When the news hit town that T.B Joshua had acquired a luxury aircraft, some began to recount what the Bible says on material possessions, and tongues began to wag. But many received the news with mixed emotions. However, contrary to the tale spreading like a wild harmattan fire, the founder of Synagogue Church of All Nation (SCOAN), Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua, simply addressed as T. B Joshua, has denied acquiring a luxury aircraft worth $60 million.
He added that not only is it a baseless rumour, but he could not fathom where it originated from. He therefore enjoined the public to disregard the tale as there is no iota of truth in it. One of his media aides, Ezekiel, disclosed to some sections of society journals that there is no truth in the rumour. According to him, some people just like peddling unnecessary rumours. Despite T.B Joshua’s denial, some people insist that the man of God allegedly picked the brand new Gulfstream G550 aircraft in 2014. When the news hit town that T.B Joshua had acquired a luxury aircraft, some began to recount what the Bible says on material possessions, and tongues began to wag. But many received the news with mixed emotions. However, contrary to the tale spreading like a wild harmattan fire, the founder of Synagogue Church of All Nation (SCOAN), Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua, simply addressed as T. B Joshua, has denied acquiring a luxury aircraft worth $60 million.
He added that not only is it a baseless rumour, but he could not fathom where it originated from. He therefore enjoined the public to disregard the tale as there is no iota of truth in it. One of his media aides, Ezekiel, disclosed to some sections of society journals that there is no truth in the rumour. According to him, some people just like peddling unnecessary rumours. Despite T.B Joshua’s denial, some people insist that the man of God allegedly picked the brand new Gulfstream G550 aircraft in 2014.
Retired Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration, Mrs Funmilayo Odubela-Aduroja, in this interview with KUNLE AKINRINADE, shares a riveting story about her childhood, career, lifestyle and opinion on national security.
At 65, Mrs Funmilayo Odubela-Aduroja’s physique bellies her age. She walked briskly and flashed winsome smile at staff members of the prestigious Ikoyi Club 1938, Lagos, as she led the reporter to the swimming pool side section of the exclusive club on Tuesday.
The Ijebu Ode-born former Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration clutched two bags that drew the curiosity of her interviewer.”Oh, you are glancing at my bags? I have got loads of documents and books there. May be I didn’t tell you that I am a voracious reader, especially when it comes to biographies. I have read quite a number of books about great men such as former President Bill Clinton; his wife Hillary; Nelson Mandela and General Collins Powell, a former chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff of US, whose family migrated from Jamaica to the United States. If I read, write and get tired, I would come to this club to swim for many hours until I am satisfied.”
Where does her strength lie to do so many things? “I am the only daughter in the family but I was not over-pampered. My mother was a disciplinarian and she ensured that I carried out domestic tasks and chores. She was a food vendor and I had to wake up early enough to help her out in her business. I was raised to be up and doing and there was no time for pampering at all. Working hard has become part of me; despite my age, I still don’t like to idle away.”
A peep into one of the bags revealed one of the books she is currently reading, a book on 9/11 terror attack on the World Trade Center, US, by Islamic militant group, Al-Qaida. She would later reveal that her fancy with books was caused by her mother, who made it a duty to instill discipline in her, in her early years.
“I was a tomboy in my childhood, I have two elder brothers and I am the only girl of the family. And that is why I am usually free with men. In fact, I was happy to hear from your editor that a male reporter would be coming to interview me. However, my mother was responsible for my fascination with books and it was because I was so stubborn she thought I might not face my studies. All the time she kept advising me to face my studies and get educated so that I can become rich in life. She was a food vendor in Yaba, Lagos, where we lived and we had neighbours such as the former deputy governor of Lagos State, Alhaja Sinatu Ojikutu, and her husband and renowned novelist, Buchi Emecheta. She would point at the Ojikutus and admonished me to face my studies in order to live the good life that the couple had. Mrs Ojikutu had a Volkswagen Beetle car, while her husband cruised in a Peugeout 404 car.
“My father was a casket maker at Sabo, Yaba, and people used to call us Omo Baba Oniposi (children of a casket maker); I lost him when I was just three years old. My mother was a disciplinarian and she subjected me to rigorous upbringing by registering me at the British Council Library opposite Casino Cinema, which was stone’s throw to our house and I had a planned timetable that I followed religiously. I would finish up my housework by 2pm and go to the library 4pm and would not return home until 8pm when the library closed. I decided not to disappoint my mother by facing my studies and that accounts for why I am a voracious reader to date. My strict upbringing has also made me to be time conscious; I can’t come late to work or for an appointment.”
Giving a graphic account of her childhood, she disclosed that she was heady and full of pranks.” I used to be loquacious because I was an extrovert right from my school days in Our Lady of Apostle Primary School and the secondary school in Yaba, Lagos. I used to be reprimanded by my teachers for talking too much. I recall that in my Primary 4, I was too troublesome, to the extent that I was asked to bring my mother to school. The teachers told my mother that I was too stubborn and always making trouble and that report earned me a lot of beating from my mother because she was very upset with me.
“In another instance, I was asked to bring my mother to school again but I pulled a fast one on my teachers. Instead of bringing my mother, I wrote a note and presented it to my teachers as if it was my mother that wrote it. The letter read:
”Dear Teacher, I am very sorry that you said I should come with my daughter to school. I just got a letter from home that my mother is sick and I am travelling to Ijebu now. When I come back I will come and see you. Thank you very much.” I was just laughing in my mind when my teacher accepted the letter. However, I had pleaded with one of my brothers before writing the letter in my own little English.
“When I was in Form Four in my secondary school, I was rude to one of my teachers who was always criticising students. I rebuked her for abusing us instead of correcting our mistakes and I was again asked to bring my mother to school. Again, I connived with one of my brothers to present a fake note from my mother to my teacher.
