunade Sijuwade

Princess Folake St.Matthew Daniel with The pall bearers

Bishop Oluranti Odubogun

Officiating Ministers of God

Mabel Iyamu Okhomina & Prince Olakunle Aderemi

Yinka Ladehinde, Funmi Odunsi & Yemi Adejuwon

Olori Mopelola Oyekan & Mrs. Bimbo Odeneye

Mrs. Obianuju Aderemi, Mrs. Jaiyeola Aderemi & Mrs. Olukemi Aderemi

Adedamola with Adeola Afolabi

219

Mrs. Obianuju Aderemi, Oreoluwa St. Matthew-Daniel with Damola

Chief Oyekunle Alex Duduyemi (r)

Left: Kofoworola Aderemi with Adedamola

Funmi Adegbite, Bola Fashola, Folake St. Matthew-Daniel and Ranti Aborowa

Mrs. Nike Omoworare & Mrs. Aderemi

Senator Jide Omoworare (left)

Prince Adelekan Aderemi , Prince Yemi Aderemi & Prof. Orafidiya

Bola Fashola, Funmi Adegbite & Ranti Aborowa

220

Dr. Wale Babalakin

Dr. Wale Babalakin

Pastor Japhet Otujien & Princess Afolake St. Mathew Daniel

Kehinde Olaleye with Otunba Lai Oriowo

Chief & Chief Mrs. Dupe Omisore

Chief Femi Fani-Kayode (left)

Mrs. Ayobami Animashaun

Adebowale Ayoade & Mrs. Kemi Aderemi

Mr. Victor Enahoro & Mrs. Mabel Iyamu Okhomene

Mrs. Funmi-Ajose Adeogun, Mrs. Lulu Anderson & Mrs. Kemi Adesakin

Edo Cultural group from The Royal Court

221

PROFESOR ADERANTI ADEPOJU CELEBRATES A WONDERFUL 70TH BIRTHDAY Story: Babatunde Martins

Photo: Segun Lawal

I

Adegoke Adepoju, Mrs. Aboyepe Adekile nee Adepoju, Rhema George, Prof. Aderanti Adepoju, Dewale Adekile, Dr. Mrs. Adunola Adepoju, Mr. Praise George, Dr. Ayoola Adekile, Hannah Adekile, Dr. Adegboyega Adepoju & Mrs. Abiola George (nee Adepoju)

222

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Dr. Mrs. Adunola Adepoju

n the Bible, age Seventy is very significant-little wonder that when renowned Academician, Professor Aderanti Adepoju joined the Septuagenarian Club, he celebrated it big time!"

Professor Adepoju who is currently Chief Executive of the Human Resources Development Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, and a Coordinator of the Network of Migration Research on Africa (NOMRA) was so full of thanks to God for keeping him alive and healthy that he began the day in the House of God. The elated celebrant, his family, friends and well wishers converged at the Chapel of Christ Our Light (Protestant), University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos for what could be described as a spectacular thanksgiving service.

The opening prayer was by Ven. (Prof) F.A Fajemirokun. The first Bible reading was taken from Psalm 23:1-6 and was read by Revd. Bayo Awala. The soulful hymn, 'oh worship the King all glorious above' was sang before Rev. Azuka Ogbolumani was invited for the Second Bible reading and the scripture was taken from the Book of Deuteronomy 1:2931. The officiating Minister, Rev. (Dr.) Kehinde Ayenibiowo steered the whole service expertly.

It must be said that the birthday church service was a session of soulful choruses, thought-provoking sermon and impactful prayer points. Everybody who turned up confessed to Ovation, that they were truly blessed, no wonder many were smiling as they stepped out of the church into the bright sunshine at the end of it all.

In a short interview with us, Professor Adepoju revealed that he was full of thanks for keeping him alive to see age 70 in good health. He said he wants to spend the rest of his days touching lives, mentoring the next generation and serving God. The day was rounded off in a lively manner at the POWA Multi-purpose Event Centre, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos where the celebrant hosted a fitting reception.

Guests not only savoured good food and drinks, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey also served them with qualitiative evergreen music. The reception was chaired by Professor Veg Oyere.

CHURCH SERVICE

Vice President ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Toga McIntosh & Prof. Aderanti Adepoju

Sir. & Lady Segun Oyediran with Prof. Aderanti Adepoju

Sir. Gbenga Obasa, Pa Oyenuga & Prof. Aderanti Adepoju

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju with Mr. & Mrs. Kola Ilori

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Dr. Mrs. Adunola Adepoju

Prof. Funke Lawal & Dr. Maureen Egenti

Otunba Andrew Aroloye & Pa. Adenuga

Prof. Rev. Bolaji Owasanoye

223

Adegoke & Adegboyega Adepoju

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju

Dr. (Mrs.) Adunola Adepoju

Mr. & Mrs. Afan Ogbechie with Dr. Toga McIntosh

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Dr. (Mrs.) Adunola Adepoju

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Dr (Mrs.) Adunola Adepoju

Dr. Aduola Adepoju & Dr. (Mrs.) Nike Adeosun

Prof. Mrs. Funke Lawal & Prof. Mrs, Uche Udeani

224

Prof. (Mrs.) Funke Lawal & Prof. (Mrs.) Uche Udeani

Prof. & Prof. (Mrs.) Okunuga

DVC Unilag, Prof. Jide Alo

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Prof. Funso Akere

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & DVC Unilag, Prof. Duro Oni

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Dr. (Mrs.) Adunola Adepoju

Thanksgiving section

Dr. (Mrs.) Nike Adeosun & Prof. Aderanti Adepoju

The celebrant & family being showered wwith prayers

From (m) Prof. Funso Akere & Mr. Arikebi

225

RECEPTION

Mr. Praise George, Dr. Ayoola Adekile, Mrs. Aboyepe Adekile, Prof. Aderanti Adepoju, Dr. (Mrs.) Adunola Adepoju, Dr. Adegboyega Adepoju, Adegoke Adepoju & Abiola George

Family Members with Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Dr. Mrs. Adunola Adepoju

Mr. & Mrs. Adeola Adepoju with Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Dr. Mrs. Adunola Adepoju

Sir. & Lady Siji Oke with Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Dr. Mrs. Adunola Adepoju

Dr. Toga McIntosh & Prof. Aderanti Adepoju

226

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Evang. Ebenezer Obey

Dr. Mrs. Oladejo Adepoju, Prof. Aderanti Adepoju, Barr. Ladi Taiwo & Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa

Dr. Nike Adeosun, Dr. Adunola Adepoju, Bashorun Dele Momodu & guest

Mrs. Toyin Adepoju & Habibat

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Toast, Sir & Lady Oke with Prof. Aderanti Adepoju

Bashorun Dele Momodu & CP. Kayode Aderanti

CP. Kayode Aderanti & Mr. & Mrs. Okeowo

CP. Kayode Aderanti & Prof. Aderanti Adepoju

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & Bahorun Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu & CP Kayode Aderanti

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Evang. Ebenezer Obey

227

Mr. Praise George & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Prof. Aderanti Adepoju & guest

Mrs. Tinu Aderanti (left)

Dr. Virgie Onyene, Dr. (Mrs.) Adunola Adepoju, Dr. Sunbo Apanpa & Mrs. Abiola George

Prof. Tunde Makanju, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Sir. Oke

Police Officers Wives Association

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Prof. Tunde Makanju

228

Prof. Aderanti Adepoju, Sir. & Lady Adeniji, Dr. (Mrs.) Adunola Adepoju & Prof.

Duro Ajeyalemi

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Chief Olu Okeowo

CHIEF MAGISTRATE (MRS.) OMOLADE AWOPE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF GOD’S GOODNESS Story: Rukayat Adebayo Photo: Segun Lawal & Ken Ehimen

229

F

230

or the cerebral, ever-glowing and charitable Chief Magistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope whose journey to the top has not been rosy, there was a lot to be thankful for as she attained the golden age of 50 - good health, abundant blessings and of course, loving family and friends.

"She has had her ups and downs.

She deserves all the good things that come her way", the celebrant's sister, Chief Magistrate Eniola Fabamwo affirmed.

Decorated with the finest mix of gold and purple accessories, The Events Centre, Alausa, Ikeja was filled to the brim with family, friends and well-wishers of the celebrant who came from far and near to felicitate with the ever-bubbly Chief Magistrate who has in one way or another impacted positively on the lives of those around her. The celebrant was gorgeously dressed in an expensive gold lace outfit which she matched with purple headgear and lovely purple pair of shoes.

The event commenced with a thanksgiving service and an opening prayer by Pastor Ephraim of the Redeemed Christian Church of God followed by rigorous praise and worship with the assistance of the church choir. There was a Bible reading and rendition of a special number by the celebrant after which Pastor (Mrs.) Erika Ogunsanwo went into deep prayers for the celebrant. The thanksgiving service ended with the popular hymn 'To God be the Glory'.

The hall was lit up with a slideshow of the celebrant's pictures as she transformed through the years.

Several birthday messages were also sent via skype by the beautiful celebrant’s family and friends who couldn’t make it to the celebration.

Heartfelt encomiums were showered on her by those present. An excited Shade Adejuwon who is as close a friend as they come said, 'We have been friends for 30 years. She is lovely, nice and courageous and I wish her all the best life has to offer'. Another guest at the event, Olatunbosun Awope, brother to the celebrant's husband described her as a good mother and the best thing that can happen to a husband.

Guests were treated to different delicacies plus scintillating music by the talented Golden Tunes Band. The cutting of a 3-tier cake was conducted

by Kemi Oshisanya followed by the proposing of toast by Chief Magistrate Eniola Fabamwo who reminisced on their childhood memories. "Our busy schedules never gave way for birthday celebrations. We are like twins. I wish her all the good things of life", she added with bright smile.

Dignitaries that graced the event included Senator Iyiola Omisore, husband to the out-going Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Mr. Abiodun Adefulire; Justice Bisi Akinlade, Femi and Iretunde Akintunde Johnson members of the OAU Alumni Association and a host of others.

PRAISE AND PRAYER SESSION

231

232

RECEPTION

Chief Margistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & Pastor Ephraim Osunde

Chief Margistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & Pastor Edward Nmose

Senator Iyiola Omisore

Mrs. Folashade Adejuwon, Mrs. Made Alagbe, Celebrant, Mr. Adelere Adejuwon with Mrs. Fadekemi Dosunmu Pereira

Mosun Aiyanyo, Eniola Fabanwo, Dolapo, Celebrant with Bimbola Akinkugbe

Mope Osiyemi, Celebrant with Omolara Koleoso

Barrister Soji Koleoso, Chief Margistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope with Mrs. Kemi Oshisanya

Chief Margistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope, Pastor Tunde Oyegbola & Pastor (Mrs.) Erika Ogunsanwo

Chief Margistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & Eniola Fabanmwo

233

Adeyeye Awope, Chief Magistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & Hon. Justice Adesuyi Olateru-Olagbegi

Pastor Aiyanyo & Mosunmola Aiyanjo

234

Chief Magistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & Mr. Gbenga Abudiore

Chief Magistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & Femi Oyemade

Hon. Tunbosun Awope, Adeyeye Awope & Guest

Hon. Justice Bisi Akinlade, Chief Magistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & Hon. Justice Ade Oke-Lawal

Justice Bisi Akinlade, Chief Margistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & guest

St. Charles Grammar School, celebrant's late husband's alumni

Joke Oshodi, Chief Omolade Awope & Chief Mag. Bimbo Awogboro

Chief Margistrate (Mrs) Omolade Awope with Mr. & Mrs. Femi Akarakiri

Chief Margistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope & Magistrate Memunat Folami

235

Great Ife Alumni with Chief Margistrate (Mrs.) Omolade Awope

Lawyers with Chief (Mrs.) Omolade Awope

236

Ms. Ronke Enilari, Mrs. Mojisola Olaore, Mr. Sina Abatan with Celebrant with Staff of the Lagos State Judiciary Mrs. Ibitola Akinboni

Mrs. Ebun Ashiyanbi & Mrs. Ifeoluwa Takuro

Mrs. Bolanle Kosoko & Mrs. Esther Ijomoni

Mr. & Mrs. Bode Oludare

Adebola Adeboye with Abosede Osiyale

Deaconess Lanke Akinyemi, Asst. Pastor Tunde Olaniyi & Asst. Pastor Tunde Oyegbola

Celebrant with Magistrates

Femi & Iretunde Akintunde Johnson

Mr. Abiodun Adefulire, Mrs. Oshodi Makanju & Joy Ugbomoiko

Tribute by Chief Magistrate Eniola Fabamwo

Tribute by Olatunbosun Awope

237

OLD BOYS ASSOCIATION OF IGBOBI COLLEGE CELEBRATES END OF THE YEAR PARTY IN STYLE Story: Babatunde Martins Photo Solomon Ekhaiyeme

Bolanle Akinyemi, Segun Agbede, Emmanuel Ibru, Michael Fidelis, Dele Coker, Tunji Oluyemi, Tunde Ajijedidun, Goke Fawole & Ayodele Ibuoye

Mr. & Mrs. Segun Agbede

Dele Coker, Segun Agbede & Goke Fawole

T

Fatai Momodu with Yinka Fagboun

238

Akin Fabumi , Ayodele Ibuoye & Michael Fidelis

here is Yoruba adage if translated says that 20 children cannot play together for 20 years, but this was not the case with the Old Boys of the famous Igbobi College, Lagos. After departing school for over three decades, the Igbobi College Old Boys Association set of 1973 hosted a reunion party-and it was an evening of catching up on old times and generally

networking.

It was an unforgettable day for all those that gathered at the "get-together" party held inside Dolphin Estate, Lagos. The high point of the event was when all the Old Boys sang the Igbobi College anthem but the entertainment provided by DJ Sholls also added a touch fun as guests danced till late into the night.

Mrs. Oke & Sons

Mrs. Awe & Children

Tubosun Oke & friend

Yinka Fagboun with Bolanle Awe

DJ Shollz, Mrs. Toyin Olowoporoku, Segun Agbede with Nike & Dele Coker

Bolanle Akinyemi with Segun Agbede

Akin Fabumi , Wemimo Adebajo & Ayodele Iboye

Tunde Ajijejidun

Emmanuel Ibru, Goke Fawole, Tunde Ajijejidun & Michael Fidelis

Dele Coker, Yomi Oluwole & Mrs. Daniella Ajijedidun

239

Mr. & Mrs. Bolanle Akinyemi

Mrs. Fabumi, a guest & Ayodele Ibuoye

Igbobi College friends & colleagues

Guests

Ayodele , Mr. Owoduni, Deji Laditan, Shopo Owoduni & Sunbo Ikumola

Mrs. Odubayo with Mrs. Laditan

Tunde Ajijedidun,Fola Ajalekoko & Segun Agbede

Segun Agbede, Ayodele Iboye, Mrs. Akinwunmi, Tunde Ajijedidun, Seyi Akinwunmi & Debo Latitan

240

Onobolu Olumide, Dele Coker & Tunde Ajijedidun

Guest with Mr. & Mrs. Tunde Ajijedidun

THE FUN-FILLED WEDDING OF

OLATOYOSI ADEREMI AND OLUWASEYI OGUNLUSI Story: Emmanuel T. Edward Photo: Ken Ehimen

T

here is no better feeling than the feeling of true love- it drives all doubts away and leaves our hearts with priceless treasures of pleasurable moments. It was on this warm note of musical love that the Aderemi and Ogunlusi families jointly celebrated the holy matrimony of their doting children, Olatoyosi Adebola Aderemi and Oluwaseyi Abiodun Ogunlusi.

