Category: Society

The maiden Marketing Edge Brands and Advertising Excellence Award was held in Lagos last Tuesday, reports  NNEKA NWANERI.

IT wasn’t a surprise to many in the industry when Marketing Edge Magazine held its maiden awards in Lagos last Tuesday. The event coincided with its 10th anniversary celebrations. Unruffled by the traffic gridlock on that road, brand practitioners and media executives, young and old, made their way to the Civic Centre on Ozumba Mbadiwe Way, Victoria Island, Lagos to grace the awards and dinner.

Earlier in the day, Marketing Edge held a stakeholders’ summit with the theme: A roadmap to marketing in the age of global oil glut and Nigerian advertising in a generational shift at the same venue.

The venue was decorated in the magazine’s yellow and brown. Guests wore English attires. The event was the celebration of brands and advertisers who have excelled  over the years.

Banners of sponsors’ products dotted the arena. Everyone got a souvenir.

Reckitt Benckiser Chairman Chief Olu Falomo, who chaired the event, praised Marketing Edge for quality work.

Marketing Edge Publisher Mr John Ajayi said the awards were initiated to boost competition  and reward practitioners and wave making brands.

“Our criteria were not a result of quantitative research; rather, it was based on the content analysis and review of the industry, which spanned the last one decade. So, the rating of these agencies was credible and genuine,” Ajayi said.

Doyen of advertising and Chairman Troyka Group Mr Biodun Sobanjo, in a goodwill message, congratulated Ajayi for a job well done. Describing Ajayi as a brilliant journalist, who distinguished himself while working with Thisday Sobanjo; lauded him for his initiative.

Advertising guru and Chairman Stb-McCaNN Sir Steve Omojafor, recalled the many quarrels he had with Ajayi because of his reports.

“Back then, he always anticipated what would happen but will never happen. Just giving John a tip and he blew it out of proportion, leading everyone to problems.”

Awards were given to Wild Fusion for outstanding Innovative Digital Marketing Agency of the year, Outstanding Young Outdoor Agency of the year, –E-motion Advertising, Outstanding PR Agency of 2014-XLR8; Outstanding Outdoor Agency of the year, Optimum Exposure,  Media Link and New Crystal Communications; Outstanding Agency of the Year- Insight Communications, Noah’s Ark Communications and DDB Lagos; Outstanding Dairy Brand of the Decade- Cowbell

Other awards were: Outstanding Media Brand in Broadcasting- Channels TV; Outstanding Media Brand in Print-Punch; Outstanding Radio brand, Wazobia FM.

Outstanding Media Entrepreneur of the Decade, John Momoh; Outstanding Telecoms Brand, MTN; Outstanding Brand of the Year-Origin; Marketing Personality of the Year Country Director, L’Oreal Central West Africa Mr Idoroyen Enyang; Aare Fatai Odesile and Dr Joseph Bel-Molokwu; PostHumous Advertising Personality of the Decade -the  late Sesan Ogunro and the Late Sylvester Moemeke.

The grand award, Brand Personality of the Decade went to  Omojafor; Advertising Icon of the Decade -Falomo.

Omojafor said despite his age, he still feels strong. He hoped his award would be a boost to the young so that they would be recognised too.

Falomo said though he had been in the business for 56 years, he didn’t plan it so. His dream initially was to be an engineer.

At the event were Vanguard’s General Manager/ Editor-in-Chief Mr Gbenga Adefaye; Chief Commercial Officer of Aritel Maurice Newa and Managing Director of Grand Oak Limited Mr Askay Umar.

Outgoing Katsina State Governor Ibrahim  Shema received The Sun Outstanding Performance Exit Award last Saturday in Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

IN two weeks, Katsina State Governor Ibrahim Shema will complete his second and final term in office. Last Saturday in Lagos, he was honoured by The Sun for what the newspaper described as his eight years merritorious service. Shema bagged The Sun Outstanding Performance Exit Award at the Marquee of Eko Hotel and Suites on Victoria Island. He is the first governor to be honoured. His wife, friends, colleagues, politicians, captains of industry, former governors, star musicians and other eminent Nigerians joined him at the ceremony.

On arrival, many of the guests took photographs on the red carpet before entering the hall. They were welcomed by gaily dressed beautiful women.

The hall was decorated in white, gold and red fabric with lights. The red table covers and gold chairs blended with the hall decor.