The note written by my brother read:”I am not happy with my daughter’s conduct, her performance was actually discouraging. However, I will make sure I see you, but presently I am travelling out of Lagos.”
If her elementary and secondary school years were full of troubles, her university days were no less. This she said was because”I was among the first set of students admitted to the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in 1970. Some of us who came from Lagos became objects of bugging from some students because of our stylish dressing. So I walked up to one of those behind the bugging and warned him to stop forthwith or be prepared for my trouble. I made him to realise that I am from Lagos and that we abhorred slackness. I later heard that the concerned students were planning to lay ambush for us but I still continued to give them trouble.
“Sometime in 2002, I ran into one of my schoolmates while on a trip to Lokoja and he asked me if I was still troublesome. Although I was embarrassed by his question but told him that age has completely erased those things from me.”
With her stubbornness and pranks, how come she chose to work in a para-military agency that required a lot of self-discipline?, the reporter asked.
Hear her:” Like I told you, I grew up among men; I mean my brothers and their influence was my greatest motivating factor. My eldest brother, Neye Odubela, joined the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), while my immediate elder brother, Yemi Odubela, joined the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and once served as the Lagos State Commissioner of Police before he retired a few years ago. So growing up among the duo in a way influenced the choice of my career and I did not have any reservation when the opportunity to join the Immigration Service beckoned after my graduation in 1974.”
She explained that her path crossed with that of her husband in the course of her early years in immigration service. She attributed their meeting to fate, saying: “My husband complements me a lot. I am an extrovert, while he is an introvert. We met while I was a young immigration officer and he was an officer in the State Security Service, where he served for 18 years before he ventured into agro-business. My husband has been my pillar of support; he is unassuming, very caring and supportive. He is from Ilesha, while I hail from Ijebu Ode; he knows how to cool me down whenever I am taking things too hot. Even though I compounded my name because I believe that there are a lot of things attached to my father’s name but whenever my husband wants to write my names on a cheque, he normally stylishly avoids mentioning Odubela by writing ‘Funmi O Aduroja’.”
The mother of three, all boys, explained that she had no regret not having a female child, despite the prompting of her husband after their last child was born.
“Regret ke? I lost hope about having a daughter after I had my last son and I have no regret at all. I did not go for scanning when I was pregnant with my last son, I thought I would have a girl child and I was buying pink clothes and other baby items which is generally accepted as girl’s colour. At last, I was disappointed when the baby turned out to be a boy. A few years later, my husband asked that we take another shot at childbirth because he said he wanted me to have a daughter but I told him I was too old to have another child.”
Popularly called ‘Iron Lady’ in immigration service because of her workaholic and disciplinary comportment, Odubela-Aduroja, who retired in 2010, recapped her years in service with a sense of pride.
“I was the first female Controller of Immigration in Ogun State and the Muritala International Airport, Lagos, and retired as Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration in charge of Zone ‘F’, which comprises Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti States. I was nicknamed ‘Iron Lady’ by younger colleagues because I was a tough and no-nonsense officer. I was so much engrossed with my work that my busy schedule took toll on my children. I was invited on a number of occasions by some of their teachers because of their failings in school work.
“For example, in 2002, one of the teachers of my last son, Tosin, asked me to come to his school in respect of her poor attitude to school work. I was told that he was lazy and was avoiding his assignments in school. On getting to his school, I quickly struck a deal with the principal to call the assembly so that I can beat Tosin in the presence of his schoolmates. On hearing that, Tosin started begging me with a promise to be serious with his studies and that was how he subsequently put up brilliant academic performances till he finished from the school. But then, I felt guilty that I had not been there for him and his brothers owing to the demanding nature of my job. Interestingly, Tosin and his two elder brothers, Deji and Seun, later read computer-related courses in the university. My eldest son, Deji studied Computer Science and Electronic Engineering while Seun and Tosin read Computer Science and Computer Engineering respectively and they are doing well for themselves.”
She described her style as simple, saying: “I have been living a moderate lifestyle; I am not a party freak and I don’t wear expensive dresses. You cannot catch me with expensive clothes and as a principle, I don’t buy aso ebi (uniformed dress for outing).I buy relatively cheap jewelry that would even put off thieves or make them regret stealing from me. I like being simple at all times and this accounts for why I don’t give out aso ebi when I organise any party. Instead, I ask invitees to turn out in specific colours of their own choice.”
Before the interview wound up, she did not fail to touch on the challenges facing the security of the nation and the need for proactive measures to tackle the festering challenges militating against Nigeria’s internal security.
Hear her: “There is Boko Haram; deadly activities of cattle rustlers, oil pipeline vandals, kidnappings, communal clashes and attacks by herdsmen on innocent people in villages across the states of the federation. The army, which has a constitutional mandate to defend the country against external aggression, has now been saddled with securing pipelines and chasing cattle rustlers, fiendish herdsmen and Boko Haram insurgents. This means that the army is being overstretched instead of being allowed to face its primary responsibility of securing the country from external threats. Therefore, there is need for the establishment of national guards to curb internal threats to security of lives and property. The creation of National Guard will also help secure our waters from sea pirates while the land and the air will be protected.
“In 2003, while I was studying at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), I read a book: “9/11 Commission Report”, published by the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks upon the United States. On page 366 of the book, Nigeria and Mali were cited as the countries in West Africa where terrorists may find a safe haven. I was deeply touched and I ordered for over 30 copies of the book, which I gave to top government functionaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo; the late President Umaru Yar’Adua; former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Dimeji Bankole; former Ogun State governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, among others. I was, however, surprised when the late National Security Adviser(NSA), General Patrick Azazi, said that the Boko Haram insurgency took the Federal Government by surprise. That means the country did not do anything about the matter for six years until Boko Haram became a national problem in 2009.
