The Nation Newspaper

Category: Society

  • Celebration of unity

    Celebration of unity

    The Lithuania National Day was celebrated last Monday, reports  NNEKA NWANERI

    They came from far and wide  to celebrate Lithuania National Day last Monday in Lagos.

    Lithuania a small country close to  Sweden and Denmark, has an estimated 3.7 million population. Its history dates back to 1253. It will celebrate its 25th independence anniversary next month.

    Its citizens and investments are in 180 countries,  including Nigeria.

    In line with tradition, the Honorary Consul of Lithuania to Nigeria, Mr Goodie Ibru, hosted captains of commerce, diplomats and eminent personalities to a cocktail at the Federal Palace Hotel and Casino on Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Soft music played in the background as guests entered the venue in twos and threes. Many had a touch of red in their dresses to depict the Valentine mood. Some came with their spouses. Guests moved round, making new acquaintances as they sipped from their glasses and chatted.

    It was a good way to unwind after the day’s work. It was an informal gathering.

    The national anthems of Nigeria and Lithuania were played.

    Ibru praised Lithuania for becoming visible in the socio-economic life of Europe, noting that it is one of the fastest growing economies in the European Union.

    Thanking guests for honouring his invitation, he hoped that next year, more Lithuanians would be in Nigeria for the occasion.

    Director-General, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) Prof Bolaji Akinterinwa, said the event called for a toast, for the good relationship between Nigeria and Lithuania.

    The two-hour event was funfilled. The foreigners danced with some elderly women to highlife music

    At the event were: the Spiritual Head of Our Saviour’s Church at Tafawa Balewa Square, Ven Igein Isemede; Consul General of Germany Michael Derus, among others.

     

  • Farewell to a man of courage

    Farewell to a man of courage

    The funeral of a civil servant, Elder Ernest Echebiri Anokwuo, who died last year, has been held in his hometown, Umuchima in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State, reports COLLINS NWEZE.

    Many villagers left everything to pay their last respects to Elder Ernest Echebiri Anokwuo, a rustic community in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State.

    In 1978, the late  Elder Anokwuo’s love for his people prompted him to institute the Umuogbaregbe Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative Society Limited, which has empowered community members.

    By 1985, when the cooperative was launched, it became an avenue through which fertiliser were distributed to the farmers at reduced prices and also hectares of land were cultivated with improved species of palm seedlings. These projects eventually developed and became sources of revenues to the community.

    On the morning of the funeral he was to be committed to mother earth, the hearse conveying the body of Elder Anokwuo arrived his compound, accompanied by his family friends, in laws, and church members.

    Many of these who spoke glowingly about his life and times described him as a man who had the interest and well-being of his people at heart, and one who was always thinking of how to bring development to the community.

    The widow, Mrs. Grace Anokwuo, was clad in a white attire, described her late husband as a loving and one who stood for his  family and people.  “He loved God and worked for Him. His life on earth was that of a true leader who cares about the welfare of other people.” She was glad his legacy lived on.

    Son of the deceased, Uche, said his father met every situation with desired wisdom and commitment.

    Another son of the deceased, Okechukwu, an employee of Addax Petroleum said:  “My father was not a person that sits and watches at the background in any place he finds himself. He loved to make impact in people’s lives. He was a mentor to many people that knew him. He pointed the light to many and came to people’s aid where he could”.

    Daughter of the deceased, Mrs. Nnenna Nweze, described her late father as her hero and mentor. She said he was a godly man who gave his children the best education.

    Reverend C. Ahunanya, in his sermon, described the late Elder Anokwuo as a man who loved God and served Him with all his heart. He called on all to obey God’s word and live righteously for them to have a guaranteed place in God’s kingdom.

    After the sermon, prayers were offered for God’s protection on the family of the bereaved.

    Afterwards, there were prayers at the graveside before the body was interred in a corner of the family’s expansive compound, in Umuchima community.

    The late Elder Anokwuo worked with the then Eastern Nigeria Regional Office Enugu and later in the Local Government Service Commission.

    He undertook University of London Rapid Result College Correspondence Courses and also attended several management courses in his career.

  • For a better society

    For a better society

    A faith-based non-governmental organisation, Awesome Treasures Foundation, has held its first prayer summit in Lagos, writes NNEKA NWANERI.

    They came to pray for the nation and for successful  elections. The event was organised by a non-governmental organisation, Awesome Treasures.