Vintage Band entertained guests. Gbenga Adeyinka was the compere.

He enlivened the gathering with his ribcracking jokes.

In his welcome address, The Sun Managing Director / Editor-in-Chief Mr Femi Adesina said the award was instituted to promote quality governance. He said the award is for a governor who is finishing two terms in office and has been adjudged to have made sterling impact on his people.

Shema had successfully changed the face, he said, he is leaving his mark in virtually every sector, including housing, health, education and infrastructure.

The Sun Publisher and former governor of Abia State, Dr Oriji Kalu, said the paper gave the award to Shema without strings attached. He said: “The Sun is the only newspaper organisation that gives award without receiving any money from the awardees.” In fact I wish that the Board of Editors have created cash for the outgoing governor to go home with.”

He described the Exit Award as better than Man of the Year Award, adding that the award is important because the governor is leaving office soon.

A presentation on The Sun followed, with Adeyinka reading from the projector to guests’ hearing.

Former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel, who chaired the event, described The Sun as a newspaper of excellence, praying that  it would continue to grow. He hailed Shema for turning round the state without borrowing. He said: “I have no doubt in my mind that the people of Katsina can never forget you and those legacies that you put there.”

After the documentary on his achievements, Shema fielded question during an interactive session.

Shema was supported by his wife,  Kalu; Adesina; former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) chair Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and former Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) president Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), among others, while receiving the award from Daniel.

Shema described the award as  honourable, saying The Sun  has demonstrated capacity for sustaining integrity in Nigeria and in Africa.

He siad: “It is one award that is given and funded by The Sun Publishing House; it is one award that is given to a governor that is leaving office, not one that is just starting or one that anyone can look out to for contracts or profit.”

The Sun, he said has set a pace, adding that he hoped his friends, colleagues and those coming will take serious service that is vital to humanity.

Ribadu said it was a gathering to share in the joy of a friend.

He said the governor changed Katsina, adding that he is proud of him.

Olanipekun described the governor as a good leader, with a high sense of leadership.

Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board, Registrar Dr Abodunrin Oluwa, has given out his daughter, Rafiat, in marriage to Mohammed, son of a Nigeria Telecommunications Ltd (NITEL) retiree, Mr Yekinni Aiyegbo. The marriage held at Rev Somekun Hall in Methodist Boys High School on Lagos Island. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

THEIR courtship was brief even though they met for the first time four years ago. After that first meeting, they went their different ways for three years. This is the love story of Mohammed and Rafiat, a princess who got married in Lagos penultimate Sunday. Mohammed relived their story to The Nation.

“I met her during my friend’s wedding; we kept in touch for the next four months and lost contact thereafter. Three years later, I remembered her and called my friend to ask of her and I got her contact. We were friends again but as God would have it, within four months, we are married.”

Mohammed, founder of Zoom Investment Nigeria Limited and Rafiat, a graduate of Lagos State University (LASU) tied the nuptial knot at Rev Somekun Hall, Methodist Boys High School, Lagos Island.

Rafiat is the daughter of Dr Abodunrin Oluwa, Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board,  Registrar. Mohammed is the son of  Mr Yekinni Aiyegbo, a Nigeria Telecommunication Ltd (NITEL) retiree.

The hall was decorated in orange and gold.

The groom walked into the hall with his friends. He was in cream lace buba and sokoto, with wine and cream striped aso oke as agbada and cap to match. Many of his friends were in white native attires, with yellow cap. They moved to greet his in-laws first and then his parents. The bride wore the same  attire with the groom. They sat together on the white bridal chair.

Islamic clerics including, Alhaji Hussain Ajakaiye, Alhaji Taiwo Muslimdeen and Alhaji Rufai Taiwo led the gathering in prayers.

In a lecture, Alhaji Lateef Akanbi told the couple to pray always.  He urged the bride to respect her in-laws and be a good wife. He told the groom to fulfill his responsibilities as a husband.

The ceremony continued with the traditional wedding during which the couple and their families were introduced.

The Aiyegbo family brought gifts including tubers of yam, fruits, drinks, bags of rice and silver dishes for their in-laws.

The  Oluwa of Lagos, Chief Ajayi Oluwa, told the couple to emulate their parents, adding that they should be friends and remember their wedding day as the happiest in their life

The bride’s father, said he would miss his daughter.

He advised her to be humble, adding that the couple should be self-dependent and avoid misunderstanding.

