The Nation Newspaper

Category: Society

  • Meet the clan head

    Meet the clan head

    Eighty-one-year old Pa Sadiku Ogienagbon has been installed as the head of Afokpoma Quarters in Imiokhono-Jagbe in Edo State. OSAGIE OTABOR was there.

    It is an age-long tradition which the community has clung to despite the coming of civilisation.

    The oldest living man in the community is installed the head. As the head, the people consult him on the settlement of all kinds of dispute.

    Welcome to Jagbe community in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

    The people of Afokpoma in the Imiokhono part of the community celebrates their oldest living man. Last May 16, they did that for Pa Sadiku Ogienagbon (81), who is now the community’s oldest man. He was installed as the Odionwele (village head).

    The home of Pa Ogienagbon was filled with friends and family members.

    The people of the community came in large number to pray for his protection and long life.

    There was assorted food and drinks for guests.

    Before the installation, family members gathered indoors to pray for the new Odionwele.

    Kolanuts were served as tradition demands.

    Pa Ogienagbon urged his people to pray for his success. He promised to do his best for the community.

    According to him, being the oldest man in the community comes with the responsibility of praying for the welfare of the people.

    The octogenarian said: “As the Odionwele, I have to take charge of everybody in the quarters. I will pray for them. It is my responsibility to start praying for progress, unity and love in the quarters so that good things will come to everybody. Some of these things are good education, rural development and progress for our people. The people will have to come and pray for you for long life and prosperity and I in turn will pray for them.”

    A member of the community, Alhaji Abdul Adams, said the installation of Pa Ogienagbon meant a lot to the community.

    He said: “To live and become the oldest man is not what one can easily buy in the market. He will receive our blessings and we will receive blessings from him. When you live a free life without taking what belongs to others, God will give you long life,” Adams said.

  • Honour for achievers

    Honour for achievers

    The maiden edition of the Leadership Award for African Achievers 2014 (LAFAA) has been held in Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    IT was an evening to remember. Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, his Osun State counter part Rauf Aregbesola and Dr Benson Enikuomehin,  former Ondo State representative on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC),  were among the awardees, who stood tall at the maiden edition of the Leadership Awards for African Achievers (LAFAA).

    As they stepped onto the podium with their admirers to receive the awards, guests, looking resplendent in different attires, hailed them.

    The Balmoral Hall in Oregun, Ikeja, venue of the event, was well lit.

    The award, the first of its kind, was organised by the Celebrity Magazine International. No fewer than 40 people got awards and certificates.

    Sky Music life band led by Francis Akingbemi entertained guests.

    The event also featured performances from various artistes including Lafiaji Fanty Association, Lagos Island; Ozzy Bosco wonder kid and his crew; Okoro African Cultural Dancers and a physically challenged singer, Sky Francis.

    The magazine’s editor-in-chief and LAFAA President, in his welcome address, said the awards were to honour selfless compatriots across the continent, who, despite the challenges, often associate with Africa and its people. The awardees, he said, have excelled and performed exceptionally in their chosen fields and it is hoped that the little effort will motivate and inspire others to strive for greatness.

    Not long after his speech, the award session followed. The awardees were called one after the other amid cheers by the guests.

    Aregbesola bagged the Outstanding Governor of the Year award. He was represented by his Commissioner for Local Government Service Commission, Dr Adeleke Ipaye; Fashola got the Outstanding Government Personality of the Year. He was represented by his Director for Special Duties, Mr Kunle Oseni, while Enikuomehin recieved the Outstanding Performance in Infrastructural Development in the Southwest.

    Others honoured were Gen Gbian Robert who was recognised for his outstanding contribution to good governance and democracy in Nigeria; Chairman, Agege Local Government Alhaji Jubreel AbdulKareem; Director of Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, Mr Rowland Ofulure, represented by his General Manager, Mr Samuel Okmkeome, got the Outstanding Aviation Personality award. Lafiaji-Fanty association was also honoured for its extraordinary performance.

    Responding, Aregbesola thanked the organisers for the award, noting that the award was to encourage his administration to do more.