    The foundation was founded 16 years ago to raise transformational leaders for National Renaissance.

    The theme of the summit was: Appointment with destiny, national rebirth.

    The founder of the foundation, Mrs Olajumoke Adenowo called for national rebirth.

    More than 1000 guests were at the event, which was compered by Nollywood actress Ufuoma Ejenobor-McDermott.

    Mrs Adenowo implored  Nigerians to contribute their quota in national building especially during the election, and enjoined all to acquire their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) to exercise their civic duty and warned voters to abstain from being paid by corrupt politicians for endorsement, that  such an act would attract the wrath of God.

    At the event were Managing Director, Regional Head of Financial Institutions for West and Central Africa Standard Chartered Bank, Mr. Korede Adenowo; President, Strategy for Mentoring Initiative and Leadership Empowerment (S.M.I.L.E) Mrs. Bimpe Martins; Justices Oke Lawal and Sola Williams of the Lagos State High Court; CEO, House of Tara, Tara Fela-Durotoye;  his Inspiro Consulting Jimi Tewe and  Managing Consultant, Edge-ecution Steve Harris.

     

  • ‘At 70, I am fulfilled’

    ‘At 70, I am fulfilled’

    The Group Chairman, Tricontinental Group, Chief Olabintan Ajiboro Famutimi, celebrated his 70th birthday, last week in Ikeja,  Lagos. At the event, the Group presented him a book titled: ‘Why Not Me?’, reports NNEKA NWANERI.

    With life expectancy in Nigeria below 48 years, those who live above the age often thank God. So, it was the case with frontline businessman  Chief Ajiboro Famutimi when he turned 70. He marked his entry into the septuagenarian club with style last Thursday in Ikeja, the Lagos State capital.

    Famutimi, the Group Chairman, Tricontinental Group, said: “I am happy I have made it to 70 and am healthy; every thing has gone well with me and I just look back at all I have been through growing up and I feel fulfilled am 70. I’m satisfied, contented and I couldn’t have asked for more from God.

    “When I look back on this journey through life, I can say with all sense of joy and fulfilment that God has a purpose in bringing me into the world. I believe that purpose of the Almighty has been fulfilled to a great extent by what has become of me.”

    The 14th of 64 children, Famutimi’s position in the family did not deter him from living his dreams. He found a thriving business which is one of the biggest conglomerates in Nigeria.

    “That is what defines me, particularly, among the expatriates. Though friendly, I don’t go back demanding things. They keep close to me because I don’t bother them; despite having easy access to top people; though I intervene in critical cases. They never build walls against me because I try to give more than I take,” Famutimi said.

    His only regret, however, is that his first marriage broke down. “I would not have done it differently now because am satisfied and I could not have done much better than I have done. I have a lovely home, lovely family, my business is booming so I have nothing to regret and nothing I would have thought of that I would have done differently. I’m quite satisfied because I didn’t expect that I will be at this level judging where I come from.” he said.

    Of what the future holds for him, he said: “The only thing I ask for is God keeps me alive. He should keep me healthy. I’ll rather ask God to take me away than be a vegetable on earth.”

    His associates and family members joined him at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral in Ikeja, GRA, for a thanksgiving service. A brief sermon was given by Ven  M.A. Abraham-Odumuyiwa, who enjoined all to seek to please God at all times.

    Guests moved to the Haven Events Centre beside the church for the reception.

    They were ushered in by girls in  red uniform.

    Guests wore what suited them; many were in native attires; the celebrator’s foreign friends were in suits.

    The hall was divided into two. A platform erected at the centre had  four cakes of different sizes. On the other side was a metal carved portrait of the celebrator.  Flowers dotted the stage. It was a two-in-one event.  A book on the celebrator. Why Not Me? Was presented at the ceremony

    The event began with an opening prayer by the Senior Pastor of Jubilee Christian Centre in North Carolina, United States Alfred Bisi Tofade.

    Past chairman of Metropolitan Club Chief Olu Akinkugbe, who chaired the event, said he shares many things in common with the celebrator, who hails from Ondo State like him.

    Akinkugbe said he did not find anyone more worthy of such honour and praise than Chief Famutimi, who has a rich family background.

    Former Vice- Chancellor of the University of Lagos Prof Oye Ibidapo-Obe, who presented the book described Famutimi as an abracadabra. It is not an abuse, he said, explaining that the celebrator has the nature of ‘’the more you look, the less you see’’.

