The Nation Newspaper

Category: Society

  • Farewell to a ‘virtuous woman’

    Farewell to a ‘virtuous woman’

    All roads led to the Cathedral of All Saints African Church, Ugwuavo, Arochukwu, Abia State for the funeral of Madam Gloria Ihuoma Ofo, reports NWANOSIKE ONU

    The sun shone brightly out of the azure sky, exerting mild discomfort on guests who had converged on the premises of the Cathedral of All Saints African Church, Ugwuavo, Arochukwu, Abia State.

    The crowd was so massive that it could be mistaken for a political gathering, were it not to be within a church premises.

    However, the huge crowd gathered to celebrate the life of the late Madam Gloria Ihuoma Ofo.

    Madam Ofo died on September 17.

    Though some wore mournful look, many were grateful to God to have met such a gem among humanity.

    The auditorium of Cathedral of All Saints could not contain guests as sympathisers stayed outside the auditorium; some wailing frenziedly.

    The Anglican Bishop of Isiala Ngwa, Rt. Rev Isaac Nwaobia who was the officiating minister, urged the gathering to emulate the exemplary life of the late Madam Ofo.

    The first lesson taken from Revelation 7 verses 9-17 was read by her sister-in-law, Justice Ifeoma Jombo-Ofo while the deceased’s sister Dame Allwell- Ibeh read the funeral oration.

    In his sermon, the Bishop said: “As we mourn the demise of this woman who was the epitome of womanhood and filled with the milk of human kindness, we shall bear in mind that sooner or later, with or without warning, whether we think of it or not, we shall all die. Every moment that passes brings us one step closer to our end, to the last moment that will carry us away. This is because the consciousness of death gives meaning to our lives, more so when uncertainty surrounds the day and time it would be.”

    Continuing, he said: “For us believers, death is the entrance to eternal life which is to be anticipated with a contented heart and to be prepared for in a conscious state by making one’s peace with God.

    “Even, with God’s promise of resurrection for those who did His will, death seems to be necessary for the attainment of higher life or perfect happiness which cannot be realised here on earth. Since it is an end to suffering and the beginning of a new life, we should rejoice that the late Madam Ofo has left in this sinful world the slough of imperfect happiness.”

    The Bishop noted that Madam Ofo lived a transparent life, even as he described her as a book for all to read. He added that the late Madam Ofo lived a life of patriotism, saying it has become extremely difficult to see many Nigerians who would do what she did in order to develop the society.

    He revealed that Madam returned to the country after her studies abroad to nurture librarianship at the University of Nigeria Nsukka for 38 years.

    “Through a dint of hard work, she had many promotions and rose to the position of Principal Librarian and was transferred to Enugu Campus Library in 1992. She rose to Principal Librarian in charge of Enugu Campus Library; a position she held until she retired from the services of the university in 2004 after 38 years of meritorious service.”

    People were in tears as part of Madam Ofo’s achievements were mentioned. From the low and mighty, encomiums poured in torrents.

    Dr Chioma Ezenyimulu, the deceased’s only child and Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Anambra State Governor on Primary Health Care described her mother as “caring, kind-hearted and honest.” Governor Willie Obiano, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Mr Primus Odili, said: “Being the vehicle of passage to eternal glory, death is an inescapable part of life that awaits every mortal sooner or later. Madam Ofo’s death has left a very huge vacuum in terms of the kind of life she lived which was worthy of emulation. Madam Ofo showed unquantifiable commitment to service of God and humanity, as well as the values she has bequeathed to the family and those lives she positively affected.”

    Chief Chris  Ezenyimulu, son-in-law to the deceased said his mother-in-law was “pleasantly a mother, grandmother and a friend to us all; a woman with a heart of gold, a woman of substance, a woman of virtue, a believer of self, a hard worker, a teacher, a woman with an immeasurable sense of hospitality and a helper of the downtrodden.”

    On the qualities that distinguished the late librarian, Justice Ifeoma Jombo-Ofo of Court of Appeal Makurdi Division noted that “Aunty Gloria was a light-hearted, humane and delightful lady in every ramification. There was just never a dull or boring moment when one encountered you. Everyone was somebody to you. You were a consummate lady with great compassion for the poor, needy and or less-privileged persons within your reach.”

    People later danced to the soul-lifting renditions of Christian songs by the Cathedral of All Saints Church Choir. Outside the church auditorium, the undertakers performed impressive acrobatic display while bearing the casket on their shoulders to the admiration of the guests.

    From the church, the people moved to her family compound at Atani in Arochukwu Aba State for interment.

    The officiating minister, Rev Nwaobia, performed the funeral rites.

    Thereafter, guests moved to Nkemka Jombo-Ofo’s country home at Nkemka Jombo-Ofo Avenue, Arochukwu for reception.

  • Her day with the elderly

    Her day with the elderly

    Senator Oluremi Tinubu (Lagos Central District) has feted the senior citizens in her constituency, reports PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU

    It was not Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s first dialogue with her Lagos Central District people. Neither was it the first time she would assist the senior citizens.