The love birds nurtured a friendship that blossomed into an obvious deep-rooted friendship fuelled by mutual understanding and respect.

Unsurprisingly, family, friends and well-wishers from far and near thronged into town in their large numbers to witness their beautiful celebration of love.

The sky was bright and beautiful as the ceremony commenced and everyone took their seats in charmingly bejewelled chairs. Smooth rhythms breezed from the speakers and the marriage ceremony took off with the traditional rites taking centre stage at Aquarium Event Centre, Parakin, Osun State.

Richly designed in black and white chiffon materials, the hall decor was lovely and it created the right ambience for such a special occasion. The groom, his family and friends were the first to make their

The couple their engagement cake

entry. Beaming with smiles, they danced into the arena and had no inhibitions when it was time to prostrate for the bride's parents and family members as demanded by tradition.He then made his way to a special area meant only for the couple This done, the next big thing was to await the bride. They did not have to wait long before she swept in looking regal accompanied by her friends and a few elderly women. Then she went to join her Mr. Right In no time the two families had exchanged letter of intent and letter of acceptance and the engament rites hit a full swing when the bride and groom exchanged rings and cut their cake.

The formal part of this ceremony ended as the couple slowly sank to their knees and they were showered with prayers, which proclaimed them husband and wife. Thereafter, it was time for catching some fun: eating, drinking and dancing The wedding ceremony further shifted base to a perfect place of worship days later and the venue this time was, Rhema Chapel International Church, IfeIbadan, Ile-Ife, Osun State, where the newest couple in town was formerly joined in holy matrimony.

In his sermon, Officiating Minister, Pastor Olaolu Role admonished the newly-weds to tolerate and accept each other’s differences. In his words, "Love is patient, tolerance, understanding and above all love is slow to anger. For peace to abound in your home you would need to imbibe the fruit of the Holy Spirit and put it to good use". His heart-warming message was followed by the signing of marriage certificates, while the Choir thrilled all present with great songs of joy.

The church ceremony was followed by a lively reception at The Aquarium, the same place the newlwedded couple hosted their traditional ceremony days earlier. Again, guests were treated to choice wines and mouth-watering delicacies.

Sweet musicals ricocheted through the hall as Mercury Band entertained the audience to a medley of sweet melodies. Truth be told, this celebration of love was splendid in every way and was well-attended by high calibre guests such as Senator Jide Omowoare, Alh. Ibikunle Lawal, Aare Baba Adinni of Ifeland; Prince Ayo Aderemi; Chief Bisi Omidiora; Chief Agbo Odeyemi; Chief Are Onifade; Oba Adebolu Fatunmise and Princess Adejoke Ojo.

241

ENGAGEMENT

Mr. & Mrs. Aderemi, Chief (Mrs.) Olusola Olufemi & Engr. Ishola Awotorebo

Oluwaseyi Abiodun Ogunlusi (groom) with Mr. & Mrs. Aderemi (bride’s parents)

Mr. & Mrs. Aderemi with a traditional ruler

Groom with the bride parents

Couple with Folashade, Temilade, Tamuno & Joko

242

Couple with Mr. Babatunde Onalaja & Temilade

Mrs. Funke Oyewole, Mr. Segun Omoworare, Mrs. Aderemi & Mr. Adewunmi Makanjuola

CHURCH SERVICE

The couple exchanging vows

Exchange of rings

Couples in a deep sensational kiss

243

Pastors praying for the couple

Couple display their marriage certificate

Balogun Bisi Omidiora & Chief (Mrs.) Olusola Olufemi

Chief Kola Odutalayo & Oba Adebolu Fatunmise

Mr. & Mrs. Aderemi

Joko Kudayisi & Tamuno Okudu

Hon. Nike Omoworare with Mr. Adediran Adewoyin

244

Prince Olakunle Aderemi & Senator Jide Omoworare

Senator Jide Omoworare with Dayo Iluyemi

RECEPTION

Alhaji Ibikunle Lawal, Prince Tokunbo Sijuwade with Balogun Bisi Omidiora

Alhaji & Alhaja Rasheed Adelusi

Alhaji & Alhaja Rasheed Adelusi praying for the couple

Oba Adebolu Fatunmise & Chief Oyetade

Balogun Bisi Omidiora & friend

Mr. & Mrs. Ayo Fawole

245

Couple with the Officiating Ministers

The couple in dancing mood

246

80 HEARTY CHEERS FOR PA

MOBOLAJI

COKER

By Ken Ehimen

E

very member of the Coker Family had cause to thank God and praise Him for all the years of provision and protection especially for the life of their patriarch, Mr. Clifford Mobolaji Coker who marked his 80th birthday with fanfare.

The family, their friends and associates all gathered at the Beehive Playground, Agidingbi, Lagos for a reception to mark this significant birthday in the life of Pa Coker.

It was a lively occasion that began with prayers. Then there was a session of tributes and of course lots of merriment.

The celebrant who told us he was grateful to God for sparing his life and blessing him in many ways also cut a lovely cake assisted members of his family.

There was certainly so much happiness in the air throughout the duration of the ceremony.

247

Tade Oduyale & Otunba Supo Ashiru

Oyindamola Ikuyajesin, Kofoworola Ikuyajesin with Mr. & Mrs. Mobolaji Coker

Femi Aremu with Mr. & Mrs. Olowoporoku

Ayotola Jagun with

Femi Esu, Pa. Clifford Mobolaji Coker, Oladele Coker & Akin Coker

Mr. & Mrs. Mobolaji Coker with Mrs. Taiwo Adegbamigbe

Mrs. Olawunmi Ikuyajesin & Mrs. Olayinka Orilowo

Kemi Dare, Mosun Coker-Dare & Ope Coker

248

Deji Ladotan & Bolanle Akinyemi

Tomiwa, Ethan, Femi, Morakinyo & Emmanuel

Olu Talabi, Lolu Craig & Mr. Clifford Mobolaji Coker

Mr. & Mrs. Olowokporoku with celebrant

Mr. Efunkoya & Mr. Gbenga Olushina

Mrs. Olasunbo Agbetan

Mr. & Mrs. Gbenga Agoye

Sarah Akinyemi & Blessing Oke

Mosunmola Coker, Tonia Ofuokwu, Christy Coker, Ope Coker & Gbenga Olusina

Zemirah, Barbara, Onome, Xavier & Ope

Mrs. Ngozi Nnadi & Mrs. Coker

249

Barrister Olasunkanmi Ameen, Mrs. Coker with Mr. & Mrs Olowoporoku

Biyi Fadu, Mosunmola Coker with guests

Olalekan Lapite, Prince Olujo-Kosoko, Dr. T. Davies & Mr. Clifford Mobolaji Coker

Sir George Nnamdi & Lady Maureen Ifeoma Oligbo

Mrs. Kemi Omotola, Mr. Clifford Mobolaji Coker, Mrs. Coker, Mr. Sope Coker (jnr.) & Mrs. Lara Bakare

Fehintola Ademodi and Timmy Alabi

Mr. & Dr. Fola Rogers, Mrs. Nike Coker, Mrs. Gbemisola Agbede

Yemi Wilde-Halim, Mrs. Nike Coker with Dede Yebovi

250

Tunbosun Oke

Pa Mobolaji Coker cutting his birthday cake

The celebrant and wife cutting his 80th birthday cake

Barr. & Mrs. Yinka Kilaanko

Segun Agbede

Hon. & Mrs. Titilayo Ayodele Olowoporoku

Mrs. Olofinade, Mrs. Ebiai, Mrs. Helen Coker, Mrs. Pamela Philemon, Morakinyo Okusine with Ronke Agunloye

Mrs. Coker & Kehinde Jinadu

Arc. Femi & Mrs. Funmi Agboola

251

OVATION REMEMBERS DEACON PETER AFIKUYOMI Story: Dele Salako Photo: Adekoya Adegbite & Segun Lawal

The Afikuyomi family

252

The Afikuyomi family

W

hen Deacon Peter Afikuyomi died, the whole of Nigeria knew. The reason is simple.

He is the father of cerebral politician and former Senator of the Federal Republic, Tokunbo Afikuyomi-and he was given the most befitting of burials.

From the funeral service at the Yaba Baptist Church, Commercial Avenue, Yaba to the reception at The Haven's Event Centre, the turnout was impressive with many celebrities in attendance.

Some of the distinguished Nigerians that came to bid farewell to the deceased included the Governors of Lagos and Ogun States, Gov. Babatunde Fashola and Senator Ibikunle Amosun. Others were Asiwaju Bola Tinibu, Justice Bola Ajibola,

Chairman, Lagos APC, Chief Henry Ajomale, Senator Adolphus Wabara, Senator Ganiyu Solomon, Bashorun Dele Momodu and Hon. Abike DabiriErewa.

The entire ceremony was streamed live over the internet in what was widely regarded as a fitting send-off for a deserving father.

Deacon Afikuyomi started his higher education first as a Correspondence Student of Rapid Result College, supplementing this with other overseas Correspondence courses before ending his studies at St. Bennets College in London.

Upon completion of his studies, he started work with UAC-Unilever and was later seconded to Palm Line Agencies Nigeria Limited where he

253

Former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN, Governor Ibikule Amosun & Chief (Mrs.) Bisi Fayemi

254

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mr. Babtunde Fashola, SAN, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun & Erelu Bisi Fayemi

Bunmi & Sen.Tokunbo Afikuyomi

Late Remi Lagos

Mrs. Modupe Afikuyomi & Chief (Mrs.) Bisi Fayemi

Sen. Ganyu Solomon & Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele

255

Justice Bola Ajibola (Rtd.), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu & Mr. Babtunde Fashola (SAN)

Alaji Lai Mohammed & Chief Pius Akinyelure

256

Chief (Mrs.) Bisi Fayemi, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Justice Bola Ajibola, Chief Pius Akinyelure, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Sen. Adolphus Wabara

Mr. Babatunde Fashola, Sen. Amosun & Asiwaju Tinubu in a tete a tete

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu with family members

Segun Ajibola, SAN, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Justice Bola Ajibola (Rtd.)

Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Opeyemi Bamidele & Wale Oluwo

257

INTERMENT

Rev. G. Adebayo of Yaba Baptist Church during the grave side ceremonies

Family members at the graveside

258

Officiating Ministers

Family members performing the dust to dust rite

Rev. G. Adebayo of Yaba Baptist church

259

RECEPTION

Lagos chiefs cap with Sen. Ganiyu Solomon

Senator Ganiyu Solomon with Sen. & Mrs. Jide Omoworare

Mrs. Solake Adegunwa & Ms. Davis

Mayor Akinpelu & Kunle Bakare

Segun Ajibola SAN , Muiz Banire, SAN & Ms. Davies

Kunle Rasheed, Segun Ogunbunmi & Charles Nwagbara

260

Segun Ajibola (SAN) & Dele Momodu with Wale Bob-Oseni

Segun Dawodu & Muiz Banire, SAN

Ms. Davies (left)

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa &Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas Ade Bakare (right)

Wale Bob-Oseni, Bashorun wit Wole Jafojo

Lemi Olalemi, Biodun Sowunmi, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Rotimi Obey

Muiz Banire, SAN, Mayor Akinpelu, Bahorun Dele Momodu, Rotimi Obey, Kunle Bakare

Kunle Rasheed, Dele Momodu, Segun Ogunbunmi, Charles Nwagbara & Kayode Alfred

261

Bamikole Omisore, Gbenga Olunloyo, Oye Balogun & Rotimi Obey

Francis Abosede, Kayode Komolafe & Femi Falani, SAN

Mrs. Modupe Afikuyomi & friends

Tee A, Akin Tofowomo, Jafestra & Wale Oluwaleimu

Mayor, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Kayode Komolafe & Kunle Bakere

Jaiye Opeyemi, Bashorun, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Mayor & Bola Ilori

Wale Oluwaleimu, Tobi Sanni & Tee A

262

Tolu Obey (right)

Mayor Akinpelu, Alhaji Lanre Akanni Lawal (Lamex) & Kunle Bakare

Mr. & Mrs. Femi Ajidagba, SAN

Folusho Adeagbo, Tobi Sanni & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Sen. & Mrs. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Adebayo Odunlami & Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi

Bashorun Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Modupe Afikuyomi

Bola Ilori, Wale & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Sen. & Mrs. Afikuyomi

263

Modupe Afikuyomi, Felix Osiagbo, Mr. Tony Oladipo

Wale Bob-Oseni, Dupe Ashama, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Rotimi Obey

Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi (m) with family members

Mr. Abosede & Amb. Musiliu Obanikoro

Bashorun Dele Momodu (right)

Bahorun Dele Momodu & Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro

Sen. Jide Omoworare (left)

264

Bahorun Dele Momodu, Sen Tokunbo Afikuyomi & guests

Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Bashorun Dele Momodu & T.J Afikuyomi

worked for several years in Lagos, Warri and the London offices in different supervisory, administrative and managerial positions.

He eventually rose to become the Lagos Area Manager retiring from UAC Foods in 1983 and later joined Nutra Foods Limited, a subsidiary 7-Up, where he was drafted to help re-organise and resuscitate the company. He left Nutra Foods in 1997, crowning a meritorious management career.

Deacon Afikuyomi was also a gifted and successful business entrepreneur

teaming up with a childhood friend, Pa John Babalola to establish the Anglo – Nigerian Agency , ANACIES, which was an exclusive Representative of the top end Palais Wrist Watches, Remmington Machines and Tweet Fabrics from Switzerland. The company was also a major exporter of food crops from Nigeria to Europe. Deacon Afikuyomi was also a trained Mariner and served in the British Merchant Navy.

Until his death, he was a committed Christian.

