The Nigerian Army has inaugurated 60 housing units comprising two- and three-bedroom flats, at Akobo in Ibadan, Oyo State, and allocated five percent of the houses free of charge to soldiers who sustained disabilities in the line of duty.
Seventy percent of the housing units were also reserved for soldiers at highly subsidized rates, as part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to enhance the welfare of its personnel.
According to a statement by Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, on Friday, the housing units are part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers (AHOOAS) Housing Scheme.
A shopping complex was also inaugurated under the Post Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL).
According to the statement, the projects were inaugurated by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, alongside senior military officers, officials of the Oyo State Government, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
The COAS emphasized that affordable housing remains a critical pillar of the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda, in line with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He noted that the project is a practical demonstration of the Nigerian Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy, noting that access to decent and affordable housing is central to troop morale, operational effectiveness, and post-service stability.
“The AHOOAS scheme is designed to ensure that soldiers retire in dignity, with secure home ownership in locations of their choice,” he said.
The Army Chief said the expansion of the scheme to Ibadan, Benin, Jos, Akwa Ibom, and other locations was informed by the successes of the pilot phase in Idu, Abuja, which, he said, delivered over 400 housing units.
He said plans are also underway to fast-track home ownership for Army Warrant Officers.
While commending the Oyo State Government for its sustained support to military formations, and traditional institutions for promoting peace and cooperation, General Shaibu urged other state governments to support the scheme by allocating land for future phases.
He praised Post Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL) for its professionalism and acknowledged Family Homes Funds Limited for partnering with the Nigerian Army to build 50 housing units for widows of fallen heroes.
Even at 80 years of age, only a few can boast of knowing his real name. That is because for decades, many have known and called him only by his nickname, Musese. However, Chief Samuel Olayiwola Ohunleye, one-time band manager of late Orlando Owoh of the African Kenneries band, who recently joined the league of Octogenarians, is a man of many mysteries and histories. Taiwo Abiodun, who recently caught up with him, reports.
Early days
In this rare interview, Chief Samuel Olayiwola Ohunleye aka Musese went down memory lane to talk about his years managing late Nigerian musician Orlando Owoh‘s band, the scary moment his Italian girlfriend pulled a pistol on him, Orlando Owoh ‘s brawl with the late Barrister Sikiru Ayinde and many more.
“I was a sprinter back in my days at Imade College in Owo”, he began. “I represented my school in the 100 meters sprint when Queen Elizabeth of England came to Nigeria in 1956. I was very hardworking and honest, which made many to love me. Also, I am a principle person; I dislike people telling lies. It is not in my blood as a person from royal family to habour dishonesty. My parents were disciplinarians, so I inevitably imbibed that spirit and humility from them.”
How my Italian girlfriend pulled a Pistol on me
Musese recalls an incident once, when he traveled out of the country looking for greener pastures. “This Japa syndrome started from me. I laugh when I hear some people saying they Japa, they Japa; I started it. And it was not easy. I had a lady I wanted to marry back home called Dupe who is now late. We were so much in love. I told her of my plan to travel abroad and my plan to meet my Italian Pen pal girlfriend who had sent me an invitation. Back in the days, we had Pen pals and sent post cards, love and greeting cards to each other. It was the vogue then. I told Dupe that after settling down I would send for her. Meanwhile, I had introduced my future fiancee, Dupe, to her as my sister. So when I got to Italy, Dupe started writing to me. One day, one of Dupe’s letters was intercepted by this Italian lady. In fact, I didn’t know how she got the letter. She showed me the letter and read the contents to me which was full of promises and love messages, reminding me not to forget my promise to bring her to Italy once I got my papers.
“The Italian lady read it out line by line to my hearing. I was glued to where I was standing and sweating profusely. She then drew out a pistol in with a clear intent to shoot me. I became confused; I knelt down, I prostrated, I rubbed my hands and I was perspiring and panting like a dog. I was begging her not to shoot. You see all these foreign ladies? They don’t joke with love. If you are caught cheating on them, you are doomed. For some reason, she did not pull the trigger, but she immediately reported me to the Police. And because over there they have sympathy for women; I was immediately deported back to Nigeria. That was in 1970. The rest, like they say, is history.”
How I met Orlando Owoh
“I was Orlando Owoh’s manager for about 38 years. I was not his first manager though. The first manager was Sunday Adetoro; later the late Chief Osennepen became his manager. In fact I brought Osennepen to Orlando. I met Orlando Owoh in Mushin in company of my late police officer friend, Olu Amonbonye (aka Kanna Kanna Olympio) in Panti, Lagos. We were friends with Ohuru Dandy. We used to meet at a Palm wine bar owned by one Ohimaro, an Ibo man who once lived and sold palm wine in Owo before he relocated to Lagos. Even in Lagos, he continued with the same business, so anytime the three of us went to the palm wine bar, we invited Orlando to join us. One day, Orlando said he needed some assistance; I said if it was money or instrument I didn’t have. Then I was planning to go back to Italy, or America. Orlando later told me he was looking for someone to manage him, especially someone from his hometown. That was how I temporarily shelved traveling out again. Again, the rest became history.”
Managing Orlando
“The late Musician was easy and simple. I discovered I could manage him as long as I could talk to him in a good manner and above all be kind and honest with him. These are the qualities Orlando wanted. He wasn’t arrogant; in fact he was one of the best musicians to manage. When we started, we were collecting two shillings and six pence as gate fee at shows. We used to play at Baba Sala’s hotel in Ibadan. In fact Orlando had played in many states in Nigeria.”
Memories
“His memory cannot be easily wiped out. He is a legend. He can be likened to Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Bob Marley or Jimmy Cliff who recently died. He was among the freedom fighters because his music was folkloric, poetic, and full of proverbs. He sang for freedom. You could say he was radical but that was his own style.”
On how many today now copy and sing Orlando’s songs, even mimic his voice, Musese said: “That is what I am saying! That is what makes him a legend! Look, Bob Marley died over 40years ago but his music lives on and many books have been published about him. A writer in Ogbomoso, Folaranmi Adewuyi Adegbite published a book on Orlando Owoh. If you go on the Internet, you will see different artistic ways his pictures are being used with his songs. Go and see what Artificial Intelligence is doing with Bob Marley. Look, they have been playing Jimmy Cliff music the more since the announcement of his death a few days ago. The Internet has exploded with his videos. That is exactly how Orlando is now. I know about six or seven musicians singing like him, and some are not even from his native town.
“My prayer is to have the Ondo State and Lagos State Arts and Culture give him more recognition and have his statue erected at his house and in Lagos and Ifon, Owoh’s home-town, just like they did for Bob Marley in Jamaica. They will soon erect Jimmy Cliff’s statue in Jamaica and all over the world because his music is healing to troubled souls. Recently, at Channel 8 (LTV), Agidingbi, Ikeja, we were given an award related to Orlando. I mean myself, Orimipe Orlando (Orlando’s son) and his group along with some Orlando Band Boys who are still alive, in recognition of our works.
My fear at 80
“My regret is I can no longer do most of what I used to do, especially early morning jogging. I was a sprinter back in my youth days. Now I am afraid of all these rampaging bandits, so I have stopped jogging, because they could kidnap me and be asking for a ransom from my family. The fear of bandits is the beginning of wisdom. I understand they have surrounded everywhere in our Southwest. So now I do everything at home. I would walk round the compound and do some exercises.
“Yes, I recently clocked 80 and I thank God for my life. I still have some of my friends like Chief Akin Aruwajoye Snr who is the Ogbeni Oja of Owo Kingdom; Dr. Tokunbo Ajasin and some others. However, some of my friends have died. I thank God that I am still alive. There is this history of longevity in my family. My mother died last year at the age of 95. The final burial ceremony is coming up this December. My father also died at a very old age. My younger ones are in their 70s. My father once told me that they live long in our family, same with my maternal side. When you are getting old, you cut down on so many things. There are foods you should not eat and so on.”
“My best Orlando albums are: Ero ki Mama mi o bo ba dele and Itan Orogun Meji. The two tracks are powerfully loaded with words of encouragement, love, mother’s love and emotional. When you are far away from home, you play ‘Ero ki Mama mi’ …. And if you practise polygamy, be good to your step children and anybody. Imagine a second wife poisoning the food of her step-son, only for her only child to eat it! There are lessons to learn from Orlando’s songs. As I said, his songs are like that of Bob Marley.
The cold war between Orlando Owoh and Sikiru Ayinde Barrister
Musese went down memory lane to recall the cold war between two late Musicians: Orlando Owoh and Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. He said: “Many years back, both musicians were invited by an elderly man to perform during December period. The two musicians were asked to play for 30 minutes each. Orlando followed the instruction and played for 30minutes but when it was the turn of Barrister, he played non-stop. Orlando was not impressed. The celebrant’s son came to tell Barrister to stop, but he didn’t yield. Before you could say Jack Robinson, Barrister’s instruments stopped working. He then came to beg Orlando, thinking it was his handiwork. Yes! Barrister accepted Orlando as his Boss. Orlando removed all his clothes remaining his underwear to prove that he didn’t have anything (juju) on him to have used to stop Barrister’s instruments. Barrister later used Orlando’s instruments to play that night.”
