The Nation Newspaper

Category: Social Circuit

  • On Prince Dotun Sanusi

    On Prince Dotun Sanusi

    Prince Jubril Dotun Sanusi is a man of many parts, and his name signifies different things to different people in Southwest, Nigeria and beyond.

    Sanusi holds sway as a businessman and the Chairman and CEO of Ilaji Sports and Resorts.

    A successful man deeply rooted in tradition and culture, he holds the title of Jagun Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oyo State.

    On December 5, 2025, the Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (CFR), Ojaja II, conferred the title of Okanlomo Oodua on Sanusi in Ile-Ife after careful consultation.

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    According to those who should know, the conferment of the prestigious title of Okanlomo Oodua on Sanusi was neither impulsive nor a symbolic pageantry. In fact, it was deemed a deliberate act rooted in tradition, consultation, and purpose.

    Unlike titles conferred for mere ceremony, Okanlomo Oodua represents service, responsibility, and pan-Yoruba commitment. This was clearly demonstrated by Sanusi’s immediate articulation of a national mandate to host the Okanlomo Oodua National Security Summit (ILAJI 2026). The summit, it was gathered, is aimed at addressing insecurity across forests, farms, villages, and cities in Nigeria.

    Many believe Sanusi’s leadership role exudes substance where titles translate into action, dialogue, and national relevance.

  • When Ghana’s Mahama emerged Aare Atayeto Oodua

    When Ghana’s Mahama emerged Aare Atayeto Oodua

    The activities that took place in the revered palace of Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ile-Ife on Monday, December 15, 2025 was one that would be remembered in Osun State for a long time.

    It was an installation ceremony but not just any other installation ceremony but one that defined unity in crystal terms. There had been installation ceremonies held in the royal abode, however, none can be compared to the December 15 installation of the humble president of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama as the Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source.

    The event drew a gathering of traditional rulers and dignitaries from across Yorubaland and Ghana alongside cultural leaders and other notable personalities.

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    Ooni Ogunwusi while speaking at the installation ceremony described President Mahama, as a symbol of African unity, cultural continuity and economic reform, noting that the African continent shares common roots beyond modern political boundaries.

    According to the monarch, Mahama’s relationship with Ile-Ife and the palace predates his current recognition, recalling that the Ghanaian leader had maintained close ties with the palace.

    The Ooni further described Ile-Ife as Mahama’s home, recalling how the president continued to identify with the city, often expressing a deep interest in the history and heritage of Ife.

    It was also revealed that Mahama had visited Ile-Ife after leaving office some years ago, and prayers were offered to the ancestors, accompanied by a prophetic declaration that he would return to leadership as President of Ghana.

  • MTN CEO Karl Toriola makes unusual visit to Modakeke

    MTN CEO Karl Toriola makes unusual visit to Modakeke

    The 2025 Akoraye Day celebration has set a new benchmark for community-led development in Nigeria, driven by the homecoming of Prince (Dr.) Karl Toriola, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria.

    Responding to a formal invitation issued by HRM Oba Dr. Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Prince Karl arrived as a royal son and bridge to Nigeria’s corporate elite.

    The event, held this past weekend, transformed the ancient town into a hub of high-power networking, drawing associates from the telecommunications, banking, and technology sectors to the heart of Osun State.

    The atmosphere was electric as Prince Karl emphasised the Akoraye spirit of resilience that must now be matched with a digital-age infrastructure. Observers noted Toriola’s presence was a personal commitment to ensure the town’s development keeps pace with global standards.

    For the residents of Modakeke, seeing one of Africa’s most influential CEOs – freshly named the 2025 MIPAD and CEO of the Year – walking their streets was a powerful symbol of possibility and a validation of their ancestral pride.

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    A major highlight of the day was the announcement of a N1billion Infrastructure Fund, specifically targeted at digitising local education and fixing critical access roads. Prince Karl’s associates, many of whom were visiting Modakeke for the first time, pledged significant support to the community’s trust account. This collective contribution is expected to fund the infrastructure support, educational scholarships and youth empowerment initiatives that the Ogunsua had identified as priority areas for the 2025 celebrations, ensuring that the next generation of Modakeke youths can compete in the global tech economy.

    Beyond the financial pledges, the event served as a cultural masterclass. The MTN chief, dressed in traditional regalia that honoured his position as a Prince of the Kingdom, participated in the age-old Akoraye rites, blending corporate sophistication with deep-rooted tradition.

    His presence emphasised purposeful progress, a theme that resonated with both the elderly custodians of culture and the ambitious youth looking for mentorship.

  • Abdulfatai Akin Kekere-Ekun takes on new role

    Abdulfatai Akin Kekere-Ekun takes on new role

    Renowned banker and philanthropist, Alhaji Abdulfatai Akin Kekere-Ekun (OFR), has taken on a new role.

