The Nation Newspaper

Category: Society

  • Change of baton at Lions Club

    Change of baton at Lions Club

    The Okota Lions Club has installed Funke Faderera Adekoya as its 21st president at the Century Hotel, Okota, Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE and BASIRAT BRAIMAH were there.

    It was a twin celebration; the investiture of Lion Funke Faderera Adekoya as the 21st president of the Okota Lions Club and her 50th birthday thanksgiving.

    The fittings in the hall were beautiful. Members, guests and their family members were excited. They all appeared in gorgeous attires.

    With badges on their chests, members of the club could easily be identified. Most women dressed in corporate wears while men wore the popular Atiku attire with caps. They exchanged pleasantries.

    As they waited for the commencement of the investiture, a disk jockey (DJ) dished out music to the delight of all; some stood to dance while many shook their heads to the rhythms of the music.

    The ceremony started with a prayer. The Lion anthem followed.

    Guests were invited to the high table. The occasion was chaired by Mrs Funmi Sanusi.

    When the celebrator, Adekoya, was invited to the high table, she was led in by  members who danced to Michael Jackson’s song “We are the one”.

    Lion International Club District 404B-1 Governor Lion Abiola Odeyemi was the chief host.

    The Matron, Vocational Training Institute, Oshodi, Dr Victoria Aregbe, was the guest lecturer. She spoke on: “Our sight, our light”. She emphasised the importance of sight as she urged all to take care of it.  She shed more light on how to prevent blindness.

    In her valedictory speech, the outgoing president of the club, Lion Folashade Joseph, thanked God and members for their support and cooperation during her tenure. She highlighted some of her achievements which included best club award; best president award; best 10 clubs award and a letter of appreciation from the International President of the club, Barry Palmer, among others.

    “Another year has passed with great achievements in the history of our club. We had a very busy and eventful year, focusing on youth and children empowerment, aiding the blind and the visually impaired, widows’ empowerment, and reading action programmes among others. All these earned us awards at the International  and District levels,” she said.

    Joseph urged her fellow Lions to stay off criticisms and support incoming president Faderera Adekoya.

    In appreciation of their  support, Lion Joseph presented awards to some members of the club and non members for their contributions to the success of her administration.

    Lion Odeyemi conducted the investiture. Before the installation of Lion Adekoya, Lion Odeyemi sought the permission of her husband and children for the job, after  which Lion Adekoya was installed.

    All cheered and applauded the new president. Odeyemi took her round the tables to officially present her to guests and members of the club.  She acknowledged cheers from guests.

    Lion Odeyemi, who dressed in a suit congratulated the new president and members, urging them to uphold the club’s code of ethics at all time. He said his theme for the year is: “Service is caring, strengthen the pride”. With smiles, he wished the members a successful service year.

    In her acceptance speech, Lion Adekoya described the position as another learning stage in her life and accepted to be the president with deepest humility and a true feeling for selfless service.

    “Right from inception, I have always loved to reach out to people. My core project is on prevention of sight, I don’t believe in jam-packing things but if I can with God’s help give five to 10 patients back their sight, then I will say am fulfilled,” she said.

    The celebrator’s husband, Superior Evangelist Sesan Adekoya, described her as a hardworking woman who seeks to promote human welfare. He said it gladdens his heart knowing a number of her dreams are being fulfilled.

    She cut her one-layer gold and white cake with her family, club members and other guests amidst clicking cameras.

    Some giggled at private jokes while others ate silently as the ceremony lasted.

    After the vote of thanks, people joined the celebrator on the dance floor where they were till light faded.

  • Ways to move

    Les Brown, one of the world’s most renowned motivational speakers said, “With every technology that is created, somebody loses his job. As a speaker, however, you have an energy signature. There is an experience you can create that cannot be simulated by technology, which makes your life recession-proof.” Les is right. There is something unique about public speaking that projects your personality in a way technology cannot replicate. No two public speakers are the same. There is always something special about each one that makes it difficult for you to determine who is better.

    What stands a public speaker out from the crowd? It is the energy he/she projects while speaking. Two speakers may deliver a similar speech but they will surely display different levels of energy. As good as energy is, however, a lot of people have a big problem channeling it. When you have a lot of energy and you are excited about your topic, there is the tendency to make uncoordinated moves. Whereas when you stand before your audience, you are considered as a standard for “appropriateness”. Hence, uncoordinated steps or gesticulations may be distracting.