I keep my beard for security reason
Asked why he keeps his beard, Musese laughed and said, “It is my logo. It is my signature. It is my identity,” he said, bursting into laughter. “Once when I shaved it many years ago, it was my friend, Olu Amonbonye (Kanna Kanna), the police officer who frowned at it and advised me not to shave it again. I had gone to visit him at his office and he asked me to come in. Surprisingly, when I sat before him, he could not recognise me and was still asking one of his officers to bring me in. When I now told him that ‘this is me, Musese,’ he looked at me again and said he found it difficult to recognise me. He then advised me never to shave, that it is only criminals who change their identity. He said people could mistake me for a criminal if I start changing from what they knew me for. That was how I stopped shaving and it’s now over 50 years ago.”
Now retired
“I have retired from managing anybody,” Musese said. “But I have a small place where I sell beer. We call the place ‘Ijoko Agba (Base of Elders). Here brains like Honorable Fadeyi, Bayo Afolabi, some professors, people in the academic community and others brainstorm. We discuss very important things and how to make sure Owo develops. It is not a political forum, but a place for elders in Owo community to brainstorm.”
How he got the name, Musese
Now he bursts out laughing. “I don’t even know the meaning. It was my Italian lady whose name I have even forgotten that was calling me Muzeze; but our people could not pronounce it. Instead they changed the Z to S and started calling me Musese. It has stuck with me till date.
He is a man of immense talents, a financial colossus whose sterling quality and expertise in the financial sector has continued to earn him accolades across the globe. If the name Bade Adeshina doesn’t sound familiar to you, it seems you haven’t paid much attention to his remarkable exploits in the Nigeria’s financial landscape where he has shone brilliantly for the past three decades.
Bade Adeshina is an exceptionally accomplished Nigerian who has done well for himself. Adeshina, a native of Osun State parades an intimidating curriculum vitae.
Apart from his degrees in Nigeria, Adeshina has gone ahead to acquire more knowledge. He has attended several globally recognized universities including Harvard. With his many accomplishments in the private and public sectors, it was a delight when the management of Edwin Clark University founded by the late elder stateman, Edwin Clark bestowed the highest honour on Adeshina.
In a letter sent to the financial titan, it stated “This distinguished award recognizes your remarkable accomplishments and leadership in the fields of finance, investment management, and governance. Your extensive career, spanning commercial and investment banking, discount house operations, pension management, and public service, reflects excellence, innovation, and commitment to national and international economic development.”
The University Senate noted, with particular admiration, your educational background with B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Finance from the University of Lagos, your Treasury Dealership Certificate with CIBN/Financial Market Dealers Association, and your Fellowships with several professional bodies including The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Certified Pension Institute of Nigeria, Association of Investment Advisers and Portfolio Managers, Institute of Directors Nigeria, and Nigerian Institute of Management, among others.
“Your sterling leadership as Chairman and Director of several reputable organizations, and your service as Special Adviser on Economic Planning, Budget and Development to the Government of Osun State, were further considered as evidence of your entrepreneurial distinction and dedication to national development.
On Saturday November 29th, 2025, Delta State stood still when chairman of Goldfield Group, a diversified financial services firm, Dr. Abimbade Abdulyekeen Adeshina popularly known as ‘Bade Adeshina’ was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Management Science (Honorary Causa) in Entrepreneural Finance and Management in recognition of his contribution to the country’s financial sector.
The Osun State born technocrat, was decorated with the honorary degree on November 29th during the combined 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th Convocation Ceremonies held at the University Auditorium in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.
The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and academia.
Vice Chancellor of ECU, Prof. Samuel Tita Wara, in his address during the occasion, said the university proudly conferred its honorary doctorate degree on Dr. Adeshina, whom he described as an astute finance entrepreneur, manager, and administrator, for his exceptional leadership, innovation in financial management and dedication to human empowerment, which mirror the ideals of the University.
Acknowledging that great leaders inspire others not by power but example, Prof. Wara noted that Dr. Adeshina story is one of diligence, faith and national contribution.
“We celebrate your impact and support to the development and growth of Edwin Clark University in accordance with the aim of our Founder and Father, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. We also appreciate you and your family for the support and donation to the University based on belief and commitment to education, thus extending opportunities for the less privileged in our communities”, the Vice-Chancellor added.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Adeshina said he was humbled for the recognition bestowed on him and accepted the award of Doctor of Management Science (D.MSc) (Honoris Causa) in Entrepreneurial Finance and Management with immense gratitude and respect for Edwin Clark University.
“I thank the Senate and leadership of Edwin Clark University for the confidence reposed in me and my work. Your recognition strengthens my belief that steady service, ethical leadership and commitment to learning remain essential for building strong institutions and a stronger nation”, he added.
Dr. Adeshina noted that his journey in finance, governance and institutional development had been shaped by the lessons gained through education, the guidance of the Almighty and the invaluable encouragement from his colleagues and his family.
He said further “I owe much to the people who stood by me, challenged me and supported my efforts and vision over the years. This award is not only a personal honour; it is a reminder for me to continue to contribute where my skills and experience can make a meaningful difference.
“I hope my story encourages young Nigerians to pursue excellence with discipline, and lead with integrity wherever they find themselves”, he added.
Dr. Adeshina reflected that on occasions such as this, “we must appreciate the role that citadels of learning in our country must continue to play in rebuilding Nigeria.
“This is so that our country may translate its enormous potentials into tangible assets; those priceless assets needed in a digital era where the best performing nations prioritize knowledge as key drivers of socio-economic transformation, as I reckon to be part of treasured mandate of Edwin Clark University. This university deserves all the support we as alumni can provide, to sustain and grow the dream of its founder – Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark”, he added.
Dr. Adeshina is a highly accomplished and versatile senior executive and board leader with over three decades of distinguished experience across commercial and investment banking, asset management, stockbroking, public service and financial consulting.
His career is marked by a consistent record of leadership in highly competitive and structured institutions, both in Nigeria and internationally.
Dr. Adeshina academic foundation includes a B.Sc. and M.Sc in Finance from the University of Lagos and a Diploma in Information Science/Systems from the University of Ibadan. He further enhanced his executive education through prestigious programs at world-renowned institutions including Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, Kellogg School of Management and Wharton Business School.
He has held several C-suite and Board-level positions, demonstrating a capacity for strategic direction and governance. Dr. Adeshina served as the Managing Director/CEO of CDL Asset Management Limited, where he provided overall leadership and oversaw leadership a diverse portfolio including funds management, corporate finance and treasury services.
Previously, as General Manager at Marina International Limited, he honed his expertise in treasury, risk management and investment banking over a 15-year tenure. His public service commitment was demonstrated in a cabinet-level role as Special Adviser and Head of the Ministry of Economic Planning, Budget and Development for the State of Osun, where he spearheaded budget preparation, economic planning and public procurement reforms.
Dr. Adeshina currently serves as Chairman for several entities including the Goldfield Group, a diversified financial services firm and Health Assur Ltd. He is also the Founder/Director of Ultra Goldfield Logistics Limited, UK, a venture leveraging AI and machine learning in the logistics sector. His extensive directorship include past roles on the boards of Premium Pension Limited and CDL Capital Market Limited.
Under his watch, Goldfield Group, which comprises organisations offering financial and management consulting to high net worth individuals; corporate and project finance advisory services, securities brokerage and real estate investment/management as well as pension funds management, has become the toast of clients from diverse sectors.
The financial guru is a distinguished fellow of multiple professional bodies including the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (FCIB), the Certified Pension Institute of Nigeria (FCIP) and the Institute of Directors, Nigeria.
His deep industry engagement is further evidenced by his membership on numerous high-level committees, particularly in audit, risk, investment and governance across the banking, pension and public sectors.
A prolific contributor to his field, Dr. Adeshina has authored over 40 publications and presented numerous papers on topics ranging from financial risk management and pension governance to economic development. Combining strong analytical, organizational and problem-solving skills with a reputation for high integrity.
Reacting to the award bestowed on Dr. Adeshina, an elated Alhaja Asisat Olanike Adeshina described her husband of 40 years as a very meticulous person who has been able to gather grace to where he is today.
She said the family was happy for the recognition bestowed on her husband in far away South-South region adding “Its not easy but we, as a family, we are happy for this recognition.
“Now adding this feather to his cap, I am so grateful to Almighty God to witness this. I am happy its coming from Edwin Clark University, South-South as we call the area even though we are from South-West but I am happy its coming from somewhere we dont have a root”, she added.
A long standing friend of the awardee, Mr. Ade Odunewu also described Dr. Adeshina as a thorough bread professional, a very thorough and humble person.
He said he had witnessed some other awards bestowed on him in the past and now this from Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo adding “He is a very respected person, a banker of repute for many years.
Odunewu said Dr. Adeshina deserved the award by ECU having been part of a management and running of some universities in the past recalling his role as a council member of Ladoke Akintola University.
Barrister S. K. Babalola, who happens to be Dr. Adeshina’s Best Man during his wedding 40 years ago, described the honorary doctorate degree award on his friend as a manifestation of the awardee’s tenacity of purpose.
“Adeshina is somebody that is highly methodical, highly resourceful and very tenacious in whatever he believes in. He is one person that gives his whole to whatever he believes in”, he added.
Extolling the virtue of the honoraree, Managing Director and Chief Executive Office, CRC Credit Bureau, Dr. Ahmed Popoola described Dr. Adeshina as a role model who constantly encourages people around him to excel.
“My path crosses with Dr. Adeshina in 1979 at at the University of Lagos Library.
“Our relationship is a mentee mentor type. He is a big brother. He shows andolute interest in people. He sacrifices a lot to support his family members and friends, even at a high level of inconvenience to him. The people I know him with have been together with him for decades.