At a point, the embassy of the United States in Nigeria asked me why I was importing the book and I explained that I wanted the Nigerian authorities to be acquainted with the problems that may likely confront the nation soon.”
Odubela-Aduroja, who is now a border security expert, said the insurgency thrives because we have porous borders, urging the Federal Government to establish a Ministry of Homeland Security to secure the country from lawlessness.
“The porous nature of Nigerian borders calls for serious concern and all kinds of foreigners are cashing in on that to move into the country to carry out their nefarious activities unchecked. Yet, the Nigerian authorities are not doing enough to checkmate the unpleasant situation at our borders.The current refugee crisis in Syria is affecting European countries such as Hungary, Germany and Europe cannot cope with it. As we speak, Hungary is fencing her borders to prevent the influx of Syrian refugees into her territory.
During the first anniversary of the 9/11 terrorists attack in US, the then Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, said that United States of America had firmly secured her borders, water and airspace against threats by terrorists and that is what I want to see in Nigeria too. We must fence our borders to prevent unscrupulous foreigners from gaining access to our territory. As we speak, Nigeria’s cash crops such as cocoa and groundnut are being smuggled to neighbouring countries like Benin Republic and Niger. These countries in turn export the crops and make a lot of money from our collective sweat and the only measure to stop this is to properly fence our borders like US did to prevent people from her neighbouring countries such as Mexico from coming to her territory through borders.
“I am also calling for the creation of a Ministry of Homeland Security, where all para-military organisations and agencies, excluding the police, are merged and coordinated to provide maximum internal security for the country. This would make the running of the country even cheaper in the face of a battered economy caused by the crashing prices of crude oil all over the world,” she added.
Sani Abu is a Canada-based Nigerian professional dancer. He runs a professional dance company, Ijo Vudu African Dance Company. He does not only perform African dances, he also teaches African dance through the concept he created, Afro-robic. He speaks with OKORIE UGURU and BANWO FAGBEMI about his experience as a dancer in America trying to carve a niche for himself, the challenges of trying to build a career as a dancer.
Which part of Nigeria are you from?
My dad is from Niger State while my mum is from Edo; Agenebode, to be specific.
That makes you Gwari or Nupe…
I am Nupe. But we were all born in Benin City. I grew up in Lagos before I left the country with a dance company from Benin. My mum used to be a talking drummer. It is something passed from generation to generation. That was how I ventured into arts in Benin. When I was young, I always went to shows with my mum.
How was life in Benin before you left the country?
I grew up with a single mum. I think when I was seven years, my parents got divorced, but the vision was there.
How do you mean?
The goal of what I wanted to do; because my mum was somebody in the arts. It was like all the time I was always with her. That was how it really started.
What kind of performance was your mum into and where was she performing?
If there was any family gathering, if they had a wedding ceremony and mostly things like annual general meetings and local meetings from the villages, we were there. So, I was the only son and I had four elder sisters. I was like mummy’s boy. I would always go with her. From time to time, I had wooden percussion that I played, also maracas and the gong.
Did she force you to do it?
No, my mum never forced me to do it. It was something I went into. Even my son is gradually toeing the line. It is just like when I go on shows and my son goes with me and wants to play a particular instrument. That was how it started. She never forced me into it.
You are a child of two cultures: North and South South. How was growing up in Benin?
Benin was the only place we knew very well at that time because my dad stayed in Benin. That was where he got married to my mum. All their kids were born there. So, Benin was more of our home. Any time we went to the North, it was just for holidays, and it was not often. I did my nursery/primary before I left to Lagos.
How was the cultural scene then?
Well, at that time, it wasn’t as serious as this. What I mean by serious is that it wasn’t talked about like people do now. Now you can use it to make money a lot. At that time, it was, maybe, a particular cultural troupe from here, mostly schools.
At what point did you decide to go out from Nigeria?
When I left Benin to come to Lagos…
Was there any reason for leaving?
My uncle wanted me to come and stay with him in the military barracks. When he graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy, he relocated to Lagos and he wanted somebody to stay with. My mum trained him. It was like it was time to help me. That was how I came to Lagos. We lived at the Ikeja Military Cantonment.
So, at what point did the dance thing start?
That was when I was in Junior Secondary School. I was always a class prefect when I was growing up. When I got into JSS 1, there was a debating society and a cultural club; I joined because I had the passion. I started attending the rehearsals. When I got to Senior Secondary School, I started performing outside. At that time, I was going more to the National Theatre because a couple auditioned would come to schools to look for young talents, dancers. By then I started going outside, doing a lot of school shows.
You had a couple of auditions at the National Theatre. Who were were your mates then?
The guy that owns Ijodee Dance Company, the guy in Olori Oko video, Dayo, we started together. So, a couple of those big guys, that was where they started. Our first dance company outside…like a big dance companies then, there was one called Sunny Wonder Cultural Dance Group. Their base was at Oshodi, close to Bolade. That was where we started and I was going to school at the military cantonment.
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Some of these your colleagues, are they still in the dance business?
You see this dance thing, just like when I say there is a lot of money in it, at that time, people got a lot of discouragement. Some parents would discourage their children, telling them you have to go and read to be a lawyer and so on.
How about now, do you still have contemporaries around?
Some people left dance and went into acting…
Like?
There is a guy called Chidi Nwosu who is directing. About 75 per cent of them are not in the country. A lot of them are in Europe.
How do you manage the freedom of being an artist vis-a-vis the regimental life you were supposed to live in the barracks then? Did your uncle understand?