Narrating how he accepted Mohammed’s proposal to marry his daughter, Dr Oluwa said he initially refused but after asking his daughter  some questions, she convinced him to accept. He said he is happy that she is married.

The bride’s mother, Alhaja Sherifat Oluwa, a retired registar with the Lagos High Court, described her son-in-law as nice and respectful. She urged them to show understanding, respect,  and perform their duties as husband and wife.

Mohammed, a graduate of Psychology from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), described his wife as gentle, nice, committed and cool, adding that he loved the way she attended to him at his  friend’s wedding four years ago.

Rafiat said her husband’s appearance was the first thing that attracted her when they met four years ago. She added: “He has a decent look and he speaks well. He is gentle, humble and respectful.”

Daughter of veteran journalist Gboyega Amonboye (aka Governor) Adejoke and her heart-throb Abiodun, scion of the popular Adebutu of Ijebu, Ogun State, got married in Lagos last Saturday.NNEKA NWANERI writes.

Their love story began five years ago. Then Abiodun Adebutu, an information technology (IT) worker with Premier Lotto, was undergoing his National Youth Service in Oron, Akwa Ibom State.

Adejoke Amonboye who was in her final year at the Enugu State University (ESUT), used to visit him.

That relationship became a lifelong affair following their wedding last Saturday at Dominion City Church in Festac Town,Lagos.

The three- event was held the same day in the same venue. It started with the traditional wedding, the solemnisation in church and the reception.

Close family members and friends were there to witness the ceremony. The hall was decorated in purple and yellow.

Abiodun was the first to arrive in the church. He eagerly awaited his bride’s arrival. He and his best man wore purple jackets on black trousers.

Minister in charge of Dominion City Church Pastor Tobe Mbanefo urged the couple not to see the ring as a symbol of slavery, but that of a marriage between lovers. He administered the oath of marriage on the couple before joining them as man and wife.

Reading from Ephesians 5:23-25, he urged the couple to stick to the rules of marriage, imploring Adejoke to submit to her husband. He advised Abiodun not to see himself as a symbol of power and authority.

Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye, who chaired the reception, said the couple’s union is significant because they got married when God is at work in the country. He urged Abiodun to be faithful to his wife.

The couple cut their beautiful pyramid shaped cake of purple and white. The groom’s friend, Seun Folayan, who proposed the toast, told the gathering how the couple’s love story began.

The bride’s father, Mr Gboyega Amonboye, urged the couple to fear God.

Praying for long life for the couple, he advised them neither to see life as a bed of roses nor expect so much from each other too soon.

Adejoke, who works with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) said she met her man through a friend, adding that she was attracted to his mature character.

Abiodun said her beauty attracted him. He thanked God for making his dream come true.

Renowned juju maestro Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi’s son Oreoluwa has tied the nuptial knot with Titilayo, daughter of Mr Solomon Siyanbola, an accountant, in Lagos. IBRAHIM ADAM and SAFIYYAH ABDUR-RAZAQ report.

They trooped into the church in their numbers, looking radiant in traditional attires. The women made fashion statements with their stylish corel and gold headgears. The church was filled.

It was the wedding of son of renowned Juju maestro Mr Ebenezer Oreoluwa, Obey-Fabiyi (aka Commander) and Titilayo, daughter of Mr Solomon Siyanbola an accountant.

The event was held last Saturday at Archbishop Vining Church, Oba Akinjobi Way, Ikeja GRA Lagos.

The arrival of Ogun State Governor  Ibikunle Amosun and his entourage added colour to the event. The governor sat beside the groom’s parents. Paparazzi struggled to take photograph them.

The groom, Oreoluwa, arrived in a grey Mercedes Benz, which was of the same colour with his suit. He wore with it a white shirt and orange tie.

The service began at 11:30am with processional hymn: “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty.” While the song was on, Titilayo, arrived in a grey Honda Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). Her elder brother, Olubunmi, walked her to the altar. The congregation rose in her honour.

She was a beauty to behold in her white sparkling flowing gown and veil.

The couple knelt before Rev. Christopher Nosike, who noted that marriage is for husband and wife to comfort and help each other; live faithfully together in need and in plenty and in sorrow and joy.

The cathedral’s Deacon Ven. Abraham Odumuyiwa, led the couple through their vows; and blessed their rings. He declared them husband and wife following their parents’ consent.