    A lot of people don’t know what to do with their hands while speaking. Since they have a lot of energy, they simply throw their hands in every direction, thinking that would convince the audience. Unfortunately, the audience is likely to be more distracted than convinced. According to Robert Krauss, Yihsiu Chen and Purnima Chawla, “all hand gestures are hand movements, but not all hand movements are gestures”. This they stated in their article titled, “Nonverbal Behaviour and Nonverbal Communication: What do Conversational Hand Gestures Tell Us?”. Moving our hands does not mean we are communicating.

    In the next few weeks by the grace of God, we shall be exploring the use of gestures in public speaking. Today, let’s begin with the rules of gesticulation:

    • It should complement your speech: movement of hands and body should help you to communicate better. It should help to emphasize your points. When gestures become too elaborate, they become the centre of attraction for your audience. The worst part of it is, you may be unaware of your distracting movement. Only with the exception of deliberate acts, a speaker should make the audience concentrate more on the words being spoken than hand movements.

    • It should be purposeful: it is important to define your movement. Since your movement can either aid or hinder your presentation, it is advisable to plan it. Purposeless movements are movements that don’t add to your message. Such movements may include toying with your tie or hair, spinning a bunch of keys with your finger, tapping on the podium, toying with a button on your dress, etc.   It is, no doubt, a tough task to get rid of these movements. This is where practice becomes invaluable. In this column, we have always emphasized the role of practice in the success of any speaker. During your practice, pay attention to your gestures and ensure that each one is for a purpose. This does not mean that you should stand like a robot and make mechanical moves. It only means that meaningless gesture can water down the effect of your speech.

    • It should be natural: the more natural your gestures are, the more graceful you will appear. One of the numerous ways to make your gestures natural is to enternalise your message such that it flows naturally out of you. As you deliver your speech, you will find yourself moving your hands to support your points.

    • It should not be frequent: when you move your hands too frequently, your audience may start to pay special attention to them. You don’t need to illustrate every word with your hand or you might as well keep quiet and dramatize. I believe holding the microphone helps some people to gesticulate less, though I have seen a speaker who gesticulated so much while holding the microphone that I did not hear much of what he said. Just as punctuations come at strategic points in a sentence to make it meaningful, gesticulations should also punctuate speeches.

    • It should become the speech: when you stand before people, you don’t want any part of you to stand out in a peculiar way. You really don’t want you hair, tie, dress or shoe to stand out. If any single thing stands out about you, it will be the focus of your audience. You must ensure that everything about you blends into a perfect package so that people can appreciate you in totality. Likewise, your gesticulation should not become conspicuous. Let your gesticulation become part of your speech and not another presentation on its own. When there is a perfect blend, people will not notice the difference between your speech and your movements.

  • Moving forward in His Vineyard

    Moving forward in His Vineyard

    With their Bibles and hymn books, members of the Diocese of Lagos West (Anglican Communion) gathered at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral to celebrate their 15th anniversary, writes AMIDU ARIJE

    Armed with their Bibles, the clergymen, in white robs moved gingerly into the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral for what a layman would take for a show. But it was not.

    A routine church service? No! It was the 15th anniversary of the Diocese of Lagos West (Anglican Communion). The clergymen came in their hundreds, with their wives and laymen from all the churches in the diocese. On the diocesan field were many vehicles, including church buses. The Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev James Olusola Odedeji, wore the mitre and his full robe with the crosier on his left hand.  He radiated joy all day. The activities marking the 15th anniversary of the diocese began with a crusade titled three-day End of the Year Annual Triumphant Convention Crusade” The theme was “Going Forward.”

    The processional hymn was taken as the Bishop and other clergymen gained entrance into the church.

    The choirs ensured there was no dull moment for the commencement of the ceremony till the end of it.   The reading of the Old Testament from Malachi 2:1-16 was taken by Pheola Caulcrick while Rev Kunle Oluwadimite took the Gospel Luke 17:20-37. All followed with applauds.

    At intervals, the diocesan choir dished out songs to increase the conviviality of the day. This further showed that it was not the usual Sunday service.  Everyone was relaxed and in ceremonial mood all through.

    The Hymn Church Hymnal 623 that which was led by the choirs set the tone. It was really exciting.

    A sermon was delivered by the Archbishop of Kaduna Province and Bishop of Kebbi Diocese, Most Rev Edmund Akanya.

    Rev Akanya urged Christians to remain faithful to the Lord.

    He reminded the congregation of how God saved the children of Israel form their enemies and urged them to remain focused and hopeful of God’s wonders in their lives.  Akanya quoted Joel 2:23-27 to back up his points.