    But that Wednesday, it was the first time she would gather the young and the old in one place for a dialogue.

    It was to give account of her stewardship and also celebrate with them in the spirit of Yuletide.

    Venue was the Eko Hotel, Ocean View marquee, with a 1500 capacity. The hall was filled, with the young making room for the old to sit.

    Yet, scores of the elderly sat outside the hall, which Mrs Tinubu said was disheartening to her.

    Although she planned to fete 1300 old people, about 2000 came.

    The event coincided with her 13th Town Hall meeting with the people and the third edition of the Elderly People Assistance Scheme (ECAS).

    Dressed in a long and flowing traditional outfit, with an head-gear and ipele to match the colour of the day – green, white, red, blue – representing the colours of her party, the All Progressives’ Congress (APC), Mrs Tinubu on sighting the elderly who could not get seats in the hall, quickly went round apologising to them and ensuring they were comfortable.

    The event which started about 10am, was moderated by comedian Gbenga Adeyinka.

    Senator Tinubu said the gathering was one of mixed feelings for her considering the turnout of the elderly.

    She supervised activities at the town hall meeting, ensuring that the elderly were comfortable. She danced with them and hugged them.

    After the National Anthem came the opening prayer and an opening remark by APC state leader, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, who extolled the Senator for bringing together people of about 70 years and above in a society where the old are not considered important.

    In her address, Senator Tinubu  reassured the people of her love, saying the gesture was as a result of her upbringing.

    She said: “I was raised by an elderly father, my father had me when he was in his 60s so I am used to elderly wisdom and knowledge. So I grew up with that and I always felt that my father lived very well and was well taken care of.

    “I know that at your twilight years, for some elders, they are stricken with illness, so it’s not a fun time for the elders. Having lived abroad too I have seen the way elderly people are being taken care of, so coming to Nigeria, I started looking at what happens to me when I become old? Apart from having the money to take care of myself, what about those who don’t have? What happens to them at old age?

    “Looking at the situation of things in the country now, you will find great number of youths unemployed. How do you expect a youth that cannot take care of himself to take care of an elderly person?

    “It is quite difficult but when they have money coming in monthly, even if it is little, they can decide to at least give them a roof since they have little money, so it’s not going to be a big burden.

    “Those are the things I was thinking about, and thought that even if my bill does not scale through; looking at the situation with the austerity measures that is quite obvious right now, what can I do as an individual?”

    To her, offering the 1300 aged persons N10, 000 each, which she has done for the three editions of ECAS, was her little way of telling them to keep hope alive.

    “But government should take it a step further because this is just from one individual and I am also imploring people to also take care of people around them because we can’t really lump it on government, though it is government’s responsibility to take care of its people.

    “That is what democracy is about; we should put measures in place to take care of the unemployed, to take care of the elderly people, handicapped, and other segments like that. But the elderly ones and the handicapped are the most vulnerable. So those two areas, when we look at social security we should be able to attend to first. And then we start looking at the widows and the single mothers.

    “It will continue like that and the fire will catch on and as a Christian, I believe that, when you have a light, put it on the table so that it will be a light to other people. I am not showing off but trying to say that others can also help, even if it is just one person around you,” Senator Tinubu said party leaders, who spoke in Yoruba, sent their goodwill messages. Gifts were presented to the elderly including cash, as they danced and prayed for their benefactor.

    Appreciating the Senator for  showing concern for the elderly, the Baba Eto of Lagos, Chief Folarin Coker, described her as a rare, humble and helpful person.

    As the gift bags were being distributed, one-time Lagos Commissioner for Finance, Mr Wale Edun, gave the vote of thanks.

    In attendance were wife of Lagos Governor, Mrs Abimbola Fashola; Omoba Murphy Adetoro; former Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and culture, Alhaji Ibrahim Balogun.

  • A twin celebration

    A twin celebration

    The Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Segun Oni and his wife, Kemi, celebrated their birthday last Saturday at their Ifaki-Ekiti country home, reports ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA

    •Ex-Ekiti Governor Segun Oni, wife mark birthday

    For several hours, Ifaki-Ekiti, a community in Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State, throbbed with human and vehicular movements.

    Residents were excited that something big was in the offing and they trickled in ones and twos into the Methodist Cathedral, the seat of the Ifaki Diocese of Methodist Church of Nigeria in Ilogbe Quarters of the town.

    The impressive decoration of the church building and huge canopies installed at the back of the church said it all; something really ‘grand’ was about to happen.

    As the church service was about to start, automobiles of various makes and sizes screeched to a halt in the church premises with gorgeously dressed guests who made their way into the sanctuary.

    They all came to honour the Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Ekiti State, Chief Olusegun Adebayo Oni and his wife, Olukemi, last Saturday.

    As they were given the programme booklets, something attracted their interest and attention. It had to do with the number of years being celebrated.