T.J, OJ, Sen & Mrs. Afikuyom with MJ

Senator Musiliu Obanikoro & Mr. Segun Ajibola, SAN

Mr. & Mrs. Gbolahan Lawal

Bashorun Dele Momodu , Sade Ojo & Mayor Akinpelu

Mayor Akinpelu, Sade Tinubu- Ojo & husband, Hon. Oye Ojo & guest

Bashorun Dele Momodu, Dupe Ashama & Rotimi Obey

265

Mrs. Sola Areogo-Elegbede with Evang. Ebenezer Obey

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa

Femi Falana, SAN

Mr. Muiz Banire, SAN

Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro & Rotimi Obey

266

Mayor Akinpelu, Sen Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Benny Obaze

Senator Ganiyu Solomon

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Benny Obaze (Bevista)

Susan Eyo-Honesty (middle)

Mrs. Modupe Afikuyomi & friends

Sen, & Mrs. Omoworare, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi with Kunle Oyatomi

Dr. Hamzat, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Femi Hamzat & Mr. Francis Abosede

Mr. Kuye, Ben Akabueze & Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Senator Jide Omoworare

Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi & Hon. Toba Oke

267

268

Femi Falani (SAN), Jaye, Ben & Femi Ogunbanoro

W

hat do Ice Prince, D’Banj, Iyanya, Wizkid and Davido have in common beyond being multiple award-winning African music megastars? It is their taste for Africa’s rising top-of-the-range street wear brand - Sanusi Lagos. The exclusive lifestyle street wear brand which also boasts a women’s wear diffusion line was founded by the duo of celebrity stylist, Seyi Sanusi and UK based fashion designer, Adesola Obebe, in October 2013, and it is making a compelling statement of intent in the continent’s urban fashion circuit.

The aim of the talented pair’s collaboration is to bring high quality street wear to their hometown of Lagos, Nigeria and to the rest of the world and within just three years of taking off, Sanusi Lagos looks to be making good on its mission statement as it continues to woo and wow several music stars and celebrities in Africa’s entertainment capital, Lagos and all over the continent.

Their premium urban fashion label recently unveiled its trendy SS16 Men and Women Collection titled "PUSHAS" following up on two previous barnstorming collections – the SS14 and SS15 collections released in 2013 and 2014 respectively, which are on show at sanusilagos.com.

Label owner, Sanusi, told OVATION that his latest collection “is inspired by a fusion of influences including the environment, our culture and lifestyle, and heightened by my love of hip hop culture, music and luxury streetwear.”

Speaking broadly about his groundbreaking urban fashion brand, the talented stylist stated, “Sanusi Lagos is a fresh perspective to Nigerian design and also a favourite with the most fashion forward African celebrities like Ice Prince, D’Banj, Iyanya, Wizkid, Davido and The Mavins with a whole lot more fashion conscious guys and ladies around Africa wanting to know more about the new premium

RISING STREET WEAR

BRAND

SANUSI LAGOS UNVEILS ‘PUSHAS’ COLLECTION

Story: Bamidele Salako

Photo: Sanusi Lagos SS16 Lookbook

269

HER ITAGE

270

streetwear brand that's taking a unique spin on the urban African fashion scene.”

Sanusi further revealed that the "PUSHAS" Collection was created with the agenda of starting a new movement in Africa: “Streetwear has become a fullfledged lifestyle that is a powerful force in the conversation of fashion, music, and pop culture. We wanted to introduce this distinctive style of street fashion to the African market by creating and manufacturing in our hometown, Lagos,” he noted.

In an attempt to creatively explore different aspects of streetwear, the label broke the collection up into various segments: the Heritage, Music and Pop Culture segments. The Heritage Collection sees a unique and creative blend of local African print fabrics with an urban edge in keeping with the brand’s penchant for fusing locally sourced fabrics with a sporty aesthetic. For the Music segment, the designers worked with bold red, white, grey and black colour palettes inspired by hip hop artistes’ love of sportswear and comfort while the Pop Culture segment pulls the zeitgeist out of the hat with an audacious play on taboo issues in Nigeria.

The red camouflage print under this segment is a play on the ban of civilians’ use of the military’s green camo.

Sanusi says his brand is undoubtedly Africa’s numero uno streetwear brand. He calls it a prerogative lifestyle streetwear brand for guys and girls with a passion to keep moving the urban culture forward on the African Continent.

MUSIC

POP CULTURE

THE UNDYING LEGACY OF

PUNCH FOUNDER

OLU ABODERIN

F

Story: Deji Aroloye Photo: Adekoya

or those who knew him personally, particularly members of his family and those he worked with, and all who were mightily influenced and driven by his vision, industry and humaneness, and those who were greatly informed, educated, enlightened and entertained by the newspaper he founded, it would be hard to believe that 30 years -three decades-10, 950 days and more-have passed since the legendary Chief James Olubunmi Aboderin, late Founder and Publisher of the Punch Group of Newspapers, passed on to glory.

As a fact, it must seem like yesterday to some of them. But really, there is no denying the truism that his, is certainly the light that never dims and the flame that never wanes, as, thirty years after his mournful early departure from his family and friends,

Punch Chairman, Wale Aboderin welcoming special

he continues to speak to generations of people who weren’t even born while he was alive-through his abiding legacies.

One might ask-what manner of man was Chief Aboderin? Passionate, hardworking, patriotic, selfless,

energetic and innovative are some of the words that his associates who knew him quite well would readily use to describe him.

While he was battling death in Prince Grace Hospital in London, the predominant thought on his

Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Wale Aboderin & Donald Duke

Olu Aboderin Rememberance

H.E. Funso Amosun (First Lady Ogun State) & Mr. Labaran Maku

Deaconess Olayemi Aboderin, Ms. Tiwalola Aboderin & Ms. Olaide Adisa

Chief & CHief (Mrs.) Akande with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Mr. Labaran Maku, Prince Segun Adesegun & Chief Olusegun Osoba

271

LEGACY BALL

Paul Bassey, Biodun Sonola, Tunji Adegboyega, Reuben with others

R-l: Chief Edwin Igbokwe, Bayo Onanuga with Mr. & Mrs. Tunde Fagbenle

Punch Staff members

Mrs. Tugbogbo, Mrs. Osho Senior, Mrs. Orimogunjobe & Arinola Osho

mind was how his good works would continuously contribute to human progression even after his demise.

His final words on his deathbed were “Punch should be kept alive at all cost.” Today, that newspaper establishment, which is perhaps his greatest legacyother than his children of course - is no longer playing the survival game. Now, the Punch prides itself as Nigeria’s most widely read newspaper and is in the vanguard of robust journalism practice in the country with its plethora of star editors and reporters having picked up several respected local and international laurels over the years.

To mark the departed great newspaperman cum businessman’s 30th memorial anniversary, a legacy ball was organized by the children where they hosted dignitaries to remember this quintessential man of many parts, and his many good deeds. The event was held at the Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos in Victoria

272

Island. Meanwhile, some activities had taken place a few days to the ball. Educational items were donated to the pupils of Magboro Community High School in Ogun State. The children of the departed also visited their late dad’s graveside in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Chief Olu Aboderin died on February 28, 1984 six months before his 50th birthday. In one of the write-ups sequel to his death, the then Punch Sports Editor who is now also late, Deacon Ayo Ositelu, wrote in an article titled: A man and his dream, “Olu Aboderin had many dreams when he was young. As in the case of other people, some of his dreams came true. Some had not as at the time he went the way of his fore-fathers ...” And then he added “Chief Olu Aboderin packed many achievements into a brief lifespan of 49 years.”

The atmosphere during the event was convivial and pleasurable. The ball also provided guests with opportunity to see how valuable the children, people

and organisations Chief Olu Aboderin left behind are in today’s society.

For instance, he began Punch Newspapers with Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu after he resigned from his post as Chief Accountant of the defunct National Bank in 1971. Today, Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of one of Nigeria’s leading dailies - Vanguard Newspapers.

Then, the vision Chief Aboderin had was for Punch to be in the forefront of promoting the dignity of man as well as other values, ideals and principles that would place Nigeria on the right trajectory. With the triumphs and successes the multiple award-winning newspaper has recorded, he would no doubt, have an overwhelming and gratifying sense of fulfillment had he been alive today to witness the giant strides the newspaper company he founded has accomplished over the years.

Olubunmi Aboderin

Muyiwa Adetiba & wife

Mrs. Emuwa Angela (nee Aboderin) & husband

Mr. & Mrs. Akintola

Omowunmi & Tinuke

Olori Mojisola Abass & Mrs. Iyabo Alabi

Mrs. Adetiba, Mrs. Iyabo Kuye & friend

273

Guest, Mrs Dongo, Omowunmi & Mr. Dongo

Bashorun J.K Randle & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Punch staff

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Punch Chairman, Mr. Wale Aboderin

Mr. . Labaran Maku (Former Information Minister) with Bashorun Dele Momodu

. Labaran Maku (Information Minister), Chief Osoba & Mr Wale Abiderin

Dapo Abiodun & Bashorun Dele Momodu

H.E. Mrs. Funso Amosun & Bashorun Dele Momodu

He also established Skylark Records and Skylark Dancers to keep up with his passion for arts, entertainment and philanthropy. It was said of him that he sponsored many musicians in the early days of their career. Today, some of them are now trailblazers in the entertainment industry.

There were tons of tributes for the multi-passionate entrepreneur and socialite par excellence from some of the dignitaries that attended the ceremony. The Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku eulogized the virtues of the late Aboderin which he highlighted as hard work, vision, determination, and excellence,

274

urging journalists to emulate these virtues. Mr. Ray Ekpu corroborated Mr. Maku when he said, “The vibrancy of the Punch, the professionalism of the Punch and its staying power are the greatest legacies and the tributes that Management of the Punch can pay to the man. It is the success of such papers that encourage people to go into journalism.”

In addition, Chief Olu Aboderin’s first son and Chairman of the Punch Newspaper, Mr. Wale Aboderin described his father as an ultimate leader and detribalized Nigerian. He said, “My father knew that if you empower the common man, no matter how, the

trickledown effect would be that those that haven’t been heard of would grow.”

Mr. Aboderin further said, “He was also quick to empower people and we don’t have many people doing that anymore. People are always looking for what they can get out of it before they help.”

Interestingly, one of the artistes that performed at the historic event is late Chief Aboderin’s daughter, Wunmi Obe, who along with her husband, Tunde, form the popular musical group, T.WO. They both had a fascinating duet. Other star performances were by Omawunmi, Segun Obe, Dr. Sid and Kaffy the Dancer.

Former Punch Chairman, Chief Ajibola Ogunsola with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Kaffy & Bashorun Dele Momodu

UBA Chairman, Tony Elumelu

Laide Alatise , Tiwalola Babarunse & Mercy Yesufu

275

Kaffy

T.W.O Segun Obe, performing

276

FASHION

Punch Chairman, Mr. Wale Aboderin

Mrs. Angela Emuwa

Mogaji Olatunde Aboderin & Mrs. Olufunke Aboderin

277

FAMILY AND FRIENDS CELEBRATE THE WONDERFUL LIFE OF CHRISTIANA OLAORE LAWAL Story: Babatunde Martins Photo: Solomon Ekhaiyemhe

I

The family members

278

Late Mrs. Christiana Olaore Lawal

t was an admixture of sadness and joy for the family of Mrs. Modupe Christiana Olaore Lawal. They were obviously happy that their mother had lived to the ripe age of 82, but very sad when she passed on.

It was this conflicting emotions that permeated the air during her funeral held in the Orile - Agege area of Lagos.

Fondly called Mama Teacher, the woman who was humble to a fault, hard working and caring began her journey home from her residence 11, Morcaz Road, Sofunde, Agege where a Christian wake service unfolded In his sermon, Bishop Ohu, who led other men of God to the event, noted that the late Mrs. Lawal had fought a good fight and had gone to rest.

He urged those who were griefstricken in the congregation to cheer up because the departed was not dead having served the Lord fervently in her last days, she was going to be the Lord.

The next day, there was a funeral service at the Cathedral of All Possibilities Methodist Church of Nigeria Diocese of Lagos North, Agege. The church service kicked off at 10am and the church auditorium was filled with family, friends and wellwishers.

During the service, the mother of four was showeredwith praise but by far the most moving came from Danny

Wilson, the popular music sensation of the 90s who is her son in-law “Grandma your thoughts were always about your children, you never let a moment pass without worrying about them. You worried for Mummy Tee down to OgoOluwa, You worried for Mummy Kay even down to tiny Eniola. I am sure that from where you are now, you are watching like you always do from the balcony when we came visiting. How can I one forget, how you used to wait till we got back home back safely, if we ran late and anxious if we knocked too hard on the gate. Now you are watching from Heaven’s window, like you usually do on your balcony, leaning from heaven with the usual love and waving so gently".

Earlier, Rev. S.B. Adeyemi who was in charge of proceedings described Mrs. Lawal as a perfectionist, a committed Christian, a thorough Methodist, a Member of the Ladies Friendly Society and Grand Matron of BusyBee Society of Methodist Church Tabon-Tabon, Agege. In his view, she lived well during her earthly sojourn.

There was a colourful procession after the service before Mrs. Lwal was eventually laid to rest. The day did not end until the Lawal family hosted a reception at the NYSC Orientation Camp grounds, Iyana-Ipaja Road, Agege.

Air Comm Raymond Peters (Rtd), Kemi Adeyiga, Taiwo Lawal, Group Capt. Kenny Lawal & Mr. Segun Ajayi

Ladies Friendly Society

Tae, Kenny Lawal & Kemi Adeyiga

Jude, Biodun & Jason Chiedu

Bishop Ohu & other Officiating Ministers at graveside

Air Comm R. J Peters & Dr. Fred Odutola

Daniel, Yetunde, Gilbert & Desiree Wilson

Anita, Tutu, Biodun, Tolu, Yetunde, Esther & Aramide

Taiwo, Chief Adebowale & Kenny

279

Family & friends

Taiwo & Idowu Peters

Ayodele, Adetutu & Damilola Agboola

Kemi Adeyiga

Daughters paying last respect

Grandchildren performing the dust to dust rite

280

Family members

Fela, Chief (Mrs.) Peju Okusaga, Chief (Mrs.) Bisi Osibogun & Taiwo

N

igeria’s leading security specialists, KSquare owned by seasoned security practitioner Mr. Kunle Komolafe recently opened a new office complex at 54 Bello Street, Papa Ajao Mushin, Lagos.

Incorporated in November 1998 as K-Square Enterprise, now K-Square Multidimensional Limited, the foremost security outfit has become the go-to security expert for a broad range of specialized and generic security and Management consultancy services with top Nigerian companies, government agencies and private individuals as clientele.

