The Nation Newspaper

Category: Social Circuit

  • Wife, family remember Olagunju 10 years after

    Wife, family remember Olagunju 10 years after

    A decade may have gone by, but the memories of Ibadan-based architect and businessman, Dele Olagunju otherwise known as Kito, still burn bright in the heart of his widow, DB Olagunju.

    As the 10th anniversary of his passing draws near, the graceful wife of the late CEO of Dekit Construction Company is preparing for a solemn remembrance in honour of the man she calls her “pillar and eternal love.”

    Dele Olagunju, whose name was well known in construction and real estate circles across Oyo State and beyond, died a decade back, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, generosity, and a thriving company.

    His death was not just a personal loss to his family but also a huge blow to the business community in Ibadan.

    Bose, his elegant and resilient wife, has since carried the torch of strength, raising their children while preserving her late husband’s legacy.

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    She is the daughter of the revered Prophet Gabriel Oyelami of the Alasepe Prayer Mountain, and she credits her faith and spiritual background for helping her navigate life without her beloved husband.

    Known for her poise and deep spirituality, those close to her say she often speaks of Dele with deep fondness, highlighting his unwavering support, gentle nature, and sharp mind.

    Plans are underway to mark the 10th-year remembrance with a modest gathering of family, friends, and close associates.

    The event, which is expected to take place in yet to be disclosed venue, will include prayers, tributes, and a thanksgiving session.

  • When Fashola, Folawiyo stepped out for Idris Olorunnimbe

    When Fashola, Folawiyo stepped out for Idris Olorunnimbe

    Ex-Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, is not one cut out for frivolities, shenanigans or sycophancy.

    However, BRF, as the soccer loving politician and lawyer is widely called, is big on loyalty. The impeccable administrator, who has written his name in gold across Nigeria, rewards loyalty and is equally loyal to his bosses as well as aides and followers. Hence, it came as no shock when he stepped into the Oniru palace to felicitate with Idris Olorunnimbe, as he was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Asoju Oba of Iru land by Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal.

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    The presence of the ex-minister at the event signalled the saying that loyalty is a two-way street.

    Unknown to many, Olorunnimbe’s passion for public service has been a long term practice. This singular act got him campaigning and eventually working as a Personal Assistant and Senior Special Assistant to Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, ex-Governor of Lagos state and ex-Minister for Works and Housing between 2007 and 2015.

    Just as other guests and attendees of the chieftaincy ceremony came to celebrate Olorunnimbe’s achievement and show support, another dignitary walked in to celebrate one of his own.

    65-year-old Babatunde Tijani Folawiyo, the scion to the dynasty of the late Baba Adinni, Alhaji Iyanda Folawiyo, sauntered into the venue.

    Just like Fashola, Folawiyo took time out of his very busy schedule to celebrate Olorunnimbe, whom many have described as a creative genius.

    Unknown to many, Folawiyo is the chairman of The Temple Company, owners of Ogidi Studios, Temple Motion Pictures Limited and Temple Sports management company, where Olorunnimbe towers as the Chief Executive Officer before he was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to serve as the Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Board.

  • Family fondly remembers Omolara Sonoiki

    Family fondly remembers Omolara Sonoiki

    Ten years after her passing, the legacy of Mrs. Omolara Olaide Sonoiki remains deeply rooted in the hearts of many.

    Her story continues to inspire a new generation of women leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers.

    According to many, she was ahead of her time, bold in vision, firm in conviction, and full of grace.

    Born on November 8, 1974, to Mr. and Mrs. Johnson Oyewole, Omolara’s journey began with a solid academic foundation. After earning her B.Sc. in Town and Regional Planning from Ogun State University, she served at the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning. Yet, her passion for enterprise soon led her to explore the world of business, an early sign of her pioneering spirit.

    In 2002, she founded Dressense Clothings, a fashion company that redefined corporate style in Nigeria. With stores in Ikeja and Ikoyi, the brand became synonymous with elegance, exclusivity, and refined professionalism.

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    In 2007, she took a bold leap into the energy sector by establishing Noik Energy Limited. As a woman navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, she shattered stereotypes and proved that gender should never limit potential. Her leadership in the downstream and midstream sectors demonstrated excellence, courage, and unmatched entrepreneurial acumen.