    Oni, who is the Asiwaju of Ifaki, and his wife were celebrating 110th birthday anniversary; the ex-governor clocked 60 in September and his wife was 50 in October. It was a combination of the two figures that equalled 110 years.

    The birthday was delayed till December because of the ex-governor’s busy schedule of party assignments in September and October.

    The service, which was led by the Methodist Bishop of Ifaki Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sunday Aluko, featured songs, hymns, prayers and  melodious tunes by the church choir.

    They all bore eloquent testimony to the goodness of God to Oni and his wife who were full of praises to God.

    The ceremony was not short of eminent guests, who came from far and near to honour the Onis.

    It was a day political differences were set aside as politicians from various parties came together to honour the APC chieftain, who is an apostle of politics without bitterness.

    The event was a reunion of sorts for members of the Oni political structure and those  of other political parties.

    Delivering the sermon, Rev Anthony Olusegun Adegbulugbe, a professor of Energy Systems Planning and Management, congratulated Oni and his wife for reaching important milestones in their life. He urged them to thank God for the “uncommon mercies” they have received from God.

    He also described longevity as a “special grace” from God in an era when life expectancy is declining.

    Rev Adegbulugbe said such an occasion called for a sober reflection and an opportunity to dedicate themselves to the service of God and mankind.

    He stressed that every additional day one has the opportunity to spend should not be misused as whatever one does, whether negative or positive, will continue to speak after one’s demise.

    The cleric said Oni served the people of the state bringing positive change. He noted that  some legacies of his administration are still benefiting the masses, advising leaders to always exhibit the fear of God in whatever they do and to be mindful of the day of accountability.

    Rev Adegbulugbe enjoined Oni and his wife to always commit their ways into God’s hand as they embark on another phase in life.

    The APC National chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, described Oni as a selfless statesman who gave his all to the development of Ekiti in particular and Nigeria as a whole.

    Oni was full of thanks to God for sparing his life to witness the landmark of diamond jubilee, saying he would ever be grateful to God for the divine favour he has enjoyed.

    He promised to rededicate himself to the service of the people and a better Nigeria. Oni spoke of what motivated him to join politicians of like minds to rescue Nigeria from misrule and impunity.

    He urged Nigerians not to lose hope, urging them to use their votes to chase the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) out of power next year to usher in a Nigeria in which the citizenry will enjoy good governance and better standard of living.

    Guests were treated to sumptuous food and drinks.

    Odigie-Oyegun conducted the cutting of the cake by the two celebrators who were joined by other eminent guests, drawing a deafening ovation.

    They included Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose; former governors – Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo and D. Kayode Fayemi.

    There was a loud applause in the church when Fayose, Oni, Fayemi and Adebayo stood together and faced the congregation.

    Other guests were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was represented by his wife, Bola; former Ekiti Deputy Governors Chief Abiodun Aluko and Prof. Modupe Adelabu, and Erelu Bisi Fayemi.

    Others included former Ekiti Acting Governor Mr Tope Ademiluyi; Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Dr Adewale Omirin; House of Representatives member, Bimbo Daramola; members of the State House of Assembly and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman in Ekiti State, Chief Bola Olu-Ojo.

    Traditional rulers at the event include the Oloye of Oye-Ekiti, Oba Oluwole, the Olojudo of Ido-Ekiti, Oba Ilori Faboro; the Onisan of Isan-Ekiti, Oba Sunday Ajiboye; the Olufaki of Ifaki-Ekiti, Oba Gabriel Agbaje; the Olojudo of Ido-Ile, Oba Aderemi Obaleye;  the Obaloja of Oloje-Ekiti, Oba Peter Falade; the Owatapa of Itapa-Ekiti, Oba Makanjuola Ajaja and a host of community leaders.

  • ‘Don’ts’ of Gesticulation

    While concluding a class on effective communication one day, Mr. Ted asked his students to assess his regular body language while teaching in class. Since he had always encouraged his teenage students to be bold and analytical, he was sure he just offered himself a hot seat. However, he got more than he bargained for. Stella was the first to speak. She said, “Sir, you have a peculiar way of throwing up and catching your whiteboard marker when you teach, and it can be quite distracting.” “Yea”, Tayo concurred. “Sometimes it seems that the marker would drop yet you manage to catch it. Great skill!” “Come on guys”, said Mr. Ted, “you are supposed to be concentrating on my words.” “Yes, but your action is louder than your voice,” replied Stella.

    Ted was beginning to get a picture of himself from his audience. Of course, he knew that his actions should complement his speech, so how did he manage to break the rules he taught? Anyway, next was Siju who said Ted sometimes lean on the lectern in a way that made him look less confident. Ibrahim said Ted often button and unbutton his jacket several times while teaching so he appeared to be indecisive. The class reached a climax when Tayo stood as if to add to what others have said, but all he did was to scratch a spot behind his left ear several times and sat again. Ted thought Tayo had forgotten the point he wanted to make but when the entire class burst into laughter, he became curious. In response to his inquiry, all his students chorused, “You do that when we ask you a tough question and you are about to turn it into a homework for us because you don’t know the answer!”  Ted became speechless. No doubt that our audience watches us more than we know.