The event proper commenced with a brief praise and worship session and a short sermon by Pastor Mike Sekoni, followed by the commissioning of the new office complex by the Minister of Information & Culture and Chairman Board of Trustees of K-Square Multidimensional Limited,

Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

The mega office structure has such facilities as conference room, a lecture room and a communication room. Having availed the entertainment industry of its expertise for years, K-Square has now established relationship with national and international outfits Whether it is an intimate group gathered for a special celebration or a major outdoor concert, KSquare have a reputation for delivering first-rate service. Combined with their expertise in full-service events production, K-Square provides complete events management from beginning to end.

K-Square boss, Kunle Komolafe who has won so many awards said the outfit has equally veered into digital security equipment including CCTV, alarm systems and more.

The event was wrapped up with mouth-watering dishes by Oneyhillic Catering Dishes.

KSQUARE

Opens New OFFICE IN LAGOS Story: Efemena Collins Photo: Segun Lawal

281

Naomi Komolafe, Abiola Komolafe, Kunle Komolafe, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Patricia Komolafe & Tobiloba Komolafe

The Communication Room

Jetta Ijetta, Pastor Mike Sekoni, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Patricia Komolafe, Kunle Komolafe & Femi Odutade

Dipo Komolafe, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Patricia Komolafe, Kunle Komolafe & Femi Odutade

282

Mr. Ksquare with the company’s many awards

Sola, Laja, Murphy, Taiwo, Lukman & Angela

Mr. Ofienbor Blessing, Kunle Komolafe & Wole Olagundoye

Ama & Ofienbor Blessing

Kunle Komolafe & Dayo Oshin

Lukman, Jaff, Friday, Cosmos, Ijebu & Rig Sam

The Ksquare team

283

Kunle Komolafe, Alhaji Lai Mohammed & Biodun Opawole

Yinka Oyedeji with Kunle Komolafe

Mrs. Adenuga, Ade Adenuga, Kunle Komolafe & Adebayo Akinwunmi

Olanipekun Owoade & Deaconess Olufunmilayo Komolafe

Segun Kuku & Bola Salako

284

Gbenga Lewis & Nike Komolafe

Ade Adenuga & Adebayo Akinwunmi

GRAND FAREWELL FOR IN AMICHI, ANAMBRA STATE

MADAM CAROLINE UMEIGBO

Story: Babatunde Martins Photo: Segun Lawal

W

Mama’s children

hat we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.

These words by American writer, Albert Pike aptly encapsulates the life and times of Madam Caroline Chima Umeigbo who left her footprints on the sands of time, touching lives and impacting society.

Adaobi as she was fondly called was a darling not only of her children and immediate family but was loved by people from far and wide for her kindness and Godinfluenced lifestyle.

Madam Umeigbo (nee Anulude) lived life to the fullest and that was why despite the fact that she died after her 80th birthday, many still wept when the news of her death broke.

The journey to eternal glory of this woman of substance began with a Christian wake at the compound of her husband, Pa Marcel Okafor-Umeigbo located in Eziama Village in Anambra State.

Hundreds of mourners were there to express their love and console the family on their loss. It was an evening of encomiums, prayers, praises and songs.

It was at this same venue that guests including Anambra State Governor, Mr. Willie Obiano

gathered for the funeral service which started at 10.am and went on smoothly till Madam Umeigbo was interred at a private ceremony.

The service kicked off when the remains of Mama Caroline was received at the entrance church entrance. The men of God gathered at the entrance and prayed for her remains and then showered prayers on the bereaved family.

Bishop Olisewe Chukuma who led other men of God steered the service expertly. Firstly, he commended the children and family members of Madam Caroline for giving her a befitting burial. Speaking about the deceased, the Man of God described her as a God-fearing woman, who was passionate about the Kingdom of God. He praised her for raising her children well and ensuring that they imbibed the culture of hard work and discipline.

As expected there were many tributes read to celebrate the late Madam Umeigbo but the one that can be considered as most moving was by her daughter, Muoghalu Christy: She said: "Dear Mummy, now we can no longer feel your affectionate presence or hear your infections laughter, but the intensity of each leaves us with a lingering memory of who you are and how you lived.

You were a dedicated mother,

Late Madam Umeigbo

THE CHRISTIAN WAKE

His Grace Most. Rev. Dr. E.O. Chukwuma (OON) & other Clergies

Sir B. Afoka, Sir Engr. Umeigbo, His Grace, Chief Dr. Chidi Anyaegbu (MFR)

Ven. & Mrs. E.C. Nnoli (rtd)

Chief Chidi Anyaegbu with Chief Mike Umeh

Sir Engr. C.Y. Umeigbo & His Grace

Lady Engr. & Sir Engr. Umeigbo & Chief Chidi Anyaegbu

286

Sir Ben Oyeka & Sir Ebere Umeojiaku

Sir & Lady Marcus Ajokwu

Chief Chidi Anyaegbu (mfr), Chief Mike Umeh & a guest

Chief S.N. Okeke & wife

Sir Umeojiaku, Sir Engr. Umeigbo, Chief Umeh & a friend

Mrs. Okeke, Chief Okeke, Chief Umeh, His Grace, Chief Chidi Anyaegbu & Sir Engr. Umeigbo

287

THE FUNERAL

Rt. Rev. E.O. Ikeakor praying while others watch

Mrs. Nnoli praying

288

Lady Engr. Umeigbo & Mrs. Ify Okoye

Rev. D. Olinya, Most Rev. Dr. E.O. Chukwuma & Rt. Rev. E.O. Ikeakor

Members of Mama’s family with Most Rev. Dr. E.O. Chukwuma

Members of Mama’s family with Ven. P. Eche

Pa Marcel Umeigbo

His Grace, Lady Engr. Umeigbo, Mrs. Ify Okoye & Mrs. Muoshalu

The mother’s union praying with their members

289

290

Rt. Rev. D. Olinyan, Rt. Rev. E.O. Ikeakor & Most Rev. E.O. Chukwuma

Sir Engr. & Lady Engr. Umeigbo

From L-r: Mrs. Lucy Umeigbo, Mrs. Muoghalu & Mrs. Ify Okoye

Mr. Okoye & Mrs. Harrison Umeigbo

Mr. Okoye, Mrs. Nneka Umeigbo, Lady Engr. Ijeamaka & Sir Engr. C.Y. Umeigbo

Sir Robert Anwatu & Mr. ifeanyi Ezedigbo

Chinwe Ezeruigbo & Barr. Shirley Monye

friend and mentor. I thank you for being my mother. I thank you for providing for me and my siblings from cradle. I thank you for denying yourself certain luxuries in life in order to send us to school. I thank you for encouraging us to be good to people we meet in life. I thank you for instilling in us the wisdom that life without integrity is useless. I thank you for teaching your children the necessity of good character.

I thank you for transferring your generous spirit to your children. I thank you for teaching and demonstrating to us that God is good and faithful. For the infinite ways you showed us the true meaning of selfless unconditional love, we appreciate you mama.

All of our achievement in this lifetime are you and Papa's work because none of your children would have been where they are today without God, you and Papa. As our Priests would teach and we agree, life and living is not about how long but how well. Titles, wealth and positions we hold don't define the essence of life, what it does is the relevance each life and existence has to the community and to the lifting of lives. In order words, life has meaning in positive contributions. " In you Mama, was the fulfilment of this. Your positive impact on others will remain a reference point for us your children, the family, community and generations to come. As much as we

291

Bible Reading, Rev. Oyinka Mbashu

ady Engr. Ijeamaka & Sir Engr. C.Y. Umeigbo

Sir. Onny Nwanna

292

St. Philips Church Choir Ezeama Amischi

Samuel Fifionu & Jude Fifionu

miss you, we take solace in the fact that you lived a good life and deserve a good rest. Therefore, rest well Mama as you are now in His care forever. We love you forever."

Thereafter, Bishop Olisewe Chukwuma urged the congregation to always help the helpless and to give to God and man cheerfully. He invited the entire Umeigbo family to the altar and prayed for them Madam Caroline Chima Umeigbo was later interred at a special corner of Pa Marcel Okafor-Umeigbo’s compound.

It was within the same compound that the family laid out a royal feast of food , drinks and music for their guests which was a fitting way to celebrate the

wife, mum, mother, grandmother and great grand mother that they truly loved.

Madam Caroline Chima Umeigbo (Nee Ume-Anulude) was born on 10th March, 1935 to the family of Chief Ume-Ochiagha of Umuokpala Quater, Eziama- Amichi in the present day Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

She was the first daughter of her mother, late Madam Elizabeth Ibuodinma Ume-Anulude. Her mother, late mother was the second daughter of the first wife of late Chief Umembaukwu Ezike Udeozo of Obiuno Quarter, Ezima- Amichi, a polygamist and among the eminent personalities of the community.

Amichi Development Union Member Aba Branch

Cross Section of Clergy wives

Cross Section of Mother Union Members

The Clerics

Madam Caroline did not have the benefit of western education. She was willfully and conscientiously denied education by her father due to the misconception and ignorance at the time that girl education was a wasteful venture.

She was consequently lured into marriage at a tender age. Shortly after marriage, she was sent on tutelage under late Mrs. Janet Okafor who lived in Onitsha, where she went through apprenticeship and acquisition of skills in various trades and domestic activities necessary for her maturity into

womanhood.

During her life time, Madam Umeigbo was an extrovert. She was a financial and active member of Amichi Development Union, Aba branch and a leader in community development and social welfare. She was at various times the Treasurer and Chairperson of Amichi Women Group and Eziama Women Forum, Aba branch. She was a leader like no other and served with humility and passion. She was so outstanding that years later, she remains a reference point.

293

Engr. Umeigbo greeting a friend

Sir. Solo Akugha with Engr. Umeigbo

Pastor & Deaconess Ifechukwu Gabriel Anajekwu

Nwoye Emeka

294

Engr. Umeigbo delivering his speech

295

Engr. Umeigbo with Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Willie Obiano

Chief Chidi Anyaegbu with Governor Mr. Willie Obiano

296

Governor Mr. Willie Obiano

Dr. & Mrs. Samson Obichi with entourage during the procession

297

Mrs. Ifeoma Eguzode with Lady Engr. Ijeamaka Umeigbo

Bosco Ogbatue, Fabiano Magrini & Mr. Cyprain Okongwu

Madam Do Good, Lady Wilinko Obi with Engr. Umeigbo

Nonso Obichi

298

Amaka Muoghalu, Mrs. Ogochukwu lroka, Chidimma Umeigbo, Mrs. Chinelo Nwuko, Mr. Tochukwu Muoghalu & Ekene Muoghalu

299

Sir & Lady Umeigbo with guests

Chizoba HBC-Ogboko Amaka, Chuka Agozie & Onyemelukwe

Lady Comfort Anyaegbu & Barr (Mrs.) Anulude

Sir & Lady Ikechi Uko

Barr. Shirley Monyei with Mr. & Barr. (Mrs) Obrien Ofordu

300

Chinelo Nwoye & Helen Nwoye

Ide Agozie Chukwuenyem, Hon. Engr.& Mrs. Goddy Madueke

Chief & Mrs. Simon Obichi

Mr. &Mrs. Chijioke Egbo

301

OVATION SHOWCASES THE GREAT

IMPACT OF

DANGOTE CEMENT ACROSS AFRICA

“I believe that manufacturing, and not trading, is the best way to grow an economy.

This event, which we are witnessing today, attests to the fact that we took the right decision when we decided to transit from trading in our home country, Nigeria, into manufacturing, in 1996.

“Dangote Cement is currently simultaneously setting up new cement plants and terminals across 16 African countries.This is in line with our long-term vision to become one of the world’s biggest cement producers.

-Alhaji Aliko Dangote

Story: Michael Effiong Photo: Dangote Group

The Dangote Cement Plant in Muger Town, Ethiopia

ETHIOPIA

W

hen he goes to the World Economic Forum and other international platforms to discuss the importance of investment in Africa as the best way to lift the continent out of poverty, President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote surely means what he says.

He is one of those men who believe not only in walking the talk but leading from the front, Little wonder that in 2015, the Forbes-listed Billionaire was busy opening factories in different parts of the continent.

Dangote who has consistently called for African leaders to consider EU-style free movement across the continent to ease human and commercial activities as well as seamless integration began his African expansion drive from Ethiopia.

Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Hailemariam Dessalegn who cut the tape to inaugurate The 2.5 Metric Tonnes Per Annum Ethiopia plant located in Muger Town, praised Alhaji Dangote for his effort at turning around the economic fortunes of Africa and Africans.

He noted that the factory would provide about 7,000 jobs, and used the opportunity to encourage other

302

Alhaji Aliko Dangote with Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Hailemariam Dessalegn at the opening of Dangote Plant

investors to consider Ethiopia as an investment destination.

In his remarks, Alhaji Dangote stressed the need for genuine collaboration between the private sector and governments at all levels for the much needed real sector growth, noting that there must be deliberate efforts to encourage Africans, not just foreigners alone, to invest in Africa.

According to him “I believe that manufacturing, and not trading, is the best way to grow an economy.

This event, which we are witnessing today, attests to the fact that we took the right decision when we decided to transit from trading in our home country, Nigeria, into manufacturing, in 1996.

“Dangote Cement is currently simultaneously setting up new cement plants and terminals across 16

African countries, including Ethiopia. This is in line with our long-term vision to become one of the world’s biggest cement producers. We envisage that by the time we complete all our ongoing African projects, we will be on track to achieving our target.”

It was with the same enthusiasm that Dangote Cement also berthed in Zambia with the opening of a 1.5million Metric Tonnes Per Annum plant valued at $400 million with a 30 megawatts coal plant to power the factory located at Masasiti District, Ndola.

The plant was inaugurated by the President of Zambia, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who said Zambia has been enjoying very cordial bilateral relationships with Nigeria over the years, assuring Nigerians that his government will continue to encourage private sector

CAMEROON

Cameroon Prime Minister, Philemon Yang cutting the tape to open New Dangote Cement Plant in Douala as Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Governor Adams Oshiomhole & other VIPs look on

303

The New Dangote Cement Plant in Doula, Cameroon

304

CAMEROON

Alhaji Aliko Dangote welcoming guests to the new Plant in Douala

Alhaji Aliko Dangote with special guests inspecting the new Plant

Mr. Olakunle Alake, Chief Operating Officer, Dangote Group (left)

Mr. Bisi Onasanya (left)

Mr. Oscar Onyeama, (2nd left), Alhaji Aliko Dangote (3rd left) with guests

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Governor Adams Oshiomhole

Alhaji Aliko Dangote with Forte Oil Chairman, Femi Otedola

305

Otunba Niyi Adebayo & Chief Olusegun Osoba at the event

Mr. Olakunle Alake COO, Dangote Group (right)

306

R-l: Capt. Noggie Meggisson, Femi Otedola & friend

TANZANIA

The Dangote Cement Plant in Mtwara Region, Tanzania

307

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Governor Nasir El Rufai (far right) & other VIP guests during the inauguration of Dangote Cement Plant in Tanzania

308

Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Femi Otedola, Donald Duke, Segun Awolowo Jnr, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chief Demola Seriki with Alhaji Adamu Muazu

From 2nd left: Alhaji Aliko Dangote & Alhaji Adamu Muazu

From 2nd left: Eniola Bello, a special guest, Mrs. Ikepo Braithwaite & Alhaji Aliko Dangote

initiatives.The occasion was attended by Nigeria's Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo who lauded the government of Zambia and the people for approving the Dangote project and nurturing it to completion.