What stands him out according to popoola is Adeshina’s unparalleled and high level of integrity. “He is a first-class professional who knows his onions, especially in corporate finance and banking. He is always on top of whatever he chooses to do. He is forthright and focused. He is so reliable and trustworthy. He doesn’t cut corners. He is arguably the most meticulous professional I have ever met.”
Prince Labi Emokpare expressed appreciation to Edwin Clark University for recognizing the man he said to have paid his dues to humanity.
“I think he deserves more than this. He is a great person, very straight forward and I can tell you he has paid his dues to this country. He has done very well for humanity, for the communities of this country. I wish him more winnings”, he added.
For Bade Adeshina, indeed, it is an honour well deserved.
Captain Elisha Agio Bahago, an indigene of Niger State, spent 16 years in the Nigerian Presidential Air Fleet. He flew five former Nigerian presidents/heads of state from Gen. Ibrahim Babangida to the late Gen. Sani Abacha and former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Bahago, who is now exploring another frontier in the aviation industry with his training as a drone pilot at ARCO Aviation Academy, recalled his experience in a chat with select journalists. MIKE ODIEGWU was there.
Tell us about your airline experience and how long you have been flying?
I began my flying career in 1982 at Burnside-Ott flying school, Opa-locka Miami, Florida, in USA where I graduated with a Commercial Pilot License (Single & Multi-Engine) and Instrument Rating. I started commercial flying with the then Nigeria Airways in 1984 as a First Officer on the Boeing 737-200 fleet, operating both domestic and regional routes within Nigeria, West, and East Africa. In 1990, I was privileged to be among six pilots—along with aircraft maintenance engineers, cabin crew, and flight dispatchers from Nigerian Airways – seconded to the Presidency, Nigerian Presidential Air Fleet. I served there for 16 years.
I voluntarily retired to complete my part-time Master’s degree in Air Safety Management at London City University, London UK. While studying, three major air crashes occurred in Nigeria (2005–2006), which became my case study. Later, I joined the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in 2007 as a Flight Operations Safety Inspector on contract. I was privileged to partake in the real-time implementation of aviation safety management system as Nigeria worked to attain Category One Certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This certification placed Nigeria on par with other nations in terms of compliance with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). I continued flying intermittently until 2023 when I finally retired from manned aircraft operations.
What was the most remarkable moment during your 43 years of flying?
While serving in the Nigerian Presidential Air Fleet, I was among the six pilots who first operated the Gulfstream IV aircraft, Nigeria’s first presidential jet acquired during Gen. Ibrahim Babangida’s regime. We flew President Babangida, his family and officials until he stepped aside. Afterwards, I flew the late Chief Ernest Shonekan, the late Gen. Sani Abacha, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, and former President Olusegun Obasanjo with their families, officials and whoever the president authorised us to fly.
I vividly recall my first flight with President Obasanjo in 1999—we flew him to Libya for the 30th anniversary of the late Col. Muammar Gaddafi’s rise to power. Gaddafi reportedly said he would not begin the celebration without the Nigerian President’s presence. It was a memorable flight. Throughout my career, I flew eight different jet types: Boeing 737-200, Gulfstream IV, Gulfstream II, Hawker 125-800XP, Cessna 560 XLS, Boeing 737 NG, Falcon 7X, and Embraer 135/145—covering commercial, presidential, corporate, and private operations. I’ve flown across the seven continents, especially with the Gulfstream IV.
What was that particular experience that you would never forget while flying?
There are many, but one stands out. In 1987, while flying for Nigeria Airways as a First Officer, we were departing Jos for Lagos when we experienced a bird strike during takeoff. It was my leg to fly, but when the incident occurred, I handed control to my Captain, Capt. Popoola and resumed my first officer’s duty, declared an emergency, and requested clearance to return and land. It was my first real-time engine failure experience. The No. 2 (right) engine ingested the birds, causing a loud bang. The control tower immediately informed us that our engine was on fire and cleared us to return. We had 34 passengers and 4 crew members on board.
Despite the high altitude of Jos Airport (over 4,000 feet above mean sea level), we climbed steadily with one engine to a safe circuit height, followed the single engine procedures checklist and landed safely. One sad memory I can never forget: I was supposed to be on the ADC flight captained by my course mate, Capt. Atanda, which crashed on departure from Abuja to Sokoto, killing the then Sultan of Sokoto and some passengers on board. I had initially planned to join that flight but changed my mind at the last moment in the hope that when he returned from Sokoto, I would join him to Lagos. Perhaps, my presence might have changed something; possibly avert the incident —or it could have been my last flight.
How did it feel working with Nigeria Airways at the time?
All my life, I swore to serve my nation. My goal was always to contribute to Nigeria’s progress, inspired by what I saw in other countries. Flying with Nigeria Airways was a privilege, not a pursuit of money. I wanted to serve and I got it. Later, as a Flight Operations Inspector with CAA, the regulatory authority responsible for regulating, certifying and over-sighting Nigerian and foreign airlines operations compliances with the safety regulations.
Now, I serve as an Investigator with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB). I have evolved from a Commercial Pilot to a Safety Operations Inspector and now an Aviation Accident Investigator. My journey in the aviation sector has indeed brought me full circle in service to my nation. I also served as the Director of Operations, Licensing, and Training Standards (DOLTS) at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
How do you feel about the grounding of Nigeria Airways?
There have been several attempts to revive Nigeria Airways. Unfortunately, political interference and disregard for due process have stalled the progress. Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy, yet we have no national carrier. Many former staff members of the Nigerian Airways have still not been fully paid their entitlements since the airline was liquidated in 2002. If Nigeria Airways had been managed as a business rather than a political tool, it would have survived and be thriving by now.
What is Nigeria losing by not having a national carrier like Ethiopia or Kenya?
Initially, national carriers were created for political and diplomatic presence rather than profit. Nigeria Airways once proudly flew to many cities such as New York, London, Rome, Jeddah and other African cities under the Nigerian flag-“sky power”. Other nations have since restructured their national carriers into viable, self-sustaining businesses, free from political interference. Nigeria should do the same. Many Nigerians still want to see Nigeria Airways fly again—it’s a matter of national pride and identity.
While in the Presidential Fleet, which President or Head of State was most challenging to fly?
As a trained professional, once the President steps into the aircraft, I see him as a passenger. My duty and responsibility is to ensure all safety protocols are strictly followed. I never took unnecessary risks because of who is on board. If the aircraft isn’t fit for a flight, I would respectfully decline to operate it. As I always say, liars can never become good pilots. So, there was no particular challenge—only professionalism with the highest level of responsibility.
How lucrative is it to be a pilot?
Passion is the driving force. The most successful pilots are those driven by passion—money becomes secondary. The profession demands discipline: every six months, you must undergo medical checks and proficiency training. You must remain current and competent at all times.
Why are you in ARCO Aviation?
I collaborated with ARCO Aviation Academy to explore the world of unmanned flight. The future of aviation is in drone technology, and I wanted to understand and be part of it. I also served as a consultant during the academy’s establishment. ARCO Aviation Academy is the first NCAA-approved aviation training organisation authorised to train drone pilots in Nigeria. I appreciate the scholarship they offered me to train as a drone pilot.
What advice would you give to young pilots, especially regarding safety?
I am a professional pilot who loves his job. I’m not an expert yet. That is why I’m here for further training. My advice is never exceed your personal limits. Every aircraft and environment has its limitations—especially the weather. Never succumb to pressure to impress anyone at the expense of safety. Before any flight, remember this safety acronym: “IMSAFE” I- Illness: Are you suffering from any illness that could impair your ability to fly? Don’t fly. M-Medication: Are you taking any medication that could affect your focus or reaction? Don’t fly. S-Stress: Are you under psychological pressure or anxiety? Don’t fly. A-Alcohol: Have you consumed alcohol recently? Wait at least eight hours (“bottle to throttle”). Don’t fly. F-Fatigue: Are you well-rested? Fatigue affects focus and judgment. Don’t fly. E-Emotion: Are you emotionally distracted by anything? Don’t fly.
I have flown to many countries—the U.S., U.K., Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Norway, Israel, Iran, Brazil, Germany, China, and more. During the 1995 Beijing Conference, I was part of the crew that flew the then First Lady, Mrs. Maryam Abacha, to China. It may interest you to know that I had the privilege of flying President Ahmed Tinubu, then the governor of Lagos State, from Abuja to Marrakesh, Morocco, and later to Lagos during President Obasanjo’s administration. I flew round the seven continents of the world.
…Every day I get to celebrate and honor being a mother, and honor my mother. Joining grateful children and mothers around the world to give gratitude and celebrate the special gift of motherhood is a priviledge, writes Hannatu Musawa.
I celebrate the blessing of motherhood every second of the day because it is the ultimate gift. I celebrate being a mother and having the most special mother every moment and want to give a loving shout out to my mother.
Anyone who knows my mother, Hajia Ladi Binta Musawa (nee Yusuf Gurshe Rafindadi), will be aware of what a difficult task it is for me to attempt to find the words to describe her. A role model to all who know and love her, my mother lives her life with great humility. Her selflessness and kindness to others knows no bounds. She is a fantastic person who has been blessed with a great sense of humor, a kind nature, and an unassuming ability to make all those around her feel special and loved.
To have the blessing of being able to call Hajia Ladi, ‘Mom’ and Alhaji Musa ‘Dad’ is, perhaps, the greatest fortune of my life. Continuously, I learn and grow from the pure example set by them.