    After delivering the sermon, the congregation shouted the praises of God and clapped to appreciate the witty sermon of the clergy man.

    The Nicene Creed and intercession followed with offertory Hymns from Ch 679, 559 and 566.

    Rev Odedeji who anchored the communion session took off his green regalia and the mitre as he consecrated the bread. He thereafter asked all members for the Holy Communion. It was orderly done as the ushers ensured that the clergymen were first to receive the communion followed by other members of the Diocese. They all moved down the altar to be served the bread and the wine. There was solemn music while this lasted.

    A post Communion prayer was made conducted by the Bishop. The prayer ‘As our Saviour taught us, so we pray’ was said by all.

    Then followed thanksgiving service based conducted on zonal basis; all of the zones that make up the Diocese presented their offerings at the altar amidst pomp. After all the zones had presented their offerings, Bishop Odedeji and his were not left out of the thanksgiving and the entire Church rose to give honour to their leader. It was like a dancing competition while the thanksgiving service lasted.

    After this, the Bishop announced the appointment of new officers to take care of some departments in the diocese. Among the appointees were Diocesan Chaplain for the Women Organisations, Ven Sunday Ogini, Ven Emeka Nwosu in charge of visit to hospitals and prisons.

    In his vote of thanks, Rev Odedeji thanked God and members of the church for their unflinching supports towards the success of the event.

    Having taken the closing prayer and Episcopal blessing, the Diocesan anthem was taken as the curtain of the programme was drawn with the Bishop leading the recession of clergymen out of the church.

    Why did the diocese consider it necessary to roll out the drums in celebration? Rev Odedeji said for 15 years the Diocese, had been from strength to strength. He said the Diocese had grown numerically.

    “It has been wholesome, God has used my predecessor to double the strength of the diocese; numerically, we have expanded. We started with about 100 churches, today we have more than 300 even after two new Dioceses had been created from this  and we are still very strong and formidable,” he said.

    The point had earlier been made by the Preacher, Rev. Akanya,who observed that he accepted to come to participate in the celebration because of the unique place of the Diocese in the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion). He pointed out that the Diocese has since overtaken much older ones and is a pride of all Anglicans in Nigeria.

  • Bouquet for God’s ‘horseman’

    Bouquet for God’s ‘horseman’

     The funeral of the founder of the Gospel Apostolic Church (GAC), Rev. Samuel Akinbode Sadela, climaxed with a reception at the Police College Ground in Ikeja, Lagos, report OMOLARA OGUNWALE reports.

    The gathering was to celebrate a life well-spent. Guests turned out in a uniform ankara, with the deceased’s portrait.

    The deceased, many intoned, lived a fulfilled life.

    It was the funeral of the founder, Gospel Apostolic Church (GAC), Rev Samuel Akinbode Sadela, who died on August 24. He was 114.

    Eminent personalities, among others, filled the Police College Ground in Ikeja, Lagos State, the venue of the event. They came to pay their last respect to the late man of God.

    The week-long event featured a service of songs, prayers, night of tributes, lying in state and wake, at the church headquarters in Soluyi, Gbagada, Lagos State.

    It climaxed with the funeral, which started about 09:40 am at the Police College Ground, Ikeja.

    There were about six tents on the field. They were decorated with wine and brown fabrics. Chairs were set around tables which had satin overlays with flower vases.

    There were flat screens at strategic points to relay the event.

    Security officials were there in large numbers.

    The pall bearers, who brought the black and gold casket into the field,  were preceded by three women carrying colourful flowers. The brigade trailed them, with their trumpets and drums. Family members were also in the procession.

    The casket was placed under a tent decorated in white with flowers and white lamps placed around it.

    The seats were labelled for easy identification by guests.

    Widow, Christiana, his two children, Mrs Abosede Adewunmi and Pastor Nathaniel Sadela with their spouses clad in cream lace with brown Aso Oke as head gear, Ipele and cap.

    As the national flag was raised by one of the pall bearers, guests stood to recite the anthem. Part of the casket was later opened revealing deceased head. He was dressed in white priest attire and a small white cap with gold design round the edges. Guests took turns to take a glance at the body.

    The entry of  founder of Living Faith Church, aka, Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, his wife Faith and their entourage drew cheers from guests.

    The District Overseer of Lagos State GAC, Pastor Solomon Adegbete Gbadebo said the opening prayer and Rev. Olutola  Ayanfe took the Bible reading from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. This was followed by full Orchestra from the church choir.

    In his sermon, Bishop Oyedepo spoke on “old age”.