President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, in his speech, said the Zambia Plant was the sixth out of the company’s 14 cement plants in Africa to start production, adding “We are spearheading the economic revolution in several African countries; we are a strong advocate of Africans investing in Africa, “he said.

The Honorary Adviser to President/CEO, Dangote Group, Mr. Joseph Makoju, stated that with the investment, Nigeria can now proudly claim to be the economic leader in Africa “because this day, it is more about economic diplomacy rather than political diplomacy.

“So what Dangote is doing here is strengthening Nigeria’s position undisputably as a leader of Africa, economically and politically.“ he said.

Alhaji Aliko Dangote & family members

UBA Chairman, Mr. Tony Elumelu, himself a passionate Africapitalist advocate, was full of praise for Alhaji Dangote for building these solid structures around the continent. He described Dangote as the only private sector investor driving cross-border investments in Africa.

“This is economic diplomacy and Dangote is helping to foster bilateral relationship between the countries in Africa, “ he noted.

Located in the Mtwara Region, about 400km from Dar es Salaam, the capital of Tanzania, the new Dangote facility in the country is expected to provide work both directly and indirectly to over 10,000 people.

With more than $500m investment, the Plant is expected to produce 3.0 MT. Alhaji Dangote at the opening promised to improve social amenities in the Mtwara region by building a hospital, marketplace, school and police station in the area. Governor Nasir El-Rufai represented President Muhammadu Buhari at the ceremony.

Dangote Cement Plc, achieved another feat as the

year rolled by with the inauguration of a 250 milliondollar (N48.75 billion) cement grinding plant in Douala and also laid the foundation stone for a 200 metre jetty in Base Elf area, Port Autonome De Douala in Cameroon.

During its opening, Cameroon President, Mr. Paul Biya who was represented by Prime Minister Philemon Yang commended Dangote for his massive investments in cement plants across Africa Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said at the ceremony, that the plant, with a capacity of 1.5 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa), was a great feat in the operations of the company.

“The plant is our largest greenfield project in a neighbouring country with which we not only share a boundary but also a long history of brotherly relationship dating from our colonial days,” he revealed An excited Dangote said Africans have not seen anything yet in terms of investment from his company and from his antecedents, we know he is set to achieve more!

309

310

ZAMBIA

311

Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbanjo cutting the tape to open the Dangote Cement Plant in Zambia

312

Tony Elumelu, Chairman UBA, Chief Kola Jamodu, Chairman, PZ Cussons & Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President Dangote Group

Otunba Niyi Adebayo & Alhaji Sani Dangote, Vice President, Dangote Group

Alhaji Sani Dangote, Vice President, Dangote Group (left)

Otunba Bimbo Ashiru & Bashorun Dele Momodu

313

R-l: Herbert Wigwe, GMD/CEO, Access Bank, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Governor Adams Oshiomhole & Mr. Anthony Chiejina, Group Head Coporate Communications, Dangote Group

314

EMMANUELLA OSIGWE CLOCKS

A

ONE

miable PR practitioner and CEO of Full Page Communications was in high spirits when he invited family and friends to celebrate the first birthday of his daughter, Chinenye Emmanuella.

The birthday party was held at his FESTAC Town residence and Mr. Ingram, the PR Consultant for Ekulo Group ensured that all those who attended the occasion had a swell time.

Nenye

Chairman Full Page Int Comm.Ltd, Ingram Osigwe & wife, Lauraith daughters: Chioma & Chinenye

Birthday Red Carpet

Chairman Mega Maritimes Services Ltd, Chief Ifeanyi Ikejiaku, wife ,Oluchi & Children Chief & Mrs. Hycinth Osuchukwu, (Okpata) & family

Chief & Mrs. Paully Ogbuagu

Chief Donald Ibe, Chief Moses Nwankwo, Mrs. Ngozi Nwankwo & Chief Jude Okwudiba

315

Ebele Ifedikwa, Amauche Agbasi & Uche of Allbright Couture

Dele Silva & relations

Laura Osigwe & Chinelo Okafor

Laura Osigwe & Mrs. Reginald Ukaefu

L-r: PP Densa Oil & Gas boss, Prince Pele Ezeanyim, Sir Joe Chinwe, Ksji & Mr. Peter Okereke

Marketing Manager, Ekulo Group, Emeka Oramadike, Ingram Osigwe & Mr.Tony Okoye, PA to the Chairman, Ekulo Group

MD, Emefrank Nig. Ltd, Chief David Emenuga & Chief Luke Okeke, Chaiman Koil Nig Ltd

MD, Fairpoint Nig Ltd, Chief John Momah & wife, Ozioma, Ingram Osigwe, Chairman, Fairpoint Nig Ltd, Chief Sam Okonkwo & wife, Abeji

316

Ingram & Nd Onyeka

Mrs. Ngozi Nwankwo & Chief Jude Okwudiba

Pamela Nweke Of Ekulo Group

Mr. & Mrs. Linus Ahanonu with Chief Vin Okoye

Mrs. Blessing Uche, Cynthia & Mrs. Goodness Onwuamaeze

Mrs. Uju Ezek & Mrs. Henry Nwankwo

Oby Chinemelum, Mrs. Nwankwo, T.T , Chika Ekebere, Chichi Uluabuike & Nonye Ngonadi

PP Densa Oil & Gas Boss, Prince Pele Ezeanyim, Chief & Mrs. Moses Nwankwo & Sir Joe Chinweze

Ronke Akiola of UBA Plc & Shola Smart of Fidelity Bank Plc

Sir Joe Chinweze & Mr. Peter Okereke

Staff & families of Fairpoint Nig Ltd

Staff of Bozac Continental Ltd

Uche Of Allbright Couture, Amauche Agbasi & Ebele Ifedikwa

317

TUNJI

MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS EXPERT, OLUGBODI REVEALS HIS ROADMAP TO SUCCESS

‘’I went to Ejigbo Baptist High School where during the harmatan season we would trek for kilometres to fetch water. So, I knew what it meant to bath with half a bucket of water. We washed our own clothing and did manual labour on weekends. I honestly do not think my life would have turned out the way it is now if I had not gone through that. I now appreciate the so called village life, because the people there are not “hustling”. They are not trying to do more than 10 things at the same time and that is why they live longer than we do.’’

318

Interview: Segun Adebowale Photo: Segun Lawal

F

oremost thinker, Bo Bennet must have had Marketing Communications guru, Olatunji Joshua Olugbodi in mind, when he described enthusiasm as excitement with inspiration, motivation and a pinch of creativity.

This is because , TJ, as Olatunji Joshua Olugbodi is fondly called, has not only lived a life of enthusiasm but has also been creative and stylish in the practice of his profession which has seen him towering among his contemporaries.

TJ, hosted the Managing Editor, Segun Adebowale and Photo Journalist, Segun Lawal and he literally poured out his heart in this interview.

You had an elaborate 50th Birthday ceremony last year, was that the regular Tunji Olugbodi or was that just an exception

I think it was an exception since I am not a party animal. I had wanted to mark it silently but the people around me wanted it to be special indeed and I had to cave in at some point.

50 is a real milestone, why would you not want to celebrate it

50 is just a number for me but with respect to the Biblical note which said we should celebrate the year of the Jubilee, I just decided to set out time to thank God. What was your birthday wish for yourself

To be honest, I did not have any specific demand.

I was just grateful to God for being alive. But I did know that, because of the trajectory, one has had the opportunity of meeting so many people in the course of my career.

Did you get yourself anything

None at all. Although I did have something I really wanted to get, but it is not what I could afford. It is just one of those things that, when God wants you to have it, you will get it. It is just an indulgence by the way; just one of those weaknesses that you just know is an indulgence. Let me just say, it is one of the things that I have adopted as a hobby and my hobbies cut across photography, travelling, automobiles, reading and writing.

At 50, what milestones do you think you have achieved

The way I see things, is that, no matter how good you are, you can get better the next day. I do not see milestones as anything of note rather; I see them as a focus point through which you can help understand how better you can get. I say to people in my line of business that, the day you think you have arrived, is the day you are gone. Milestones are in the past, I like to look to the future.

Talking about the future, what goals have you set

To be honest, I do not have personal aspirations or goals in mind. Although, I do have a number of initiatives in mind, my main goal is to create more meaningful time for myself and my family, maybe

travel and read more, since I have not been reading as much as I should be doing these days.

Did you set any goal for yourself when you were leaving Prima Garnet

It was a spontaneous action, seriously. I just woke up one morning and decided that it was time to leave. I had nothing in my pocket. That day was in March 2006 and by July, I had registered Verdant Zeal and all I had to do next was just plan to actualise my goals. To do this, I had to be responsible and decided to leave every client from that organisation and basically started from zero. My goals were in the vision and we knew that we had to run a different kind of race. Do not forget that I had been part of a company that was seen as successful and I was with them from the scratch. The main challenge was how to re-invent the wheel, starting from scratch again. I knew then that, what was done was done and you could not start building something similar to what had already been done. I had to look in a totally different direction. Value adding became a huge responsibility I took up. From day one, that became our goal, VALUE. Also I decided that I was not just going to be transactional in any relationship that we would be building because I have seen it happen on so many occasions where the customer is with you today and tomorrow, he has switched to somewhere else, and vice versa.

How do you mean transactional

Beyond working on a project, you also have to have a working relationship with the customer. I am not talking about relationship that is just based on selfish needs, I am talking about a relationship that goes beyond business and is always mutual and including the fact that we are a value adding company.

Did you ever think Verdant Zeal was going to succeed and what would you have done if it had failed

I was not afraid, whether I was going to fail or succeed. I just had to venture into it. I just had to trust God, because really, I could not have done it alone. All the people I spoke with in the creation of the project were people that I did not know from Adam. They are people I just picked up their trails or people that were referred to me. I just shared my vision with them and luckily, they were stupid enough to trust me (chuckles).

I believed that the only way to make the future better is for you to create it. Secondly, I had the belief that, there was no shortcut to making it in life. Also, I understood that, business had to be in a coalition, not just any

coalition, but a coalition made up of people who believe in you. In building this coalition, we had to pour in a lot of things and had to ask ourselves what we had to do to make this thing work.

Few years down the line, how has it been

It has been interesting and rewarding. We have continued to draw lots of inspiration from a lot of people and importantly, we have added value to the people who have walked through the four walls of our office. In short, it has been fulfilling. For example, when we coined the work ‘Innovention,’ people tried to correct me, thinking it was a typo, and I would explain that it was not. Instead, it was a mixture of innovation and invention. From day one, we have been supporting several charity agencies, because I believe it is a means of showing leadership and using our company to touch the lives of many. I could easily do this and call the entire press to see, but I do not see much in that since I see it as a cheap means of publicity.

Why did you decide to do that since it must have been impossible to give out to charity when you just started the company

At first, it was tough. We knew that there was no way to be relevant in the society if you do not have any communal impact and that is where the drive to embark on giving started.

What is Verdant Zeal all about and what makes it tick

We are very organic in our activities and that helps us a lot. At the beginning, what we did was to look at the mistakes in the market and we realised a few details.

Firstly, time was of essence as there was a huge competition in which the first person to reach the market, sell and expand on an idea, make the bigger sales. So, in truth, speed was of utmost importance.

Some agencies are good but it takes them a period of time to deliver results. So, we said to ourselves, ‘how could we shorten that time?’ The second has to be about the budget and how to optimise for better results. We formed this platform called ‘OTOBOS: On time, On Budget and On Strategy’. That has been keeping us going. When we are talking time, we mean time without tension, speed with ease and no stress and a budget that accommodates everything. So, if someone wants something and his budget is 10 Naira, we offer him services worth 50 Naira.

Prior to establishing Verdant Zeal, you were at Prima Garnet for 15yrs, how was it

Prima Garnet was like the University for me where I had the opportunity of flourishing in my career. I am grateful for the experience and exposure given to me by the company.

From Lagos, you were sent to Osun State for your Secondary education and you also defied your father by reading English Communication ahead of Law, what memory of your childhood do you hold dear to your heart

For me, it was fun and I really a wonderful childhood, because we had neighbours and people who cared for the children and a community where we were all one, unlike today, where your status is determined by the size of your bank account. I am not afraid to tell people, that I went to St. Mary’s Nursery School in Surulere or to Salvation Army Primary School where we wore khakis, the school is behind the stadium. I also attended Ejigbo Baptist High School. In all, those are not privileged schools and I did not go there because my parents were not buoyant, but because they were very good schools. But, I look back today and I ask, ‘would I have been the person I am today if I had attended the high and mighty schools of then?’ I do not think so; because a lot of people then misused the opportunity they had and failed in life. I went to Ejigbo Baptist High School where during the harmatan season we would trek for kilometres to fetch water. So, I knew what it meant to bath with half a pail of water. We washed our own clothing and did manual labour on weekends. I honestly do not think my life would have turned out the way it is now if I had not gone through that. I now appreciate the so called village life, because the people there are not “hustling”. They are not trying to do more than 10 things at the same time and that is why they live longer than we do. So, in truth, I am grateful for the fact that I went through all of that. I even went to Ogun State University which is now called Olabisi Onabanjo University. What I remember then was that, the teachers then, were the best around the world and they were the leaders in their fields, unlike what you have today.

Why did you not read law

I had no serious aversion to Law. I just did not want to read it because my father wanted me to.

Were you rebellious when growing

Let us just say, I was principled. My father felt I was just being obstinate for no reason.

Was there any nickname when you were growing up

319

Several actually. I went from Lagos to Ejigbo when I was 9 and I was in Primary 5. I was very fair and very spoilt and they used to call me Oyibo Ara and Ara happened to be my hometown and it stuck for a while. But the name that stuck out most was Big D. I was in Lower Six that time and I do not even know how it came about. I remember in Secondary school and the transition for people to become prefects was from Form 4 and while they were announcing the names of the new prefects, I was busy making fun of the people that were chosen, not knowing that I was going to be chosen as the time keeper. I think I was stuck then, between half consternation, half surprise as I was generally looked down on, as the boy that came from Lagos.