No, never. It was tough, very tough. A lot of the time, I slept outside because I was kicked out of the house.
Because you went for a rehearsal?
Yes. Many times, I got abused.
Was there actually something your uncle wanted you to be?
Not really. He just didn’t want to hear that dance thing. The only reason I am still standing is my mum. She never one day said oh, don’t dance, or why did you want to dance?
Was it because she was an artiste?
Yes.
At what point did you start making money from dance here in Nigeria?
I think way before I travelled out. When I left Lagos, I went back to Benin. I had finished my school and everything.
You refused to proceed to the university?
I was in the University of Benin, Theatre Arts Department. I was supposed to be there for four years, but I left when I was in year two.
So, why did you decide to leave Nigeria? Was it because you believed that there were no opportunities?
No. When I left Lagos for Benin to be with my mum, being somebody from Lagos who knew a lot about dance in Benin, it was like I was a hot cake; everybody wanted to use me. There was a guy in my school who introduced me to a dance company in Benin called Uyi-Edo. It was a local dance company, one of the best then in 1990. So, I joined them. We were doing a lot of shows. It was not only the money that started coming in, being somebody from Lagos with exposure, I became one of the dance captains. I was involved in training and teaching new styles, new choreography and creating new dance steps. The company was like a national dance company that did dances from all parts of the country, not just Edo dance. That made them more popular in Benin.
They performed for the big guys in Benin, like the Oba. That was where money started coming in. Then I had an opportunity to travel to the United States of America. I was one out of a 16-member crew. When we got there, the person who sponsored the company wanted us to work for him there, promoting his group, Afrique Trading Company. We were there doing these dances.
How popular was it? And your target, was it Africans in the Diaspora or what?
For that company, it was like more of the Africo-Carribeans. After two years with that company in the U.S., I left them in Dallas, Texas to Los Angeles, California. From there, I went to New Jersey…it was when I left the company for New Jersey that I started dancing with other American dance companies. It was not that I left the company for good. When there is a big show, everybody is called from wherever they are, up till this day. It was when I left the company that I started other dances with American company, doing more of outside Nigerian or African culture. I was learning more of western culture from them, they were learning more of West African traditional culture from me. So, that was how it was.
One would have thought that having crossed to America, you would think of doing something ‘more concrete’ than dance. Also what is your concept of the dance in the U.S. and what made you decide that you wanted to concentrate on African dance?
I see the demand for African culture because that was one of the reasons I left the U.S. for Canada. First of all, I started teaching African dance as a fitness routine-Africa-robic. I am strictly traditional. That is why I am very different from them, and they need that. They like something new. That was one of my biggest advantages. We did a lot of tours. I think I was performing with about five different companies. There is Brighton Ballet, there is Zawadi Dance, which is more African. The Brighton is more of classical ballet. There is Michael Mao, a Chinese dance company. There is also Seventh Principle, an African-American dance company, plus other private dance companies that would just call you to do a one man or be a guest artiste. That was how I got into it.
It was in the year 2000 I started my own company called Ijo Vudu African Dance Company. In 2005, I had the opportunity to work with the Canadian Board of Education, teaching African culture. I didn’t want to go at that time because I didn’t know anybody there. It was a new country. I took the chance and went, I liked it and stayed.
You really didn’t have much there in terms of dance. The only thing you have is a lot Caribbean dance. So, I said let me take this chance. That 2005, I got to Toronto in March. That year, by December, I had made a lot of contacts, especially with the festivals here and there. I would just go and dance and they would see the difference. That was how I got a lot of help to start my own dance company. They would ask, ‘Are you new? Welcome!’ All these questions. That was how I got a lot of help to start my own dance company. I got a lot things for free, like do my website for me free of charge. I would teach you how to dance; you be my writer, I will teach you how to dance; you be my photographer and I will teach you how to dance. That was how I started.
A kind of trade by barter?
Yes.
How do you conceptualise the dances, be it Afro-robic or others?
For me, once I know this is what I want to do, I mean I am now more professional. You know in North America, there are a lot of obese people and they just want to have fun. When you ask them to come and pay for dance class, they don’t want to do that. So, I created the dance concept. It is a way of having a good time, and a way of exercise and also learning the traditional culture. All they want do is having a good time.
So, your concept is like three in one fun, exercise and learning about African culture?
Yes.
How easy is it for an African going to America to make a living through dance?
You have to believe in yourself. You have to know what you want, because a lot of Nigerians, I don’t want to talk about other African countries, are there just wasting away in terms of either they can’t come back home, or if they come back home, what are they going to do? Some are there without their stay permit. Some people went there just to play. In America, it is very easy to get swallowed. Everything you want is there. Even the ones that you don’t want are there. So, it is very easy to get carried away because everything you want is around you.
In the light of coming from a broken home, a very strong-willed uncle that did not see your vision and where you were going, how did you manage to remain focused to carve out a pathway for yourself?
Honestly, I really don’t know how that happened, because people think that because of all that I have gone through, I am supposed to be a tough person. In a way, I am happy now that these things happened because they kind of sharpened me up… But after all that, it was like ‘thank you Lord for keeping him.’ He can now see what I have become. When he knew that I was out of the country, I called him, and up till this time, he is happy. He is seeing the other side of me now. I am glad that I did not harbour hatred. I did not use it to disturb somebody else. I am a very simple person.
Until recently, in Nigeria, we never saw dance as a profession. How do you think Nigerians should see professional dancers or dancing?
I think it has to start from people liking their culture, people accepting who they are. Like before Christianity came into the country, what did we do? We have to start embracing travelling out of the country; it makes us distinct. So, we have to start first of all embracing our culture, then start to put money into it. There are lots of dance programmes in the universities and maybe 50 per cent of those who go into it do it because they don’t have any other choice. Maybe because they just want to be in the university.