    He said old age is something everyone wishes and longs for, adding that, it is fruitfulness from God. He said: “Old age is good and many people in the Bible lived this long and above. Old age is a covenant for every good child of God and it is God’s grace for everyone to live long,” he said.

    He told the gathering that it is good to live long but at the same time, it requires a lot; “take note of these things that gives long life. Baba never spoke badly against anyone, but rather, he always blesses.

    “He blesses people with old age. Whatever you give out, you will not lack, but, that which you hold back, you will lack.  The power of life and death is in the tongue, keep your tongues from speaking evil, depart from violence and seek peace”.

    The Vice Rector of the Bible College, Pastor Sam Daisi Olisa read the biography of Rev Sadela.

    The service ended with songs by the choir. They sang, among others, the deceased’s favourite song “Baba se te mi lowo”.

    Rev Sadela’s remains were buried at the church headquarters in Soluyi, Gbagada, Lagos State. It was witnessed by ministers and some family members.

    Guest were entertained at the reception held at the Police College. On the band stand were Pastor Joseph Adebayo Adelakun, aka Ayewa International;  and Evangelist Ebenezer Obey.

    Bishop Oyedepo and his wife, Faith danced to Obey’s music. Family members and guests  sprayed new naira notes.

    Mrs Adewunmi described her father as tolerant, jovial, loving and a man that takes everyone as his child without hesitating.

    “Baba was faithful and sensitive; he does not value material things, he jokes a lot, tells us stories, he was very generous, at times I ask him and he said: ‘We came into the world with nothing, so we will leave with nothing: I learnt a lot from him, his legacy, humility and love. I knew he was going to die because he was conscious about rapture, he once told me that rapture will come very early on a Sunday morning so am not surprised he died on Sunday as early as 04:30am,” she said.

    Pastor Sadela described his father as one of the horsemen and chariots of Christendom, a man of faith, courage and integrity.

    “I learnt from him to be heavenly conscious, hold on to the faith and word of God, to be honest, diligent and never to hold grudge against anyone. We never had any issue of carrying Baba about because he was so strong during his days,” he said.

    The widow thanked God for the opportunity He gave her to meet her husband.

    She said: “He was my angel and I thank God for sending Rev. Sadela to me”.

    In attendance were: Mrs Abimbola Akeredolu, representative of Ogun State Governor; former  Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning, Ogun State, Dr Oladiran Kukoyi; Senator Bode Olajumoke,  Olori Labisi Tejuoso; Olori Yetunde Tejuoso; Prince Segun Awoyefa; Prince Lemmy Akinsoji (Asoju Oba) and Prince Tajudeen Olukosi (Baale Aiyedene) representing Oba Alamu Onikosi Oba of Ikosi; Oodra of Ife,  Oluwasegun Arasanmi Erebese and  Olasode Waasin of Ilare Quarter; wife of the Commandant-General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Mrs Aderonke Abolurin; General Overseer of CCAA, Bishop Gabriel Omodeinde; General Overseer, New Covenant Faith Evangelical Mission (NCFEM), Rev Adekoya Stellla Olabisi and  Grace Apostle Adebayo Abiola of Aladura International Cherubim and Seraphim Church.

  • Harvest of restoration

    Harvest of restoration

    God’s faithfulness, protection and provision were the theme of the celebration last Sunday at the second adult harvest of Restoration Parish, Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide in Akute, Ogun State, writes ibrahim adam

    It was with joy, shouts of Halleluyah and praises to God that members of Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide, Restoration Parish in Akute, Ogun State celebrated its second Adoption Service (Adult Harvest) last Sunday.

    Adorned with prayer gowns, according to various bands of the 50-year-old church, members, in unison, thanked God for the love, protection, provision and blessing He showered on them since the first Adoption Service of the parish was celebrated on November 24, last year.

    The parish was dedicated on February 2, 2013.

    In his goodwill message to the Adoption Service, the Primate, Founder, Prophet and Supreme Head of Motailatu Organisation Worldwide, Archbishop Isaiah Akinadewo, urged members to always fear God in their conduct and interaction with fellow human beings.

    Quoting from Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 1:7 and Proverbs 9:10, the Primate told the congregation that nothing gets done unless God approves it and it is only people who fear Him who can get His favour.

    The auditorium was filled to capacity as invited guests joined the members to celebrate God’s faithfulness.

    Senior Superintendent Gabriel Akinadewo presided.