    Last week, we started to examine the importance of gesture in public speaking. We referred to Robert Krauss, Yihsiu Chen and Purnima Chawla’s statement that “all hand gestures are hand movements, but not all hand movements are gestures”. What this means is that a lot of times, our movements are meaningless and purposeless. We examined five rules of the use of gesticulation and they are: it should complement your speech; it should be purposeful; it should be natural; it should not be frequent; and it should become your speech.

    Today, we shall examine a few gestures to avoid. Of course, some of them may be useful if they are deliberately built into the speech for effect; otherwise, please avoid them.

    •Throwing or playing with objects: from the story above, we see that a speaker distracts his/her audience when playing with objects while speaking. A lot of times, our listeners need more than just our words to occupy their minds while we speak. So, they complement our speeches with the visuals available. With this understanding, a good speaker should make every movement natural and deliberate. Earlier in this column, we discussed how to use multimedia to sustain audience’s attention.

    •Leaning on the lectern: some public speakers lean on the lectern as though they need something to support their weight. The ability to stand upright is very essential in public speaking because it radiates self-confidence. You may lean on the lectern for illustration or effect if you find it necessary but it must not become a habit.

    •Scratching the head: generally, this connotes cluelessness. Please avoid it as much as possible or your audience will think you are not qualified enough to make the presentation.

    •Rocking or swaying: some people are quite uncomfortable with standing before a crowd and their legs tend to shake. In order to hide what they think is obvious to the crowd or to reduce their nervousness, they rock back and forth. This should be avoided.

    •Shuffling: every movement made while speaking must be defined. You must decide why you want to move and where you are moving to. Shuffling is sluggish and makes the speaker appear to be uncoordinated. It is also important to ascertain that your explanation of a particular point will last your movement from and to the lectern before you move. It is untidy to conclude your explanation away from the lectern and the audience has to wait while you walk back to check the next point.

    •Stroking your hair or arm: this kind of movement mostly depicts nervousness or self-consciousness and should be avoided. Your hands serve as pointers; wherever they move, people look. Hence, it is wise not to lead the audience to focus on the wrong thing.

    •Crossing your arms on your chest: this kind of movement makes the speaker appear to be defensive and detached from the audience. On the other hand, open hands show friendliness.

    •Putting your hand in your pocket: you may wonder, “What is wrong with that?” Well, it is not entirely wrong to put your hand in your pocket. For instance, you may do it when you make a bold statement or claim; it will create a good effect. However, your hand must not remain in your pocket. Putting your hands in your pocket for more than a few seconds may create the impression of arrogance or superiority.

  • Giving back to their alma mater

    Giving back to their alma mater

    The Lagos branch of the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association (GCUOBA) gathered at the Banquet Hall of the Lagos  Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja, last Sunday for its yearly luncheon. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI and SAFIYYAH ABDUR-RAZAQ were there

    Resplendent in their traditional and English attires, members of the Lagos branch of the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association (GCUOBA) thronged  the Banquet Hall of the Lagos Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja on Sunday for their yearly luncheon.

    On arrival, they exchanged pleasantries, while some women ushered them to the seats. The hall was decorated in the school’s colours of red and yellow. The tables and chairs were covered in the same colours. The high table had a yellow background and the red portrait of a ship with the school’s motto: ‘Keep the Ship Sailing’.

    The Managing Director, Angels Communications, Longley Evru’ anchored the event, which began with the rendition of the National Anthem and the College Anthem, following which guests were recognised.

    The President, GCUOBA Lagos Branch, Mr Gordons Egbedi, spoke on the branch’s achievements.  The branch, he said, had renovated libraries and laboratories in the school.

    Egbedi said the branch gave itself a task last year to acquire a permanent secretariat for the association, adding that he is proud to say that the branch is the only Old Students Association in Nigeria to have a permanent secretariat.

    Chairman on the occasion, former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, lauded the old boys for keeping the tradition of being together every year. He recalled his days as governor and the challenges he faced when he reformed the education sector and decided to return schools to the missionaries.

    Obi urged Nigerians to contribute to the development of the country and not expect government to do everything.

    “As Nigerians, we have no other country except this. We can all contribute in our local governments and states. Don’t question the government, question your council chairman on what he does with the money allocated to the council. Add to the country in the little way what you can,” he said.

    The keynote address was taken by the former Vice-Chancellor of Redeemers University in Ogun State, Professor Oyewale Tomori.

    The event continued with the launch of Mariner Magazine and ‘Your kind of Men’ The book captures the days of the 1959 set in Government College, Ughelli; their accomplishments and contributions to national development. It was reviewed by a former Director of the National Broadcasting Corporation, Mr Mac Memakpore. He hailed the members of the 1959 set for always being present in large numbers at GCUOBA gatherings.