    Kekere-Ekun, was on Saturday, December 13, 2025, inaugurated as a member of the Board of Trustees of the newly established Ansar-ud-LDeen Foundation.

    The colourful inauguration ceremony took place at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, and was attended by top Islamic scholars, professionals, traditional leaders and members of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria and Overseas.

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    Other trustees inaugurated alongside Kekere-Ekun include Alhaji Sulaimon Adedokun (CFA); Alhaja Kafilat Araoye; Mallam Yusuf Ali (SAN, OFR), Dr. (Mrs.) Mosun Belo-Olusoga; Alhaji Abdulfatah Babatunde Bank-Anthony; and Alhaji Rabiu Isyaku Rabiu.

    Kekere-Ekun, who is also the husband of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, was further charged with leading the Board of Trustees as its chairman.

    While accepting the responsibility on behalf of members, Kekere-Ekun pledged that the Foundation would operate with “absolute transparency, honesty, discipline and accountability,” and focus on supporting projects in health, education and welfare as approved by the society.

  • Kayode Alfred celebrates

    Kayode Alfred celebrates

    On Tuesday, December 16, the amiable brains behind Aristocrat clothing line and The Carpenters lounge and restaurant, Kayode Oluwaseyi Alfred turned a year older.

    To celebrate his special day, the Ondo State indigene threw open the doors of his lounge and restaurant to friends, family and close associates for a celebration of life.

    The event, which had several society big shots in attendance, also had the bubbly Fuji singer, Kolade K2 Onanuga on the stage.

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    K2 serenaded guests with his brand of Fuji till the wee hours of Wednesday, December 17.

    Some of the notable dignitaries spotted at the event include Dr Olanrewaju Alfred, Mayor Akinpelu, Chief Bestman Nze-Jumbo, Victor Alaba Ganzallo, Emmanuela Ropo, Otunba Tayo Mustapha, Lekan Oyefeso, and Otunba Temitope Oyefeso amongst several others.

    The occasion also afforded Dr. Alfred, the older brother of the celebrant, to shower accolades and words of wisdom on the media practitioner turned businessman.

  • On Professor Nwachi Doris’ charge

    On Professor Nwachi Doris’ charge

    The College of Chaplaincy & Social Sciences recently hosted a remarkable ceremony celebrating excellence in academia, leadership, and public service.

    Among the distinguished honorees was Professor Chief Mrs. Nwachi Doris, whose inspiring presence and reflections captivated everyone in attendance.

    Doris expressed deep humility and appreciation to God for the opportunity. “I feel great, blessed, and honored,” she said.

    She acknowledged the recognition of her long-standing commitment to service and societal impact.

    She has been offering guidance to those aspiring to reach similar heights; she emphasized faith, purposeful effort, and unwavering dedication.

    Speaking directly to young Nigerians, Professor Doris gave the nuggets of value of discipline and perseverance.

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    She encouraged the youths to avoid distractions, embrace meaningful growth, and trust in God’s guidance as they develop their abilities.

    According to her, Faith remains central to her leadership and daily life. Professor Doris offered an insightful, powerful perspective on the nation’s growth.

    Drawing from her experience in public service, she delivered thoughtful advice for Nigeria’s leadership.

    Doris concluded by highlighting the enduring value of tenacity, integrity, and focus. Her words—rooted in faith, service, and purposeful living—left a lasting impression on all present, inspiring many to pursue excellence while upholding strong moral and spiritual principles.

  • Detola Abike Mogaji’s unwavering support to grassroots

    Detola Abike Mogaji’s unwavering support to grassroots

    The Detola Abike Mogaji Memorial Foundation (DAMMF) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to grassroots empowerment by partnering with the Elite Club of Odogbolu and the Dr Bakare Health Foundation to deliver a landmark medical outreach during the 2025 Odogbolu Heritage Festival.

    For years, DAMMF has been at the forefront of bringing life-changing support to the people of Odogbolu in Ogun State, especially the elderly, vulnerable families, women, and children. This year’s programme further reinforced that legacy, offering critical medical interventions that residents described as timely, impactful, and deeply appreciated.

    More than 200 community members received medical attention at various levels, including general consultations, medications, dental care, eye examinations, and referrals for corrective care. Several others received major surgical procedures at no cost, an opportunity many beneficiaries acknowledged they could not have afforded on their own.

    The outreach, held on December 4, 2025, featured a surgical mission jointly led by Dr. Lateef Bakare of the Dr. Bakare Health Foundation and Dr. Adeolu Olusodo of Atayese Hospital. Surgeries performed included the removal of breast lumps and the removal of an atrophied testis with associated hydrocele. The medical team confirmed that all surgeries were successful, with patients already responding positively to recovery treatments.