The energy my Mom pumps into the love and caring she displays to all those around her and beyond is boundless. She continues to be a source of inspiration to so many that she meets by her unselfishness, dedication and Faith in Allah. She unceasingly encourages her children, family, friends, neighbors and associates to work hard at life but always to put Allah first. Her faith cradles her and her loved ones even during the times when life throws curve-balls. The courage she always shows in the face of adversity and her inner strength are truly what great people are made of. She is a true blessing.
My greatest wish for my Mom, as I watch her dedicate her life to encouraging, supporting, educating, protecting, helping, loving, and caring for all those she comes in contact with on a daily basis, is for her to be able to see herself the way the World sees her; which is as a blessing, an incredibly special and amazing person. A woman who is indeed a pure soul with a pure heart, a remarkable role model and a woman with great faith.
Hajia Ladi Binta Musawa is a shining gem and an angel. She has incredibly strong values. If ever there was a portrait of a Godly mother, it is she. I am convinced that anything that is pure and good in me, Allah has planted it in me directly from my Mom and Dad.
My Mom is big on teaching. On a daily basis, she teaches me to live my life, make my decisions and conduct myself as if I am teaching my children and the next generation. One of her favorite quotes to me is one of Ghandi’s. “Hannatu, always be the change you want to see in the world…” she would say. This quote consistently reverberates in my head and sticks with me wherever I go. It is exactly how Mom lives her life.
Some of the greatest values I try to uphold; defending my honor religiously, keeping integrity, trying to do right, caring for the downtrodden, were instilled in me by Mom. Her lessons and example influence every good part of my life and positive thought process.
Mom teaches me the difference between right and wrong and urges me to constantly try to make good choices. She teaches me to be faithful to myself, to my family, to my culture, to my community, to my calling, to people around me, to my identity, to my bloodline, to my Father’s name, to Nigeria and especially to Allah. She encourages me to be more focused and strive and finish things that I start. She always urges me to try as best as I can to keep my word and learn to accept and take correction. And she always worries and counsels me about tempering the fiery temper I inherited from my equally incredible late Dad.
Mom teaches me that the things I should treasure should never be made with human hands. She teaches me that it is through giving that I will be filled and fulfilled. She teaches me that originality feeds the soul and energizes the mind. She teaches me to exercise greater patience and always try to endure. She teaches me the difference between right and wrong. She teaches me not to use my power to hurt others. She teaches me to always strive to give more than I receive. This is an example that she lives with daily. Throughout her life she has always been known to help people, even at her own expense. It is the way she lives, even now. She simply loves being there for others and making their lives easier. It is the times that she helps people that you can see the greatest joy in her eyes.
As a little girl, she often took me and my siblings to orphanages, shelters and hospitals so we could see people who were suffering; so we could develop a desire to help people who are suffering. She made us touch and feed lepers in the days when people shunned them. She worries for everyone more than she worries about herself. She tries to do all she can to fix other people’s problems. Her charity was to everyone she interacted with, anyone who needed her and that was what made people gravitate towards her. That is the kind of woman my Mom is.
For the duration of my life I will dedicate every morsel of who I am, everything I have achieved and all that I have ever done good and right to my Mom and Dad. I thank them deeply for loving me so much and being the brightest light in my life. I thank them for showing me what I should be and teaching me how to be free and how to dream. I thank them for being the ultimate example of forgiveness, compassion, friendship, kindness, strength, generosity, honesty, elegance, beauty, resilience, selflessness, care, hope and love. I thank Mom for telling me she loved me every single day of my life. Even when we were not together, she finds a way of getting the message across to me, even if it was just through her energy.
Mom is my rock, my anchor; my strong, beautiful, vibrant angel; my heart and my precious gift from Allah. I am beyond proud of her and everything she is. From the time I was a little girl, Mom and Dad have always been all I have ever needed in my life. My submission to the Almighty comes first beyond everything else and my dedication to Mom and the memory of my Dad I draw through that faith. I truly have exceptional parents. My siblings and I truly won the loterry as far as parents go! We thank The Almighty with everything that we have for the grace and gift he has given us in the form of parents.
…Every day I get to celebrate and honor being a mother, and honor my mother. Joining grateful children and mothers around the world to give gratitude and celebrate the special gift of motherhood is a priviledge. I want to encourage everyone to celebrate and pray for their Mom every single day whether she is living or passed.
“Hajia Ladi Binta Musawa, I wanted to tell the world about the essence of you, my salute to you so they can celebrate with me on my great blessing of you, so they can celebrate their mothers too. You impact the world around you more than you realize. I love you on your good days and on your bad days. I see your sacrifice and struggle day after day. You are not just a mother, you are a role model and an advocate My heart will always belong to you and I want to say “May Allah always be with you.” May we witness many more days together by Allah’s special grace. I LOVE YOU MOM… I THANK YOU!”
•Musawa is the Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy.
Says husband had four wives, but they never quarrelled
Recalls how her doctor’s mother saved her from operation with raw vegetables during childbirth
Speaking with her on the phone, it is difficult to reckon that Madam Victoria Ayoka Makoyawo (nee Adebowale) is 100 years old. Her sharp and audible voice is at odds with her centenary status. Also remarkable is her ability to accurately recall events. The centenarian shares her life experiences in a conversation with GBENGA ADERANTI. Excerpts:
How do you feel clocking the rare age of 100 years?
I thank God for His grace, which has enabled me to be 100 years old and for my life. I give praise to Jesus. It has been a long journey in life.
Considering that formal education was not fashionable at the time you were born, how did you manage to go to school?
I lived with my maternal grandmother. My dad was a farmer, and he did not send any of his children to school. However, my maternal grandmother wanted me to have a formal education. I was therefore taken from Abeokuta to Imeko in 1935. That was where I started formal education.
It is also important to mention that it was a white man who did the confirmation for me, which is why I have Victoria as part of my name.
Was it at Imeko that you completed your education?
From Imeko, we returned to Osogbo, where I continued with my education. I still remember vividly that our school fees were about twelve and a half kobo.
After a while, I told my mum that I was not ready to continue with my education because of the ordeal I was facing with paying the school fees. My mum kicked, but I opted to learn sewing.
Fortunately for me, my maternal grandmother’s brother was in Ibadan, where I stayed and learnt how to make dresses. I thank God that He blessed this sewing business.
I later got married in 1949. Not long after, my husband was transferred to Ilorin, and we later returned to Lagos. God answered my prayer, and in 1949, I had my first child.
After the first child, I had a delay. I tried to have another child, but it was a bit difficult. I was so desperate to the extent that any time I saw a woman who had just given birth, I would say, ‘loan me your husband for me to have a child too,’ and everybody would laugh. The delay in not having another child after the first one was causing me so much grief.
After waiting for about 13 years, God answered my prayer and I had a baby girl
In fact, when I got pregnant I didn’t even know. I remember that I went to Sapele to meet a family member. There, I couldn’t eat; I was just vomiting. I suspected that I was pregnant, and it was later confirmed that I was pregnant.
What were the things on your mind during the waiting period?
I was always telling God the kind of child I wanted. I specifically asked God to give me a female child who would be kind and would not disgrace me. I enjoyed good treatment during that pregnancy. A doctor was detailed to look after me where my husband was. Another doctor was engaged in Lagos to look after me until I was put to bed.
You just said that God blessed your sewing business…
Yes, I was doing well in my sewing business. Although I was staying in Mushin, Lagos, people on the Lagos Island knew me. I would go from Mushin to Tom Jones, Lagos Island, and to sew for people. It was there I came in contact with many people. Ileya Festival was always a boom period for me.
I think the secret behind this was the fact that I was honest with my clients. I never cheated any of them, and I would never keep part of their clothes. I always remembered what my boss told me as an apprentice. She said we should not take what was not ours. So, when I started my own business, it was my principle, and all my clients knew this.
Secondly, I love to work. I hate staying idle. It wasn’t only sewing that I was doing; I was into other businesses too. I was into building and supplying building materials. I was a contractor at Ikeja Police College when it was about to start. The name of my business then was Victoria Building Contractor. I was a supplier there, supplying them with quality materials.
Even the people I was buying things from knew I would not take anything inferior. My policy was that dirty or cursed money was no money. I was only interested in clean business. I never knew that some of the policemen were watching me and monitoring what I was doing. Although I was involved in other businesses which God really blessed, I also sold clothing materials.
I just love to work; I can’t sit idle. I also sold food in this house. Many lawyers were coming here to eat. It was a business that fetched me so much money, too. I love to work; my paternal and maternal families believe in hard work, and that was what I imbibed.
What did you do with the proceeds of your business?
Ah, you know I told you earlier how I encouraged my husband to build his personal house and his reluctance. When he was delaying, I just took one of his brothers to his land. I did a foundation for him, we started, and we were paying block makers whatever we had.
It was one of the visits to the person who sold the land to my husband that I expressed my interest in buying land, too. He initially refused to sell land to me because he felt I should have got married to either Egba or Oyo instead of an Ekiti man (laughs).
Unknown to me, the owner of the piece of land was my father’s friend. Unfortunately, it was too late, and the land had been sold. But as God would have it, the people at the town planning said there was a piece of land in another place belonging to the same man. But it was small. I had to run back to Abeokuta, and he confirmed what they told me in Lagos. I insisted that, irrespective of the size, I would buy it. He said he would have given me the land free of charge, but said again that because I married an Ekiti man, he would not do so. He eventually sold the land to me. That is where I am living today, in the heart of Ikeja.
You were married to a polygamist. What was your experience?