    Chairman, Majoroh Partnership Ovo Charles Majoroh coordinated the launch to which many of the guests donated generously.

    In his remarks, the President-General and Chief Host, Chief Joseph Akpieyi, congratulated the Lagos branch on securing a secretariat for the association. He said the branch is doing everything it can to restore our lost glory; academically, sports wise as well as morals which were the hallmark of the founding fathers of the school.

    Awards were given to three old boys for their contributions to the school and the association. Founder/ Group Managing Director, Arco Petrochemical Engineering Group Mr Alfred Irabor Okoigun was conferred with the highest award. Others were Professor Itse Sagay (SAN) and Mr Gabriel Omoruyi.

    Okoigun expressed joy to have been singled out to receive the highest award in GCUOBA, Lagos Branch.

    He described the award as a healthy challenge, hoping to live up to it. He said his heart is in the school and he wants to continue to make effort to make it a greater institution, adding that he believes the award was given to him in recognition of the little efforts he has contributed to make things happen

    The current Head Boy of the school, Master Adesina Onyekachukwu, thanked the Old Boys for giving him the opportunity to be in their midst. He also appreciated them for  the renovation.

    The vote of thanks was given by the branch’s Vice President and Chairman, Luncheon Party Committee, Clement Djebah.

  • 50 hearty cheers to a princess

    50 hearty cheers to a princess

    Last Saturday, family members and friends joined Princess Florence Ibukunolu Atobatele at The Truth Christian Mission Inc., in Abule-Egba, Lagos to celebrate her 50th birthday. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

    The hall of the Truth Christian Mission Inc. in Abule Egba, Lagos, was tastefully decorated for the 50th birthday celebration of Princess Florence Ibukunolu Atobatele.

    Princess Atobatele wore a cream lace with purple head gear and matching shoes.

    Her husband, Prince Supo Atobatele, who was in white Danshiki and purple cap, ensured everything went well.

    The celebrator welcomed guests with hugs and waved to others.

    While guests waited for the commencement of the ceremony, many were seen cracking jokes with others engaging in private talks.

    There was no dull moment. The life band of The Musik-Gen Band thrilled the gathering with melodious songs.  It was, indeed, an unforgettable experience for guests.

    The event began with hymns.

    It was followed by an opening prayer by Pastor Israel Adesoye.

    Princess Atobatele was ushered to the podium amid dancing by family members and friends

    Their entry had some wondering if it was a wedding. She was welcomed by her husband who was already seated. He stood up to join them on the dancing floor. His dancing steps amazed everyone present.

    Masters of ceremony, Pastors Wale Omoloju and Kola Akinola ensured that everything went as planned.

    General Overseer, The Truth Christian Mission Inc. Rev Olatunde Shoyemi was the chairman of occasion. He also delivered a speech. He spoke on the topic ‘Do we have to celebrate birthday’.

    Rev Shoyemi said that celebrating birthday is not as sinful as it is being perceived in some quarters. Birthday, he said, is to appreciate God and take stock of one’s activities in life.

    “Celebrating birthday is not evil, because what they are doing is to give thanks to God for sparing their lives,” he said.

    Rev Shoyemi prayed for long life and prosperity for the celebrator.

    A group of entertainers, the Destiny Boys, added to the joy of the day with their brilliant musical performance. They thrilled everyone.

    Musical interludes continued as another musical group, Solution, came to the fore to entertain the guests with beautiful rendition.

    The Managing Director, The Nation, Mr Victor Ifijeh, supervised the cutting of the cake.

    He described the celebrator as marvellous and beautiful.

    “A beautiful celebrant about to cut a beautiful cake and it is marvellous in our eyes,” he said.

    He reminded the gathering the purpose for the gathering saying: “50 solid years is what we are celebrating here today”

    Ifijeh described the retirement of the celebrator from her nursing job before 60 as glorious and a thing of joy.

    “To know that you retired gloriously before 60 is a thing of joy; you have just begun; your star will shine from glory to glory.

    At the count of JESUS, the two layers gold cake was cut by the celebrator and her husband.

    All posed for pictures with the cake.

    A toast to the celebrator was made by the Special Assistant to the Director-General of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on Special Duties, Mr Sotin Babatunde.

    He described her as peace-loving and gentle woman. ‘For she is a jolly good fellow, so say all of us, hip hip hurray,’ he sang as the toast was made.

    The celebrator described the day as joyful and exciting. She thanked God for sparing her life.

    Prince Atobatele  wished her long life and prosperity as he described her as a perfect woman who loves peace.

  • Towards a better society

    Towards a better society

    NewsDirect, a weekly newspaper, has held its fourth anniversary lecture and awards at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, reports AMIDU ARIJE.

    It was a special gathering where group met to discuss the way out of the prevailing economic challenges and insurgency. Venue was the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.

    Former Aviation Minister Mr Femi Fani-Kayode and Managing Director of the Peugeot Automobile of Nigeria (PAN) Alhaji Ibrahim Boyi spoke on the occasion.