    Members of the harvest committee, led by the chairman, Senior Apostle Godfrey Dottie, his deputy, Prophet Moses Adefioye, the chairlady, Mother-in-Israel Esther Adeniji and the secretary, Moses Omafuagbarho, were wonderful as they welcomed all guests and ensured that they had a good time in the presence of the Lord.

    The choristers rendered melodious songs and members of the Army of Salvation displayed their skills to the admiration of all.

    Special gifts were presented to winners of the Bible quiz. They are Feyisetan Sode, Elizabeth Idowu and Deborah Olateju. The gifts were presented by the Head of Procurement, Dangote Group, Adeolu Masolanu, Senior Apostle Edward Adebiyi and Mother-in-Israel Angelina Adesusi.

    Prophet Segun Oduneye, in a special message, urged the members to give to God what is satisfactory.

    “God will respect you if you bring to Him qualitative offerings. You don’t grumble when you give to God because what you have was given to you by the same God. So, it is in your interest to give to Him because when you do that, He will bless you the more,” he said.

    He also revealed that the love he saw in the church is worthy of emulation by other Christians.

    Senior Evangelist Oluwatoyin Ajayi urged Christians to always resist the devil by obeying God’s instructions.

    Highlight of the occasion was the launch of the 2015 ‘Saint Adekahunsi’ Almanac.

  • A decade of blessings

    A decade of blessings

    The Catholic Church of the Transfiguration in Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lagos, has celebrated its 10th anniversary, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO.

    Each time one celebrates an anniversary, it is a time to rejoice and thank God for the journey thus far. It is also a time to count blessings and be filled with praises and adulation to God for making that possible”.

    These were the words of Rev. Fr. Michael Okonkwo,  the  Parish Priest of The Catholic Church  of the Transfiguration in Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lagos, when the parishioners rolled out the drum to celebrate  the church’s 10th anniversary.

    The anniversary may have gone, but it was a day to remember for the guests and parishioners who graced the occasion.

    It was a well-attended ceremony. Starting with the red carpet, though a religious affair, the event could be mistaken for an Oscar night as many guests turned out in breath-taking evening gowns.

    Photographs of initiators of the project were conspicuously displayed outside the expansive church auditorium. The Albert Gobez-led five-man band was there dishing out fine melody to the delight of the excited audience. Stand-up comedian Helen Paul supplied riberacking jokes.

    Founded in 2004, the church has blossomed over the years as it recorded relative achievements, expansion and spiritual growth

    It was an evening of celebration as good music, good food and drinks flowed freely.

    In his address, Most. Rev. Fr. Alfred Adewale Martins, extolled the virtues of committed parishioners for making the project a reality.

    “The last 10 years witnessed growth and commitment from the members. This is delightful and commendable. I am delighted to be part of the celebrations. This is the kind of things that we should be celebrating as a family. I rejoice with you on this occasion and I know that the future is bright because of those who are committed to the church in winning souls for Christ,” Rev. Fr Martins said.

    Corroborating Rev. Fr. Martins, Rev. Father Okonkwo noted that the foundation in the life of any organisation is key because it sets the tone for its future growth.

    Hence, looking at the parish at 10, he could say unequivocally that there was a reason to celebrate because the formative years have been solidly laid on holistic and deep Catholic spirituality founded on the three theological virtues of faith, hope and love of God and of neighbour”.

    Father Okonkwo, therefore, wished the wonderful parishioners a happy anniversary as he believed the future will be greater and brighter by the divine providence of God.

    In her welcome address, chairman, local organising committee, Mrs. Ifeoma Idigbe thanked all who contributed to the building of the church, such as the late Rev. Fr. Adegbite, whose vision it was; His Eminence, Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie who endorsed the vision; Monsignor Paschal Nwaezeapu, Rev. Fr.  Anyansi and individuals whose commitment ensured that the dream became a reality.

    Mrs. Idigbe also thanked the Archbishop, Most Rev. Fr. Martins for his unflinching support as they worked to achieve the vision.

    Among the dignitaries were representative of the wife of Lagos State Governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola, Mrs Rike Gbeleyi; Chief Anthony Idigbe (SAN) and his wife, Elizabeth; Mrs Patricia Arawore-Otuendor, Rev. Father Francis Anyanwu, and Associate Parish Priest John Nutayi,

  • Honour for achievers

    Honour for achievers

    A society magazine, Top Elegance, has held its sixth African Global Recognition Awards and seventh anniversary at the Oranmiy an Hall of the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

    All roads led to the Oranmiyan Hall of the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos penultimate Sunday for the sixth edition of the yearly African Global Recognition Awards and the seventh anniversary of Top Elegance magazine.