    Fashola said the award has set the pace for people in the state to do more in whatever position they find themselves.

    To Dr Enikuomehin, the award is a thing of joy.

    “You will be remembered by what you do whether positively or negatively,” he said, urging public servants to be positive minded and impact well on others.

    Alhaji AbdulKareem promised to do more to uplift the society.

    Gen Robert described the award as beautiful and a source of motivation.

    He dedicated the award to the citizens of Benin and Africa at large.

  • Mental Preparation

    Mr. Thomas sat at a comfortable but less conspicuous spot at the conference table. He had arrived 15 minutes before the meeting to carefully select it. Hopefully, the seat would give him better advantage than he had enjoyed in the past. The meeting was to be a crucial one, which would determine the company’s strategic direction for the year. Thomas had brilliant ideas, as usual; but also as usual, no one would get to hear them. He specially selected the position at the table, not because he desired to be close enough to contribute, but to be far enough to be invisible.

    The meeting started on a comfortable note and everything went on as Thomas planned. Twice when the group brainstormed for several minutes on specific subjects and couldn’t arrive at the best approach to adopt, Thomas thought he had an idea, but he couldn’t bring himself to say it. On the first subject, the group eventually arrived at an acceptable approach, which happened to be strikingly similar to what Thomas had in mind. So, what did Thomas do? He thought to himself, “see, I knew they don’t need me; they would always figure it out.”

    For the second subject, however, they could not agree on the best thing to do. Thomas waited and waited but they could not come up with any brilliant idea. Finally, the MD decided they should move on to other subjects and return to the problematic one later. They had already moved on to something else when Thomas finally decided to try to say something. In order to find a comfortable way of interrupting the new line of discussion, he coughed. The cough made everyone look in his direction. As he looked into all their eyes, he felt like disappearing into his seat. His brain suddenly seemed to be shrinking, his palms sweaty and his vision blurry. Thomas opened his mouth, the idea played out in his head, but he didn’t realize that no voice came out of his mouth until the MD said, “yes, Mr Thomas? You have something to say?”  After a few failed attempts, he finally managed to say, “No sir, I need to go to the restroom.”

    Poor dear Mr. Thomas! There are several people like him you know? Some people just have phobia for speaking in public no matter where. Some people cannot even express their views among their friends not to mention total strangers. If you happen to fall into that category or you know someone in that category, our current series is for you. On the other hand, some people consider themselves as good speakers, only that they don’t like emergency speaking. “Why should anybody call me to speak without prior notice?” They would say. They can’t handle that. Some other people will even throw caution to the wind and say, “they should know better. For them to have called on me suddenly, they must be willing to put up with my rambling.”

    I believe there is no excuse for failure. You ought to do your best at all times. Think of it, if you are called unexpectedly to make a comment at a gathering, and you put up a poor performance, no one would care whether or not you were informed ahead of time. So, why don’t you just accept that you must always be prepared? Instead of spending most of your time praying that you should not be called, be proactive and prepare ahead. Try these two suggestions:

    • Place value on your own ideas: If you are ever called to give an impromptu speech, it is because people believe you have something to say. Some people who fear impromptu speaking have inferiority complex! They believe there is nothing they can say that is worth listening to. We would be making a big mistake if we thought Mr. Thomas’ problem was all about speaking. No! His problem started with his mind. He conditioned himself to believe that the more invisible he was the better. However, he was wrong wasn’t he? He was so intelligent that he figured out, and in a short while, what took the rest of the team several minutes to unravel. Before he can become a visible contributor instead of an invisible incubator, he has to work on his self perception. I’m not teaching you pride, heavens no! However, you need to know that your brilliant ideas are of no use if not shared. The first step to giving successful impromptu speeches is to believe you have something valuable to say.

    • Prepare mentally: any time you are in a gathering in which you are likely to be asked to speak, mentally prepare ahead. Condition your mind so that it doesn’t come as a surprise. Opportunities may arise in classroom lectures, group discussions, religious programmes, public discussions, management meetings, you name it. No matter the occasion, decide to make contributions that will improve the quality of the subject. This doesn’t mean that you must speak always; just be ready in case you are called, or speak up if you have brilliant ideas.