    Boyi spoke on Dwindling oil revenue: Role of Infrastructure in fast-tracking economic growth and sustenance of democracy. Fani-Kayode handled The rise of Islamic fundamentalist and the quest for ISIL State.

    Guests were well dressed. They registered in the lobby before entering the hall.

    The hall was simply decorated in white and blue satin.

    The Nigeria Police Band supplied music.

    It was a twin event – the fourth anniversary lecture and award – organised by a weekly journal, NewsDirect.

    Its Editor-in-Chief, Dr Samuel Ibiyemi, was clad in black suit with a matching tie and a pair of shoes.

    The rendition of the national anthem and prayer by the duo of Pastor Olumuyiwa Samson and Head of Service of Kastina State, Alhaji Muhammed Aliu, who represented  Governor, Ibrahim Shema, kickstarted the programme.

    Mr Temiloluwa Aawonbiogbon compered the event.

    Mallam Spencer, a comedian, spiced up the occasion with jokes that left everyone laughing.

    The police band sang praises of guests as they were invited to the dance floor.

    Delivering his speech, Boyi stressed the need for diversification of economy as a way to rescue the Nigeria from collapse.

    He enjoined government to invest more in agriculture and non-oil sub sector.

    Fani-Kayode attributed the rise in insurgency to government’s negligence.

    Fani-Kayode rallied support for President Goodluck Jonathan to phase out the Boko Haram insurgency.

    “We need to support the president because I believe he needs support now more than ever. Let’s forget the notion that he ought to be impeached, we don’t impeach president in the middle of civil war. I reject the call for the removal of security chiefs as some have suggested; we should completely reject the assertion that President Jonathan is a modern day Nebuchadnezzar, I think it is most in appropriate and unwise for people to try to undermine the leadership,” he said.

    The award ceremony followed. There were different categories of the award.

    Governor Shema went home with the Governor of the year award.

    Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, represented by Mrs Remi Onansanya, got the Best Health Project of the Year.

    Mr Jim Obazee went home with the Chief Executive of Distinction. In the banking sector,  Access Bank won the Best Bank of the Year, while Keystone Bank won Most Friendly Bank of Year.

    The chairman, Mr Ken Etete, the chairman of Century Group, represented by Mr Whyte Karibe went home with the Newsdirect Outstanding Supporter of the Year.

    The Energy Company of the Year was won by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited.

    The Top Most entertainment group entertained guests on the occasion.  The conviviality increases as this last.

    A closing remark was made by the chief host, Dr Ibiyemi. He thanked all that were present at the occasion and prayed for their safe trips back home.

    He said the occasion was to bring together Nigerians and appreciate their good work and to also celebrate the newspaper.

  • 67 cheers to a loving father

    67 cheers to a loving father

    A reception was held at Mende Town Hall in Maryland, Lagos, following a thanksgiving service at St Agnes Catholic Church, last Sunday, to celebrate the 67th birthday of Managing Partner, Tony May Foundation, Mr Andrew Otokhina, and the call to Bar of two of his children, Winifred and Anne. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    It was a day of thanksgiving for the Managing Partner, Tony May Foundation and Principal Partner, Otokhina and Co., Legal Practitioners, Mr Andrew Otokhina. He turned 67 last Sunday and also celebrated the call to Bar of two of his children, Winifred and Anne. The ceremony was held at Mende Town Hall in Maryland, Lagos following a thanksgiving service at St Agnes Catholic Church.

    It was a gathering of family and friends who turned out in choice traditional outfits. The celebrator and his wife wore purple and grey native.

    The hall was decorated in gold and purple with lights hung on the wall. The Managing Partner, Phoenix Core Ltd, Chijoke Ezeh, anchored the event.

    A retired engineer from Shell Oil, Sam Omobhude, chaired the occasion. He led the opening prayers.

    Mrs Titilayo Akinlanown (SAN) welcomed guests. She congratulated the celebrator on his birthday and welcomed the Winifred and Anne into the legal profession.

    Omobhude described the celebrator as a man of integrity and strong will. He also a generous man, he added.

    Omobhude supervised the cutting of the cake, which was cut after the spell of JESUS.

    One of the lawyers celebrating their call into bar, Winifred, said she was happy for the achievement. She described her father as caring and wonderful.

    “He has been always there and I wish him long life. He is very proud of his children, saying he is always there for them.

    A lawyer, Odion Esezoobor, the Managing Partner of J. Odion Esezoobor, a law firm delivered a lecture. He spoke on the topic, “Immunity or impurity”.

    He urged lawyers, police and our leaders among other professions to ensure purity in whatever they do.

    He said the problem of Nigeria was because some people were being as they were above the law, adding, we can’t go far if this continues.

    He said impurity takes place at all levels of government, noting that the law of impurity in Nigeria has to be reviewed.

    Executive Director, Genotype Foundation, Doris Gbemiloye, said the celebrator is a man that has compassion for the people.