    Beyond business, Omolara was a woman of deep compassion. In 2012, she launched the AMAS Foundation, focusing on education and support for the less privileged. Within just three years, the Foundation recorded significant milestones, offering scholarships and community outreach programmes that reflected her unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives.

  • Bisoye Fagade takes NIHOTOUR to new heights

    Bisoye Fagade takes NIHOTOUR to new heights

    Since taking over the reins of leadership at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Aare Dr Bisoye Fagade has been working round the clock to take the institute to greater and new heights.

    Fagade kicked off his plans with wide consultations before settling down to the job he’s been tasked with by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Under Fagade’s leadership, the NIHOTOUR has officially commenced a rigorous compliance exercise across Lagos State, focusing on hotels, restaurants, and other establishments within the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors in furtherance of the institute’s statutory mandate to standardise and regulate professional practices within the industry nationwide.

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    The compliance drive seeks to ensure that all personnel, practitioners, and operators within the sector are duly certified and registered with NIHOTOUR, in accordance with the NIHOTOUR Establishment Act 2022.

    As part of the exercise, several leading establishments were visited and top hospitality outfits including Marriott Hotel, The Sojourner, Radisson Blu, Black Diamond, and FourPoints by Sheraton have all commenced the process of registration and certification, in line with regulatory expectations.

    This compliance drive reinforces NIHOTOUR’s unwavering commitment to repositioning the Nigerian hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors as key pillars of national development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

  • Oluwatosin Alao shines bright for The Seaside Schools

    Oluwatosin Alao shines bright for The Seaside Schools

    It was a joyous moment at The Seaside Schools, Agbara as one of its students, Oluwatosin Alao emerged with flying colours in the 2025 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination.

    Tosin scored an impressive 322, following an initial score of 150 in the botched first round of exams.

    Tosin’s journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and resilience. Despite facing setbacks, she persevered and achieved outstanding results, demonstrating the power of determination.

    As the Head Girl of 2024/2025 set, the aspiring mechanical engineer’s manifesto focused on promoting technology integration and making qualitative education accessible to underprivileged children. Her vision inspires hope and positivity for a brighter future.

    Managing Director of The Seaside Schools, Eniola Ogunlade attributed the school’s success to its intentional approach to assessment preparation.

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    “Our school’s intentional approach to assessment preparation yields impressive results. We achieve this through personalized coaching, leveraging our thriving day and boarding school system. Our boarding house enables close monitoring and one-on-one interaction, allowing us to tailor our teaching to individual needs.

    “This focused approach has consistently produced high scorers in national and international examinations, including JAMB, WAEC, and NECO, and is evidence of our effective coaching methods. We also celebrate Miss Yvonne Adubor, who scored an impressive 288 and the 5 other candidates who scored between 235 and 280 in the recently concluded JAMB examination,” said Ogunlade.

  • Tokunbo Wahab fondly remembers late mum

    Tokunbo Wahab fondly remembers late mum

    For Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Phillip Wahab, June 12 is a memorable and special day. The day is memorable and special because it’s not only gazetted as Nigeria’s Democracy Day but also a remembrance of the passing away of his beloved mother, Mrs. Muyi Wahab (Nee Sosanya Aberuagba).

    TW, as he’s fondly referred to, continues to adore his late mum even many years after her emotional passing. The commissioner lost his mother when he was just 21 – exactly 32 years ago.

    Unknown to many, the indefatigable legal luminary cum politician has been involved in politics for over three decades. His beloved mother, it is said, orchestrated his interest in politics.

    Those in TW’s close circle will readily tell you stories of how his mother stood tall and with the late Chief MKO Abiola to win the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

    The late Mrs. Muyi Wahab, those in the know say, is a dogged grassroots mobiliser who died on June 12, 1993, few hours after casting her vote for Chief MKO Abiola. Until her death, she was one of the women leaders for the MKO Abiola/SDP campaigns in Epe, Lagos and Sagamu, Ogun State.

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    For TW, his late mother is fondly remembered every June 12, alongside the hero of Nigerian Democracy, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. For the politician and lawyer, therefore, late Mrs. Muyi Wahab remains a heroine.