  • ‘My dream love’

    ‘My dream love’

    May 24, 2014 would remain evergreen in the life of High Chief Osho Oladesu, who gave his daughter, Oluwaseun in marriage to Omotayo Tajudeen at the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke-Alabukunfun in Akure, Ondo State. LEKE AKEREDOLU was there

    It was a carnival-like event when the families of High Chief Osho Oladesu and Tajudeen celebrated the union of their children Oluwaseun and Omotayo.

    At 10a.m, the auditorium of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke-Alabukunfun, in Akure, the Ondo State capital, was filled to capacity.

    Well wishers came in their scores to witness the solemnisation of the marriage in colourful Ankara fabric chosen for the occasion.

    The parents of the couple appeared in an orange Aso Ofi and a cream dry lace.

    People were in a joyful mood as cars of various brands competed for space on the church premises.

    The beautifully-dressed choristers gave their best in songs renditions while the exciting band electrified the environment.

    Delivering his sermon, the Assembly’s Pastor G.A Ojo emphasised the importance of love, Jesus and effective communication in marriage.

    He noted that without the three keys in a marriage, it would be at risk.

    Pastor Ojo, who quoted copiously from the Bible, urged the bride to humble herself in the presence of her husband.

    The cleric urged the groom to see his wife as part of his body and do nothing to hurt her.

    The event did not end at the church. Guests later moved to the expansive Governor’s Event Centre Hall, Akure for the reception.

    They were treated to sumptuous meals, assorted wines and drinks.

    Waiters with tags “Ask and you shall be given” were strategically positioned in the hall to attend to the needs of the invited guests.

    The bride, Oluwaseun, wore a new look at the reception. She changed from her white wedding dress to a cream dry lace gown.

    Despite the presence of the popular Apala singer, Musiliu Ishola, on the band stand, the couple was ushered into the hall with a mixture of songs by Naija hip-hop artistes.

    Oluwaseun described the day as great.

    “I am now a new person because I am now ready to spend the rest of my life with the chosen man from God,” she said.

    She described her husband as an excellent and God-fearing man, whom she had decided to spend the rest of her life with.

    Tajudeen described Oluwaseun as everything to him, adding that he is happy because his dream was to have her as a wife.

    Dignitaries at the event included the Alaaye of Efonland, Oba Adesanya Aladejare; former Ondo State Head of Service Alaba Isijola and Prof Dipo Kolawole, among others.

  • A call to service

    A call to service

    The ancient Ake town in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, was a beehive when a businessman, Chief Owolabi Fadare was installed as the 14th Seriki of Egbaland by the Egba monarch, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo. Fadare’s wife, Chief Rianat Omowunmi, was conferred with the Seriki Gbegbaaje of Egbaland. The event took place at the Alake Palace, reports OLALEKAN AYENI.

    It was a gathering of traditional rulers, captains of industry and politicians.

    Choice cars streamed into the palace of the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo. Those who could not find space in the palace parked outside. The police and Ogun State Vigilante had a hectic time controlling human and vehicular traffic.

    Traditional singers from Egbaland, entertained guests. They were sprayed crisp naira notes for their efforts.

    It was all for Chief Owolabi Fadare, who was installed as the 14th Seriki of Egbaland by Oba Gbadebo. His wife, Chief Rianat Omowunmi was conferred with the Seriki Gbegbaaje of Egbaland.

    Chief Fadare succeeds the late Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Dr Abdullateef Adegbite.

    Banners of Chief Fadare and his wife were displayed around the venue.

    Large screens were placed at stategic locations for those faraway to watch the proceedings.

    There was a stage in the palace decorated in white and sky blue fabric. A red carpet stretched from one end of the stage to the other.  A traditional calabash was in front of Oba Gbadebo’s seat.

    Some guests sat under canopies on the ground floor. Chairs and tables decorated in gold coloured fabric were set in rows.