    She described him as a very gentle man, soft spoken. He knows what he wants and what he is doing; he goes for what he wants and he is a man of principle, she added.

    The celebrator said he felt and gave thanks to God because his life journey had been wonderful. He said he aspired for long life to do charity.

    His wife, Mrs Edith, described her husband as good, caring and a loving husband that words are not enough to qualify him. She said she wished him long life, prosperity, privileged to enjoy the fruit, of his labour and all the good things he desires.

    “He is a supportive man even in the midst of troubles in the family, he gives me and the children courage at all times,” she said.

  • ‘That little girl of yesterday’

    ‘That little girl of yesterday’

    A worker with Nigerian Breweries (NB), Plc, Ifedapo Khadijah, got married to  a civil servant, Abdul-Gafaar Eniola Durosinmi-Etti in Lagos last Sunday. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

    The Lekki Central Mosque looked majestic on the horizon. Last Sunday Khadijah Ifedayo, who works with the Nigerian Breweries (NB) Plc, and Abdul-Gafaar Eniola Durosinmi-Etti, a Civil Servant, tied the nuptial knot there.

    Khadijah looked charming in her snow white bridal gown. She was surrounded by curvy and pretty damsels. Her colleagues in Nigerian Breweries, where she is a manager in the Corporate Affairs Department, and friends waited on her.

    Abdul-Gafaar, was in a white fitted suit with black. He was supported by his friends and colleagues from Ogun State, where he works. It was a day to remember for the couple as they said: ‘I do’ to each other.

    They met in February, last year through a mutual friend, who was convinced they were a perfect match. Before long, the friendship blossomed into love.

    The auspicious event drew people from far and wide. There was a deluge of sedans and Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) parked on the adjoining streets to the mosque. The mosque was impeccably clean. Its tiled floors shone as guests, who alighted from their vehicles, stepped on it after taking off their shoes.

    Many guests were in a uniform yellow lace  outfit.  The women, covered their heads with matching headgears. Well-lit chandeliers dangled from the centre of the mosque’s ceiling.

    At noon, the programme started with the couple making their way to the front of the mosque. The officiating imams received them, and read portions of the Holy Quran.

    Some of the dignitaries present were called out as witnesses and asked to advise the couple. First was Kano State Governor  Rabi’u  Kwankwaso, who said he has known the bride’s father since 1992 as an upright man. He wished the couple a blissful marital life filled with Allah’s blessing.

    Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice,  Prince Bola Ajibola (SAN), presented them with a copy of the Quran, a gift, which according to him, will lead them to a good life.

    Former Federal Commissioner for Works and National President of Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Alhaji Femi Okunnu (SAN),  wished them a fruitful marriage.

    In a brief lecture, Lekki Central Mosque Chief Imam Alhaji Ridwan Jamiu counselled the couple on the importance of tolerating each other to be able to settle their differences.

    He implored the groom to take good care of his wife and protect his family to guarantee success.

    Following their parents’ consent, Khadijah and Abdul-Gafaar were pronounced man and wife and presented with their wedding certificate.

    The bride, a biochemistry graduate of Covenant University, Otta, Ogun State has an MBA in global business from the United Kingdom. She told The Nation that the best part of her man is his free and caring nature.

    “There is just something about him. He is very sweet and loves God like none I have ever seen,” she said.

    According to her, he proposed in a special way by inviting her friends over for dinner. “When the time came, he was shy and requested them to stay outside while he proposed,” she added.

    “I did accept and I’m so glad this day has come,” Khadijah said.

    The bride’s father, Adesina Adebgenro recalled how his friends made jest of him while he changed his baby’s napkins and diapers at a tender age in the higher institution.

    “When I had her, I was still schooling and working. It’s amazing that that baby they taunted me for is now a graduate with her first and second degrees. Today, I can say I am a proud father of a wonderful lady,” he said.

    On what endeared his son-in-law to him, he said: “After observing him and knowing he is well brought up and has embraced Islam with a lot of knowledge of the Quran with the fear of God, I became optimistic that they will make a successful marriage.”

    Adegbenro said he will miss those little things she does that gladden his heart. He advised the couple to live with the fear of God and be good friends.

    It was non-stop partying and celebration at the reception held at the Ark Events Centre, Lekki.

    Also in attendance was wife of Lagos State governor Dame Abimbola Fashola and Senator Gbenga Ashafa among others.

  • Reward for service, excellence

    Reward for service, excellence

    The 19th edition of the Pearl Awards Nigeria was held on Sunday at the Grand Ball Room of the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    The Pearl Awards is  a gathering of business tycoons. This year, they gathered for the 19th edition at the Grand Ball Room of Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Guests were in suit and bow tie, evening gown and native attire.

    They beamed with smiles, exchanging pleasantries and posing for photographs on the red carpet before moving into the hall for the event.

    A bevy of pretty, tall and fair women decked in coffee brown net dress, lined in gold, welcomed guests.

