Change, they say, is the only thing that is constant in life. Hence as power changed hands on the Nigerian political scene, popular wardrobe consultant and designer, Bashy Kuti, who owns the popular Ibadan-based fashion house, BKK Ultimo, has swayed with the tides.
The artistic designer has created a new design for fashion freaks. It is called Sai Baba; a long kaftan made popular by the president-elect, Gen. Muhammudu Buhari. It is believed that with Buhari’s victory at the presidential poll, the style will be favoured by many of his admirers.
Those who sighted Bashy at the APC head office in Abuja a few days ago would see him decked in the new all-white design.
It will be recalled that when President Goodluck Jonathan was elected in 2011, many of his admirers adopted his dress sense, popularly known as Resource Control.
Famous member of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Farouk Lawan, must now be coming to terms with the saying that the good things of life are transient. The erstwhile Chairman of the House Committee on Oil Subsidy suffered a defeat in the just concluded National Assembly elections.
It came as a rude shock to many that the popular lawmaker could not survive the wind of change that blew across the country last week. A constant face in the lower chamber since 1999, many had expected him to vie for the governorship of his Kano home state before now. Unfortunately, the tides appear to have turned against him completely.
Leading a number of lawmakers who tagged themselves the Integrity Group until he was fingered in a fuel subsidy bribery scandal, he had ensured the removal of the first female speaker of the chamber, Mrs Patricia Etteh, who was accused of inflating the contract for the renovation of her quarters a few months after she assumed office.
But as it later turned out, the once vocal lawmaker has since lay low.
The high society is eagerly awaiting the celebration of the 50th birthday of the wife of Lagos State Governor, Dame Abimbola Emmanuella Fashola. On April 6, 2015, other social events in Lagos and its environs may pale into insignificance as the First Lady of Lagos State would be celebrated by friends and well wishers as she matches into the golden age.
Abimbola is no doubt endeared to many as a woman of character with a calm mien and a burning passion for youths’ development. While she does not profess the same faith as her husband, her unassuming disposition and disarming simplicity have helped her to build a home that is the envy of many.
Born on April 6, 1965 into the Ojo Ibadan Family in Ibadan, Oyo State, Abimbola has grown into an iconic model for many women and youths. As the First Lady of Lagos State, she is the Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), a community-based, non-governmental organisation.
Under her leadership, COWLSO has commissioned four recreation centres and pays for free screening and treatment of women with breast and cervical cancer. COWLSO is also currently building the first retirement villa for active retirees and senior citizens.
Billionaire businessman, Tony Elumelu, stands out among Nigerian industrialists by his unique way of carrying out business and expanding his empire. He is further set apart from other African billionaires by his decision to fund 1,000 budding African entrepreneurs as part of a $100m (£67m) initiative to boost the continent’s private sector.
To Elumelu, the young entrepreneurs are Africa’s hope for the future. The 1,000 come from 52 African states and territories and were chosen from some 20,000 applicants.
Last year, Forbes magazine listed Elumelu as the 28th richest African with an estimated net worth of $1 billion. According to BBC’s Lerato Mbele, Elumelu’s donation is the largest by any businessman towards the development of small businesses in Africa.
In a statement issued by the philanthropist billionaire, he said the selection of the 1,000 entrepreneurs had brought him closer to his ultimate goal of driving Africa’s economic and social transformation from within and radically create jobs on the continent.
He plans to spend $100m to support 10,000 entrepreneurs over the next decade and create one million jobs through the initiative.
A whirl of enthusiasm rarely witnessed in the ancient and serene town of Omu-Ijebu, Ogun State, became the order on Saturday March 21, 2015 as the Olomu of Omu, Oba Mobolaji Oludasi Monsuru, conferred a chieftaincy title on the governorship candidate of the Unity Party of Nigeria in Ogun State, Prince Olarotimi Olatunde Paseda and his elegant wife, Princess Oritsejemine.
Prince Paseda and his better half were bestowed the traditional title of Otunba Adeneye and Yeye Otunba Adeneye of Ijebu Omu. When Oba Mobolaji rose to celebrate the newly honoured Otunba, it became obvious that Prince Paseda had selflessly contributed to the growth and development of the community in various ways. The monarch described Paseda as a philanthropist and a man with a large heart.