    The don said the celebrator’s wife, Stella deserves a national honour for managing such a ‘’stubborn husband’’.

    The celebrator’s  younger brother and Vicar of St Michael and all Angels’ Anglican Church, Gojere Village opposite Ojo Military Cantonment in Lagos Rev Feyisola Famutimi, described his brother as a man with a good social life.

    He said: “Boisterous in every sense, a restless lover of life, imbued with elephantine memory, hardworking, happy-go-lucky who no one can fail to notice when he enters a place.”

    “If there is a Lagos-based diplomat who does not know Chief Famutimi, he has missed his tour of duty in the Nigerian metropolis,’’ he said.

    Consul-General de France Francois Sastourne told The Nation that knowing Famutimi has helped him in his job.

    “I met him as soon as I arrived and he has introduced me to a lot of circles in Lagos, which might have been otherwise more difficult for me to penetrate. I know him to be very keen on doing business with all countries. He is a good friend with whom I spent a memorable New Year  during Calabar carnival.”

    Before his children presented him an artwork, his eldest son Omobola described him as a man with a larger-than-life character.

    “My father created his own choices and got to where he is through sheer character and hardwork. We love you dad. You really are a living legend.”

    When the celebrator took the microphone, he invited all his age mates and elders to the dance floor. This, he said, would separate the boys from the league of graceful elders. The old ‘boys’ and ‘girls’ joined him in dancing to old school tunes supplied by the Suga Band.

    At the event  were members of the Metropolitan Club; Bashorun J. K. Randle; Mr Femi Orebe; former Secretary-General, Commonwealth Chief Emeka Anyaoku; former Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos Prof Afolabi Olumide; Chairman, Lagos Sheraton Hotels and Towers, Mr Goodie Ibru; British High Commissioner to Nigeria Dr Andrew Pocock; former Chairman of Island Club Chief Olu Falomo; Chinese Consul-General Liu Kan and Acting British Deputy High Commissioner Mike Purves.

  • Guild of Organists of Nigeria holds lecture

    The Guild of Organists of Nigeria has held its second lecture series at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos tagged “organ recital and lecture”.

    Guild of Organists of Nigeria is an organisation with the objective to promote, advance the arts and practice of organ playing and choral directing, to increase contributions of the organ and choral music to aesthetic and religious experiences also to promote their understanding, appreciation and enjoyment.

    Present at the event were the diocesan organist/music director Theophilus Okang, Venerable Olusegun Kuti, Sir Emeka Nwokedi, Mr. Ibeyefiebo Harryand Col. Charles Bossman among others.

    In a welcome address was given by the president of the association, Donatus Ajayi, he thanked all for attending its first concert and inauguration which was hosted by Rev. Peru Johnson at the Cathedral Church of Christ Marina last March.

    Presently the guild is on membership drive and it’s expected that it furthers presentation of the guild to Nigeria and indeed the world, will assist in rapidly increasing individual and especially cooperate/institutional membership of the guild.

    Top on the agenda is that the guild will be sponsoring individuals, groups, families, societies,corporate

    entities, public and private institutions, government, embassies churches and other religious organizations in a bid to having more membership.

    Tustees of the Organisation  include General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles (MFM) Ministries Dr Kayode Olukoya,Mrs.Tolu Obajimi Alabo. Dr. C.I.T Wokoma JP, James Adekunle, Deacon Olalekan Dosunmu, Kayode Oni (FTCL, JP), Chief Maria Asseeva, Sir Emeka Nwokedi, Donatus Rotimi Ajayi and Chief Dr. Mofolorunso Olumide Akintoye Kuti .

    Cornel Charles Bossman gave the vote of thanks.

  • A royal union

    A royal union

    The Musodiq-Bishi Eshinlokun Royal family of Lagos and the Olagunju royal family of Ede, Osun State have become one following the marriage of their children, prince Faruq Musodiq and Princess Bushrah Olagunju, at the Islamic Centre Hall, University of Lagos. (UNILAG) SAFIYYAH ABDUR-RAZAQ was there.

    All roads led to the Islamic Centre Hall, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, on January 17 when a Prince from the royal Eshinlokun of Lagos, Prince Musodiq and a Princess from the Olagunju royal family of Ede, Osun State, Princess Bushrah, were joined together as one.

    The hall was decorated in aqua blue and champagne gold with spring lights. Blue paper lanterns hung diagonally from one end of the hall to the other.