In his sermon, Bishop of Egba West Anglican Communion Rt. Rev. Samuel Ogundeji urged the couple to allow God into their home.

Rev. Samuel said the couple should play according to God’s rules.

“Success in marriage is not determined by the crowd and personalities but God Himself. Oreoluwa, you have a serious challenge because you come from a very reputable home; your marriage will not bring shame to your family and the church.

“ The Bible is the only way that can lead you. Crises happen today because we want to do it our own way instead of God’s way.” he said.

The parents joined the couple to sign the marriage certificate. The choir sang praise and worship. At the reception at the nearby. The Haven, the hall was tastefully decorated with Shimmering curtains, with chairs set round tables with gold overlay and flower vases.

The ambience was breathtaking.

Traditional rulers were led to the event by the Alake of Egba land, Oba Michael Gbadebo.

Another son of the Juju Commander Tolu Obey-Fabiyi, led his own juju band to entertain the gathering.

Popular Television presenter and comedian Gbadewonuola Oyelakin (aka Teju Babyface) was the Master of Ceremony. He dished out rib-cracking jokes; he was assisted by a broadcaster with the Ogun State Television, Tunji Akintayo.

The couple entered the hall in style, to the blaring music of DJ Coy.

Bishop Akinsanya Olalekan of Egba Diocese African Church said the opening prayer.

Governor Amosun, who chaired the event,  urged the couple to respect each other, urging them to be friends.

He said: “Oreoluwa, respect your wife and Titilayo, respect your husband. The first thing you should do is to have God in your home and others will follow. When you respect each other, other things will fall in line; you will tolerate each other, you will be friends and it will be difficult for any third party to hear what is happening in your home.”

Amosun went on “Friends are those who even if there is any issue, they use logic to settle it themselves. Once they do things ordinarily people raise eyebrow because you know this is my life partner, this is my friend, you will over look your weakness and you will work more on those things that will continue to unite you. I have known Oreoluwa for a long time and he is a good man, he is always shy and am happy today seeing him dance,”

The couple cut their four-layer cake after spelling of JESUS and fed each other with it. They sealed it with kisses.

The groom’s father joined the couple on the dance floor. In smiles, he appreciated them with crisp naira notes.

The groom’s friend, Dr. Wale Oyebanji, proposed the toast.

The groom, a graduate of Civil Engineering from the Igbinedion University in Okada, Benin, Edo State, said he met his wife four years ago.

He described her as beautiful, God-fearing, kind and ‘my sweet banana’.

Titilope, a graduate of Agric Economics from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, described her husband as her crown and the love of her life.

“It’s hard to describe him because I don’t know where to start. Am glad I have him because he is everything to me.”

The bride’s father, Mr Siyanbola, described his daughter as homely, wonderful and quiet.

“We thank God for today and his mercies. I pray God guides, protects and blesses them enormously. She is my little sister, she is industrious and I believe and know Oreoluwa will enjoy her,” he said.

The Osile of Egba land, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso (Karunwi III), said: “I wish them best of luck and they should always remember that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom and if they carry God along anywhere they go, they will live forever and the devil will never come between them.”

Vice Chancellor of the Federal University in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Prof Mobolaji Aluko, turned 60 on April 2. Last Saturday, his friends hosted him to a dinner in Lagos. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

Bolaji Aluko, a professor and son of the renowned economist, the late Prof Sam Aluko, turned 60 on April 2. Last Saturday, his friends, hosted him to dinner in Lagos to mark the milestone. Looking resplendent in immaculate white agbada and green cap, Vice Chancellor, Federal University in Otuoke,  Bayelsa State,  was all smiles as he welcomed guests to Protea Hotel Ikeja GRA Lagos.  Those from his alma mater-Christ’s School-Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, made up highest number.

It was a small gathering – of close associates and friends. His wife and children could not make it to the event, but his brothers and cousin were there with their children. His brother- in-law was also there.

His face wreathed in smiles, Aluko identified his classmates and some of his seniors to whom he said he was always rude to. There were also those from his undergraduate days at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) OAU and his United States and Otuoke affiliates, including members of the staff of the university. They took turns to take pictures with him as he cut his birthday cake.

The cake had the portrait of a man, sitting behind a table with many books. The host, Mr Kayode Osho, decided on the theme inspired by Prof Aluko’s love for academics.