Were you brilliant

I tried my best. Although, I was the best in Yoruba at that time. I remember one boy broke down after seeing his result and spied mine. He immediately thought that, our results had been swapped since I was the highest, when I could not even speak Yoruba fluently.

(Cuts in) So, how did you do it

For me, it is really about just understanding the fundamentals, since if you can speak English very well, you just need to transfer that knowledge to Yoruba. Also, I felt disadvantaged since I could not speak the Language very well and I made greater efforts to learn it and I fell in love with the idioms, stories and what have you. I had the privilege of being in a class where 80 per cent of us were in the Drama crew.

So, even if we were not on stage, we were still acting in class (chuckles).

Then, they would take us out on shows to other schools and I met the powerful figures in Yoruba Drama then. With all those, I guess I pretty much learnt the Language with ease. Although, I do not speak Yoruba as fluently as I would have loved to, right now. Ejigbo also happened to have a serious cultural heritage and I am happy that, I was involved in cultural activities then. Let us not forget, I was from Lagos then and so, I was fascinated when I would hear of the Egungun Festival and the likes. I would run to the front line of the ceremony to be a part of it, though now that I think of it; it was really dangerous considering the fetish nature of those days. All the same, I did not think that I was in danger then. I was just appreciative of the new experience.

Have you always been adventurous

Yes. I think I am one of those people that took the motto of my school a little too serious, “Nothing Ventured, Nothing Had�. So, I used to say to people, if you are scared, just take a step forward towards that goal and sure enough, something else would move you to take another, and another.

If you were in in Marketing Communications business, what would you have been doing

What I really wanted to do was to be in the University, so, I think I would have been a lecturer by now. Asides that, I probably would have been working in Theatre fulltime.

If you take a step back from Verdant Zeal, would you go back to the University

I would love to. I love to share my experiences which I have garnered from various aspects of my career, so I would love to.

How would you describe yourself

I am easy going, fun loving and adventurous.

What is your fashion style, evidently you are a bow tie person

Yes, I find it comfortable to have a bow tie round my neck. Although, I have not used the regular tie for a while; I would still use it without any

320

reservation.

Does it have to do with moods or cost

Not really, I am a very busy person, so, I do not wear stuffs because of the cost or otherwise. If it looks good on me, I will take it.

Favourite colour and music

I love red. My music cuts across Apala, Rhythm and Blues, Gospel and Jazz. I love musicians who sing with intellect, for example, Bob Marley and Fela. Some people just listen to dance to tracks that seriously do not add anything to their reasoning. If you listen closely to Fela and Bob Marley, you would understand that, there is always a message behind every song.

Favourite food

I am not very good with food in the sense that, I used to eat anyhow, without any diet or what have you. I could eat nothing all day and eat a very heavy dinner and I was okay with that.

But, I used to love rice very much, even though, I have to eat it sparingly these days and that is a big deal since I used to eat it sporadically before. I do wheat bread, vegetable, fruits and should I mention that, I have a weakness for red meat which I am trying to curtail these days. But it is a change of lifestyle which is inevitable, since I need to live healthy now.

At what point did the tiny young chap then start getting big

I do not know, I think it has always been there. I was involved in the Red Cross, Literary and Debating Society and Theatre Arts, and even won the Principals Cup in the Secondary school, which was a landmark achievement for me at that time.

University was also very interesting. I was one of the pioneers of the Department and also the Social Secretary of the Association of English Language Students. I was the Editor of the Centennial Press, freelanced with the Guardian and the Vice President of the Students Union.

Why did you dump the Guardian

I realised that I did not want to be a Journalist, all of my life. And the reason was simple. I did not feel comfortable. It was just a fraction of what you know that you published. I wanted to let people know the real truth. Also, I thought about finding fulfilment in the profession and I did not think I could enjoy working as a Journalist. I knew that, I was not leaving Journalism because I hated it; rather, it was because of my personal reason which was why I became a Copywriter immediately after leaving Guardian and then moved to Client Services.

Are you fulfilled

To a large extent, yes, I am fulfilled. My professional career has helped me work on every single type of account. And that is a very interesting thing for someone with my kind of background. It has also exposed me to a lot of people, situations and characterisations. When we were launching DSTV in 1993, I remember those early days and how things worked out and how big DSTV has become.

Any regret

No, because I always believe you should always give everything you have got into anything you do. I do not dwell on things that did not work out, so I do not have any regret. But I really feel that perhaps, I would have done a little bit better, if I had gone back to school, because at a point in my life, I was a little bit engrossed in work. I love the feel of writing your name and having a PHD behind it (chuckles).

How would you like to be remembered

As someone who came, saw and did his best.

Segun Adebowale & Mr. Tunji Olugbodi

80 HEARTY CHEERS FOR THE ASIWAJU OF IFE

CHIEF OYEKUNLE ALEX-DUDUYEMI Story: Babatunde Martins Photo: Adekoya Adegbite & Abraham Falodun

T

Chief Oyekunle Alex Duduyemi

he true A-Listers, men whose style never go out of fashion, were out in their numbers in Lagos, the Centre of Excellence to honour one of their own, Asiwaju of Ife, Chief Oyekunle Alex Duduyemi when he turned 80.

Just days before the landmark celebrations began, there were rumours concerning the health of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade. Because of the long-standing friendship between the revered King and Chief Duduyemi, one his High Chiefs, this could have taken some gloss off the event-but it did not.

As if the Asiwaju Of Ife knew full well, that the Ooni, a man of sartorial style and elevated class himself would have wished that the show went on no matter what, the 80th birthday activities went on undisturbed -and the first event was the launch of a book titled “Quintessential Colossus�

321

THE BOOK LAUNCH

Dr. Oba Otudeko, Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, Chief Ernest Shonekan, celebrant & wife with Chief Sunny Odogwu

Otunba Bimbo Ashiru & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Retired General Alani Akinrinade & Mrs. Morenike Oyeyemi Adejuwon

Head of Interim Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan & Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo

Chief Bode Akindele & wife Chief (Mrs.) Atema Akindele

322

R-l: Lt. Gen. Aliyu Gusau (Rtd), Dr. Oba Otudeko & Guest

Opening Prayer, Mrs. Nike Oshilowo with Yomi BadejoOkunsanya

Lamis Dikko, Mr. Tunde Lemo (left)

Ms. Lulu Duduyemi, Mrs. Tosin Sutherland & Mr. Richard Sutherland

Book Reviewer: Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe

Dr. Tunde Sodade & Ladi Ajose-Adeogun

Sade Dada & Barr. Yomi Dada

Yomi Badejo-Okunsanya witrh Chief Lucky Igbinedion

Dr. Fred Igbinedion, Abudu Lawan & Osa Osunde

Tosin Alex-Duduyemi, Zion Oji, Adeola Salami, Omolola Anderson & Omoniyepe Ajose-Adeogun

Chief S.O. Babalola

323

The Otunba Adekunle Ojora & wife, The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora

Chief Alex Duduyemi & wife

Oloye Sesan Ogunleye & wife

Dr. & Mrs. Soji George

Mrs. Kemi Oshinwole & Mrs. Funmi Alex-Duduyemi

Mrs. Bimbo Orogun-Alex Duduyemi & Miss Yinka Alex Duduyemi

324

Mrs. Omotolani Aderemi & Mima Ogbenifure

Chief Adebayo Williams (right)

Chief Bode Akindele & wives

Dr. Bisi Olatilo & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Prince Damola Aderemi, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Rev. Oluranti Odubogun

(L) (Rtd) Gen. Alani Akinrinade

Prince Rasaq Adewole (m) with The Otunba Adekunle Ojora & wife, The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora

325

RECEPTION

Chief Sunny Asemota & wife, Ireti

Yomi & Molade Olawole

Oyinda & Oyinda

326

Otunba Gboyega & Chief Obasa

Diran Aderemi, Goke Okesanya & Rotimi Owodunbi

Prince Damola Aderemi & Mrs. Folake St. Matthew Daniel

The Otunba Adekunle Ojora

Lt. Gen. Alani Akinrinade

Major Hamza Al Mustapha (Rtd.)

Saheed Kekere-Ekun (Saheeto)

Bayo Fatunsin

Otunba Gbenga Daniel

327

328

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Mrs. Nwadiuto Ihekanwa

Chief Kenny Martins & Bashorun Dele Momodu (Middle) with guests

Held at the prestigious Metropolitan Club, Kofo Abayomi, Victoria Island, Lagos, the event attracted dignitaries from all walks of life, including captains of industry, members of the academia, traditional rulers, members of the diplomatic corps and top government functionaries.

It was encomiums galore for Chief Alex-Duduyemi throughout the occasion. Former Head. Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, who was Chairman of the event, described the celebrant as a great Nigerian who had impacted on society, then added “I like to point out that attaining the age of 80 years in today’s world is by the sheer grace of the Almighty God. We must therefore give all honour and praise to God Almighty for this and other immeasurable blessings He has bestowed on Chief Alex Duduyemi and in particular, for giving him the grace to celebrate his 80th year birthday in the land of the living.”

The book, written by a Communication and Development Consultant, Oluneye Oluwole, identified resilience as the secret of Chief Alex-Duduyemi’s success. He brought to the fore Chief Alex-Duduyemi's awe-inspiring doggedness, sense of purpose and neversay-die spirit, all of which played significant roles in his rise as a young lad from Ile-Ife to a well-known business mogul.

According to the book’s publishers, “Each page of the book is a journey into a world of adventures and a launch into a time-machine that is coded with historical events. The book is a representation of hope that strongly advocates a great comeback after every setback; and a blueprint for turning life’s trials and temptations into opportunities,” The Book Reviewer, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe noted that the celebrant had grown to become a Quintessential

(from 2nd left) Sen. Jide Omoworare, Prince Damola Aderemi, Seyi Orolugbagbe & Segun Omoworare

Colossus through, honesty, personal sacrifices and a dint of hard work".

Guests at the launch included: Awujale of Ijebuland, HRH Oba Sikiru Adetona, Alake of Egba land, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo Gen. Alani Akinrinade (Rtd), Dr. Oba Otudeko,Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Chief Bode Akindele; Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo; a former Commissioner for Education in the defunct Western State, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi; Bashorun Dele Momodu, Chief Sunny Odogwu; Chief Harry Akande and Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye The birthday celebration proper fell on a Sunday and the celebrant decided to start the day by communing with his Creator at a well-decorated Marquee inside the KFA Event Centre in Lekki, Lagos.

The event was attended by Chief Duduyemi’s children, grand children, great grand children and several members of his family, as well as many friends all dressed in different shades of blue and silver which were the colours chosen for the day.

The service which was presided over by Rev. Oluranti Odubogun, the Bishop of the Cathedral Church of St. Philip, Ayetoro, Ile-Ife started with prayers and it dove-tailed into a session of praise, choruses, dancing and singing.

The first Bible reading was taken by the first daughter of Chief Alex Duduyemii, Mrs. Nike Osilowo who read Psalm 34. Then to show he really loved and cared for his people in Ile Ife, there was special offering meant for the people of ancient town.

When he took centre stage to address the congregation, Rev. Oluranti Odubogun noted that in case anyone was unaware of the reason for the service, the occasion was meant to thank God for the life of Chief Alex-Duduyemi, a true colossus, a man of exceptional charm who is adored by many and a

philanthropist who does not joke with the affairs of God. Rt. Rev Oluranti prayed to God to grant the celebrant long life, adding that Chief Duduyemi will not witness any sorrow throughout the rest of his years.

He said further “You are remembered in a very special way. May God remember you like Noah, favour you like Moses, honour you like Mary, fight for you like the Israelites, prosper you like Isaac, promote you like Joseph, intervene for you like Esther, protect you like Daniel, use you like Paul, hide you like Naaman, answer you like Elijah, anoint you like David and keep you safe like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego”.

After the sermon, where Rev. Oluranti spoke on the essence of living a life of contentment, he laid hands on the celebrant and his family.

He rounded off his presentation by asking the congregation to sing a special number, “My life time, I will give God my life time, if I give God my life time, He will take care of me and He will never let me down, I will give God my life time.”

The party soon got into full swing as a superlative reception unfolded inside a well- decorated hall within the same event centre and on the band stand was the King of World Beats, King Sunny Ade The Duduyemi family brought out its A-game in terms of hospitality at this occasion, the food was firstrate, the drink list upscale, everything was laid out specially to celebrate one of Nigeria's true great.

In an interview with us at the venue, Chief Duduyemi harped on the importance of honesty. He said the younger generation needed to imbibe the virtues of hard work and integrity as well as strive to pursue noble goals.

329

WHEN

ALHAJA TAIBAT ERIKITOLA TURNED 90!

Story: Efemena Collins Photo: Segun Lawal

Celebrant & daughter, Princess Debo Odutola

The celebrant

Celebrant with grandchildren

Celebrant with family members

S

Salau Timson & Admiral Aremu Timson

330

Alhaji Abdullahi Kamoldeen, Alhaji Imam Balogun Ilupeju, Chief Imam Babatunde & Chief Imam Muslim Abdus Salami

he was delighted beyond measure 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 90th birthday and especially when they have the blessing of celebrating it in the company of their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

It is the sort of stuff everyone dreams of and prays for. Such was Alhaja Taibat Erikitola’s delight when she clocked 90.

It was a moment that perfectly captured

the goodness of Allah in her life and one whose significance, words cannot sufficiently describe.

A committed Muslim with a passion for all things godly, the celebrations began with a prayer session at her residence in Peace Court, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos. It was indeed the day that Allah had made and everyone basked in the euphoria that pervaded her house that day. Friends and loved ones of the Erikitolas came wearing bright smiles of true delight as they gave glory to God for the life of the celebrant. The celebrant’s bright smiles betrayed the

Princess Odutola, Prince Aderemi Sijuwade, Olori Ladun Sijuwade & celebrant

Alhaji Adebisi Oritola, Chief Tunde Gafaru with celebrant, Alhaja Taibat Ejide Erikitola

Alhaji Yinka Erikitola, Mrs. Iyabode Atta & Admiral Aremu Timson

Alhaja Taibat Ejide Erikitola & Admiral Aremu Timson

Dr. Abimbola Ogunleku with Princess Debo Odutola

Mrs. Bisi Ayeni, Dr. Moyo Adejomo, celebrant

The Oritola family with the celebrant

joy that filled her soul as she was clearly overwhelmed by the immense show of affection from her family and friends who were on ground to honour the industrious woman who is fondly called 'Gbemdu' by her grandchildren.

'Gbemdu' in the celebrant’s local dialect is a term used to describe someone that is cute and beautiful. A true beauty in character and appearance, everyone acknowledges Alhaja Erikitola as a rare gem that glitters with many excellent qualities such as diligence, love, discipline and compassion. She lives a life that revolves beyond the circle of her

immediate family.