    Guests trooped in adorned in their splendid outfits. Princes and Princesses from both royal families stormed the hall in gorgeous attires.

    It was all for Prince Faruq Tunde Musodiq and Princess Bushrah Bolawole Olagunju.

    The bride, a graduate of English and International Studies from Osun State University was the best graduating student of her department in 2012. While in her first year, she won an award for first position in Osun State University Inter-collegiate essay competition.

    She is an author and Television presenter.

    The groom, a graduate of Computer Science from Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, is currently a final year student of Mechanical Engineering in UNILAG.

    He is a member of UNILAG debate team (Team UNILAG) and 2012 Orator of the year second runner-up organised by UNILAG Engineering Society. He works as an Administrative Officer of Structural Solutions, a United Kingdom-based firm.

    Like his wife, Prince Faruq is a Television presenter. The lovebirds have also held the position of Amir (President) and Amirah of their institutions

    While Princess Bushrah was the founding Amirah (female president) of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Osun State University, Prince Faruq was the Amir (President) of MSSN UNILAG branch for two terms.

    The Adqun Nikah, (marriage solemnisation), which was anchored by a student of UNILAG, Tajudeen Mikail, started with an opening prayer from Shakrullah Taiwo.

    Following the opening prayer was the recitation of the Qur’an in Arabic, English and Yoruba, which was done by Mustafa Kilani, Khalid Mustafa, Abdul Hamid Shonubi and Habibullah Adepoju.

    After this, the couple was invited to the hall. The groom strode in with his friends while looking resplendent in his peach-coloured buba and sokoto with a blue cap while the bride also came in with a retinue of friends looking grand in a peach-coloured Jalbab (Islamic gown) and Hijab.

    The lecture was delivered by Sheikh Lukman Idris Sekoni. He explained that Nikkah (marriage) in Islam is one of the steps to finding tranquillity. He urged the couple to continuously put Allah first in whatever they do.

    He also urged the youths to portray the true beauty of Islam.

    “Youths should show the true beauty of Islam to the world through their character. Our character makes people learn more about us and Islam,” he said.

    The nuptial knot was then tied by Ustadh Sa’eed Salman.

    He explained that before tying the nuptial knot, the conditions of marriage had to be fulfilled. “The first condition”, he said, was”that the bride and groom have to agree to the relationship. It must not be a forced marriage”. He then asked them if they both agreed to the union and they replied in the affirmative. The second condition was the consent of the parents. He asked the parents if they approve of the marriage and they also replied that they approved. The third condition was the Mahr (dowry from the groom to the bride). Bushrah received an eight-volume book on Aqeedah (Islamic ideology) as her Mahr and the final condition was two male witnesses. Two of the groom’s friends, Sulaiman Dhikrullah and Habeeb Adepoju, stood in as witnesses.

    After all conditions were met, the scholar tied the nuptial knot and pronounced them man and wife.

    The Grand Mufti of Conference of Islamic Organisations (CIO), Sheikh Dhikrullah Shafii prayed for the couple.

    A lecturer in Obafemi Awolowo University, Dr Shuaib Osunleke enjoined the couple to always thank Allah and remember Him in all their affairs.

    Speaking with The Nation, Princess Bushrah who wrote her Post Graduate Diploma exam on the eve of the wedding thanked Allah for everything.

    She said: “I feel very excited and thank Allah that today is becoming a reality in my life. It is something everybody looks forward to and I am glad that Allah has spared my life to witness this,” she said.

    On how she was able to combine the stress of her exams with marriage preparations, she thanked her friends for making everything easy for her.

    “It was a challenge but with the help of Allah and my wonderful friends; I was able to survive it. My friends took care of the preparations while I concentrated on my studies,” she said.

    The groom who was obviously elated and short of words said: “I feel joyous. What I feel today is indescribable”.

    He described his wife as a caring and compassionate person.

    The bride’s mother, Alhaja Kudirat Funmilayo Olagunju urged the couple to be prayerful. She prayed Allah continue to bless and provide for them.

    “As close as the tongue and teeth are, they always fight, if any of them offends the other, they should both be patient. They shouldn’t let in a third party,” she said.

    Other guests present at the occasion were: Prince Taofeeq Olagunju; Chairman, Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation, Prince Sulayman Olagunju; Alhaji Dhikrullah Adetona; Alhaji Taofeeq Alimi; Alhaji AbdulGaniyy Jumah; Chairman Governing Council, Vanguards Academy, Odosengolu, Alhaji Dawud Arogundade; Principal, Vanguards Academy, Mr Lukman Alatishe; Princess Mutiat Olagunju and Princess Mujeedah Olagunju among others.