    The hall was decorated in gold and coffee brown with lights. Chairs were covered in the same colours. There were lots to eat and drink

    The event started with the national anthem. The duo of Bimbo Akintola and Gbenga Adeyinka were the comperes.

    The President, Pearl Awards Nigeria, Mr Tayo Orekoya welcomed guests.

    He said the gathering was to celebrate the titanic quest for corporate excellence in the Nigerian capital market and also to bring to the front line the remarkable achievements of quoted companies in the year under consideration who have served and contributed to the growth of the capital market in the country.

    He said one of the main objectives of the awards is to engender healthy competitiveness among quoted companies with the view of enhancing their performance, making them globally competitive and enhancing shareholders wealth.

    He said awards like this will go a long way to stimulate excellence performance by quoted companies. He congratulated the awardees for the outstanding performances for which they are being rewarded and urged them to sustain and improve on the past performance.

    He said the night will also feature the public presentation of the 2015 edition of the Nigerian Stock Market Annual (NSMA), an annual publication of Pearl awards Nigeria, which incorporates the awards practice, criteria, facts and figures of how the winning companies emerged.

    A popular singer, Yinka Davies led the Pearl Awards theme song.

    In his opening remarks, the chairman on the occasion, Chairman CFAO Nigeria Plc, Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas said he was proud to be at the gathering. He said that the ideal for which the award was set up is laudable and credible, adding that is why it has lasted long.

    He said Nigeria must be great and urged the gathering to tell the truth always.

    “We have people in this country who have the abilities and what it takes to make the country great but we are not doing the right things; those of us that know these dishonest people are not saying anything about it, we are afraid to say the truth. We know people who are not good enough for where they are, but we cannot say the truth,” he said.

    He lamented that only 10 percent of the population of the country can be described as rich people.

    “When you are in a position of honour please tell the truth, God is watching; say it as you see it, then you will correct most of the things in this country and bring an end to corruption,” he said.

    Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission, (SEC) Arunma Oteh, in a goodwill message, said one of the things we do not do in Nigeria is to celebrate excellence, adding: “it is important that we do so.” She said it is good to have an initiative like Pearl Awards to promote hard work and the best of Nigeria based on facts and verifiable data.

    She said Pearl Awards had done a great service to the nation in the last 19 years, adding that its achievement will continue to encourage our leaders, journalists and companies to influence the society.

    “I’m glad that this award takes different kinds of indicators so that we can celebrate market excellence. The launch of the Annual is also an important initiative because knowledge is very crucial as it will allow many more Nigerians to be familiar with the capital market,” she said.

    Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission, Ghana, Mr Adu Anane Antwi, represented by his deputy, Mr Alexandra Williams, congratulated all the award winners and the nominees. He applauded Pearl Awards for its good job.

    Representative of Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr Adebiyi Mabadeje said he was impressed by the programme. He said that the state is always ready to associate with anything that celebrates merit.

    Another known artiste, a singer, Lara George entertained guests with songs.

    The Nigerian Stock Market Annual (NSMA) was presented by Chief Okoya-Thomas, who is the Asoju Oba of Lagos.

    It was reviewed by the Chief Executive Officer, RTC Advisory, Mr Opeyemi Agbaje. Mr Orekoya is the publisher/Editor-in-chief. The annual was edited by Festus Odume and forword by the Chief Judge of the Investments and Securities Tribunal (IST), Dr Ngozi Chianakwalam.

    Patrick Doyle anchored the launching of the annual

    Market excellence awards and secretarial leadership awards were given to 22 companies who emerged winners from the list of 66 nominees. Among the winners are Arbico Plc; Roads Nigeria Plc; Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc; Dangote cement Plc; UAC of Nigeria Plc; PC Cussons Nigeria Plc; University press Plc and Nigerian Breweries Plc.

    The high point of the event which most companies look forward to was ‘who will be the overall winner of the year 2014 Pearl awards Nigeria’.

    Guests were expectant and applauded as the emcee announced Forte Oil Plc as the overall winner.

    Representing the company, Head brand and corporate communications, Odion Aleobua walked tall to the stage to receive the award.

    Dr Okoya-Thomas presented the award to him, assisted by Mr Orekoya and other guests.

    They all took photographs after the presentation.

    Aleobua described the award as a charge to do more.

    “We just don’t want to be winners at the podium like this we want to be winners at our retail station, we want to have integrity and we want to have shareholders. We promise that our company will be one where shareholders value creation will be top of our objectives,” he said.

    Special honorary awards were also given to some individuals. A fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Bankers, Dr Joseph Sanusi was given Pearl Special Recognition award for Capital Market Development; Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dangote Cement Plc, Devakumar Edwin was given 2014 Pearl Most Outstanding CEO of the Year award; Assistant business editor, Capital market, Vanguard, Peter Egwuatu  got 2014 Pearl Capital Market Journalist of the Year award and ThisDay newspaper got the 2014 media award for capital market reporting.

    Just Dance Entertainment thrilled the guests with dance to sound track.