    Guests, among them politicians and captains of industry dressed in various attires, thronged the hall, which was beautifully decorated with yellow satin material.

    The Iyalode of Lagos, Hajia Fatimah Bintu Tinubu, and Princess Aisha Hiris, who represented Chief Oyekunle Alex-Duduyemi, were the chief guests at the event.

    Tables were labelled for easy identification.

    The atmosphere was conducive.

    MC Missan compered the event. He thrilled guests with scintillating jokes. He was assisted by MC Pato. Besides, there was background music.

    The Publisher of magazine, Mr Olabode Ajayi, said Top Elegance Recognition Awards has been renamed African Global Recognition Awards to expand its focus and create opportunities for others to be part of the honour.

    He said awardees were honoured for their achievements in their various disciplines.

    “Needless to say, therefore, that our awardees have made considerable impact and were selected in an atmosphere devoid of bias and favouritism, because our hallmark at Top Elegance magazine is excellence,” he said.

    Ajayi’s speech was applauded.

    The awardees were led by the Senator representing Ife East Senatorial District, Osun State, Babajide Omoworare.

    Also on the list were Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly Hon Adeyemi Ikuforiji, who was absent; the Chief Executive Officer of Mutual Benefits Group, Dr Akin Ogunbiyi, who bagged African Insurance Personality of the Year. A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Saka Fafunmi;  National Coordinator, Odua People’s Congress (OPC), Otunba Gani Adams (African Cultural Heritage defender and promoter of the decade award);  Chairman, Lagos Island Club, Chief Ademola Dada and Lagos Commissioner for Agriculture Prince Gbolahan Lawal.

    He adorned himself in a lime agbada with matching pairs of shoes. His wife, Olabisi was beside him.

    Omoworare received the Best Senator of Nigeria for 2014 plaque from Hajia Bintu Tinubu.

    After the presentation, all of them thanked the organisers for recognising their efforts.

    He said it would serve as an impetus for him to do more for the people he represents at the Senate.

    The curtain of the ceremony was drawn, all moved to the dance floor as the DJ dished out more melodious songs.

  • ‘She is not demanding’

    ‘She is not demanding’

    The son of a retired Area Manager, FirstBank of Nigeria, Mr Olakunle Osuntokun, Oluwamayowa, has been joined in holy matrimony with Adeola, daughter of the retired Executive Director, Ministry of Agriculture, Abuja. The ceremony took place last Saturday at the Catholic Church of Anunciation, Abraham Adesanya Estate, Lekki, Lagos, OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    Last Saturday was a day of joy for Oluwamayowa, a banker and Adeola, a teacher. They got married at the Catholic Church of Anunciation, Abraham Adesanya Estate, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos.

    Family members and friends turned out in large numbers to rejoice with them. Many turned out in gold traditional attires with burnt orange headgears/caps, which were the colours of the day.

    The groom, Oluwamayo, son of a retired Area Manager, FirstBank of Nigeria, Mr Olakunle Osuntokun, arrived in a Black Fx45 car. He looked charming in black trousers, white shirt and blue suit. He went straight into the church hall and stood on the altar with the officiating priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Okoro.

    The bride, Adeola, came in an E-class Black Mercedes Benz. She was all smiles, looking elegant in her white flowing dress. She went to the altar hand-in-hand with her father to meet her beloved and the Rev. Fr. on the altar amid the hymn, “All the earth proclaims the Lord”.

    Rev. Fr Okoro took the opening prayer and said the essence of the gathering after which the couple exchanged their marital vows. They exchanged rings and the Priest prayed for them.

    Rev Fr. Okoro said marriage is not just a ceremony, but, a gift and an institution from God. “It is a contract and a covenant,” he said.

    He told the couple that the love they have for each other must be a faithful one and that they must remain committed to each other in good and bad times.

    “Love is about self-less giving, giving without reservation, and readiness to go to any length to express it,” he said.

    After the sermon, Miss Madueke Eugenia led the gathering in a session of prayers for the couple.

    The communion and thanksgiving were done and the couple signed the marriage register.

    The service ended with the recessional hymn, “O yes in the presence of the Lord”.

    Outside the church, the couple took photographs with their family members and friends.

    The train moved to See Events Centre, LASU Complex, Lekki-Epe Expressway, for the reception.

    Exotic cars of guests at the event filled the compound and its environs.

    Security officials were on ground.  Ladies dressed in black pencil skirt and wine shirts welcomed guests and took them to their seats.