  • Fayemi strikes gold

    Fayemi strikes gold

    Former Ekiti State Governor  Kayode Fayemi turned 50 last Monday. He marked the golden age with a thanksgiving service at St Martins Catholic Church in his Isan-Ekiti hometown, reports Odunayo Ogunmola.

    Isan-Ekiti, a rustic community in Oye Local Government Area of Ekiti State  came alive last Sunday, when its illustrious son, former  Governor John Kayode Fayemi celebrated his 50th birthday.

    Fayemi, who turned 50 last Monday, marked the birthday in church on Sunday because of the prevailing political mood.

    Despite his tight schedule as All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council’s Director of Research and Strategy, he returned home to celebrate with his people.

    Guests started trooping into Fayemi’s Eyiyato Lodge, as early as 7am to welcome him into the golden age, before following him to St. Martin’s Catholic Church, Isan-Ekiti, for the thanksgiving service.

    The service featured hymns, Bible readings,  Gospel acclamation, profession of faith,  homily and Holy Communion session.

    The choir was at its best, dishing special numbers. The wardens ensured orderliness during the service.

    With the church filled to brim, those who couldn’t make it sat under the canopies provided outside.

    Fayemi sat with his wife, Bisi, siblings and other family members on the front row.

    The service was attended by former Ekiti State Governor, Adeniyi Adebayo; former Chief of Defence Staff Lt.-Gen. Alani Akinrinade; former Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; husband of the late Deputy governor Mr. Lanre Olayinka, federal and state lawmakers and many of those who served in the Fayemi administration.

    In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, the Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye, told the celebrator to always be grateful to God.

    Stating that God is not yet through with Fayemi, Rev. Ajakaye urged the ‘birthday boy’ to always do good to others whether or not they will pay him back.

    The cleric said Fayemi came from a good family and was trained to fear God, adding that this had rubbed off on his leadership style during his tenure.

    Leading in a Yoruba song: “Ise t’Olugbala ran mi, ajeye in o je”, which literally means, “I will carry out the assignment God has sent me to accomplish and live”, the bishop said Fayemi has fulfilled the assignment God gave him in Ekiti.

    The bishop extolled Mrs. Fayemi for being a good wife, mother, daughter-in-law, soulmate and pillar of support to her husband. He called on couples to celebrate one another.

    “When you (Dr. Fayemi) were in power, you said you should not be addressed as ‘Your Excellency’ until after you have finished your tenure but now, I believe I can  address you as ‘Your Excellency.’

    “You are from a quality family with a quality wife and a quality child. If you have a friend that cannot tell you the truth, that is not good.

    “Don’t relent in doing good whether people appreciate you or not. Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, continue to be yourself, your qualities and continue to maintain them.

    “Don’t be a professional politician but a statesman. Statesmen are better than all these professional politicians because most of them are chop-I-chop, ‘moneticians’, ‘pocketicians’ who are fond of saying ‘they are not allowing me to eat’.

    “Failure to tell ourselves the truth is one of the greatest problems of this generation. One of the prayers I have been praying is that may God shame the shameless. Never frustrate yourself, never frustrate others and never allow anything in life to frustrate you”.

    In his remarks, Fayemi said he was able to attend the service following the postponment of the elections.

    The former governor told the congregation that though he is the last child of his family, he is always the first to celebrate birthdays because he was born in February.

    Dr. Fayemi said: “The next person in the order of birthdays was born on March 4, the next person, March 25, the next person, March 28 and the next person April 23.

    “Ironically, our first born happens to be the last on the birthday roll as she was born in August and that is the way God wants it.

    “As small as I am, I enjoyed many privileges from my elderly siblings. My wife was born in June. I would uphold the scriptures that enjoin us to count the number of our days.

    “I am not somebody who loves partying and that is where my wife always stands for me and because of this, I have offended many people but I believe they have forgiven me.

    “I thank God for everything in life, there will always be storm in one’s life but the most important factor is for the storm not to blow you away.”

    Fayemi sought the forgiveness of those  he might have offended, saying: “I want to plead with all those that I have offended to forgive me. You will recall what happened on June 21 last year and June 22 when I conceded, some of our people were wondering why I did not allow them to pour into the streets to vent their anger.