With undisguised glee, Otuba Paseda thanked the Oba and the entire people of Omu, saying that his decision to accept the title was based largely on the fact that it is a family title and a call to service. He said the title would adequately motivate him to help the people and the community at large.
Present at the occasion were about seven other traditional rulers from Ijebuland, friends, members of the UPN, the party’s new Chairman, Prof. Bankole Okuwa; General Secretary, Dr Olatunji Olateju and other dignitaries.
Abiodun Oshinibosi, popularly known as Abelinis, is a businessman and a philanthropist with friends from all walks of life. On Tuesday, he turned 40, and as would be expected, it was not an occasion that went unnoticed. Major actors in the nation’s socio-political and economic sectors rejoiced with the dark and handsome boss of Abelinis, a marketing outfit based in Lagos.
Life has not always been a walk in the park for Oshinibosi. His rise to success was not a smooth sail and his life has been rich in drama and stormy heroics in battles between fate and destiny. It would be a source of inspiration for many that Abiodun lifted himself from the base of misery by the bootstrap to attain excellence and national distinction.
In a society that celebrates mediocrity and ignores talent and personal merits, Oshinibosi has proven himself to be a hard worker and a game changer. As he turned 40, a shindig was hosted in his honour and the caliber of guests in attendance would testify to his rating as a man of worth.
For a long time, the whereabouts of popular Lagos society lady, Funmi Omitowoju, was a matter of public concern. For reasons that remain yet unclear, Funmi vanished from the social radar and recoiled into her shell.
But those who had been concerned about her whereabouts now have a solution to the puzzle. The former V-mobile, Union Bank and MTN top shot has been on the run, having been declared wanted by the police.
The order for her arrest is on the C.R.O form 5 issued by the Office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police Zone 2 headquarters, located at No 2, Island Club Road, Onikan, Lagos. Already, a warrant of arrest has been duly obtained from a Magistrate Court, Lagos State for that purpose.
In a generation where the marriage institution is fast losing its essence, there is nothing more gratifying than seeing a man adore his woman. Last Saturday, it was as if angels descended and the hosts of heaven took a few hours off to witness the Union of Dede Keshinro and Astra Ejaife.
In the presence of family members, friends and officiating clerics, MTN’s fine dude, Dadewo Keshinro, popularly called Dede, quit the league of bachelors and began a journey into marital bliss. At a ceremony befitting of royalty at D Cubicle Event Centre, Idimu, Lagos, Dede was all smiles as he took his marital vows.
It was indeed a phenomenal gathering as families, friends and a plethora of stars came to honour and felicitate with the beaming couple. The lovebirds, grinning from ear to ear, greeted everyone at the occasion.
Of course, the couple’s families treated their guests to a great time with good food and the best of drinks.
Tell us more about yourself? I’m an Events director/consultant. I floated an Event management company in the UK with Finishing Touch Events as its brand name. It was established in 2002 and since then the event outfit has successfully provided extensive support for every type of conference, product launch and corporate events throughout the UK.
Where do you live more these days?
I live in the UK but I travel a lot on my own for work. I’m in Nigeria presently working on a project.
How about family? How did your background influence the person that you are today?
I’m the oldest of six siblings. As a first born, I’ve watched my parents’ and others’ careers, looked after my younger siblings and was also given opportunities to help out. All this practice and observation has
not only given me organisational skills that make others want to put me in control. As a first born, again, having other siblings meant my parents had to start sharing their attention with my younger siblings and as a result, my thirst for approval seems to be unquenchable.
In order words, no matter how much praise or adoration I receive, I always find myself wanting more. Furthermore, because I’m used to expecting that others will need my help, I’m usually the first person to volunteer when there is work to be done. I find it hard to delegate responsibilities, even if I’m overloaded and stressed. I prefer to stay in control; I’m always keen to be in charge, always keen to stay in the heart of things.
Why did you choose your present career line?
I’ve set my mind on showbiz from the age of14 and have not stopped working towards that goal since. I love my job. I am learning new things and being positively challenged every day. I have the ability to help others and I am able to balance work with personal matters without conflict.
Where did you grow up? What memories of your early years do you recall?