    The hall was filled to capacity. It was tastefully decorated in gold and orange. Chairs were set around tables covered with white material, and there were lots to eat and drink.

    Gods Perfect Sound entertainment Disc Jockey electrified the hall. The Eagle Life Band, led by Lekan Ogunyinka, was also there to entertain guests.

    Declaring the event open, the Master of the Ceremony, Victor Oyebode, introduced guests and called for the entry of the couple’s parents. They both entered amid songs and in company of family members and friends. The couple came in next in the same manner.

    Mr Adekunle Bamgbade led the opening prayer and the chairman on the occasion, Chief Financial Officer, Custodian and Allied Plc, Mr Ademola Ajuwon took to the podium for his remarks.

    He congratulated the couple and their parents, telling the couple to always remember the joy of today and hold on to it whenever life’s challenge comes up.

    He told them to run the marriage the way they have agreed to run it and not what one party wants.

    “Adeola, submit to your husband the way Jesus submitted to Christ, Oluwamayowa, love your wife just as Jesus loved the church.  Don’t bring your office problem to the house, fellowship together, stay together and do common things together,” he said.

    The M.C. led the couple to cut their cake after spelling of LOVE.

    The party continued with the bride dancing with her father and then the couple danced alone.

    Afterwards, the bride threw her bouquet to the single ladies and guests presented their gifts.

    The dance floor was thrown open.

    In a chat with the couple, the bride said she was  happy and thanked God for blessing her with a great man.

    She said her beau was easy going, peaceful and stress less.

    The groom said his beloved was understanding, matured, not demanding, trustworthy and respectful.

    The bride’s father told the couple to do things together, love, pray and not to listen to gossip from anyone.

    “Discuss whatever comes up between yourselves and find solution, avoid the third party,” he said.

    Member, Presidential Advisory Council on International Relations, Ambassador Akinjide Osuntokun, told the couple to stay focused, open their minds to each other, be honest, and share their views and opinions so that they would be equal partners in the relationship.

    “In the midst of challenges, listen to each other, respect each other’s opinion and know that both of you are equal partners, “he said.

    The groom’s father urged the couple to pray together, resolve issues among themselves, “maintain your two accounts and have a common purse.”

    An executive officer, WACE Lab, Mr Augustin Adebisi, told the couple to put their trust in God.

  • Adam and Eve fetes clients

    A one-stop shop in the heart of Ikeja, Lagos, Adam and Eve, welcomed customers and associates to the flag-off of its Christmas sales. Nneka Nwaneri was there.

    Christmas is around the corner and many have begun warming up for the season. Among them is Adam and Eve gifts shop. on Isaac John Street, Ikeja. It has long stood as one of the unique household shops in the area

    Last Sunday, the outfit not only gathered its clients to light up the season, it also treated them to good food, choice assorted drinks, and comedy.

    Many of them came from far ends of Lagos to identify with them. It was in a relaxing atmosphere. The street lost its weekend serenity. Posh cars lined both sides as socialites from all walks of came to be counted.

    On entry, they made straight for the shopping arena. Polished with style and class, it is stocked with a wide range of household equipment and gift items. For those who made purchases, they got 10  percent discount on every item.

    Chairman of the outfit Mr Lanre Ogunlesi and his wife, Dupe (aka Adam and Eve) were on ground to welcome guests and give them a tour, showcasing their newest stocks and designs, flaunting the slogan of the shop – Dining-Giving-Living.

    Mrs Ogunlesi, when asked what makes them different from the others, said: “The difference is the quality we offer because here we are taking shopping to another level.

    They were proud of their Upside-Down Christmas Tree. The organisers explained that: “in the 7th century, it was believed that St Boniface while staying in Thuringia, a town in Germany, took the help of the triangular fir tree to represent the Holy Trinity made up of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.

    “By the 12th century, it became a custom, especially in Europe to hang Fir trees upside down from the ceiling to symbolise the Holy Trinity. The Christmas tree was also considered to be the symbol of Christianity.

    “Presently, the trend of hanging a Christmas tree has changed, because the tip of the Christmas tree is made to point towards Heaven,”

    Outside, chairs and tables were arranged. It was celebration time and the older women were in their element, laughing to comedian Julius Agwu’s jokes. They also stole the show when they took to the dance floor as Aka, a live band, dished out music and Christmas melodies. Agwu also complemented their songs with his music.

    The high point of the event was the lighting of the Christmas tree. It was done at the count of 10. The arena was colourfully beautified with frills depicting the season. From the rooftop to the floor and the walls, there was something depicting the herald of its sales and countdown to Christmas.