    “But I said if indeed it is the will of the people, we will accept and I added that we should seek for the peace of our people. I will rather go for peace first and justice later because the interest of the people must supersede personal ambition.

    “The news of the audio clip (of the pre-election rigging plot) that was reported yesterday (Saturday) and today (Sunday) is not a surprise to me.

    “Those who denied that it is not their voice, they will hear the second part of the recording and they will keep quiet.

    “Justice belongs to God, God will vindicate us because we have worked hard for our people.

    “It should not be a surprise to anybody that such happened because what I said after the election was not different from what is unfolding now”.

    Reception followed at the Eyiyato Lodge where there was plenty to eat and drink.

    Fuji musician Adeniyi Akinola popularly known as “Sese Alhaji”thrilled the guests.

  • The Nation man finds love

    The Nation man finds love

    A member of staff of The Nation, Abiola Adenekan, got married to his heartrob, Olapeju Adekola, of Natural Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM), last Saturday at the  Folawiyo Bankole Memorial Methodist Church in Ikate, Surulere, Lagos, writes IBRAHIM ADAM.

    The family members of Adekola and Adenekan gathered last Saturday at the Folawiyo Bankole Memorial Methodist Church in Ikate, Surulere, Lagos  for their children’s wedding.

    The groom, Abiola Adenekan, arrived in a gold Nissan Pathfinder Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). He was all smiles in his black suit, white shirt, sky inner blue jacket and tie with a pair of black shoes.

    Soon, the bride, Olapeju joined him in a black Toyota Land Cruiser. She was a beauty to behold in her shiny cream flowery gown with a veil as she entered the church auditorium with her father, Rev. Johnson Adekola, who walked her to the altar and handed her to the cleric.

    The Circuit Minister, Rev. Olusegun Aiyedero, coordinated the service.

    It started with the church choir singing the processional hymn: “Praise to the Lord” after which the Presbyter, Rev. Oluyinka Akande, spoke. He said marriage is a sacred and life-long union between a man and woman who gives themselves to each other in love and trust.

    The choir sang another hymn:  “Blessed assurance”.

    Abiola unveiled Olapeju and both stood up to declare their wish for the marriage. Family and guests affirmed to the matrimony. After the vows, the couple exchanged rings and the cleric declared them man and wife. The couple consequently signed the marriage register.

    In a sermon, Rev. Akande charged the couple to love each other, constantly express love by word and action and depend on God for the sustainability of their relationship.

    The cleric urged them not to allow the prevailing economic situation to distract them.

    “Abiola, your home must be the home where the husband is the head and Olapeju, you should submit yourself to your husband. Don’t let your love to be based on what you get from the other. Constant expression of love encourages relationship and don’t allow selfishness or third party to separate you.

    “You must learn to pray together in all situations and don’t allow disagreements to also separate you. The best time to settle your misunderstanding is at bed where no man can disturb you both for the journey you started today needs strength, grace and power of God,” he said.

    Reception followed at Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) Sports Ground Hall, on Bode Thomas Road, Surulere.

    Olumide Olagoke popularly called MC DAY, anchored the event; Blessed Band entertained guests.

    The couple were ushered in amid cheers. They were the cynosure of all eyes. Everyone stood watching them as they entered.

    Mr Timothy Adelowo Adedokun, who chairmed the reception, enjoined the bride not to take things for granted. He advised the groom to treat his wife the way he would treat himself.

    “Let there be sincere love, respect honour, care, appreciation, understanding, tolerance and perseverance for each other because without the body there cannot be the head and without the head there cannot be the body.

    “Olapeju, you are now the Chief of Staff, which means nothing should be taken for granted and you must always watch your tongue,” he said.

    The couple cut their three-layer cake, fed each other and sealed it with kisses. They moved to the dance floor and were joined by  their parents and guests.

    Rev. Adekola, described his daughter as a faithful woman, saying he would miss her patience.

    The groom’s father, Pastor Julius Adenekan, described his son as a good boy.

    Olapeju, a  chemist described her husband as her king.

    “I’m so excited for he is my king, my crown, my best friend and confidant,” she said.

    Abiola, a graduate of History and Diplomatic Studies, described his wife as calm, supportive and caring.

    “She is my queen, and does not complain. I feel so happy and honoured for this day and I give God all the glory,” he said.