In general, I think the government should try to pump in money because there is a lot of money to be made from it in the Western world. I will give you an example: during President Sekou Toure’s era, one of the African dance troupes that is known all over the world was Guinea. Guinea is one of the poorest countries in the world but one of the richest in terms of culture. During the Sekou Toure era, wherever he went to in the world, the dance company always went with him at that time. That was one out of many ways that the country’s culture exploded. A lot foreigners from North America and Europe travelled to Guinea just to learn drumming or dancing. That is one of their sources of income.
So, when I started doing a lot of other African dances, I never did Nigerian dance because they didn’t know that. They were not interested. What I did was that I learnt a lot of Guinean dances. I travelled to Guinea and learnt from traditional dance teachers, came to the United States and learnt, and then started teaching those styles to get my audience. So now, there is too much Guinea. I am slowly introducing Nigerian dances, Ghanaian dances, dances that are not common.
With the more than 300 ethnic groups in Nigeria, how can you create the Nigerian dance?
First, the dances are there already. The real steps are there; you can’t change it, then create the choreography and infuse a little modern technique to make it enjoyable. It also depends on the audience. But for me, I do more of the traditional, high energy type, because when you look at Guinean dances, they are more on the highest level, and 85 per cent of North Americans or Europeans who studied African dance are more on that. So, as a Nigerian, I have to teach a dance on that level or above.
Do the exploits of Nigerian musicians help in creating awareness for you among your audience?
It is the other way round. A lot of Nigerians there are not really into this. My targets are non-Nigerians, Carribbeans, African-Americans, Caucasians and Asians.
What is your advice for young Nigerians who may wish to take dance as a profession?
They have to believe in themselves. You know, people will always talk. They will always want to pull you down. I found out that a lot of Nigerians like to do what people say, not what they want to do. Maybe this generation is changing. They have to believe in themselves. They have to say yes, I can; yes, I want to do it. It doesn’t come sweet all the time. In riches and poverty, you have to be there. You have to make an impact. You have to make a difference. You have to let people know why they have to come and watch you. You have to put your story together for me to say okay, I will sit down and watch you. I have some dancers here. I have a company here in Nigeria. So, they are the same full-time dancers and I support them a lot.
Are you married?
Yes, I am. I am married to a Nigerian and I have two boys.
Is your wife a dancer too?
No, she is not.
How did you meet her?
Well, I met her in Benin. I initially told my mum to look for a good woman for me. I had a lot of girlfriends in the US, but those ones were on the side. So, I went home and met her. We dated and I liked her. I said to her: ‘Listen, dance is my first wife…
You told your wife to be that she would be the second wife?
Yes.
And what did she say?
I told her to go think about it. She is in full support. She sometimes does the make-up. I got married since 2007.
You have a programme called FESTACC. Are you trying to bring back FESTAC?
Well, I would say yes I am, and the reason the other ‘C’ is there is to add the Caribbean to it. The other FESTAC will be celebrating the 40th year in 2017. Next year, we will be having a Caribbean tour. So, this year, I am bringing a FESTACC international dance conference in Ibadan. That is from November 29 to December 6. It is a one-week programme. A couple of people will be coming from the US., Canada, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso. These are dance teachers coming to Nigeria to teach traditional dance to people who will be coming from other parts of the world. Then next year, I will now select people to do FESTACC dance in Caribbean tours, hopefully to Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Haiti, Cuba and Barbados. That will be next year.
In 2017, I will want to involve the government. The countries that we went to, next year, we will all be inviting them for FESTACC.
Instead of toeing the wrong path like most silver spoon kids, Zahra Buhari has decided to be the gem in her father’s crown and the light to her generation. With every decision she makes, she becomes more of an ambassador to youths. Within a year, she has gone from being the daughter of the President to becoming an exemplary icon who serves as a reference point to the youth of Nigeria.
On September 18, Zahra Buhari, daughter of President Muhammadu Buhari, signed on to be the brand ambassador of the Sickle Cell Aid Foundation (SCAF). SCAF is an NGO with a dual mandate to raise awareness on sickle cell and to ensure that individuals are able to make informed decisions on their future children, as well as guarantee that less-privileged people with the disorder have access to quality healthcare.
Zahra is no stranger to this disorder, as it affects her close relatives. Zahra has voiced her admiration towards the achievements of SCAF despite their little resources. Having lost a sister to sickle cell anaemia, Zahra is particularly passionate towards the goals of the foundation. The founder of SCAF, Nkechi Azinge, who was recently honoured by the Queen of England for her philanthropic acts, said: “Zahra is a passionate and committed lady who is keen to lend her support in any way possible.”
In a world filled with uncertainties, one phenomenon remains constant- change. It transforms world views and reshapes a man’s approach to life. Urbane medical doctor and veritable socialite, Dr. Tunde Soleye, understands the philosophy of change better than most people of his age. Soleye used to be the darling of many on the social radar and was listed as one of the esteemed guests of many A-list events.
In recent times, the bearded former husband of ex-beauty queen, Nike Oshinowo, has not been regular on the social space. While sources close to the affable doctor said his new ways might not be unconnected with his separation from Nike, others insist that his new attitude towards life is due to his realisation that he is not getting any younger. This best explains why he tactfully selects the events he attends. He now attends more important society functions.
According to those in the know, Sir Olu Okeowo, one of the biggest real estate players in the country, is currently over the moon. We gathered that Okeowo, the Chairman of GILBRATAR, is set to celebrate his wife in a big way. The woman, Adegoke, will be turning 50 soon. Okeowo is determined to make sure that the love of his life gets a grand entry into the golden club.