At the ceremony were Professor of International Law Akin Oyebode; lawyer-activist Femi Falana (SAN); Prof Steve Nwabuzor and Prof Yemisi Dayo. They spoke glowingly about the celebrator, how they met him and his growing days.

Oyebode recalled when Aluko came into Christ’s School at 10. “I asked him series of questions and was impressed with the sharp honest answer he gave me. It was then I concluded that he was a star.”

Prof Dele Makanjuola said couldn’t remember ever beating Aluko in a chess game.

Osho was grateful they all passed through the school, a rallying point for many of them from various backgrounds.

The celebrator’s younger brother, Olufemi, brought blessings from his mother, who he said has always had reason to be proud of him for always being on the right side.

“He has always carried the family with respect and pride since the death of our father who though opened doors for us, Bolaji will open more for us.”

Falana described Aluko as a great friend who left Ife as he was joining the university. He described him as “a polite but stubborn reliable ally” recalling that they worked closely together during the dark Sani Abacha administration.

Falana noted that Ekiti State has produced many professors just like the celebrator’s father.

He prayed for Aluko: “Bolaji, Igba Odun, odun kan. We your friends are proud of you. Keep doing those things that have made you great,” Falana said.

The birthday ‘boy’ said he did not feel 60, though he has started cautioning himself as he grows older. He is also happy he had been privileged, having no serious  health, economic or educational challenges.

He remembered being told by his parents that unlike his father, he was, born  with a silver spoon.

Aluko said he learnt  he could not be intimidated at Christ’s school.

He said his membership of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), the group that led the battle against the late Gen Sani Abacha’s dictatorship, took a toll in his close relationship with his father who he noted never abused the late Abacha.

Aluko said he never lobbied for the Otuoke varsity job, adding: “I have never in my days as VC felt threatened or the president intruding in my work despite me serving in his home state. In all, God has given me grace.”

The Good Shepherd Society of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral has celebrated its 43rd anniversary at the Rotary Club Hall, Ikeja, Lagos. SAFIYYAH ABDUR-RAZAQ reports

The Rotary Club Hall in G. R. A. Ikeja was decorated in green and white, with blue spring lights. The high table glittered against a silver backdrop. The chairs and tables were also decorated in white and green. The tables had white and yellow overlays.

It was for the reception of the 43rd anniversary of the Good Shepherd Society of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral.

Members of the society trooped into the hall after a thanksgiving service and rededication of 21 new members at the nearby Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral. They were all dressed in white and green.

Their President, Mr Ossie Nwankwu congratulated the new members on their rededication, saying he looked forward to the light they would re-ignite in the society.

The event Chairman, Mr Femi Olutayo, praised the members for their good work saying: “You have been wonderful, futuristic and sharp but you have to step out of the convenience zone to become good shepherds. You have gotten to the point where, am sure,  God has seen your society and you need to step out to the world”, he said.

Dr Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah spoke on moving forward as good shepherds, urging the members to always give so as to make the fellowship move forward and receive God’s blessings.

“Giving out is a sign of your trust in God. Put all your trust in Him. Allow Him to use you for all He wants Good Shepherd Society to do” Ogah said.

The other guest speaker, Mr Emeka Madubuike, also urged them to always give out in order to fulfil God’s assignment. He highlighted 10 points that would assist them in moving forward as good shepherds. He said: “You have to help those in need, pray for your flock when they are struggling, strengthen your flock when they are weak, lift them up up when they are down, encourage them, give hope to them when they are hopeless, forgive them when they hurt you, rejoice with them when they are succeeding, do not publicise their faults and lead an exemplary life for them to emulate.”

Oxbridge College proprietor Dr Femi Ogunsanya proprosed the toast. She said: “We have made good progress but a lot still needs to be done. Rejoice Good Shepherd Society for you have succeeded.” The president, his secretary and those on the high table cut the white and green cake with red and green  flowers on it.

Guests were treated to music and sumptuous lunch.

Nwankwu told The Nation he was elated at the success of the event.

“After the amount of time that went into the planning, and having people turn up, I am so happy. Our guests were here and it was fun. We heard the word of God from different people; it was really enjoyable”, he said.

He urged members to live up to the name of a good shepherd.

“A good shepherd does not mean any other thing than being a good neighbour. If your neighbour is in distress, pay attention and help. Lend your shoulder for people to cry on. One thing I learnt today is that offering subdues suffering. When you give, you would be given back. When you lend your shoulder for people to lean on, God would provide one for you. To the new members especially, as they are coming with new fresh ideas to move the society forward, all of us should rededicate ourselves to moving this society forward and to living the name of Good Shepherd in our everyday life”, Mr Nwankwu said.