    Since his appointment in the last two years, TW, has become one of the most talked about commissioners in the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led cabinet for his audacious and bold moves cum decisions in accordance with the law.

    From the ban of non-environmental friendly Styrofoam, to the clearing of drainage and paving way for water flow, TW has remained undaunted in the face of series of challenges.

    With his boyishly handsome looks, cozy mien yet steely resolve, TW has continued to sanitise the Lagos environment and waterways without fear or favour.

    However, the one-time Special Adviser to Sanwo-Olu on Education, has carried out all reforms, sensitisation, enforcement, and actions within the ambit of the law – not caring whose ox is gored as he carries out his duties. Most importantly, TW is backed by Governor Sanwo-Olu, who keeps working towards improving the state of the megacity under his T.H.E.M.E.S + agenda.

  • Shettima, Sanwo-Olu present as Omoba Onanuga weds Sen Abiru’s daughter

    Shettima, Sanwo-Olu present as Omoba Onanuga weds Sen Abiru’s daughter

    An Ijebu love story between an Ijebu Ode prince and an Ikorodu jewel culminated in the convergence of dignitaries from all walks of life in Lagos, Nigeria, last weekend.

    The royal family of Anikilaya Ruling House of Ijebu Ode welcomed a new bride courtesy one of their princes, Olanrewaju Faruq Onanuga. Olanrewaju, the son of Omoba Olabode Onanuga, a socialite and a successful businessman, found love in Fadekemi, the daughter of Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, representing Lagos East Senatorial District. To this end, the families of Senator Abiru and lovely wife, Feyisola and that of Omoba Olabode Onanuga and his beautiful wife, Mrs. Oluyemi Onanuga hosted a superlative wedding ceremony for their children.

    The traditional wedding of the young lovebirds was held penultimate weekend in the palatial home of Senator Abiru in Ikorodu, Lagos State while the engagement and wedding proper was held last weekend at the Convention Centre inside Eko Hotel and Suites.

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    Spotted at the first half of the ceremony, which was held last week, were Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu; Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Otunba Abiodun and Yetunde Onanuga, Governor Dapo Abiodun and several lawmakers and other dignitaries.

    The second leg of the wedding ceremony had in attendance wife of the Vice President, Nanah Shettima, who represented the first lady, Oluremi Tinubu. Alhaja Shettima attended with the first lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu. Also, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio led over 90 senators to the ceremony while Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Governor Abiodun Oyebanji also attended the event. The paramount ruler of Ijebu land, Awujale was represented by some traditional rulers, including Oba of Ososa, Oba of Ago Iwoye and Olori Adetona.

    It was further gathered that the two families stopped at nothing in ensuring the bride and groom got a deserved and high society wedding. Omoba Onanuga hails from the same ruling house as the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Alaiyeluwa Dr. Sikiru Adetona, and is also cousin to Otunba Anikinlaya, Omoba Abiodun Onanuga and nephew to Omoba Adebayo Onanuga.

    Meanwhile, Senator Abiru and his lovely wife, Feyisola, are especially planning big for their daughter’s wedding. The high society couple who have passion for human capital development and are impacting lives through the endowment initiative, SAIL empowerment, have sent out invitations ahead of the wedding. Abiru, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions as well the Chairman of the Nigerian Southern Senators Forum in the National Assembly, feted several of his colleagues in the lawmaking chambers as well as the banking cum insurance sector to choice drinks and good food.

  • Tunji Olugbodi, wife to be conferred as Asiwaju, Yeye Asiwaju of Ara Kingdom

    Tunji Olugbodi, wife to be conferred as Asiwaju, Yeye Asiwaju of Ara Kingdom

    In a landmark recognition of outstanding service, leadership, unwavering contributions and commitment to community development, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi and his wife have been selected to receive the esteemed chieftaincy titles of Asiwaju and Yeye Asiwaju of Ara Kingdom, in Osun State.

    The high-profile conferment ceremony, scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, under the distinguished authority of His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Olubayo Adesola Windapo (Oyelade Abidogun), the Alara of Ara Kingdom, and the Alara-in-Council, is in recognition of Dr. Tunji Olugbodi’s unwavering dedication to the growth and development of Ara Kingdom, as well as his consistent commitment to community service, empowerment, and excellence in leadership across Nigeria and beyond.