Okeowo is reportedly planning a high octane birthday shindig for his better half and is gearing up friends and family for the big day. However, the details of the forthcoming event are still under wraps.
Although not new on the social scene, Eno Olafisoye has made her mark and has carved a niche for herself among the elite. It cannot be forgotten anytime soon that she used to be married to popular hotelier, Biyi Olafisoye. Like a distressed ship doomed from the start, their union crumbled and was well reported in the media. Not deterred by the failure of her first marriage, Eno found affection in the arms of Benue State-born businessman, Terry Waya, who she bore a son for. While there is an unconfirmed report that the duo of Eno and Terry are experiencing a strain in their relationship, but nothing about her demeanour suggests this. Eno recently attended a function in Lagos and was elegantly dressed in designer wear and accessories. She strutted like a contended cat with no care in the world, ignoring the whispers while she held her head high.
There are a few things in life on which you can’t put a price tag. One of them is a lifetime full of happy memories and outstanding accomplishments. Penultimate Tuesday, Abuja the Federal Capital Territory went agog with excitement when the former National Chairman of PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, celebrated his 80th birthday. No doubt, Tukur is a living inspiration and a live example of perseverance. It came as no surprise that his 80th birthday turned out to be a grand affair. The celebration began with a birthday lecture in the morning of his special day.
It was later followed by a grand birthday reception, held at Ladi Kwali Hall, Shahraton Hotel. Tukur’s wife, Haija Fatimah, left no stone unturned in organising the most colourful and majestic birthday reception Abuja has seen in a while. Apart from the celebrant, one person who also enjoyed the party was the host herself, Hajia Fatima Tukur, who looked radiant that day. In attendance were former Senate President, Dr. Joseph Wayas; former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Obong Victor Attah; former Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu and many others.
There are many ways to describe Hajiya Bola Shagaya. You could choose to describe her using her qualities that project perseverance, hard work and determination or you could choose to describe her as a woman with varying areas of specialisation. But, you can never describe her as a timid business woman or as a woman who gives up easily. No matter what life casts her way, Shagaya will always find a way to remain on top of her game.
You will recall that during the tenure of former President Goodluck Jonatha, Shagaya’s prominence in Nigeria skyrocketed and she quickly became one of the most connected women in the country. Since Jonathan lost the presidential election few months back, the woman, who is also a PDP leader in Kwara State, faded off the limelight, choosing to maintain a low profile, perhaps to restrategise and repackage her brand.
Last week, she stunned many when she resurfaced like a phoenix rises up for its ashes. She was one of the female celebrities who brightened up the 80th birthday soiree of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur. As she stepped into the venue, her arrival was announced by KSA, causing many to stir in admiration, while others cringe in envy. She looked elegant, sophisticated and dazzling in her outfit. What came as a surprise to many was the realisation that she is Bamanga’s in-law. It is obvious that Shagaya has since put the election story behind her and is concentrating solely on her business and family.
What has been happening to you lately? Have you relocated back to Nigeria?
Lately, it has been bitter sweet. So much has happened. I have raised four wonderful kids as a single parent for 16 years. Their dad left when my son was less than a year old and my oldest was 11. He left to be with another woman, whom I thought was a relative. First of all, we were never married. Staying together and having kids out of wedlock, everyone thought we were married. Lord have mercy on me. It wasn’t meant for us to be together; I was talked into it not knowing what I was getting into. But thanks be to God Almighty, that was my wilderness journey and my training camp for the calling on me. So now I’m ready to relocate back to Nigeria where I belong, but it has to be God’s time not mine, because He will make all things possible and beautiful in His time. My son is in high school, and my girls now drive their own cars.
Why did you relocate abroad?
I came to the ‘Obodo Oyinbo’ because I was blinded with love, but my eyes opened after I stepped in.
What has the experience been abroad for you?
It’s been a very good experience for me. I see things somewhat differently but in a positive way. America will level you; we are all equal. No matter what or who you are, your position, your wealth, we are equal. You must obey the laws of the land. There is order in the public place. In one word, I’m now more mature.
How about family?
Talking about family, from a family of 12; eight girls and four boys, born of the same father and mother. I’m a twin, but he was still birth. I’m number three in line but after my immediate older sister MEE Mofe died in 1996, I’m now the number two in line. I have four awesome kids, whom God gave me and also used them to help in my training to become a success both outside and inside the ministry. Raising kids in America is different. American kids call the police against their parents, Nigerian kids dare not. But that didn’t deter me from disciplining my kids. My oldest daughter is in college to obtain her master’s degree in criminal justice/criminology. My second daughter was a little bit strong-headed like mom, so she’s still in college studying theatre arts. My third and youngest but tallest amongst all three is in college hopefully to graduate next semester, majoring in journalism. Then the only boy is in high school or secondary school, as we call
it in Nigeria, and will be going to college soon. I went back to college to obtain my associate degree in chemical dependency/drug addiction. God has been good, and always faithful. We give Him all the glory.
If you were not what you are now, what else would you have loved to be?
I will have loved to be married to a real man who can take a look at me, and give me some good satisfaction, just like Jesus gave to the lady at the well, set up a business for my children’s children. I have been attacked so much by the enemy in setting up my business, but guess what? It is still very much alive. I’m not giving up on my God-given dream. It shall come to pass. A good man/woman leaves inheritance for his children’s children.
For a woman, which is better, being a career woman or being a housewife?
Really, the woman is always a housewife. Men need to realise that women do both. I will say being a full-time stay-at-home mom or wife will be better. Mothers, especially need quality time with the kids. Let the husband go on the business trip, bring home the bacon. He’s the head of the home. The woman is the man’s helper. Women can discern better and faster than the man. A woman can sense when the husband is troubled, when the kids are not doing well, even when they try to hide it sometimes. A stay-at-home woman will spend time praying and asking God for showers of blessing to fall on them. A stay-at-home mom will cook the best dinner for the husband and family because she won’t be in a hurry.
