By Oladapo Sofowora

Umar Mohammed Nasko is familiar to a lot of people, particularly in the political circle in North-central Niger State. Apart from being a notable politician, he was among the top functionaries in the government of the former governor of the state, Alhaji Aliyu Babangida. So, it was not surprising when he was endorsed and anointed by his former boss for the 2015 governorship election in the state.

Obviously because of his closeness to the former governor, many, including his friends and admirers, had seen him as the successor to Babangida. In order words, many had thought that Nasko, who was the People’s Democracy Party governorship candidate in the State, would coast home to victory. But this was not to be, as he lost to Abubakar Sani Bello, candidate of the opposition.

Shortly after the election, the former Commissioner of Tourism and Culture’s fame began to wane and his political structure almost crumbled before his very eyes. It will be recalled that towards the 2019 election, he again threw his cap into the ring and in no time gained back his lost popularity and defeated other heavyweights in the PDP, including a former Nigeria Ambassador to South Africa, Ambassador Ahmed Ibeto.

With this, he had hoped that his dream would be realized. But alas, it turned out to be another wild goose chase. He was left in the cold again as he lost at the polls for the second time.

While a source claimed that he is more interested in consolidating his philanthropic gestures towards his people, another said Nasko is gradually re- strategizing towards 2023 when the incumbent governor will have ended his two terms. Sources said his gubernatorial ambition might not see the light of the day again as the PDP was said to have zoned the ticket out of his senatorial district. “It is not the end of the road for his political ambition. He has tried twice and was quite unfortunate not to cruise home to victory. The PDP ticket is a rotational one and it has moved from his district. He has been offered a ticket to run as a senator but his main ambition is to govern the state. For now, he can’t fly under that ticket unless he defects which I doubt at this time”.

Nasko, who was Managing Partner at New Africa Investment Limited between 2001 and 2007, had served on various Boards and Committees in the State. He was the Commissioner of Tourism and Culture, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Ministry of Youth Development, Special Adviser on Tourism Matters, and Ministry of Environment, Parks, Gardens, and Forest Resources. He also served as the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Niger State until December 2014.

It was all pomp, glitz, and glamour as friends, family, and associates in the entertainment industry including an ex-Big Brother Naija housemate, BamBam, treated Motunrayo Abiona to a surprise 35th birthday at the Golden Ox Restaurant in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking at the colorful event which had 25 people in attendance with compliance with COVID-19 guidelines, the celebrator, popularly called Mo expressed her gratitude to God for sparing her life and for all she has been able to achieve.

Reflecting on her life at 35 and how she has weathered many storms by carving a niche for herself, Motunrayo said patience and diligence drives her to be a better person.

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Motunrayo, a mother of one beamed with smiles and giggles as friends and family extolled her virtues and expressed their heartfelt wishes for her on her birthday anniversary.

“I give all praise to God for everything including all my achievements. One thing I hold dearly which drives me 5i be a better person is patience and diligence. Am also doing everything possible to leave an indelible mark in the industry.

“I look forward to more feats no matter the challenges to drive a positive change in our society,” she said.

Born 21st of March 1986, in Lagos State, Nigeria. Motunrayo Abiona holds a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Olabisi Onabanjo University and a post-graduate certificate in Digital Marketing & Consumer Behavior from the CIM United Kingdom. Asides from her work roles, she is passionate about acting, dancing, and creative arts.

OLUSHOLA Ricketts

There may be need for the younger generations to study Chief Innocent Chukwuma to tap from his entrepreneur skills and wealth of knowledge. For a man who didn’t have the privilege to acquire a university education, his strides in the society are admirable and the world is forced to pay attention to him.

Today, the Chief Executive Officer of Innoson Motors will be getting Honorary Doctorate degree of Business Management from the prestigious University of Calabar (UNICAL) at her 34th convocation ceremony. He has as well received Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration from Enugu State University of Science and Technology in 2011 and Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration from University of Nigeria in 2014.

The Vice-Chancellor, UNICAL, Prof. Florence Obi, had revealed that they would be conferring on doctorates degrees on prominent Nigerian industrialists who had distinguished themselves in their different field of endeavours.

Such is the kind of effect Chukwuma has had on society. Individuals and brands are proud to be associated with him and his success story. The certificate he didn’t get as a degree now comes in form of honours.

After he completed his secondary education in 1978, it was learnt that he dreamt of becoming an engineer. He applied to study Engineering at the university but couldn’t get because he did not make the cut-off mark.

When he didn’t meet the admission cut-off, he was taken to Chief Romanus Eze Onwuka, popularly known as Rojenny, where he served as an apprentice for a year. His master is a motorcycle spare parts dealer and also the founder of the first private stadium in Nigeria, Rojenny Stadium, Onitsha.

From trading in spare parts, the youngest child in a family of six then founded the company Innoson Group with Innoson Manufacturing, Innoson Tech. & Industries Co. Ltd as its subsidiaries.