    Present at the event were; Chief Executive Officer of Emzor Pharmaceuticals Dr Stella Okoli; Managing Direcor of Macmillian Publishers Mrs Francesca Emmanuel; renowned scholar Prof Adebayo Williams; CEO of Seka Ltd Mr Akintunde Ogunmekan and his wife, who is the Senior Marketing Manager of Great Nigerian Insurance Plc Mrs Kemi Ogunmekan; publisher of Encomium magazine Kunle Bakare and his Yes magazine counterpart Azuh Arinze, among others.

     

  • Union of love birds

    Union of love birds

    The wedding reception for Babajide, a nephew of the former Minister of Transport and Aviation, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, and Mariam was held penultimate Saturday at Darlington Hall, Illupeju, Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    It was a day of fulfilment for Babajide, the chief marketing officer, Daniok Nigeria Limited, and former Miss Mariam Osaji, an Information Technology personnel with Electronic-Purse Systems penultimate Saturday as they said: “I do”. A reception held at Darlington Hall, Illupeju, Lagos.

    Their family members and friends gathered in their numbers, looking elegant in uniformed traditional attires. Many of the women were decked in gold gele.

    Babajide, an indigene of Ilesa in Osun State, is the son of the younger brother of the former Minister of Transport and Aviation, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, Pastor Segun Babatope; while Mariam hails from Asaba in Delta State.

    The hall was decorated in white and gold colours. The chairs were covered with white fabric and set around tables with golden overlays.

    As guests arrived at the venue, they exchanged pleasantries amid gospel music by Kool Jay sound entertainment.

    The event, anchored by Ademosu Ademola, began with hymns and accapela by The Veteran Voices, after which the emcee introduced the guests.

    The bride’s parents, Ogbueshi Paul Isichei Osaji and Joy, came in first. They danced from the entrance of the hall accompanied by family members and friends amid the spraying of new naira notes. They took to their seats and the groom’s parents did same.

    The entry of the couple in the hall caught guests’ attention. Many left their food, stood up to welcome the couple while some used phones, I-Pads and cameras to snap ‘the newest couple in town’ as said by the emcee. They came in with their friends and family members, took to the floor and displayed beautiful dance steps, wriggling their waists and flinging their arms around each other. They were smiled all through the event.

    Pastor Emeka Izeze led the opening prayer.

    The Chairman on the occasion, Pastor Solomon Odenema, took a reading from Exodus, 33 vs 14. He told the couple to allow the presence of God to follow them on their marital journey.

    He urged them to show perseverance and understanding, knowing that they came from different backgrounds.

    After the sermon, Pastor Odenema supervised the cutting of the cake. After which the couple fed each other.

    They had their dance after the bride danced with her father and other guests later joined them on the dance floor, dancing and spraying money.

    Telling her story with smiles, the bride said the journey has been good.

    “We have fought, broken up and made up several times. But I thank God we are here, today, as husband and wife. Babajide is a man with a good heart, a beautiful soul and a man willing to sacrifice his own pleasure and comfort for others,” she said.

    The groom said his wife is caring, homely, beautiful, and supportive in all areas.

    “When we first met in December 21, 2011, I saw that she was the centre of everybody’s attention; she is very cautious about how she looked and I really wanted to know who she was and here we are today. I feel so fulfilled,” he said.

    The Senior Special Assistant to President Jonathan on Public Affairs, Dr Doyin Okupe, advised the couple to hold on to God in the midst of all challenges.

    “God ordained the marriage and He is capable of keeping it,” Okupe said.

    Chief Ebenezer Babatope urged the couple to accommodate each other.

    “Be patient and sober; do not rush to judgment in the midst of any challenge and do not be sentimental nor jump to conclusion,” he said.

    The bride’s father said respect for each other is the secret of a marriage that will be successful.

    “The woman has to recognise that the man is the head of the family; she must respect her husband and the husband must do likewise,” he said.

    The groom’s father said there is more to life after wedding.

    “The couple must live a godly life so that they can experience the riches that are ordained in marriage by God. Marriages are breaking today because God is not in it; therefore, allow God to be in your marriage always,” he said.

    The bride’s mother described marriage as a sweet thing and urged the couple to be prayerful.

    The groom’s mother, Mrs Olubukola Babatope, Chief Executive Officer, B8 Shawama, told the groom to love his wife as he loved himself and the wife should be submissive and prayerful, noting that the decision of her husband must overrule her own.