I grew up in Nigeria and UK. Formal education was completed both in Nigeria and UK. Like every kid on our street, I had a bike, I used it to get around, but, especially in the early days, I also just had fun with it on our street. I remember several skidding sessions where I would work up speed and then slam on the brake to see how far I could skid on the gravelly pavement. I also tried my hands at the standard stunts like doing wheelies and biking with no hands, and so on.
We hear you are in Nigeria and working on an event known as Miss Hot legs, tell us about it.
•Mosy with some of the girls
Miss Hotlegs Nigeria is a specialised beauty pageant. It is an event designed to celebrate the beauty of women’s legs, and to showcase the accomplishments of today’s young women. The pageant has been open to all Nigerian girls between the ages of 18 and 28 and who is at least, 5 feet 7 tall.
We held three important auditions to accommodate all applications from the three zones in Nigeria. The first took place in Lagos on 18th December, the second in Port Harcourt on the 21st of December, and lastly in Abuja on the 25th of January, 2015. And all the events took place at choice holiday resorts.
The crowning of the lucky winner of The Miss Hotlegs Nigeria 2015 will also witness the presentation of an enviable prize package, which includes a brand new car worth N1.8m, with an annual salary for pet projects/brand ambassador worth N500,000. The winner will also have a chance to represent Nigeria at the Miss Hotlegs Africa Pageant, get a customised sash and crown and a portfolio with Fame photography.
The other categories of winners will not go unrewarded. The first and second runners-up will both have a cash prize of N350,000 and N200,000 respectively, along with sash and crown, a year’s gym membership, various consolation prizes and a portfolio with Fame photography.
Is this the first time you are having it in Nigeria?
This is the second edition.
What have been the challenges that you have been facing hosting this pageant?
The 2015 Nigerian general elections have really affected business as Nigerians are not sure of what would happen next. And with the air of uncertainty parading the polity, especially when the whole exercise was postponed, we are reluctant to announce a specific date for the grand finale because of the fear of the unknown.
What exactly is the message that the pageant teaches the Nigeria youths?
I am amazed by the negativity that often surrounds beauty pageants in Nigeria. I must confess, I hold a different view. I believe that pageants, if done ethically and responsibly, can help promote values of good self-esteem and self-confidence in young people. Not only that, they can also help to emphasise excellence, achievement and personal growth. It is my assertion that through participating in pageants, the youth can also develop much needed interview skills, public-speaking abilities and poise, which will help them throughout life, not to mention the lifelong friendships than can be formed from participating in such life changing initiatives.
With this project, you have had the opportunity of going about Nigeria; can you share some of your experiences with us?
Lagos is fun and cosmopolitan but rowdy, crowded too. Abuja people are cool-headed, not aggressive like the Lagosians. Abuja is organised, clean and green for the most parts unless you go to the poor areas. Port Hacourt is a cool city. I found the people warm and friendly. I still consider Port Harcourt as one of my favourite cities in Nigeria.
Did you have some culture shock?
Not really, but in some areas, you see elements of rural life, poor or no power supply, people still carry kegs to go get water, poor road networks, people still use firewood to cook and so on.
Now, can you share with us your perception about living in developed countries abroad and living in Nigeria?
Nigeria is still a developing country and although some infrastructure is set up, it is not the same as a developed country. The healthcare is very poor in my own opinion. If you have a chronic health condition, you should definitely think twice before deciding to live in Nigeria.
Also, the electricity is very unreliable and it will go out several times during the day. Most buildings rely on generator. The quality of life is good, just different. It can be as simple or Western as you like. That is the beauty of Nigeria, you can live however you want, as simple or ostentatious as you like. Quality of life is different from the UK but I wouldn’t say worse, just different.
Are there other projects that you think you can do in Nigeria?
Yes, I have been working on some projects I can’t share just yet.
Do you have time for personal relaxation and leisure?
I suppose workaholics don’t worry much about that; however, I think it’s important to set aside time for other things. I sometimes like to read a good book, take my mind into another world, more so a movie as it allows more imagination.
Apart from pageants, what other things excite you?
Tv/film productions are industries that excite me.
Tell us about some of your best moments in life so far?
It is difficult for me to explain some of my best moments in life. When God created the earth, He decided that every person would be different, some big others small, some thick, others thin. He also decided that everyone would have different behaviours. Some people would be shy and calm with little talking, while others the total opposite, loud and more extravagant. Between all these categories, I represent the shy and calm. For this reason, it is very hard for me to express my best moments in life.