What makes his success story more flattering is his unassuming personality. He doesn’t dress in a flyboyant way and he may enter a room without anyone noticing unless he is introduced as the owner of Innoson Motors. He would likely say hello before you greet him.

OLUSHOLA Ricketts

In life, gratitude is very important. Even when you are the boss, it is important to celebrate and appreciate those who sweat day and night to ensure that your dream becomes a reality.

Top lawyer and Mayegun Are Ona’Kakanfo of Yoruba, Dr. Olukayode Abraham Ajulo, doesn’t look like one who takes his team members and their welfare for a ride. Social Circuit gathered that the former national secretary of Labour Party invited friends and associates to their Castle of Law, Maitama, Abuja office, for a three-in-one cocktail, dinner and open house party.

Apart from celebrating staff of the chamber, it was learnt that the event was also designed to providing ideal environment to interact, integrate and connect with members of the society. It was also to recognize, appreciate and celebrate specific successes and objectives achieved by the firm, Kayode Ajulo & Co Castle of Law.

Despite Ajulo’s apparent success in the legal profession, he is not taking a day rest. The top politician recently acquired more knowledge at the Imperial College London and  Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, United Kingdom. There, he concluded two courses on Creative Thinking and Arbitration respectively.

OLUSHOLA Ricketts

ABISOLA Kolapo-Kola, the daughter of former Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, epitomizes luxury and she is lucky to have a husband who goes extra miles to make her happy.

The death of her top politician father came as a major setback for her and her siblings but God has the final say and they seem to have accepted the reality.

In celebration of her 40th birthday recently, Abisola’s husband, Kolapo Kola-Daisi, gave her a mind-blowing experience. She took her on a special dinner date on a private Island and spoilt his wife like he just met her, and needed to impress her.

The shocked Abisola shared every bit of the experience with her social media followers. Their romantic photos left fans commenting and using their union of 10 years as a prayer point.

While on the island, their kids left at home spoke to the couple and celebrated their mum. This was done via a video projector, a feeling Abisola described as magical.

The handsome Kola-Daisi is a banking guru and the son of a highly connected Ibadan businessman, Chief Kola Daisi. Abisola and her husband tied the knot in 2012 in a lavish party.

Although there was once widespread rumours that their marriage was heading to the rocks, the mother of three has never looked like a troubled woman. On her Instagram, she always supplies follower with different shades of luxuries and her enchanting beauty.

OLUSHOLA Ricketts

IT was a double celebration for the Owner of Top One in Ibadan, Oyo, Chief Solomon Ojedayo as his wife, Chief (Mrs) Maria Ojedayo, turned 50 and the radio station reached 20 years milestone since its operation.

The day was celebrated in a big way as top dignitaries such as Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji and Oloko of Okoland, Oba (Dr.) Solomon Olagoke Akinola were spotted at Top One Garden.

Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde was also invited for the 2-in-1 panache party but he couldn’t make it. He was, however, well represented by Ogun State, Honourable Commissioner for information, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun.

Chief Ojedayo, who holds the title of the Elejemu of Okoland, made a big statement with the event. Apart from the colourful venue and the caliber of people, there were free flow of assorted dishes, choice drinks and champagne.

Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, Evangelist Tolu Obey, Tiri Leather Alamu, Omo-Owo Alayo, Sarafa Santos, Modinat Akanke were some of the artistes who ensured there was never a dulling moment.

Other top figures spotted at the occasion were Olokinapa of Okinapa, Oba (Prof.) John Akintola Akinola; the Chairman Of Oluyole Local Government, Idi Ayunre, Ibadan, Honourable Olaide Popoola;  Baale Oluyole , Chief Yemi Ogunyemi; Onimini of Imini in Akinyele Local Government, Dr. Akintunde Ayeni, among others.

OLUSHOLA Ricketts

LA Campagne Tropicana Forest River Beach Resort in Ikegun Village, Ibeju Lekki, Lagos, is known as a resort that always welcomes important personalities who come to experience nature and unwind. But it was a different feeling entirely when Governor of Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, visited the world-class but indigenous resort on Friday, March 19.

The governor originally toured the Lagos Free Trade Zone on the Lekki corridor but he still found time to chill at the resort. And the moment Sanwo-olu and his team entered the gate of La Campagne, it became a carnival-like atmosphere as the management team led by its President, Otunba Wanle Akinboboye, put up a fascinating performance so as to give Sanwo-Olu a day to remember.

Atunda Entertainment treated the governor and his team to classy presentations of musical instrumentation, choreographed Zulu Dance and singing. The lady talking drummer and songstress, Ara Thunder’s performance was the icing on the cake.

Sanwo-Olu was modest and his security protocol officers were receptive too. Performers, guests and staff of the resort had a rare opportunity to take all kinds of photos with the number one citizen of Lagos. The governor spent close to three hours.