  • A Klassic affair

    A Klassic affair

    Members of the Lagos-based Klassic Club of Ikere-Ekiti celebrated their yearly Klassic Day at the Solab Hotel and Suites in Ikeja. It coincided with the 60th birthday of the club’s co-founder, and Chairman/Chief Executive of OAC Investments Ltd, Oyewole Adebero. IBRAHIM ADAM reports. 

    For members of the Klassic Club of Ikere-Ekiti, it was a day to remember. It was the  celebration the club’s yearly “Klassic Day” and birthday of its co -founder Oyewole Adebero, who turned 60.

    The Solab Hotel hall was tastefully decorated; chairs were set round tables covered in gold overlays.

    The event began with the arrival of the club’s President, Bunmi Ogundana. He was ushered in with music by Grace Praise Band. He danced for a while before heading to his seat.

    Mr Lanre Olalekan of Bond FM anchored for the event.

    He enjoined all to stand for the national and the club anthems. There was praise and worship session led by Lady Yinka Aluko.

    In a welcome address, Ogundana said the event was aimed at celebrate its members past and pioneer.

    He appealed to members to strive hard to move the club forward.

    “We are here to celebrate a very reliable pioneer member, who I personally call the ‘Otunba of Klassic Club’ and our past presidents for their contributions in sustaining the tempo of the club over the years.

    “Let us intensify more efforts to search for Ikere indigenes with impeccable characters that meet the club requirements,” He said.

    He was thankful to God for giving the club members peace despite the insecurity in the country.

    The ceremony continued with the presentation of gifts and awards to some members.

    Adeboro, who is Managing Partner Oyewole Adebero and Co (Chartered Accountants) was presented a large photograph of himself by Prince Lanke Adegboye. Members were honoured for their contribution towards the club.

    Adedapo Adebayo said: “Whatever I’ve done to qualify me for this, I promise to redouble my effort for the club,”

    Adebero described the day as special. He called on God to guide, teach and protect him:”It is a marvellous day, unprecedented, something I never expected, because, who am I? What have I done to deserve what am seeing today? God I thank you.

    “After God, my mother and then my wife because if not for my mother who sold her clothes, I might not be here or might be a local champion in my town. My wife is just a woman of substance, she made me,” he said.

    Rev.  Oyewole Ayeni urged the gathering to learn from the celebrator.

  • Prayer for Nigeria

    Prayer for Nigeria

    The Zawiyyat Ridwanullah Islamic Society of Nigeria (ZAWRAN) has celebrated Maulud Nabiyy (Prophet Muhammad’s birthday) in Ogudu, Lagos. It also held special prayers for peace in Nigeria, SAFIYYAH ABDUR-RAZAQ writes.

    The Zawiyyat Ridwanullah Islamic Society of Nigeria (ZAWRAN) held a two in one event last Sunday-the Maulud Nabiyy (Prophet Muhammad’s birthday) and a special prayer for Nigeria. It was held in Ogudu, Lagos.

    The event began with an opening prayer by Alhaji Bunyamin Arikewuyo, followed by recitation from the Qur’an by Samad Hameed. Pupils from ZAWRAN’s Arabic school, entertained guests with songs, extolling the virtues of Prophet Muhammad.

    ZAWRAN Chairman, Alhaji Bashir Tiamiyu, in his opening speech, said: “Our Maulud in the last six years has become a reference point for research, academic and spiritual development. I am confident that this year’s would not be an exception.

    “This year’s programme is very important because we would offer special prayers for the nation due to the fear and concern of Nigerians over the 2015 elections. I urge you all to participate in it because the forthcoming election is very vital to our existence as a country.”

    In a lecture, ZAWRAN chief Missioner, Sheikh AbdulRasak AbdulMalik said Allah  needs no security and has absolute powers.

    He told the audience that the Prophet has 10 rights over Muslims, but he mentioned only six. “The first right the Prophet has over us is to believe in him. He is more than a Prophet. He is a messenger with message for the whole world. Other rights he has are for us to love him, follow his footsteps, honour him by remembering him, protect his image and to pass on his message which is love and mercy for mankind.”

    Leading the prayer for Nigeria, Sheikh AbdulMalik said: “The essence of the prayer is that everybody needs peace of mind. No religious body or institution can function in a problem ridden society or an environment lacking in tranquillity.”

    Tiamiyu told The Nation that the celebration was to remember Prophet Muhammad.

    “The purpose of the Maulud celebration is for the upliftment of the Muslim Ummah spiritually and to remember Prophet Muhammad and to keep reminding our members of his virtues,” he said.