What do you miss about childhood?
I miss not having to worry so much about how I look. I miss being able to entertain myself for hours with nothing but my imagination or some simple toys. I miss not having to worry about real life. I miss not having to pay bills (laughs).
What fashion things attract you and accessories will you not do without?
The fashion things that attract me are: earrings, necklace, wristwatch, bracelets, rings, waist beads, handbags, purse and so on. I can’t do without my prescription glasses, deodorant roll-on, perfume, lip gloss, lip liner, mascara and press powder.
What vanities of life have you found difficult to resist?
I can’t resist luxury goods such as designer bags and wristwatches.
What attracts you to the opposite sex?
Manners; if you want to get women, you have to treat each one of them as though they are the only women on earth. Open doors, be polite, smile, always let them go first; over 80% of women will fall for your charms.
You have been away from the UK for a while, do you miss not being there?
Oh my God! I miss UK; I miss living my entire life in English. I do miss English tea, how could I not? England is the home of tea and only there can you find proper and delicious varieties of tea. Tea time is one of the things I miss the most. It’s a wonderful tradition.
Did year 2014 deliver the promises it had in store for you?
Yes it did, and I am thankful for all of the opportunities I have been afforded.
You wear lots of fashionable things. Who design your clothes? And tell us about your style and fashion.
I don’t have a designer. I like to wear interesting clothes but I’m not a slave of fashion because I buy what I want, when I want and I always choose the things which make me comfortable and look
In your opinion, are Nigerian ladies fashionable?
Nigerian ladies are renowned for their bright and lively choice of fashion and fabrics. They are always conscious of their looks and make fashion statements whenever they step out.
Shoes, what determines your choice and how many do you have?
I’m most comfortable in high heels with a little padding. I’m in love with high heels in and out of the office. My loft is filled with shoes. I’ve even lost count of the number of shoes I own.
Are perfumes and make up compulsory for ladies?
It’s a must for me, it’s everyday routine; after shower, perfume is a must. Jo Malone never lets me down. A suitable perfume makes you more attractive and increases your confidence. I have a few perfumes used on different occasions, sporty, casual and one for going to a dinner. At night, before bed, sexy, alluring scent helps to create a better bedroom story. I wear make-up at all times when I’m out, and you never know who you might bump into. You certainly wouldn’t want to bump into a client looking like a tramp.
When is a lady glamorous? And when should a lady be glamorous?
A lady is glamorous when she dazzles, delights, and infects others with her presence. A lady should be glamorous when attending a showbiz or high-profile red carpet events.
What role does beauty play in the life of a woman?
The world rewards beauty. It’s easier for beautiful people to find mates. Men seek attractive women as mates because good looks signal youth, health, and reproductive fitness. Beautiful people have an
advantage in job market and politics. Beautiful people are perceived as more likeable and trustworthy. Beautiful people are typically treated better by others.
And when a woman thinks she is not beautiful, what can she do to be beautiful?
Beauty is unfair. Not everyone can be born with great genes. Not everyone can be born symmetrical. Not everyone can be born enticingly, well, average. But obviously there are many factors contributing to attractiveness that are potentially under our control. For women who are not good looking, make-up can make a lot of difference, and do whatever else you can do to make your face a reward. Women wearing make-up are approached more and approached faster by men. Men are attracted by what they see.
What is your idea of marriage?
The ideal marriage would be based of healthy courtship instead of artificial intimacy and approval seeking. It would be under the companionate marriage model where both partners would experience a mutually satisfying, personally fulfilling, ongoing romantic relationship.
Nothing enhances a man’s mood better than a fat bank account. That could have played a major role in the transmutation of former Super Eagles captain, Nwankwo Kanu, from an athlete to a businessman. He is currently brimming with joy over the success of his businesses and the strides he has been making in business since he hung his boots a few years ago.
The veteran footballer, popularly called Papilo, has expanded the frontiers of his business by including a modelling agency to be called Papilo Modelling Agency. After a bitter feud with his friend who once ran his business while he built his football career, Kanu decided to take charge of his numerous business ventures, which include oil and gas, real estate, hospitality and photography.
He is also said to be directly in charge of his newly established modelling studio located on Allen Avenue, Ikeja.