    Oba Gbadebo amid the blowing of trumpets and gun shot was ushered into the arena, all the guests stood, hailing: “Kabiyesi ooo, k’ade pe l’ori, ki bata pe l’ese”.

    Chief Fadare and his wife came in next, amid the beating of agba drums and singing in egba dialect. They were dressed in lace and a light brown and white Aso Oke.

    They headed straight to Oba Gbadebo and knelt before him for blessings.

    He prayed that their tenure would usher in peace, harmony and progress in Egba and Ogun State in general.

    The monarch advised them to join hands with other chiefs to make Egba a proud place to live in.

    “Before Egba can make someone a chief, the person must possess good record in the state and in the country at large. That person must be respectful, diligent, transparent, hardworking and not a dubious fellow. I am happy both of you possess good names in the society,” he said.

    He presented the certificate of office and a sword to them.

    The certificate, Oba Gbadebo said, shows that “you are truly honoured by the Egba Paramount Ruler and the sword is for you to use in your office”.

    Chief Fadare and his wife danced to music supplied by the traditional singers, amid drumming by Agba drummers.

    Chief Fadare thanked Oba Gbadebo, other monarchs, and guests for coming to share in their joy, saying: “Today is another day of joy in our life and would ever remain unforgettable in our memory.”

    He pledged his commitment and more support to Abeokuta and Ogun State.

    The new chiefs led guests to the dance floor as Juju Commander, Ebenezer Obey dished out some of his evergreen tunes. Guests had a lot to eat and drink.

    The Iyalode of Egbaland, Chief Alaba Lawson, described Chief Fadare and his wife as humble and respectful.

    “I believe Egba would not regret making him one of the paramount chiefs of Egbaland,” she said.

    She advised the couple to preach unity among the Egbas.

    The Secretary to Ogun State Government, Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa, described Chief Fadare as worthy of the title.

    He appealed to them to work harder to ensure that Egbaland records progress during their time.

    In attendance were: Former Ogun State Deputy Governor Alhaja Salmat Badru; Agura of Gbagura Land, Oba Haleed Laloko; Olowu of Owu, Oba Adegboyega Dosunmu; Olu of Owode-Egba Oba Kolawole Sowemimo; Olu of Itori, Oba Fatai Akorede Akamu; Alakija of Ikija Oba Samson Ayorinde; Ashoya of Isoya Ifeland, Oba Adebanjo Dinni; former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Alhaji Sharafadeen Ishola; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bashorun Oladipo Muyiwa; Ashipa of Owu Kingdom, Chief Akin Obimakinde; Otun Iyaloja of Egbaland Chief Kemi Oloyede; Akogun of Owu Kingdom Chief Ishola Akinsipo and Jagunna of Egbaland Chief Olayinka Kufile, among others.

  • Reward for service

    An Islamic group, the Halqat-ul-ulum Islamiyyah in Mushin, the popular Lagos Suburb  has honoured some members of its community. The event was held at the Mushin Sports Centre Hall, Mushin, Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE reports. 

    The Mushin Sports Centre Hall was beautifully decorated. Guests were received by gaily dressed women, who appeared in customised dresses with hijab covering their heads.

    It was a two-in-one programme, an award ceremony and Maolud Nabiyy celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday.

    The ceremony, organised by an Islamic organisation, Halqat-ul-ulum Islamiyyah, was anchored by Hussein AbdulKareem.

    Touched by the contributions of some people in helping Mushin, where it is based, grow, the association showed its appreciation by rewarding them.

    After the introduction of guests, Hon Fatai Oyatayo, in his welcome address, urged them to remain steadfast on the path of God.

    Speaking on the topic, Moral decadence, the guest lecturer, Alhaji Monsuru Adeleye, said lack of parental care is the cause of societal decadence.

    Alhaji Adeleye said immorality was a signal that the society and religions have failed to give the right education to children.

    “The father should provide shelter and food for the family; educate the child in Islamic way and give special attention to the training of the female child,” he said.