I was the fourth wife. Except you were told, it would be difficult for anyone to know that we were married to the same man. Anytime I went to Abeokuta, I would buy food and other things, I would cook, and all of us would sit down and eat. Most of our neighbours thought we rented the house, not knowing we were the wives of the owner of the house. The feeling then was that we were just friends. Till all the other wives died, we never quarrelled.
How did you manage to live without having issues with your husband’s other wives?
(Prolonged laughter) I remember telling my husband not to keep concubines. If he found any woman who caught his fancy, he should bring the person home and marry her. Then, we were told that women were killing men in Lagos.
I’m amazed at the way you remember things and events. You are still looking strong, and your voice is like that of a teenager. What is the secret?
I will attribute these to God. He gave me the power. Also, it was the kind of upbringing that I had. Every Sunday, after returning from church, we would go in and start reading the Bible. That too must have contributed to it. For example, we never joked with pap. I used to feel sad then if I did not drink pap and senke.
How would you compare the Lagos of today with the one you grew up in?
Things have really changed. There was no traffic jam or noise then. There was no kidnapping. The Lagos of then was stress-free.
If you look at your 100 years on earth, what would you say gave you the greatest joy, and what made you saddest?
There was a day I was taking my daughter to school together with one of my younger ones’ children, with my driver. We had an accident, and I was just shouting Jesus! Jesus! It was a sad experience. My most joyous moment was when I was in labour and the doctor told me that the baby was breech. Fortunately, the doctor’s mum was around. When she heard what happened, she plucked vegetable leaves in the hospital and told me to start chewing the vegetables raw. I gave birth to the baby safely.
The greatest joy was when I realised that it was a baby girl. I asked God for a baby girl, and He hearkened to my request. They told me not to stand up from the bed. I was just shouting I thank you, Jesus, I thank you, Jesus. They all rejoiced.
How were you treated by your in-laws during your waiting period, I mean, before the second child came?
Not bad, I was just telling God that I never asked him for a delay.
At a point, you went to Jerusalem…
Yes, I had been to Austria before then. My trip to Jerusalem was not planned. I used to have a friend, but she is late now. My wrapper used to be a flowing one touching the floor, because of that, many of them used to call me alhaja. I would tell her I’m not an alhaja. In one of those days when I returned to Nigeria from a business trip to Austria, she said she had submitted my name among those who would go to Jerusalem. We eventually went.
In Jerusalem, I started praying. My friend reminded me that it was good to speak positively; that it was almost 30 years since I said I was not an alhaja but alhaja of Jerusalem, and that God had answered my prayer, which I had eventually become alhaja of Jerusalem. I then thanked God.
In Jerusalem, I requested God… before I left Nigeria; I was selling food and alcoholic drinks. I said that if I returned to Nigeria, I would not sell alcoholic drinks again because I did not want my child to be drinking alcohol; therefore, I would not sell alcoholic drinks to the children of other people.
When I returned, I stopped selling drinks. The girl working with me asked why. I said nothing. I sold all the crates and started dealing in Coca-Cola drinks and Vitamalt.
Would you advise a woman to marry into a polygamous home or a man to practice polygamy?
I don’t want it. I don’t support it because of the challenges involved. I don’t pray for any of my family members to have more than one wife, because they won’t have a restful mind. The people of those days knew how to manage polygamy, but this generation is incapable.
What would you tell the newlyweds?
A woman needs a lot of patience. I would advise women to take good care of their husbands.
Unfortunately, wives nowadays prefer takeaway and fast food for their husbands. Some go as far as contracting their stew out. They don’t do all those things that matter for their husbands. They don’t know how to cook. I pray that God will give them the wisdom and the skills to do the right things for their husbands.
The most important thing is for the woman to be patient. We know that both of them come from different backgrounds, but patience is the key. Women have to be submissive.
As Cadbury chairman, he was my choirmaster – Vicar
‘We called him CK; he wasn’t crazy about titles’
For the renowned elder and statesman, Dr Christopher Kolade, who passed on last Wednesday at age 93, even in death, his image looms larger than life. His long-standing friends and associates, who worked with him both in secular life and the religious circuit, have continued to shower encomiums on him as they relive their memorable relationship and precious encounters with him, reports IBRAHIM APEKHADE YUSUF
He expected nothing but the best!’
Dr Victor Oladokun, former Senior Advisor to the President of the African Development Bank Group, Akinwunmi Adesina, also worked with Dr Kolade at Cadbury Nigeria Limited. In his tribute, which the reporter culled from his LinkedIn wall, the corporate communications guru and former international broadcaster recalled how Kolade impacted his career.
He said, “Dr Kolade (‘CK’as we named him) was an extraordinary and visionary CEO; a man of exceptional integrity; and a passionate and talented organist … a skill he put to good use for decades, in the service of his church in Ikeja, Lagos.
“I had the privilege of serving under CK at Cadbury in several managerial positions. First, as Publications Manager, Media Relations Manager, and later on, as Public Relations Manager.
“CK was the quintessential communicator. His diction was exquisite. He had a way with words that probably only someone like Wole Soyinka could compete with. Long before Google, smartphones or ChatGPT, CK expected nothing but the best from his Comms team.
“I remember being called into his office one morning. Across his desk was my draft of an urgent corporate media release covered in red ink. He went straight to the point. ‘Victor, what are you trying to say here?’ I explained. Looking me straight in the eye, and without skipping a beat, he responded, ‘Now, go back to your office, and write it just like you’ve explained.’ I thanked him and as I reached for the door, he added, ‘By the way, cut out the big words. Keep it short and simple.’ I am truly grateful for the privilege of serving alongside him.
“Last year, I visited with CK in the company of his adopted daughter, Mosunmola Umoru and his longtime Executive Assistant, Yewande Karunwi. And what a reunion it was. As usual, CK was sharp of wit, profuse and funny with several personal reminiscences.
“A former DG of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, CEO and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria, Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Pan-African University; and a thought leader of great repute, Dr Kolade remains one of the iconic greats of the Nigerian public and private sector today.
“Ambassador Christopher Kolade was a national treasure and a rare and highly distinguished Nigerian. CK, you will be greatly missed. R.I.P. eternal.”
‘We called him CK; he wasn’t crazy about titles’
Dr Chido Benedict Nwakanma, a communication strategist and media scholar who worked with Dr Christopher Kolade, whilst the latter was at Cadbury Nigeria Plc, shared some insights about his persona.
He said, “My first thought on the passing of Dr Christopher Kolade was gratitude. Gratitude for his longevity. Gratitude for his contributions and gratitude for his impactful life. CK, as Dr Christopher Kolade was fondly called, gave of himself wholeheartedly.
“I met Dr Kolade at the last stage of my interview to join Cadbury Nigeria in 1990. He was friendly yet asked tough questions. He engaged me in a conversation on suit styles. All smiles, but the question was profoundly about dressing and protocol. CK’s primary contribution at Cadbury was developing the human capital and strategy.
“He floated the Cadbury Award for Excellence. He caused a change in the use of titles. Instead of titles that change with each promotion, he pushed for the use of people’s initials. So I became CBN in Cadbury style, coined from my name, Chido Benedict Nwakanma. I didn’t have to change it when I moved from Corporate Affairs to Sales & Marketing.
“He was an encourager and yet a disciplinarian. He was the boss who made his points by carefully chosen and spoken words, modulated with telling impact as a thespian. Dr Kolade pioneered broadcasting on the frequency-modulated wave band in Nigeria. He introduced FM radio at Radio Nigeria 2.”
‘He was a supportive boss’
Emeka Oparah, a corporate communications professional, also worked at close quarters with the late Dr Kolade at Cadbury Nigeria. In a Facebook post titled, ‘You need supportive bosses to blossom in your career’ published four years ago, Oparah, who is the Group Vice President, Corporate Communication & CSR, Airtel Africa, spoke enthusiastically about his former boss.
He said, “I just remembered 1996 or so, at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Broad Street, Lagos. I was then a middle Manager, actually Media Relations Manager at Cadbury Nigeria Plc, a position I took over from Chido Nwakanma and left for Akin Fadeyi.
“We had gone to the NSE for the Facts Behind the Figures, an eponymously named annual event where quoted companies explained the facts behind the figures they have published in their annual reports.
“Dr Christopher Kolade (CK), the Executive Chairman, as usual, dazzled the city with his masterful presentation. After the Q&A session and closing ceremonies, he made to leave through the back door, but he was ‘waylaid’ by Capital Market Correspondents.
“I was watching my Chairman from a distance. My boss, Kevin Ejiofor, had told me I would have to deal with the media on my own. Apparently, he thought I had matured enough to handle that.
“So I started making my way to the exit to assist Dr Kolade. As I got closer, I heard him say to the journalists, “You see, gentlemen, my boss is not here. You know Emeka (pointing at me)? I’m going to wait right here until he comes to tell me what to say.” That made my day!
“My dear friends, that’s the stuff careers are made of. He made the journalists know I’m important, even calling me his boss. And yes, I was his boss when it came to Media Relations.
“This, friends, is called empowerment. He told the media there and then how important my job was and, indeed, how important I was. What question could Kolade not answer, but he was following the company’s Media Policy, which stated that no one, repeat no one, could speak to the media behind me or without my say so.
“I will never forget that experience which, in the most part, has influenced the way I did my work over the years-with my bosses and my subordinates. I let them do their job without any hindrance.