A career woman comes back from the office tired and stressed out. No time to pay attention to what’s happening; food is zero. It is whatever the househelp put together. When the woman is all stressed out from office and gets home, and tries getting house chores done, what about bed time? I mean time for bedroom fellowship with your husband? Will she be willing to? Will she enjoy love making? Will the husband enjoy her? Now, I tell you, every home is different. So, husband and wife (not friends and relatives), sit down and map out a plan. Focus on what will work for you. Don’t be a copycat. Your friends might not tell you everything about their homes. I would say it’s better being a stay-at-home mom. But in some homes, circumstances give her no choice.
What was early life like for you?
My early life wasn’t easy going. Lots of struggles, ups and down, trials, tests of various kinds. I have seen some good, bad and ugly people and that has influenced me today. I attended the College of Commerce in Warri, moved to Lagos and attended The Davog School of Catering and Hotel Management. I then moved to the United States to join my fiancé (ex) on January, 28, 1986. There I attended Bishop’s College, a university, for two semesters and stopped. After two kids, I went back to school, Cedar Valley College, for one semester, then stopped again; that was in 1993. Then in year 2012, after four kids, I decided going back to school to obtain my associate degree in Chemical Dependency Counselling at age 54, with a GPA of 3.76. I made the Dean’s list and graduated with honours.
How did you discover that you could cook for a living abroad?
We were born in Ghana, and one day, my mom was at the market selling provisions, and I decided to make mama proud when she came home. I made eba, since there was this good egusi bitter leaf soup. The water didn’t get to a boiling point before pouring the garri in. Eba is instant so it didn’t come out right. Mama made the five of us girls to eat the eba as it was. I got the beating of my life from especially my now late sister, MEE. That actually prompted me to be focused. I was a day student in secondary school unlike my siblings, since the school matron refused my coming to boarding house so I don’t turn it upside down with my friend Florence Jack.
I was always in the kitchen with mama. Mama can cook, wow, yum yum. My very first pot of soup was egusi bitter leaf soup. Mama was out of town, and it was getting late. I was in elementary school; my two older sisters, Becky and Mary, were in boarding school. So, I took it upon myself to cook. Our neighbour, Aunty Rose, was my food coach that day, she is another good cook, she can toast, and it came out excellent. Till this day, my papa never knew I had a coach, and he praised me for a job well done.
Permit me to say this; when people say it takes a village to raise a child, some don’t understand. Our neighbour coached me when my mom was away. Can we still do that now? We get corrections and training, not just from parents, but neighbours as well. I cook all the time. Most people that know me always talk about my food. I had a lot of friends when I was cooking for free. They had surprise parties for their spouse and I cooked for free. But after the father of my four kids abandoned us, I needed to make a living, that was when I saw their true colors. My American clients love my jollof rice, meat pie, and suya, to mention but a few. One of my pastors, Pastor Kuye, won’t eat any meat pie or moin moin, if not from my kitchen. That’s how blessed I am. This past Father’s Day, the ladies celebrated the men in our church. Guess what? I, Lady Hannah, cooked the food.
Do you miss your late sister, MEE?
Of course I do. Her daughter, Onome, is doing fine. Now a graduate, she lives on her own in Atlanta. When I brought her from Nigeria, she stayed with me for three years, then went to stay with my younger in Wisconsin. She’s a very caring and tender-hearted person. She went through a lot herself, God knows best. I miss her. She was always getting angry about me being mistaken for her. She was always coming home asking where i went because someone told her they saw her somewhere (laughs).
What does fashion mean to you?
Personal fashion sense actually speaks or tells who a person is and what you like. I like quality, be it clothing, shoes, jewellery or make-up. Don’t try looking 18 when you are 55 and think you are a fashionista.
There was an event coming up and I didn’t feel the need to wear Iro and Buba. So I took a lace material to my tailor and described for him what I wanted, which was female agbada; one piece that looks like two when worn. I walked into the ball room feeling and looking good. Eyes were on me and so many compliments from both men and women. Not long after that, a lady I know got the same made, even similar colour. She didn’t look good because she is tiny and that wasn’t her style. Now, I for one don’t like big gele (head gear). What I do is, I cut my scarf or head tie in half, tie it in a fashionable way and feel comfortable, and people like it.
When it comes to shoes and handbag, the days of seven inches high heels are gone for me. I can do with three or four-inch heels and be comfortable. I like open toes with good pedicure and manicure. I always have nail polish but because I cook all the time, I keep my finger nails short, well-manicured and still find time to either apply polish or even just clear coat.
Talk of my low cut hair style. I decided to cut it because now I’m left with four kids to raise by myself and I have no time since I do lunch delivery and catering and I can’t stand a lady’s hair looking nappy. My kids cried when they saw my low cut, but I had to explain to them why I did it. I never wanted to color my hair. When I go to the barber’s shop, the guys would beg me not to colour my hair because it had this salt and pepper look. But now my kids made me put color, well, just to please them.
I don’t do weaves; true story. I bought a wig one time and wore it to church. This church was mainly attended by black and white Americans. Believe me I was so uncomfortable, I left for the restroom and took the wig off. When I came back to the service, one of my friends said to me, ‘You look different.’ I said yes, I took the wig off. I’m not comfortable with it. And that was it.
For make-up, I still like my black ladies fashion fair. I use the concealer, then cream to powder make-up. Eye shadow, lipstick, blush, mascara, not all the time.
What kind of clothes do you like wearing?