The officiating imam, Tajudeen Bakare who led other Islamic Clerics described the celebrant as a person who has an incomparable love for God evidenced by her kind-heartedness and love for people. Imam Bakare described her as a very frank person when it came to baring her mind on issues. He also said that she would always inconvenience herself to satisfy people urging her children to emulate their mother.

The imam then prayed that the Almighty Allah would give her good

331

health so that she might be able to continue the purpose of God for her life which he had already begun to bring to pass. He also prayed that God would see her through to fulfill her assignment for Him on earth and that eternity would be her portion.

A lovely reception soon followed, where guests were served excellent food and drinks. A nice cake by Cakes and Cream was cut by the celebrant and she patiently sat and took memorable pictures with many of the guests. Guests were seen hugging and

332

exchanging pleasantries and just having a great time and there was a concensus that the day was a memorable one that would not be forgotten in a long time.

Born in Lagos on January 20, 1925, Alhaja Erikitola who is a native of Niger State worked and also distinguished herself while working in the Civil Service. She worked as a Civil Servant for many years before voluntarily retirement in the 70s. She had a stint

in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture both at state and federal levels. In 1961, she was awarded with the title of 'Universal Mother' by J.W. Farnsworth of the Yorkshire Insurance Company of Nigeria and today, she has some successful personalities she calls her adopted children, having extended her golden heart beyond her biological children. One of them is OVATION Publisher, Bashorun Dele Momodu who has sent his warm birthday wishes to the great Alhaja.

CHIEF (MRS.) RACHEL ODUKOMAIYA GOES HOME IN STYLE Story: Tersoo Achineku

Photo: Abraham Falodun

Dr. & Mrs. Biodun Odukomaiya, Mr. & Mrs. Tayo Odukomaiya, Mr. & Mrs. Biola Odukomaiya with Mr. & Mrs. Kunle Aderinto

Abiola Odukomaiya, Lamide Awosika, Shola Odukomaiya & Banky Awosika

Chief Olu Falomo, Dr. Henry Odukomaiya & Deacon Shola Oduko

Abiola Odukomaiya & Mrs. Simi Onabanjo

Alhaji Atanda Baale, Alhaji Saka Atunde & Alhaji Saka Alao

SERVICE OF SONGS

Titi, Bolanle, Yetunde Aderinto & Mrs. Ibrahim

G

reatness! A word so short but so mighty in reality. Most people aspire to be successful and spend their entire lifetimes trying to earn the tag, GREAT! From conquering mighty kingdoms in the likes of Julius Caesar to inspiring a nation out of bondage like Nelson Mandela but some have become great by simply giving a little extra, just like Mama Rachel Aduke Odukomaiya.

The indefatigable lady recently passed on to glory, after touching the hearts of so many, it was only befitting for a grand burial ceremony to be held in her honour.

Before the burial ceremony, a

service of songs was held at her residence on Ladipo Kuku Street in Ikeja, Lagos which proved to be a perfect foundation for her send forth.

As expected, the venue was jam-packed with relatives, friends and well-wishers who trooped in en-mass to pay final respects to a woman who touched well respected for being principled.

The next day, there was a Christian Wake-Keep held at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church at GRA, Ikeja, Lagos. From the first hymn, “For all thy Saints�, it was clear that the day was going to be special indeed. Frederick Odukomaiya, stepped up to take the first Bible reading in which he

333

WAKE KEEP

The Harvester singers

Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Deacon & Mrs. Shola Oduko

The Otunba Adekunle Ojora & The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora

The grand children

(R-l:) Mrs. Bakare, Saheed Fawehinmi, Femi Ajidagba & Kunle Adeniyi

Mrs. Abeke Taire reminiscing about her late friend

Otunba & Mrs. Oyin Jolayemi with Yetunde Aderinto

Mr. & Mrs. Abiola Odukomaiya

334

Funmi Odukomaiya, Sola Odukomaiya, Alhaja Kuburat Okoya, Yetunde Aderinto, Ireti Asemota & Bola Odukomaiya

Yetunde Aderinto, Funmi Odukomaiya, Prince Henry Odukomiaya, Adesola Odukomiaya & Bola Odukomiaya

FUNERAL

Pastor Ituah Ighodalo (m) during church service

Cross section of mama’s family at the church

H.E Senator Ibikunle Amosun & Dapo Egbeyemi during Church Service

Dr. Henry Abiodun Odukomaiya giving vote of thanks during church service

First grandson, Fola Fredrick Odukomaiya & Biola Odukomaiya with her remains

Children with the remaining body at vault garden

The Children & the grand children at the grave yard

Mrs. Ireti Asemota & Mrs Abike Taire

Gbenga Ishmael, Mr. & Mrs Tunde Okoya

335

RECEPTION

Bolanle Ayeni & Titi

Ronke Shokefun, Hon. Bimbo Ashiru & Segun Ogunsanya

Dayo Elegbe, Dele Awosika, Biola Odukomaiya, Demola Adeojo & Femi Dorojaiye

Dr. Tunde Osinowo, Yetunde Aderinto, Bolaji Ayorinde(SAN) & Wale Akinterinwa

Mr. Femi Ajidagba, Femi Sanyaolu, Biola Odukomaiya, Oloye Obatoyinbo & Femi Barry

Mr. & Mrs. Niyi Adelaja & Sola Odukomaiya

Femi Ajidagba, Segun Ajibola(SAN), Biola, Femi Barry, Dipo Sarumi & Fola

Yeside Ajidagba, Bola Asemota, Sola Odukomaiya, Ijeoma Chukwuocha & Serifat Adeniyi

reassured the congregation that their late mother was sitting in the bosom of the Most High. He also prayed that the Lord should instill the power to be as loving as their late mother, in the hearts of everybody present.

Also taking to the altar, Angel Oluwapelumi Odukomaiya steeled the hearts of the congregation with words from the Bible. She explained that it was comforting to know that even in death; Mama Aduke Odukomaiya was still touching lives. Reading from the bible, she explained that death was a necessary evil that would be conquered with the return of Jesus Christ.

Later on, the entire Odukomaiya family trooped out to receive prayers from the congregation who were more than willing to usher down the heavens for the deceased’s household.

Her funeral service was at Yaba Baptist Church and again it was filled. Pastor Yinka Adesanya took charge.

According to him, Mama Aduke Odukomaiya was a

336

great woman who had not just come to earth to pass by, but had done remarkable deeds that will outlive her.

In his tribute, David Odukomaiya, her second son explained that he would miss his mother because she had fought a brave battle against cancer for 20 years, longer than most people would have. Describing her as Obirin Meta (Three women in one), David promised to imbibe all that he had learnt from his mother and assured that his children will also tow the path of righteousness and truth.

Adekunle Aderinto, her son in-law, described Mama Odukomaiya as the perfect mother who never ceased to love despite her strictness. He praised her for being prudent even in her business and thanked God for her interventions whenever trouble arose.

The service was soon followed by her interment.

Then the family hosted friends and guests to a reception.

Mrs. Rachel Aduke Odukomaiya, an accomplished businesswoman was born into the family of Pa Matthew Oguntoye of Ile Baale and Madam Comfort Abeo Emu Oguntoye of Ile Shawo of Igbaja in the Ofelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. She spent her childhood in Epetedo, Lagos Island and attended Ade-Oshodi Memorial Baptist Primary School. She completed her secondary education at Reagan Memorial Baptist Secondary School in 1962.

After secondary education, she became a trainee Reporter at the Daily Times, where she met her eventual husband, Prince Henry Olukayode Odukomaiya (Who eventually became the Editor of Daily Times). Mama Aduke Odukomaiya is blessed with four children; Dr. Henry Abiodun Odukomaiya, Barrister David Adetayo, Mrs. Regina Yetunde Bimpe Aderinto and Mr. Rolan Abiola Odukomaiya.

MICHEAL AJAVON

AT THE 10TH YEAR REMEMBRANCE OF IN COTONOU, BENIN REPUBLIC

W

Story: Zed Dominic French: Chinyere Ndukwe

hen a great man dies, many years after he has departed the world, his excellent work and good name is always remembered and celebrated. This was the case with Mr. Michael Ayayi Odonkor Ajavon who

L

orsqu’une grande personnalité meure, ses bonnes œuvres et sa bonne réputation sont toujours célébrées. Ce fut le cas avec M. Michael Ayayi Odonkor Ajavon dont le décès fut

was given a spectacular 10th year remembrance by his family and friends in Cotonou, Benin Republic. One of his sons, Mr. Gabriel Ajavon told us that his father was well loved by all-and it was fitting to remember him in grandeur. commémoré par sa famille et ses amis.

Un de ses fils, Garbiel Ajavon nous a révélé que beaucoup de gens aimaient son père et que c’était donc normal que l’on célèbre cette illustre personnalité.

Adieu Papa

Jean-Marie Ajavon,Tutui Ajavon (only surviving aunt) & guests

Jean-Yves Kouton, Hycinte Da Silveira & wife

Les Ibidakpo & friends

Mr. & Mrs. Thierry Yamadjako,Commissaire de Aneho,Togo

Mr. & Mrs. Mohammed Bio-Tchane & Ida Olympio

Mr & Mrs Quenum & daughter

Toukourou & guests

Ricos Campos on stage

337

Mr. Gabby Ajavon

Prestige Champagne for Papa M.A. Ajavon

Sabine Zomahoun

Vivian Abalo & Christian Codjia

Christelle Dalti

Francis Behanzen

Eric Barben

Malo Adjalohoun & Gabby

Mme Bibiane Ajavon

Mrs Ardelle Ajavon

338

Maitre Rafikou Alabi Mme Dalti & Olivier Paraiso

GRACE AJAVON MARKS FIRST COMMUNION Story: Zed Dominic French: Chinyere Ndukwe

F

Les amies de Grace

riends and well-wishers gathered in Lome, Togo for the first communion of the daughter of the wine master, Mr. Gabriel Ajavon.

After the church service, there was a reception which took place at the popular Ibis Hotel, Lome and it was filled with fun as quality guests from Lome and Cotonou were there.

L

es amis se sont réunis à Lomé, au Togo pour la 1ère communion de la fille de Gabriel Ajavon, le maître du vin. Après le service religieux, il y a eu une réception au célèbre Hôtel Ibis ; ce fut une grande réception qui a vu la présence d’invités venus de Lomé et de Cotonou. Mr

Mr. Gabby who moved his guests from Cotonou, France, etc gave them a treat with what he knows best- quality Champagne and choice wines. It was such a wonderful celebration for Grace, his special daughter and top entertainers were on hand to thrill guests.

Gabby qui avait fait déplacer ses invités de Cotonou et de France, a gâté ses invités avec des champagnes et des vins de très bonne qualité. Ce fut une merveilleuse célébration pour Grace, sa fille bien-aimée ; il y avait également plusieurs grands artistes qui ont été invités pour divertir les invités.

Laurex, Grace & Gloria.1ere D. Miss Benin `14.

Grace & her mother arriving the reception

Mme Glele, Mr. Codjia, Mme Loriano et Grace

Mr Gabby & Nadia

Mr. Gabriel, Mme Horstence, Grace & friend

Mr. Gabriel Ajavon and his close family members

Mme Goncalves, Les jumelles Sylvia & Sylvie et Nadia Aguiar

339

Gorgia Kuakuvi

Mr Lawson Richard Edoh

Mr Charles et Hubert

Mr Doe-Bruce & Grace

Mr. Gado Ibrahim Quenum & Grace

Mesdames Doe-Bruce & Grace

Mme (Lorenor) Chimene Sossah

Mme Rabi Perle Noire

Madam Sara avec Nadia, Rose, Olivia et Valerie de Togo

Mme Amorin

340

PDG Gabby & Mr Geraldo Akplogan

Mr Omer Sayi & Mr Oputa Emmanuel

HONORABLE

AMOUDATOU GBADAMASSI'S CLASSY BIRTHDAY IN COTONOU Story: Zed Dominic French: Chinyere Ndukwe

The family

The graceful celebrant

Chief Jubril Martins-Kuye, Mrs. Iyabo Kuye (4th right), Hon. Lekan Mustapha & guests

Bakari Semiou, Bileoma Massiou, celebrant & others

Elexandre Codjia, Mayor Soglo, Luna & Mme Valkoff

Kuassi Juste & Mme Gboko

T

Chimene, Julien Gandonou sings

he charming Senator and business woman, Hon Amoudatou Ahlonsou Gbadamassi blessed God for His goodness and guidance as she celebrated her birthday at the luxury Benin Marina Hotel, Cotonou.

The Posh party was attended by the crème de la crème of Benin society from politicians to businessmen, not forgetting her family and friends. Also ,

guests from Senegal, Niger, Cote d‘ivoire and Nigeria also honoured the celebrant with their presence.

The amiable senator and socialite, in her speech expressed great joy and gratitude for what God has done in her life. The exciting party which featured many top artistes and comedians went on till the wee hours of the morning as there was much wining, dining and dancing.

ors de la célébration de son anniversaire au luxueux Hotel Marina de Cotonou, la charmante sénatrice et femme d’affaires , l’Honorable Amoudatou Gbadamassi a déclaré :’’ je bénis Dieu pour sa bonté et sa protection’’.

Ce fut une célébration qui a attiré la crème de la crème de la société béninoise ainsi que des personnes issues de diverses sphères de la vie, sans oublier sa famille et ses amis. Les

invités venus du Niger, de la Cote d’Ivoire, du Burkina Faso et du Nigeria étaient tous présents.

Dans son discours, la grande sénatrice a exprimé sa grande joie et reconnaissance pour ce que Dieu a fait dans sa vie. La fête qui a vu défiler plusieurs grands artistes s’est terminée à l’aube ; il y avait beaucoup à boire, beaucoup à manger et les gens se sont bien amusés.

L

Ishola Saliu & Irene

341

Hon. Melvina Glele

Jules Ahuaton,Hon Eric Houdote,Chevalier

Mme Koukou with celebrant

Mme Sagbohan and Hon. Gbadamasi

Mr & Mrs Kotigan & friends

Mr & Mrs Lehady Soglo

Mr & Mrs Mousiliou Wasila

Mr & Mrs Loko Jose & Susan

342

Mr & Mrs Ben Kuassi

Mr. & Mrs. Sebastien Ajavon with celebrant

Mr & Mrs Nadjo

Mr & Mrs Adjibi

Mr & Mrs Adagbe Nicolas Maroufath

Her Excellency,Reckya Madougou.

Mme Clodine Pridencio

Mme Mariam de Dravo et Mirielle Akanho

Modeste and sister Grace Givencio.

Mr & Mrs Hounjo.

Mr & Mrs Bankole

Mmes Bata,Coulibaly,Laure,Susan Yamiogo from Cote d'ivore.