“Today, even when I’m at an event, the Head of PR, Erhumu Bayagbon, is the one who engages the media. Some journalists wonder why I refer them to my Head of PR, but that’s his job. He must do his job. He must build and grow his influence. He must be empowered to do so.
“If you want to get the best out of your people, clearly define their job roles and rewards and consequences. Ensure they understand them. Equip them (tools and training) well for the job and empower them to do it. Then and only then can you hold them accountable. And trust me, they will serve you like loyal servants, knowing the rewards and honours due them will be justly theirs.
“My eight years in Cadbury, 1994-2002, were truly a blessing. I’ll never forget, regardless of some disappointments, which mercifully later turned out to be blessings. Almost everything I know in Communication and Management came from Cadbury. Airtel Nigeria (by whatever name called) gave me the wings to fly! I’m thankful. Otitodirichukwu.”
‘He’s integrity personified’
Prof Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), senior lawyer, author, and Professor of Corporate Governance, equally shared fond memories of the deceased.
In his glowing tribute to Dr Kolade, Prof. Ajogwu said he was a father figure who was “Integrity Personified.”
He said, “A great Iroko has indeed fallen. With the passing of Dr Christopher Kolade, our nation has lost an institution, a vast human library whose volumes were written with integrity, wisdom, and a solid moral compass.
“He was the custodian of ethics and corporate governance, a title he did not merely hold but lived with every fibre of his being. In the boardrooms of corporate Nigeria and the halls of public service, his voice was a steady, resonant call for principle over profit, character over convenience, and service above self. At the Lagos Business School, he was a teacher who taught not just with words, but by the impeccable example of his life.
“Dr Kolade was a bridge-builder, the connection between the East and West, a father figure, and a lighthouse guiding generations away from the rocky shores of moral compromise. His legacy is not only in the institutions he led, such as the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria, Pan-Atlantic University and others, or the policies he shaped, but in the countless lives he mentored and the high standard he forced us all to see as attainable even whilst serving as the Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
“He was a diplomat in the truest sense, building bridges of trust and respect for our nation where they were most needed…Though the great Iroko has fallen, the forest he nurtured, the seeds of integrity, professionalism, and faith he planted, will stand for generations to come. Dr Kolade was a life of profound impact, beautifully lived. I have lost an elderly friend. May his gentle soul find perfect rest in the arms of the Almighty. Requiscat in pace.”
‘LBS rode on Kolade’s credibility’
Professor Bongo Adi, a distinguished Professor of Economics at the Lagos Business School (LBS), Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos, had a working relationship with the late Dr Kolade while he served as the Chancellor of the varsity.
He said, “Dr Christopher Kolade was our Chancellor. I actually worked with him very closely. We worked together on a case. We wrote the case on Cadbury, you know, he was also the CEO of Cadbury at some point. We interviewed him. I spoke with him a number of times. We also set up the Christopher Kolade Centre for Ethics and Leadership at the LBS. So, this is a man who was dedicated to ethical principles in organisations. He raised the bar when it came to governance issues in Nigeria’s private sector. When you talk about credibility, institutional probity, integrity, transparency, and, you know, due diligence process, I think you are talking about Dr Christopher Kolade.
In fact, he was one of those who gave LBS the credibility that it enjoys even to this day. So, he was one of the earliest LBS leaders within that community, and the governance centre, where LBS operated, you know, he was setting the highest level of standards. So, I mean, he would be truly missed.”
‘A man of excellence and integrity’
Hilda Nkor, Principal Consultant/CEO, HNC Professional Service Limited, worked under the late Dr Kolade at the Society for Corporate Governance of Nigeria.
She said, “I had a working relationship with Dr Christopher Kolade. I have known him for a very long time. I worked under him in 2002. He was the pioneer President/Chairman Board of Trustees at the Society for Corporate Governance of Nigeria, where I worked, and I had to report to the Board directly. Of course, that brought me in very close proximity to him.
“Even after he left as the Chairman because he served for about five years in that role, we maintained a very close relationship. He was there as a mentor, as a father and as a guardian as well. So, he was always ready to give advice as regards work, and all of that. We had a very good relationship. Dr Kolade was a God-fearing man and a very principled individual. A man of integrity, who will never compromise his standards, and he believes in telling the truth, no matter at whose expense. He was a very compassionate human being, a kind person and a father to all.
He would never impose his views on you. But he would make you know why you should consider his opinion. So, Dr Kolade for me was a one-in-a-million kind of person. As such, I consider it a privilege to have known and associated with him. He was really a great man, and he will be sorely missed.
“I remembered when he took up the role at the Nigeria Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), I went to the house to quarrel with him as to why he took up such a job, and he said, ‘Listen, Hilda, we all cannot continue to complain from the sidelines; let me go in there and contribute my quota. If they accept me, fine and if they don’t accept me, no problem, but I would have made an effort, I would have tried.’ So this is one lesson I took from him.”
‘An extraordinary Nigerian who excelled in every assignment’
Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), in his tribute to Dr Kolade, shared interesting insight on his foray in the diplomatic circuit.
He said, “Though I didn’t have the privilege of associating with him on a personal note, I have watched him from a very close range and followed his activities from his broadcast years to his diplomatic years and then to the boardroom.
“Dr Christopher Kolade served Nigeria meritoriously by wearing many caps. He was at one point a distinguished diplomat who served as Nigeria’s ambassador to the United Kingdom. He did so at a time when Nigeria needed a lot of traction, not just in the UK, but also in Europe, and he was a strong voice in that regard. For people like him, the difference is made by diplomats who know their onions, and so it was with Dr Kolade. But what distinguished him was the several caps he wore. He was a veteran broadcaster, as the Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), and he was a reverend gentleman. He was a business guru in every sense because he also chaired the boards of several companies and so on.
“He was just an extraordinary Nigerian. I think that these kinds of people inspire us so much as icons, and as people who have things we can emulate.
“For me, I believe Nigerians can draw immense lessons from his versatility because he brought to every sphere of engagement that spirit. Whatever calling he finds himself whether as a diplomat, broadcaster, boardroom guru and as a reverend gentleman, indeed, the elements were so mixed with him as William Shakespeare would say, and they would say of him, ‘This was the man!’”
The Revd. Canon Abiodun Ola Okunnuga, served as a member of the youth choir under Dr Kolade, at St. Peter’s, Faji, Lagos, recounts with nostalgia, his association with him.
According to him, long before he became a towering figure in Nigeria‘s corporate and diplomatic circles, Dr Kolade served as Choirmaster at St. Peter’s Church, Faji, Lagos, one of the oldest and most historic Anglican churches in the city.
He said, “His time in that role remains etched in the memories of those who passed through the choir under his firm but fatherly guidance. In the Anglican tradition, the choirmaster plays a crucial role: training and directing the choir, ensuring musical excellence during services, selecting appropriate hymns and anthems, and working closely with the clergy to uphold the dignity of worship. Dr Kolade embodied these responsibilities with characteristic diligence and grace.
“When my father, then Canon Bandele Okunnuga, was Vicar of St. Peter’s between 1990 and 1992, I had the privilege of being a choir boy under his leadership. At the time, he was Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria, yet he approached his church duties with the same discipline and excellence that defined his public life. Choir rehearsals began at exactly 6:00 p.m., but Dr Kolade was always in church by 5:00 p.m.
“Timekeeping was non-negotiable. You dared not arrive late for rehearsals or church services; he led by example, and everyone took their cue from him. I remember one Sunday service vividly. Three of us in the front row began chatting during the sermon. Dr Kolade was seated nearby. Without uttering a word, he pointed at each of us in turn and signalled for us to stand. That quiet gesture spoke volumes; it was the last time I ever whispered during a service or rehearsal.
He was a man of high discipline, yet he carried himself with humility and warmth. He was approachable, generous, and jovial with us as young choristers, but he never lowered the bar. Under his leadership, the choir wasn’t just about music; it was a place where character was shaped. His example at St. Peter’s Faji remains a lasting testament to the way faith, discipline, and leadership can blend seamlessly in the service of God.”
Chief Jite Odeworitse Tesigimoje, billionaire CEO of GIM Brown Marine from oil-rich Ugborodo community of Delta State, is not just a businessman with vast interests across the West African sub-region; he is also one of Nigeria’s most unapologetic ambassadors of polygamy. He stirred more controversy recently when he took his 19th wife in a lavish ceremony. Photographs of the wedding lit up social media and ignited national debates about love, culture, polygamy, and masculinity. In an exclusive interview with Regional Manager, SHOLA O’NEIL, Chief Tesigimoje, who declined comments on his number of children for cultural reasons, and his age which an associate of his put at about 43 years, opened up as to why he believes polygamy is the best path for men, the secret to unity in his massive household, and why his philanthropy defines him as much as his marriages.
For Chief Jite Tesigimoje, polygamy is not a lifestyle of excess; it is, in his words, a practical truth of human nature. His household is a microcosm of Nigeria’s diversity. He is married to women from nearly all the major ethnic groups—Igbo, Yoruba, Bini, Ijaw, Fulani, Urhobo, Isoko, and his own Itsekiri. To him, it is a reflection of unity and inclusiveness.
“Every man wants to marry two or three wives if he has the capacity,” he said without hesitation.
“The reality is this: after a few years of marriage, a man begins to see his wife differently. He sees her naked from time to time—when she is going into the bathroom and when she comes out and perfects her beauty routines.
“Familiarity sets in, passion fades, and intimacy becomes more like a duty. That is why you hear women complain their husbands no longer love them like before when they just got married.
“It is not that the love is gone; it is that desire has been dulled by routine.”