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    In addition to medical services, elderly residents received food support, further extending the humanitarian impact of the event. Many beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organisers, noting that the gesture brought hope, relief, and renewed confidence in community-driven development. Some community members described the outreach as “a blessing,” “a rare kindness,” and “proof that the festival is truly for the people.”

    Speaking on behalf of DAMMF, Mr. Rasheed Mogaji, widower of the late Detola Abike Mogaji, reaffirmed that the foundation was established to sustain her lifelong passion for uplifting the vulnerable.

  • Adelusi-Adeluyi celebrates at 85

    Adelusi-Adeluyi celebrates at 85

    Rotary International, District 9111 has honoured the Doyen of past District Governors in Nigeria on his 85th birthday with a dinner and dance at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

    The event, which started in the afternoon and nosedived into evening, was spiced with glamour, and fun.

    The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a Name Gift Endowment Fund in honour of the celebrator.

    The event, chaired by Chief Samuel Bolarinde, was graced by prominent personalities. From the Rotary family were the Rotary International President-elect, Yinka Babalola; and Rotary International Trustee, Ijeoma Pearl Okoro, among others.

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who could not make it, sent a representative: his Commissioner for Special Duties, Olugbenga Oyerinde.

    Other eminent personalities were the Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Dele Adesina and Wahab Shittu; as well as the celebrator’s colleagues from the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies and Nigerian Pharmaceutical Society, led by the President.

    The celebration began with a graceful opening ceremony led by District 9111 Governor, Prince Henry Akinyele, who called on Rotarians and non-Rotarians to donate generously to the noble cause of The Rotary Foundation (TRF).

    The guest speaker, Dr. Dere Awosika, delivered a heartfelt keynote celebrating Adelusi-Adeluyi’s life-long impact.

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    The celebrator, a former health minister, received an ovation when he delivered a memorable speech on service and gratitude.

    The night soon shifted into dinner and dance, with Rotarians and dignitaries filling the dance floor in an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.

    The Organising Committee, led by Past Assistant Governor (PAG) Emeka Okolonji, was praised for doing a good job.

    In the end, the Rotary Foundation Dinner & Dance became a landmark moment in the District’s history – an innovative celebration conceived by Akinyele, who was looking dapper in his black double-breasted suit and red bow tie, to honour a legend and above all, to launch a lasting endowment that will immortalise Adelusi-Adeluyi’s values of service, leadership and humanity.

  • Dangote gets honorary doctorate

    Dangote gets honorary doctorate

    Aliko Dangote, the Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation and President/Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, has proven beyond doubt that he is an uncommon philanthropist. The 68-year-old Kano-born billionaire was recently honoured with a doctorate by the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

    Dangote’s honorary Doctoral Degree in Management Technology (D.M.T. Honoris Causa) is being conferred in recognition of his transformative contributions to Nigeria’s industrial sector, youth, and business.

    To many, the honour didn’t come as a surprise because over the years, Africa’s most influential industrialist has supported humane causes and distinguished himself from the long list of billionaires scattered across Nigeria.

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    The soft-spoken and humble-looking Dangote expressed his sincere gratitude to the Council, Senate, and Management of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, for the honour, adding that the gesture has strengthened his resolve to continue investing in the nation’s growth, supporting education, and championing initiatives that build a more prosperous and self-reliant Africa.

    From joining hands with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to eradicate polio in Nigeria, a N15 billion donation to a university, N1.2 billion hostel donation to another university, to distribution of 30,000 bags of rice, lighting up a community in dark for many years and impacting majorly on humanity, Dangote has etched his name on the world map both as billionaire and a philanthropist.

    Little wonder the Kano-born billionaire was named in the inaugural 2025 TIME100 Philanthropy list, which recognises the 100 most influential leaders shaping the future of philanthropy across the world.

  • Kemi Ajumobi hosts dignitaries at I.W.A 14

    Kemi Ajumobi hosts dignitaries at I.W.A 14

    Kemi Ajumobi is a name that connotes excellence, brilliance and wit. These traits are the characteristics of the multi-award-winning journalist and founder of the Inspiring Woman Africa series.

    Ajumobi, who is finicky with a knack for precision, recently hosted several dignitaries across Africa to the Inspiring Woman Africa Series 14.

    The event was successfully held on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at the Civic Centre.

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    As always, Ajumobi pulled her weight to get the big guns in politics and the corporate world into the same room to discuss matters of excellence and women.

    At the event was the former president of Ethiopia, Madam Sahle-Work Zewde,who also doubled as the keynote speaker at the event, Chinwe Iloghalu, Dr Busola Tejumola, Ozim Ibeziako, Kayode Okikiolu, Dr Nkiru-Olumide Ojo, Folake Soetan and Patricia Obozua amongst several others.

    An elated Ajumobi, who has 18- year experience in the media, couldn’t help but express gratitude to guests, speakers and attendees of the event.