Sanwo-Olu commended Akinboboye for keeping faith in his passion, which had kept him going since the reaction of the resort.

He said:  “I am sure that a lot of you don’t know that he is Wanle and also I am sure a lot of you have not heard about La Campagne on Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja. That was where it all started. I was a young man like a whole lot of you or maybe even much younger. He started from a building on Adeniyi Jones and that was our amusement park then because it was a wonderful park at that time. But over the years, he moved here. I have been here before and I have slept in your chalet here many times. But coming here this evening, this place has changed a lot for the better.”

OLADAPO SOFOWORA

Undoubtedly, if there is any human being who experienced the proverbial seventh heaven, it is no other than Tony Onyemaechi Elumelu, the quintessential banker, businessman, philanthropist, and style icon.

For TOE, as he is fondly called by friends and family, birthdays are moments to review activities of his life for the past year, make amends on some possible mistakes and climb the mountain top to shout Hallelujah giving thanks to the creator of the universe.

As this financial wizard celebrated his 58th birthday on Monday, March 22, a lot of individuals were willing to share in his joy. The reason is the “birthday boy” means so many things to so many people in and outside the country. He received greetings from all sundry across the world.

As he also released his 2020 annual letters where he reviewed last year amidst the deadly global pandemic. Elumelu, according to information, showed traces of a man destined for greatness very early in life. As a child, his lofty dream was to become one of the greatest economists and bankers in the world. Luckily, providence granted him his heart’s desires.

Today, he is regarded as one of the biggest financial and economic exports out of Nigeria. He has given several ideas that have helped strengthen the economy and power of Africa which he said lies in the investment of the younger generation, most especially, in the area of entrepreneurship and human capital investment so they can compete with their peers from other continents.

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To his passion for raising a giant in Africa, after quitting UBA in 2010, he set up the Tony Elumelu Foundation. The vision, according to him, was “to prove that the African private sector can itself be the primary generator of economic development. The Foundation is charged with the mission of driving Africa’s economic development by enhancing the competitiveness of the African private sector. As a premier pan-African-focused not-for-profit institution, the Tony Elumelu Foundation is dedicated to the promotion, celebration of entrepreneurship, and excellence in business leadership across the continent.

He is reputed to have breathed life into the African economy through what he termed ‘Africapitalism’, an economic philosophy that embodies the private sector’s commitment to the economic transformation of Africa through long-term investments that create both economic prosperity and social wealth.

At 34, the Heirs Holding boss set forth on the path to greatness when he led a small group of investors to acquire the defunct Standard Trust Bank, a small struggling commercial bank in Lagos, and restored it to profitability within a few years. Again, he became a reference point around the globe in 2005 when he led one of the greatest mergers in the history of the African banking sector- the merger of Standard Trust Bank (STB) and United Bank of Africa (UBA). Consequently, at the world’s major stock markets such as NASDAQ OMX in New York, London Stock Exchange, Abuja Securities, and Commodities Exchange, JSE Limited Nigerian Stock Exchange, and many others, his name rings so loud. Within five years, he transformed the bank to be one of the best financial institutions in the world. Little wonder, he was rated one of the most influential men in Africa as well as one of the 2014 Forbes richest men in Africa with a net worth of $1 billion.

OLADAPO SOFOWORA

There are ‘billionaires’ and there are ‘billionaires’ in Nigeria. While some stack funds in their foreign private accounts, some take proceeds from their business, inject it into causes that would directly affect the lives of Nigerian’s positively. In the league of the very few that would spare no cost to bring succor to Nigerians, Abdulsamad Rabiu, the head honcho of BUA Groups, towers high like the popular statue of liberty in America.

He believes that there is no money too big to spend in touching lives. In everything, humanity comes first.

A vivid example of Rabiu’s humane side was during the pandemic when he donated heavily to eradicating COVID-19 through CACOVID. To further show his commitment to making sure Nigerians get vaccinated at no cost, he paid AstraZeneca for a 1million dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. Despite the controversy surrounding his kind gesture, Rabiu remained unperturbed as he stayed committed to keeping touching lives and he is never backing down or reneging on his promise to humanity.

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Another of his gestures that got everyone talking and also generated mixed reactions was his $100 million annual Africa Fund for social development and renewal. On Tuesday, March 23, through his Abdulsamad Rabiu Initiative, Rabiu announced that the funds will be allocated for health, education, and social development. He also pledged a total sum of N6 billion to six universities within the six geopolitical zones to strengthen their infrastructure. Sources averred that the idea came when he clocked 60, last year, during the heat of the pandemic. He was shocked that the world could come to a stand-still. He further noted that increasing investment in various sectors like education, research, health will help strengthen and provide a sustainable solution for generation yet unborn.

A source further said “Chairman is also planning to extend the funding and grant to the rest of Africa with a whopping sum of $50 million. He is currently meeting with African leaders to finalize how to integrate the rest of Africa so everybody can benefit from his milk of kindness.”