He advised couples in monogamous relationships to live apart. “If they cannot afford different apartments, they should live in separate rooms.”
He gestured towards one of his wives who sat beside him throughout the conversation, saying: “She is listening and smiling. She knows what I am saying is true.
“She is stunningly beautiful, just like the others. But if she were the only woman in my house, things would be different.
“Men don’t talk about this openly, but I will. No matter how beautiful a woman is, one woman alone cannot sustain a man’s passion forever.”
His argument is not a dismissal of women but a critique of Western ideals. “Our colonial masters told us monogamy is the best way of life. Yet those same people are caught daily in scandals, with mistresses, colleagues, even staff members.
“Why sneak around? Why live in lies? If you admire another woman, marry her. That is better than deceit.”
Tradition and the role of privacy
Chief Tesigimoje links his views not only to personal experience but also to cultural tradition. “In our culture, there is mystery between husband and wife,” he explained.
“When you share the same room, wake up and see everything about your wife every single day, where is the excitement?
“When you start to see her as a sibling, that spark is gone. And incest, as our tradition teaches, is a taboo.
“So why push a man into a life where his wife feels like a sister? Distance and privacy keep the love alive.”
This is where polygamy, in his view, plays a balancing role. “When a man has two or three wives, he creates space. He comes to each one renewed, excited, and appreciative. That freshness keeps love burning.
“I can tell you confidently that many women in polygamous homes are more sexually satisfied than their monogamous counterparts.
“But let us continue to deceive ourselves and build up angry and frustrated women, which will eventually lead to more divorces.”
The demands of a polygamous household
Though he champions polygamy, Tesigimoje admits that marrying more than one wife is not meant for everyone. “Polygamy is cheap only in theory. In reality, it requires enormous financial strength and emotional intelligence.
“It would be suicidal for someone to dabble into polygamy simply because he sees someone else, or because I am doing well in it. You must ask yourself some questions, and one of those is: are you capable?”
Providing insight into the enormous cost he bears in keeping everyone happy and comfortable, Tesigimoje said: “In Lagos, I live in Eko Atlantic City and have 15 houses. Each of my wives lives in a five-bedroom duplex, and they all receive hefty allowances and other perks regularly.
“That is why, when I am in Warri, we can all stay together under one roof peacefully, with some of the wives sharing rooms without any grudges.”
He reiterated that fairness and equity are the backbone of his successful management of his home. “Once I do something for one wife, everyone must get the same treatment. Whether you are the youngest, the oldest, or yet to have any child, you get your due.
“Let me give you an example: yesterday (a day before the interview), I sent some of my wives ₦250,000 each for outings with their children.
“Within minutes, every one of them had heard about it. Those who didn’t get theirs called me to demand answers.
“I got calls from Abuja and Lagos, while those who were in Warri and yet to get their alerts stormed into my room. They had already heard!
“Before the day ended, I spent about ₦3 million on ice cream. That is polygamy. You cannot afford to neglect anyone.”
Contrary to outsiders’ assumptions, the billionaire business mogul revealed that his household thrives on cooperation, not rivalry.
“At my last wedding, all my wives came dressed in the same attire. They danced, they laughed, and they welcomed the new bride. Can you imagine that?
“If there wasn’t unity, they would not have been there, smiling.
“People often think polygamy breeds jealousy, but if you are honest from the start, your home can be harmonious.
“So, even in sharing my bed, my wives are cooperative.
“There is an order as to who comes into the master’s bedroom, but the cooperation of the women makes it even more seamless.”
While hinting at wife No. 20 soon, he warned men against deception. “Do not promise a woman or give her the impression that she will be the only one if you plan otherwise.
“If your heart is set on five or six wives, say it from the start. Once she accepts, she will be at peace with it.
“Problems only come when men pretend. My wives know that I love women, and this (19th wife) might not be the last.”
Strength, fitness and tradition in coping with the demands of 19 wives
Asked how he manages the physical and emotional energy required for such a large family, the billionaire laughed heartily. “Sex is the best exercise—better than any gym. It keeps blood flowing, strengthens the body, and prolongs life.
“Western diets and drugs weaken men. In our tradition, we have herbs that keep a man virile all his life, no matter how long he lives.
“My father is almost 90, and he recently impregnated two women. Virility runs in the family, and I rely on our roots to keep me strong.
“Having many wives and failing to satisfy them would be an abomination.
“Those who have tried my roots and herbs, including traditional leaders and friends, can confirm that I have some of the best herbal roots in the land (laughs).”
Beyond family: A heart for humanity
Despite his colorful personal life, Tesigimoje insists his legacy must be measured not only by his marriages but also by his enormous philanthropy. He recently launched the GIM Brown Foundation to streamline his charitable activities, which escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the lockdown, he supported widows, orphans, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. Today, more than 800 widows are on his payroll, as well as hundreds of other PWDs.
“Everything I have is by God’s grace, not my strength. How do I repay Him? I can only do that by helping those who are less fortunate.
“My advice to wealthy Nigerians is: if you have the capacity to uplift others, do not hold back, because the government alone cannot solve the myriad of problems in our society.”
As for his community of Ajudaibo, Escravos, he revealed his plan to kick off an 83-suite hotel, as part of his drive to bring development and opportunity home.
“I love my wives, my children, and my people.
“This is the life I have chosen. It is not for every man. It requires honesty, responsibility, and strength.
“But with God’s grace, I have managed it. And I will continue to use what I have, not just for my family, but for my community and for humanity.”
Bishop Peace Okonkwo is the Resident Pastor at The Redeemed Evangelical Missions (TREM) headquarters and wife of the founding Bishop. She spoke with reporters recently on her family life, marriage and ministerial exploits. Online Editor Sunday Oguntola was there. Excerpts:
Who is Bishop Mike Okonkwo outside the pulpit?
Bishop is a family man; he is very homely and domesticated. He is extremely detailed; very organised with his things, and does not miss anything. If you give him anything to read, he will read it thoroughly and take note of every sentence, word, spelling and make corrections where there are errors. You might be surprised hearing this but Bishop is a good cook and a really good one at that. He even taught me to cook some things in time past; that’s how good he is.
It’s funny because he comes from a family of 9 children – 6 boys and 3 girls and they always had people living with them whilst growing up because his father was a Civil Servant and worked in different places. I honestly don’t know how he learnt to cook so well – even down to vegetable soups.
He is also a lover of good music – he has an ear for good, quality music. His love for music has rubbed off on me, even though it’s still nothing compared to him. Even at this age, the Evangel Voices (Headquarter Church Choir) are kept on their toes, because when he is around, he can spontaneously request for a particular song ministration during the service, which they are not prepared to sing. He also sings well (of course, not as well anymore because of his age) and used to play some instruments.
Finally, at least for now, Bishop Mike is also a very funny person; he has a hearty laughter that will make you laugh even if you don’t want to. If you play games with Bishop, you would fall on the floor laughing, especially board games. If it ever happens that he is in a winning position against you, just resign because he would play and laugh at you, so much that you will willingly give up and no longer continue playing. Bishop is quite interesting to be with; we enjoy each other’s company and are very good friends even as husband and wife, and given all that God has entrusted into our care, ministerially and otherwise.
We enjoy watching movies together and also football. I, particularly, am a football lover. My favourite sports are football and tennis, any day and anytime. In football, I’ve supported Chelsea Football Club since the days of Mourinho and Drogba; I loved that team and continue to support them now. Bishop is a Manchester United fan and when they lose, he gets angry. We watch football together and laugh. When we are watching a match, sometimes we sit on the floor in the living room to relax.
Interestingly, my love for tennis also influenced him and we both follow the Tennis tour religiously with all the players and tournaments. My current favourite players are Coco Gauff and Alcaraz (Carlos). You should see us when we’re watching tennis (laughs).
How did the love story begin?
(Laughs) It’s a long story but I’ll try to share as much as I can remember. Like I said before, my husband is a very shy person, a private man, so much so that he did not know how to approach me to tell me that he liked me initially. He could not talk to a lady, so he had to get the support of his eldest Sister to do so for him. Rev. Mrs. Edith Iloh is Bishop Mike’s eldest Sister – the firstborn of their family, and at the time, we all were attending the same Church after the Civil War. Things seemed quite bleak back then, especially as most people lost everything to the war and had to start rebuilding their lives and livelihoods from scratch. As such, the Church was a source of succor and hope to many, who turned to God for help.
It was there that we met – but not with him at first, as I mentioned earlier. His eldest Sister liked me so much and she was the one who said to me, “My brother likes you.” Honestly, I was quite surprised, wondering which amongst her brothers liked me, because she had six brothers. It was then she said, “The one who works in the bank” to which I replied, “Okay, we’ll talk about it” and moved on.
At the time, I had plans to travel to the United Kingdom to further my studies and career and with everything that was going on, nothing changed – I still travelled and after a while, returned to Nigeria.
So, what was the attraction when he eventually summed up courage to speak to you?
Nothing! The first time we spoke, I didn’t see anything that attracted him to me. I actually felt he was so arrogant, especially because of his family background. Even when we held fellowship meetings in Church where he was also in attendance, I always said to myself “What is wrong with this young man? Why is he all over the place, as if he’s the only one?” Now, I think back to those thoughts of mine and laugh at myself because I love him so dearly. You know how things can be with ladies when it comes to men? Sometimes, there is that seeming irritation at the initial stage, which is inexplicable. However, that is in the past now, as those initial thoughts and feelings gave way to much deeper feelings of love and appreciation for the great man that he is.