    Expressing his gratitude and acceptance of the honor, Dr. Olugbodi, a respected business leader and community advocate, emphasized his joy at being recognized for contributing to the growth and development to the community.

    “I am profoundly humbled and grateful that His Royal Majesty and the Alara-in-Council have found me and my wife worthy of this enormous chieftaincy title,” he said.

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    The titles of Asiwaju and Yeye Asiwaju are among the highest honors in the Ara Kingdom, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and contributions to the welfare and progress of the community.

    “I accept this title with humility and every sense of responsibility, acknowledging the expectations that come with it. I pledge to continue serving our community with integrity, wisdom, and dedication, while reaffirming my commitment to her prosperity.” Dr. Olugbodi added.

    As part of the day’s festivities, a special Sod Turning Ceremony will also be held for the Tunji Olugbodi Productions (TOP) Film Village & Resort, Ara, to be conducted by His Imperial Majesty, Arole Oduduwa, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, The Ooni of Ife.

    The ceremony is expected to be a vibrant and culturally rich celebration, drawing together traditional rulers, government officials, captains of industry, cultural enthusiasts, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and the diaspora.

    Preparations are in top gear to welcome guests to what promises to be a historic and momentous occasion for the Ara Kingdom and beyond.

  • About Aisha Achimugu’s new venture

    About Aisha Achimugu’s new venture

    Aisha Achimugu, OFR, is no longer a new name on the Nigerian social and political scene.

    The Abuja-based businesswoman and Chief Executive Officer of Felak Concept Group has proven to be someone that matches street smartness with book wisdom. With a firm that is into civil, structural and transportation engineering, Achimugu stands tall as one of the highly respected employers of labour in the country.

    Undoubtedly, the serial entrepreneur that deals in exploration, production and distribution of petroleum products, has made and continues to make huge contributions to the nation’s economy.

    Read Also: Seaman’s Schnapps pays homage to Awujale ahead of Ojude Oba

    Brick by brick, Achimugu has built a vast layout of opportunities for young Nigerians and has demonstrated that greatness can be earned through diligence and hard work, making her great impact in various sectors.

    Recently, Achimugu has begun a new venture. In an era where Nigeria’s industrial transformation is more urgent than ever, Achimugu, through her tech firm, Altex Engineering Services limited, is proving that indigenous engineering capacity can not only deliver global-standard results but also empower people, communities, and institutions.

    Through the new firm, Achimugu is addressing the yawning gap in high-quality, localised technical solutions, while offering a broad suite of services tailored to Nigeria’s unique industrial context. From infrastructure development and facility management to ICT and tailored business technology deployment, Altex has become a capacity builder.

    Through partnerships with universities, on-site apprenticeships, and training programmes, Altex is cultivating the next generation of Nigerian technical talents. These initiatives don’t just fill labour needs—they’re long-term investments in national competence and self-reliance.

  • Dauda Lawal’s impeccable performance

    Dauda Lawal’s impeccable performance

    With the establishment of Zamfara State during the military administration in 1996 and the transition to democratic governance in 1999, the state has never had it this good. Without doubt, the mineral rich state has been experiencing unprecedented positive transformation since the coming on board of Governor Dauda Lawal in 2023.

    Gov. Lawal after emerging victorious at the 2023 election promised a transformative vision for Zamfara. And clearly one could see that he is committed to reconstructing the state and restoring its reputation as a hub for large-scale farming and a treasure trove of mineral resources.

    Read Also: Niger flood: CAN ready to help – Okoh

    Upon taking the oath of office, Governor Lawal outlined an ambitious agenda focused on developing the state’s infrastructure, economy, and public services. His goals included breaking down existing stereotypes and reshaping the narrative surrounding Zamfara. Faced with formidable obstacles such as insecurity and economic decline, he displayed unwavering determination and a battle-ready spirit, embarking on an extensive campaign to revitalise the state’s fortunes.

    A key priority for Governor Lawal has been addressing foundational aspects of development, including security, healthcare, education, agriculture, and economic empowerment.

    Understanding that security is the cornerstone of economic development, he took bold steps to combat rampant banditry and insecurity, both major deterrents to investment.