I like lace made into any style. Pants and skirt suit. I like casual, simple but looking nice most of the time. Again, I try to dress depending on the weather. I like bright colours, but not the Hausa bright. I don’t like tight clothes. I don’t have the time to be pulling and adjusting when I’m supposed to be having fun. I have respect for my body. I don’t wear anything that would expose what doesn’t need to be exposed. Having your boobs hanging out does not mean you look good. Sometimes, you look stupid. I go through this with my girls a lot. Cover properly or you won’t go to church with me. Fashion and Style is beautifully beautiful, not foolish.
What determines the kind of clothes you wear in a day?
My feelings determine the clothes I wear each day. It all depends on how I feel and the mood I’m in that day. It also has to do with the occasion. Going to the grocery store is just jeans, T shirt and flip flop. Sunday service, I try to look my best for God.
What fashion accessories can you not do without?
I can’t do without a wrist watch. I’m time-conscious. I can do without necklace, but earring is a must at all times. I like matching set of necklace, earring, bangles, and rings, but not in excess. A gold ring on the left finger and one on the right finger is fine with me. I like diamonds, fine silver and pure gold. If God put diamond, jasper or topaz on Lucifer for him to look beautiful, common!
In what ways would you say that fashion is relevant to today’s woman?
Fashion is very relevant to today’s woman in that it tells who you are. Some people who see you all the time but don’t know your name can only describe you by what you wear. Well, you would not want them to say that lady that is always raggedy (laughs).
How do you describe success?
I describe success as an accomplishment of a desired goal or project. For instance, going back to school at age 54 to obtain a degree in Applied Science is success. Putting my kids through university as a single parent without any support is success.
What do you value most?
Myself. I value myself so much. I refused to let any man abuse me or disvalue me. I would rather remain single than have a man devalue me.
Was yours love at first sight? And how did your marriage turn out the way it did?
That was in 1977, during the inter-house sport in my school. He came with a friend of his who was dating my friend, and the rest is history. It was an off and on relationship, since I moved to Lagos after secondary school. He came to the United States in 1984 and then my late sister came to visit in the US. It was after she came back to Nigeria, that she got my passport, visa, ticket and before I knew it I was here in 1986. Thank God we never got married, but I was answering his name. He’s been trying to come back, but there is no vacancy, I’m occupied. He married an Itshekiri lady because of green card. Well I got my green card without marrying anybody. Why marry someone just for what you can get and not what you can give? He wanted to come back but I said no, because I refused to be used and cheated on. Well, he’s Itshekiri and I’m Isoko/Urhobo. That wasn’t the bad aspect of it but infidelity.
I never chased him out; he left on his own. The grace and hand of God is what is keeping me and the kids to date. Four beautiful children. How good is it when you as a parent didn’t contribute to the upbringing of your kids? It’s victory.
So now, what do you consider the secret of marriage success?
The secret of marriage success is what I can give to the other person to see that he/she is happy and comfortable. It is not being selfish. The other thing is communication. If there is no communication, how do you know what the other person is going through? Whenever a man or woman is avoiding communication in the home, please turn to the wall and ask God who sees in secret to show you what’s going on. Communicating brings out a lot of hidden treasures.
The other thing is agreement. The bible tells us, can two walk together except they be in agreement? Agreement is not just what you say with your mouth but what’s in your heart. The word of God is true. When two of you are intimate in truth, there is nothing that you touch and agree on that will not work. There is always conception in agreement; spiritual to physical produces pregnancy; which is a child. The other is wealth, health, joy, peace to mention but a few.
Are you fulfilled?
No and yes, I’m getting there because there was so much going back to do some things all over again. But all the same, I thank God for where I am right now. We’re getting there someday soon.
Tell us a few things you remember about your childhood and a few you remember about your parents.
As a child of about age four or five, I was stolen. We were in Ghana, Takoradi. My abductors couldn’t use me for whatever plan they had. They had to abandon me somewhere and a woman found me and took me to the king’s palace. The king’s men were sent to make an announcement about a missing child in the king’s palace. I remember my dad and two of our uncles came to claim me. My dad was wearing khaki shorts with white socks, brown shoes and a white short- sleeve shirt, looking smart and sharp. I was right by the king. I fell asleep with bread and butter in my hand.
Of course, my dad has to pay the fine before I was released. In Ghana, money wasn’t an issue for my dad. He had this large provision store named God is Love Store. My dad loved my mum. I saw love until we came back to Nigeria. The love was still there, but not as before. Papa would fight to protect that which belonged to him. I was very close to my dad, to the
extent that he died in my arms in 1985. Papa never saw the four walls of a classroom, but he commanded English and helped us with our assignments. Papa taught us how to dress and match colours. He taught us how to iron with cold starch when I was in elementary school. As for Mama, she can cook. I acquired my cooking talent from her. But she is too quiet and soft. My mom welcomes relatives from both sides of the family to stay in our little house which everyone likes coming into. They are both very dedicated members of the Anglican Church in Warri.
What does glamour mean to you now?
To me glamour means to stand out in a crowd. From your hair to make up, your outfit, accessories and your steps. A lady should be glamorous when going to church, banquet, dinner, almost everywhere. She must know what to wear when going for a banquet and when going to a meeting with other executives.
Do you have time for leisure?
Yes, I create time for myself.
How do you spend your holiday?
I spend my holidays with my kids and sometimes friends. Since I’m the chief cook, my friends prefer coming over to my place. Thanksgiving is a big celebration in our home. I make two, sometimes three big turkeys, large full size pan of corn bread, sweet potatoes, greens and all. Christmas is rice and stew. We set the food on the table, eat as much as we can, drink, wine and watch movies all day till the middle of the night. Some friends are already asking me about thanksgiving.