Mrs Kouku Gbewaji,Mr Paraiso,Mrs Ibikunle Fatou,Iyosola Kuku.

Rissikayou Adjibade,Sherifatou Latoundji & Mr Djibousse

343

NANA KOFI ADUBOFOUR AND LIZZY SMITH

SAY "I DO" AT A THRILLING CEREMONY IN ACCRA, GHANA

By Ben Dzakah

E

344

ver-smiling and beautiful Lizzy Marfoaa Smith was on top of the world. She could not help but flash her trademark smile at every turn on her happiest day yet when she was joined in holy matrimony with her sweetheart of a few years, Nana Kofi Adubofour.

The couple chose Football star, Marcel Desaily's expansive fun arena, co-incidentally called Lizzy Sport Complex in East Legon, Accra to hold this special occasion-and they were not alone as family, friends and well-wishers from far and near were there to celebrate with them.

Proceedings kicked off as soon as the resplendent bride, stepped in arm-in-arm with her dad. Guests were on their feet as they took their steps gingerly till they got to the front of the arena where the groom was waiting eagerly. The Vision Choir presented good background music that made this introductory aspect of the ceremony lively.

The song ministration ended as soon as Bishop Emmanuel Kobi was ushered on stage-and he, it was, that steered the event from then on. And he also delivered the sermon where he advised the couple to always be sensitive to each other's opinion and always allow God to direct their affairs at home.

Mr. Koma Amponsah & bride

Lizzy Marfoaa Smith

Bride with bride’smaids

Hilary Kyei-Baffour, Ohemaa Sarpong & Nhyira Twum

Samantha Arthur & Nana Aba Kyei-Baffour

Nana Aba Kyei-Baffour & Abigail Obron

Hilary Kyei-Baffour & Nhyira Twum

345

The bridal march

The groom receives the bride

Bride lead by the fathe, Mr. Koma-Amponsah

Vision Choir

346

The beautiful bride

Mr. Koma Amponsah handing over the bride to the groom

Groom unveiling his loving bride

Exchanging of vows

Bride & groom

Signing of the marriage register by the bride

Signing of the marriage register by Mr. Marfo

Mr. Koma Amponsah signing the marriage register

The couple share their first kiss

347

Fati Iddrisu, Nana Ago & Maame Boakyeaa

Mina, Pat & a guest

Grany (right)

Couple with Vision Choir

Nana Ago, couple, Afi & Fati

Nana Aba, Abi, Samantha, Harry, Makeni & Philip

348

Nana Adea, couple & Mr. Kelvin Awuah

Gospel artiste, Sammy was invited for a performance and he was well backed by the choir during the offertory.

Officiating Clergy, Rev. Alex Twum was the one who took the couple through their exchange of vows rite.

They both said "I do" and afterwards, exchanged rings to the delight of all present. The couple and their families were then ushered to a corner of the venue to sign the Marriage Register.

When they were done, the latest couple in town were then presented to the congregation-and the whole arena erupted and guests began to cheer, shouting Aweresoooo.

The atmosphere was electrified as soon as this important aspect was concluded, the next item on the couple's agenda was the reception-and they went the extra-mile to make sure that everyone got good entertainment.

The couple were ushered into the Reception venue by lovely music while Musiciands Boroo and Kwadjo took centre stage later. Lizzy and her beau did cut their cake, fed each other, kissed and shared a laughter-filled dance session.

Guests popped loads of champagne and enjoyed buffet lunch at this celebration of two hearts which were now beating as one.

Kodjo Akwaboah & bride

Bride with mum

Ruby

Mrs. Ceccy Twum ministering with songs

Bishop Emmanuel Kobi

Evelyn perfroming

Sammuel Osei Kuffour

Rev. Larbi

Mr. Koma Amponsah & Mr. Marfo

349

Couple with bride’s family

Bridal party with Pastors & their wives

Couple with groom’s family

Couple with friends & family

Carmell Mouthiseb, Maame Boakyewa, Nana Ago, couple, Afi & Fati

Couple with Mr. George Pobee

350

Couple cutting their wedding cake

Ceccy Twum with the couple

The couple

Ms. Vesta & Tracy J

Sena & Evelyn

Kenneth & Nana Osei

Nana Boroo with partner

Couple during the dance session

351

THE LOVE-FILLED WEDDING OF

DUVAL ORERE AND JIROMU AMIOKU

L

Story & Photo by: Vera Odjugo

ove and loads of smiles were in the air when long-time friends, Duval Orere and Jiromu Amioku decided that it was time to get married and live happily everafter as husband and wife.

The couple's journey to matrimony began with a traditional wedding ceremony at the Country Home of the bride's parents, Sir (Chief ) Tom & Lady (Chief) Roseline Aimoku in Egborode Town.

The bride's dad who is the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman, Delta

Central, rolled out the drums in a big way to make the day grand.

Days later, the solemnization of their nuptials was performed at the St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Airport Road, Ugborikoko, Effurun, Warri after which a lively reception unfolded at the Paradise Hall, City of God, Mosheshe Estate, Effurun. There, the bride's parents and those of the groom (Elder David Jasper and Mrs Pat Orere) were in high spirits and pampered guests till late into the night.

Chief Benard Imarah (left), couple, Chief Felix Orogun & bride's mum Bride’s mum, couple & H.E Edith Okowa, wife of Delta State Governor

The couple, bride's maids & groom’s men

352

Sir (Chief) Tom & Lady (Chief) Roseline Amioku (JP) bride's parents & the couple

Sir (Chief) Tom Amioku, Mrs. Pat Orere (groom's mum),couple, Lady (Chief) Roseline Amioku with groom's elder brother, Mr. Derrick Orere

The sponsors, Mr. & Mrs. Cornelius Semiteje with couple

Rt. (Hon. Chief) Evelyn Oboro of the House of Rep., the couple & bride's mum

Chief & Mrs. Sobotie Dame with Evangelist (Chief) Mrs. Afatakpa

Dr. & Mrs. Chris Oghenechovwen

Forho, couple, Hon. Chief Sheriff & Imoni

Couple, Oviri, Jite, Eruvwu & Akpochia (bride's siblings)

The couple & Ese Amioku (bride's brother)

Dame (Princess) Dr. Minnie Igbrude (left), bride's mum (m) & H.E Dame Edith Okowa, wife of the Gov ernor of Delta State

353

AT THE FUNERAL OF

PRINCE SAMUEL ADEYEMO IN ILE-IFE, OSUN STATE Story: Babatunde Martins Photo: Segun Lawal

Wale Adeyemo Esq, Madam Eunice Folorunso Adeyemo, Lydia Olorunfemi & Abraham Olorunfemi

Mr. Segun Omojola, Adeotun Adeyemo, Mrs. Ikeade Monye & Mr. Simon Monye

P

rince Samuel Adegunju Adeyemo meant a lot of things to different people. To his siblings, he was a kind man: a firm and wise leader who shepherded the flock left behind for him with great care.

To his children, he was the best dad in the world: loving, caring and understanding without compromising discipline. To his wife: he was a pillar of strength, a good friend and a reliable confidant. It was these sets of people and many more that shed tears in torrent when he eventually passed on.

Pa Adeyemo died at the ripe age of 90 and he was given a burial worthy of a man who had lived well, touched lives and was a worthy role model.

There was a Christian wake and Service of Songs to begin proceedings before the Funeral Service took place at of St. Peter’s Anglican Church.

As it is the custom of the Anglican Church, the remains of Prince Adeyemo were received at the church entrance and after a session of prayers, the pall bearers,

354

Abraham Olorunfemi, Mr. Segun Omojola & Adeotun Adeyemo

trailed by close family members were then admitted into the bowels of the church.

Rt. Rev Oluranti Odubogun, the Bishop of Ife Diocese presided over the funeral ceremonies and he spent time encouraging the Adeyemo family not to be dampened in spirit because of the loss of their patriarch, noting that he not only lived long but lived well.

Rev. Odubogun fed the congregation with words of God, and quoted Revelation 7:9-17, 15-19 to drive home his point on the fact that the deceased, having given his life and worked for God has secured his salvation.

The well-attended soul-lifting service came to an end with soulful hymns before Prince Samuel Adeyemo was interred.

Omoba Adeyemo was born on 19th September, 1924 into the Jadesimi wing of Oshinkola ruling House of Royal Akui-Wanisan Compound, Iremo, Ile-Ife. His

father, late David Adesokan Adeyemo, popularly called Baba Akui was the eldest brother of Mama Owoape; Sooko Leakun, Adetunji Adewuyi; Mama Ibiyemi and Oba Titus Tadenikawo Aderemi, the Ooni of Ife; all descendants of Osundeyi Gbadebo. His mother was Late Maria Momadelo, the Abese of Modakeke.

He attended Central Elementary School, Ilare and later Oduduwa College, Ile-Ife where he passed the Cambridge Certificate Examination in 1945. While sitting for his final exams, he was admitted into the Federal School of Forestry. He later attended inservice courses both in Nigeria and England and rose to the peak of his career in the civil service retiring after 30 years.

He was married to his wife of 63 years, Eunice Folorunsho Adeyemo, nee Odunlade in January 1952 and the union was blessed with healthy children and grandchildren.

Prince Adedokun Adewuyi & Amb. Olagunju Adesalami

Temiloluwa Abiola, Ibukun Abiola & Olufunmilola Rauf

Prince Adesunbo Adeyemo & Mr. Olayinka Micheal

Prof. Adebola Orafidiya & Prof. Adekunle Ogunfidodo

Mrs. Biodun Esan, Nike Olojede, Sola Akindele & Tope Sola Shittu

Mrs. Toyin, Omojola & Daramola Dada

Barr. Gboyega Amusan & Pastor Dotun Oradifiya

355

RECEPTION

Prince Yemi Aderemi, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Wale Adeyemi & Prince Damola Aderemi

Prince Sola Olowoye, Yinka Junaid & Olumide Oni

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Mrs. Tope Sola-Shittu

356

Prince Adeyemo & Muyiwa Bolaji

Mrs. Shade Agberongbe, Mrs. Yemi Adaramoju, Kehinde Igbiyemi, Chief Toyosi Olabiwonninu & Shina Adetunji

Hon. Olatunbosun Awope & Wale Adeyemo

Bukky Ojo, Lateef Adeboye & Thomas Awofisan

Engr. Gboyega Adeyonbo, Gbenga Adefaye & Tunde Awoyemi

Iyiola Omisore & Prince Yemi Aderemi

Chief & Lolo Samuel Okereke

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Engr. Kehinde Awoyele

357

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Barr. & Mrs. Gboyega Amusan

Wale Adeyemi with Barr. & Mrs. Gboyega Amusan

Barr. Wole Omisade & Segun Oladogba

Muyiwa Omole, Wale Adeyemo & Olu Awolowo

Foluke Coker, Ibidun Kolawole, Funmilola Fakunle & Funke Olorunwunmi Jaja

Foluke Coker, Nike Olojede, Hon(Mrs) Olaniyan & Yinka Junaid

Pastor Oyekole Gbolahan, Wemimo Faminigba, Akojede Kayode, Florence Jeje & Olabiyi Olalekan

358

Bashorun Dele Momodu & Bisi Obadaye

Olanke Odeyemi, Tolulope Faminigba, Mrs. Osagbemi, Mr. Osagbemi & Titilayomi Osagbemi

Lydia Olorunfemi with friends

Kehinde Igbiyemi with friends

Dayo Aderemi, Prof. Adekunle Orafidiya, Prince Yemi Aderemi & Prince Damola Aderemi

Prof. Adekunle Orafidiya, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Prince Damola Aderemi

Mr. Simon Monye with friends

Wale Adeyemo & Prof. Adekunle Orafidiya

Pastor Olorunfemi Adeniran, Dr. Abosede Alfred, Dapo Alfred, Mr. Daniel Alfred & Mr. Taiwo Alfred

359

FIFTY HEARTY CHEERS FOR E24-7 PUBLISHER,

BIODUN KUPOLUYI

Story: Rukayat Adebayo Photo: Segun Lawal

The Kupoluyi family

O

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode with Mr. & Mrs. Kupoluyi

Mrs. Caroline Adeneye, Chief Dayo Adeneye, Comm. of Information & Strategy, Ogun State, KWAM 1 & Michael Effiong, Editor, Ovation International

360

King Sunny Ade, Biodun Kupoluyi & KWAM 1

ne of the most respected entertainment writers in Nigeria and the Publisher of E24-7 Magazine Mr. Biodun Kupoluyi hit the always eagerly-awaited age 50 and the man about town hosted a superb shindig to mark the occasion.

With his beautiful wife, Radeke and their two children by his side, Kupoluyi who never fails to give God thanks for His mercies began the day with praises and prayers.

The event was held at The Times Square, Ajao Road, Ikeja, Lagos and with a Christian band providing live music, guests had a exciting session of spirit-lifting singing and gripping prayers.

This session soon gave way to the Part II of the celebration which turned out to be a topnotch, exciting afternoon

of fun with KWAM 1 as the main act and Gbenga Adeyinka as Master of Ceremonies.

As expected, the venue was a magnet that attracted the cream of society including Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, Juju Maestro King Sunny Ade, ace cinematographer, Tunde Kelani, Afro Juju Creator, Sir Shina Peters, Mayor Akinpelu and Kunle Bakare. Of course the celebrant's friends from the media, entertainment and business turned up in full force.

An elated Kupoluyi told us that he had God to thank for the protection and provision he had enjoyed since birth.

Asked about his prayer that morning, he smiled and said "I prayed to God to see my children's children and to enjoy far more blessings in my next 50 years on earth".

Gbenga Adeyinka, Segun Okeowo, Steve Ayorinde, Lagos State Comm. of Informtion & Strategy

Michael Effiong, ID Ogungbe, Keke Ogungbe, Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode, Azuh Arinze, Kunle Bakare & Loye Amsat

Members of Socio-economic Club, J9C with Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode

R-l: Kayode Alfred, Seye Kehinde, Kunle Afolayan, Lanre Alfred & friend

(R.L) Funsho Aina, Femi Opadere, Rasaq Asaju & wife

Muyiwa Akinbolagbe, Wale Thompson, Akinlolu Akinbolagbe & a friend

Tunde Kelani with Celebrant & wife

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode with Mrs. Oluwakemi James

361

Alhaja Tai Elemosho Okesanjo & Mary Charles with celebrant

Funsho Arogundade, Azuka Ogujiuba & Kayode Alfred

Gov. Ambode, Olumide Adeyemi, celebrant, Kenny St. Best & Keke Ogungbe

Mike Dada, Seun Soyinka, Steve Ayorinde & Niyi Adelaja

Mrs. Linda Kayode-Ajala & guests

362