The chairman of the anniversary committee, Mr Evans Okeke, urged members to live up to Christ’s attitude as a good shepherd and to put to practice all they learnt at the event.

The remains of the wife of former Nigerian statesman, politician and Minister of Health and Information, Ayotunde Rosiji, Mrs Gbemi Rosiji, were interred in Lagos last Wednesday after a funeral service at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina NNEKA NWANERI writes.

Even in death, she was a celebrity. This is not unexpected. Her children and grandchildren are captains of industries and trailblazers in their professions.

Madam Rosiji was the wife of former Nigerian statesman, politician and Minister of Health and Information, Ayotunde Rosiji, who died on July 31, 2000. He was one of the founding members of Action Group (AG). The late Rosiji matriarch died on April 8 at 89 years.

Her children gave her a befitting burial. To them, she deserved nothing less, saying she lived all her life for them.

Her rites of passage began last Wednesday with a funeral service at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos. Though it was a weekday and the scarcity of fuel was already biting hard in the metropolis, sympathisers, family members and friends of the Rosijis were there in their numbers to bid her bye. They filled the church auditorium.

Her remains were laid in a simple brown casket and positioned on the central aisle before the altar. Bouquets of fresh white flowers were placed by every pillar of the church.

After the gospel reading from John 14:1-14, a sermon was delivered by a former provost of the cathedral, Very Rev Yinka Omololu (rtd), who spoke on the  outstanding qualities of the late Mrs Rosiji, which qualified her as a true Christian. She was a giver, he said.

He urged all to live close to Jesus, since it is in giving that we receive. He urged the family members of the late Rosiji to keep her memory active.

One of the granddaughters of the late Rosiji, Mrs Muffy Dargery, rendered a solo Italian song written by Francesco Sartori and Lucio Quarantotto titled: “Time to Say Goodbye”.

Others took turn to render special tribute songs around the casket. They were: choir of the Cathedral of Holy Trinity, Ifo; Cathedral Ladies League; Women’s Guild Auxiliary; Cathedral Torch Bearers and Old Students of St Ann School.

In an 80-page brochure, pictures and testimonies of her generosity displayed. Notably, that of the National Cancer Prevention Programme (NCPP), written by its National Coordinator Dr K.O. Egwuonwu was outstanding. He described the deceased as a woman who did not pander to applause or gave to be noticed; but simply out of sacrificial love and generousity.

“She was generous almost to a fault and it is through the generousity of people like her that the programme has been able to play its key role.”

A reception in honour of the late Mrs  Rosiji was held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island with comedian Tee A livened up the gathering with his jokes. Demola Olota and his band dished out songs in praise of mothers. Their music ushered the children of the deceased dancing in celebration of their mother.

Second son of the deceased and Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer of Lexcel Group, owners of Nigerian Distilleries Limited, Olajide said his mother lived a good life and died without pains.

He said he could recall his mother thanking any of her children for doing or giving her something. All she will say is ‘good boy’. “Maybe she never thanked because she was a teacher. I miss her love, advice and many a memory that has shaped the man that I am today,” Olajide said.

The last son of the deceased and former president, Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Bolaji, had fond memories of his mother teaching him everything, including being an anonymous giver who had eye for details and never liked lazy people.

“As a young boy, I used to run from Mamani because whenever we had guests, I will have to go upstairs and pack those gifts. Everyone had to take something home. Today, that lesson she taught me by the example of making sure no one goes home hungry and empty handed is what I cherish the most.”Bolaji said.

Those who attendance were: Lagos State first lady Dame Abimbola Fashola; Nollywood  icons Olu Jacobs and his wife Joke Silva; retired Bishop of Ifo, Rev Akin Odejide; Bishop of Egba Rev Dr M.O.Owadayo (rtd); Bishop of Ifo Rt Rev Nathaniel Ogundipe; Diocesan Bishop of Lagos Mainland, Prof Adebayo Akinde; both the Alake of Egbaland and the Owu of Ifo sent their staffs of office; Mrs Francesca Emmanuel; flutist Tee Mac; former President of NACCIMA Chief Kola Daisi; CEO, Adam and Eve Gifts Shop Mrs Dupe Ogunlesi and former Minister for National Planning Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi.