Truly, he is God’s gift to me. I say it all the time, that after Jesus Christ in my life, it is Bishop Mike Okonkwo; I honestly don’t know how my life would have turned out if God didn’t bring us together. The woman you see today is all thanks to God and to him. He has been and continues to be a blessing to me, in every sense of the word. I love him dearly.
Are Pastors/ men & women of God insulated from challenges?
We are flesh and blood like everyone else, and we all have our moments of human weakness and vulnerability. There is no Pastor, Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Teacher or Preacher that can claim not to have moments of human weakness – if anyone claims so, that person is not telling the truth, and like Bishop will say, we need to check their salvation again.
The same way a believer learns to trust God for their daily needs and challenges they encounter in life, is the same way a Pastor must learn to trust God for his/her own needs in life. There’s no shortcut to it simply because you’re a Pastor. There was a time in our lives when we did not have food to eat; there was no food at home, and being the Pastor, we also had some people living with us. Bishop told me to put water on fire that we should trust God for divine provision and that God will send us food. It sounded crazy, but in obedience, I put water on fire to boil. I don’t remember how many times now but I had to refill the pot at different times because as the water kept boiling, it would evaporate and reduce in quantity.
However, not too long after, to the glory of God, we heard a knock on the door and when we opened, it was a woman who told us that God spoke to her to deliver foodstuff to us. She came in her pickup truck, and it was loaded with all sorts – bags of rice, beans, garri, tubers of yam, gallons of vegetable oil, palm oil – you name it. We experienced firsthand, God’s divine provision. You can only imagine the joy and excitement that filled the house that evening; we cooked and everyone ate to their fill.
How did Bishop convince you to join the Ministry?
He didn’t convince me. To tell you the truth, he never spoke to me for once about coming into Ministry. My husband is a firm believer that the call of God upon a man or woman’s life is personal; this means that the fact that a man is called and is a Pastor does not necessarily mean that his wife is also called and should automatically assume a Pastoral role in the Church, and vice-versa.
For me, it started when my husband travelled to the USA for his studies at the Morris Cerullo School of Ministry. Whilst he was there, he said God spoke to him. I was very much involved in the work of the ministry in different other capacities. I once served as an Usher, sang in the Choir and got involved in almost every department of the Church. There was nothing I had not done, including cleaning the church before service. Whenever the women would come, I was always the first to be present.
Also at the time, I was working full-time as a secretary to an expatriate, somewhere in Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja; the company has folded up now. He said God spoke to him that I should give up the job but he didn’t tell me. He said: “God, if it is you that is saying it, then talk to her.” Afterwards, the Church Board also noted that I was making considerable input into the growth of the Ministry and requested that I come onboard as a full-time Minister. I said to them that I would pray about it, also noting that as the first of many children, my siblings and mother depended on me to support them because my father was late. I prayed about it and told God the situation at hand. Following that, I told my mum about it and she agreed. I also explained to her that this means that the money I usually sent her for her upkeep won’t be regular anymore as I won’t be able to meet up with that obligation, owing to the nature of being in full-time ministerial work
She had come to stay with us after I had my first child, when I told her and she said the Lord would provide. She said the best thing you can do is to work for God and with that, it sealed things for me. In response, I told Bishop and the Board that I had accepted the offer and that I didn’t want any allowance for one year, as I wanted to prove God. That’s how my journey started.
Why did you marry even though you knew he had quit his job?
Yes, I decided to marry him even without a job. He was working a well-paying job as a banker with the now-defunct African Continental Bank (ACB) and he had amazing prospects as a young man but he left the job because of the call of God upon his life. I was not fazed by it at all.
But that must have been strange and scary as well…
You can say that and you won’t be entirely wrong, but I was seeing beyond what I saw in the physical. We live in a time and age when people, especially ladies, are after what they can see naturally. In my case, I did not care about what he had because I knew where I was coming from, and for us, it was God that raised us. My mother had 7 children – 6 daughters and 1 son and even though I don’t know how we managed to complete our education, today, we are all graduates.
My mother had only two clothes; one she wore one on Sundays and the other during the week but God saw her through and provided for all her children to go to school. So, having nothing did not move me at all, because I knew that the God I served would give me everything that I needed.
My aunty was abroad, so she told my mother that one of us should come and stay with her and they chose me. When I travelled abroad and people were trying to persuade me against marrying Bishop Mike, I told them that I had made up my mind. It was not that there was something he was giving me. I remember that when I was abroad, I came home twice at different times, but my husband could not give me a penny because he did not have, and I honestly did not mind. I just knew that he was what I wanted and I knew that somehow God would make it good.
So now with the way he is and where God has taken him in life, there is nothing he has that he cannot give me because I have been there when he did not have anything. My plea to young ladies especially in today’s “Get rich quick” world is that they should take their eyes off material things. Unfortunately, many young ladies have lost their lives as victims to ritualists in their pursuit of ephemeral things.
I remember when my daughter was about to get married, I told her that God instructed me to inform her that she should not look at money. I advised her not to focus on money in making her decision and she heeded my advice.
So, what should young ladies look out for in a man?
As a lady, look out for someone who is truthful and sincere; one who loves God with all his heart. The world is so wonderful that people do not mind becoming second or third wives; many times when I see these things, I ask myself “What are they looking for?” Every now and again, we see different stories in the media about young ladies, some in their teens and early 20s’, getting married to much-older men as either third, fourth, or even fifth wife and I genuinely weep for them.
I always wonder why their families allow them make such decisions that have the potential to ruin their lives. In most cases, money is the deciding factor. I think we have a lot of work on our hands, and we need more girl-child and women advocacy groups to do more, to stop this sad trend. Girls are not commodities for pleasure.
My personal candid advice to ladies is – choose a man that you will grow with through life and not someone that is already made. If he is made, he most likely will dictate to you how to live your life but if you both worked hard for your wealth, you would both enjoy it together. There are always exceptions to every rule, because human beings are different, but in most cases, this is always right.
What else stands your husband out?
Bishop is a very stylish man. He is what the younger ones will refer to as a “Fashionista” because he loves his clothes! In fact, I usually mock him with this when I tell him that he can actually rival me in the number of clothes and outfits that he has (laughs).
But in all honesty, Bishop has a wonderful fashion sense; he knows how to put outfits together very well and it will come out looking nice, especially with his physique. You can see it in the way he dresses and this influenced and even continues to influence a lot of people in Church, family members and those who relate with him. Appearance is a major thing for him. He cares how he looks.
In fact, he teaches me about colour combinations and what style works best even till today. To the extent that my daughter tells me, “Mummy, if you want to buy me anything, please let Daddy see it first.” because she trusts his judgement when it comes to fashion. For me growing up, I really didn’t care about looking stylish or corporate for that matter; all I knew was to always ensure that my clothes were neat and I smelled nice.
What would you say is the secret to his longevity in ministry?
If I could mention one thing in addition to the unconditional love, mercy and grace of God upon his life, I’d say that his longevity in life and ministry is down to having an insatiable hunger for God and His Word and the genuineness of his heart towards God. My husband is a man of the Word. Any day, anytime – morning, afternoon and night, January to December, he is a stickler for the Word of God. He lives, eats and breathes the Word of God. There is nothing that he does that is outside of the Word of God; you won’t catch him there at all.
Even me, sometimes things happen, and I want to respond in a way that does not align with the Word of God, he will ask me, “Is that what the Word of God says?”; “Are you not a Christian again?”
That’s who he is, and God has helped him maintain this, honestly. Even in the face of tough betrayals, insidious acts and back-stabbing he has suffered in life and ministry, he always chooses to respond in a godly way, following the steps of Jesus, and God always fights for him. That is something that we all continue to learn from him.
He is a perpetual learner; he flows with all generations, even with the younger generation more than myself. He knows the slangs; sometimes I wonder where he learns them from. Well, my daughter is one of his teachers. But that is Bishop Mike Okonkwo for you. He has always said that he would rather that God calls him home to glory, than for him to remain here on earth and become a “used-to-be”. So, he stays learning, reading and studying the Word of God, fervent in prayers, to remain fresh and at the cutting edge of life and Ministry. Another thing is that Bishop Mike can learn from anyone, it does not matter who it is. Even if it is a young child that is sharing with him, his heart is always open to learn and he does it with joy and excitement. Even till date, in spite of how far God has taken him, he never misses taking notes when he is in a congregation and someone else is preaching the Word. Some people might assume that he has known it all, and so has nothing to learn again, but like he always says, “If you are not learning, then you are dying.”
For Bishop Mike Okonkwo, age is just a number; you can never tell his age when you speak with him because he is very young in his mind. God has kept covenant with him and he keeps getting younger and younger, with every passing day. One thing I have come to know, having been married to him and lived with him all these years, is that God loves Bishop Mike so much. I have seen enough to come to this conclusion, and it is this love that has kept him healthy and strong – spiritually, physically and mentally for these 80 years.
his hands, he will see it manifest in his very lifetime and be satisfied, in Jesus’ name, amen. As his days are, so shall his strength be; like Moses, whose eyes did not grow dim, neither did his strength abate, even at 120 years, much more shall it be for him, in Jesus’ name, amen. He will wax stronger in health, vitality and strength, with every passing day, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Finally, concerning his family – his wife, children and grandchildren, God will continually safeguard and protect us all, in Jesus’ name, amen. Evil shall never come near us, neither shall any plague come near our dwelling. It is well with us all – spirit, soul and body, in Jesus’ name, amen.