The joy of Sir Odafe Othihiwa, a former General Manager with Daily Times and Africa Independent Television (AIT), knew no bounds last Saturday when he gave his daughter, Victoria out in marriage to a banker, Mayowa Tiwo, in Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

It was a day they had longed for and when it finally came, they were happy. Last Saturday Mayowa Tiwo and Victoria, daughter of Dr Odafe Othihiwa, a former General Manager with Daily Times and African Independent Television (AIT) got married in Lagos. Victoria is a business woman and Mayowa son of the late Otunba Benjamin Tiwo, works with  Zenith Bank. They were joined in holy matrimony at St John’s Anglican Church in Satellite Town, Lagos.

Victoria was all smiles in her white wedding gown; her chief bride’s maid wore a long orange dress. Mayowa and his best man were in blue suit, white shirt and black bow tie. The groom’s mother,  Mrs Esther Tiwo, who retired from Lagos State Ministry of Health, and the bride’s mother, Mrs Iyabo Othihiwa, wore uniform orange buba and iro with green gele and ipele.  Sir Othihiwa was in grey blouse and blue wrapper with grey design;  representative of the groom’s father, Mr Akinbode Tiwo, wore cream agbada and a green cap.

The choir began the service with the hymn, “Praise my soul the King of Glory”.  Mayowa and his best man were already seated in  church. Sir Othihiwa led his daughter into the hall and handed her over to the groom.

Rev Olakunle Oluwadimite, Rev Peter Falusi and Rev Olusegun Oyawale officiated.

In his sermon, the Vicar/ Archdeacon, Rev Ebenezer Adewale, said marriage is meant to boost one’s relationship with God and not to destroy it.

“Marriage is to make you follow God more and serve Him better. Any relationship or marriage that will take you away from God is to be avoided. Marriage is to strengthen your relationship with God.”

The cleric said marriage is a gift of God, a means of his grace and it cannot be separated from God.

“Marriage is to draw you closer to God to enable you fulfill God’s vision for your life. If you remove God from your marriage, you cannot get it right,” he added.

He asked; “Do you still see God as a partner in your marriage? Is he in your home? What role is he playing?”

He described marriage as a triangle where God is at the upper edge and the couple at the lower two edges.

He urged the people to observe a family altar no matter how busy they are. “Be prayerful, because prayer will help you to run away from sin, obey God, be relevant in his kingdom so that God will be manifest in your marriage,” he added.

He told the couple to talk and not fight about money, recognise each other’s weakness, concentrate on improving themselves, talk, listen to each other and do not assume.

Bishop of Lagos Diocese, Anglican Communion, Most Revd Ephraim Ademowo, who was represented by Venerable Jide Adebayo, joined the couple.

The reception held at Anna Hall, FESTAC Town, Lagos.

Dr Brem Herdert (aka Praise Machine) kept guests laughing with his rib-cracking jokes as the Master of the Ceremony.

The couple’s mothers were the first to be ushered into the hall in company of their friends and family members. They danced to songs from Ade Flavour and his gospel juju world of music band. The fathers followed.

The couple’s entry caught guests’ attention; many stood while others struggled for space to take their photographs with phones, iPad and camera. The groom was still on the same outfit but the bride had changed to a silver glittering dress. They danced to songs from DJ Frakaz.

The chairman on the occasion, Sir Ayodele Othihiwa, told the couple that marriage is a school for life. “From today you will start learning new things and you will continue to learn.”

The MC led the couple to cut their four-step white cake after spelling JESUS.

The couple fed each other with cake and wine; they later had their couple dance and other guests joined them on the dance floor, dancing and spraying new naira notes.

The bride’s father, said he felt great, describing the wedding as a dream-fulfilled to give his daughter out in marriage. He told the couple to tolerate each other, adding that marriage is not easy but a matter of give and take.

The groom’s mother, told the couple to avoid intruders; they should settle all quarrels among themselves.

“They should not allow me to know what is going between them nor the wife’s parent; they should corporate and show love to each other,” she said.

The groom, Mayowa, said he was happy because the day was one he had been looking forward to. “This is the beginning of my new life with my wife and I believe it will be exiting.”

He described his wife as energetic, hard working, intelligent and everything a woman can be. “I didn’t make a wrong choice; I analysed who she is before deciding to marry her.”

The bride said she felt exited, describing her husband as matured, understanding, caring and religious.