    He said the consequence of not givng children proper education could be seen in societal disorderliness.

    After his speech, the profiles of the awardees were read by Mr Shamsudeen Oyeshina. The awardees are Alhaji Sulaiman Oyekola and Prince Abiola Edward Afariogun.

    They were presented with the awards by Imam Ololade Salisu, the Chief Imam of Papa Ajao Mosque in Mushin, the popular Lagos suburb. He was assisted by the President of the Halqat-ul-ulum Islamiyyah Alhaji Maruf Adebayo-Abidogun.

    Prince Afariogun said the award was an opportunity for him to do more.

    “It came as a surprise to me because I am a Christian, but I am a Nigerian who loves both religions. I thank God I see the organisation as a good one and decided to work with it,” he said.

    Alhaji Abidogun said the essence of the occasion was to commemorate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad and give award to community leaders who have contributed immensely to the development of the community.

    “This is the first time we are giving awards to community leaders, and it is going to be an annual affair  to motivate others to contribute to their community,” he said.

    He said the choice of a Christian is to show the world that Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance.

    Students of the Halqat-ul-ulum Islamiyyah entertained guests.

    Guests were treated to choice foods and drinks.

  • Honour for the ‘homeboy’

    The people of Fugar, the administrative headquarters of Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State have held a reception for Chief Mike Oghiadomhe,  former Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan. The reception took place in Fugar, writes IBRAHIM ADAM

    It was a day of honour for the ‘homeboy.’ The people of Fugar, the administrative headquarters of Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State came out in large number to celebrate one of their own.

    Chief Mike Oghiadomhe, the former Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan, was feted by his kinsmen in Fugar in what they described as for his “meritorious” service  to the nation.

    It was a joyful moment in the town as people turned out  their best for the ceremony.

    Oghiadomhe was in all white sokoto, buba and agbada with a black cap and a pair of  eye glasses.

    He acknowledged cheers as he was ushered into the venue.

    There was good music. There were also mouth watering cuisine and choice drinks.

    The President of Fugar Progressive Union, Mr Peter Imhoagene, in his welcome address, described  Oghiadomhe as a man who rendered selfless service to his people.

    Imhoagene said the  community has appointed Oghiadomhe as the Chairman of the Board of Trustess, Fugar Progressive Union, making him the final authority on issues of development in the community.

    In his goodwill message, President Jonathan said government appreciated the role played by Oghiadomhe in the formulation of government policies especially the “Transformation Agenda.”

    Represented by the Minister of Works, Mr Mike Onolememen, President Jonathan said: “The Federal Executive Council and the Federal Government of Nigeria fully appreciate the services rendered by Chief Oghiadomhe to the nation. We only hope that he would make available his services to his community, the state and the nation when called upon to do so.”

    Edo State Governor,  Adams Oshiomhole described Oghiadomhe as a worthy son of Edo State who went to Abuja “saw and conquered”, adding that his services to the state as the Deputy Governor propelled him to the position of Chief of Staff to the President.

    He said the lessons to be learnt from the rousing reception for Chief Oghiadomhe, “is that we will be obliged to come home one day after our services abroad.”

    His Kogi State counterpart, Captain Wada Idris, described Chief Oghiadomhe as a true Nigerian, adding that his doors were always open in the Presidency to all governors irrespective of their parties.

    “He coordinated the affairs of the Presidency in such a way that he did not discriminate visiting governors whether you are from the PDP or other  parties,” he said.

    Oghiadomhe thanked the President for giving him the opportunity to serve the nation.

    He thanked the Fugar people for honouring him and pledged to continue to serve them diligently.

    Among those in attendance were  Minister of State for Defence Senator Musiliu Obanikoro; Edo State PDP Chairman Chief Dan Orbih and Dr Imo Itsueli of Dubri Oil Company.

  • ‘He is godly’

    Son of the Bishop of Ekiti Diocese of the Anglican Communion Rt. Revd. Christopher Temitayo Omotunde, Christopher, got married to his lovebird, Opeyemi Oluwole, last Saturday at the All Souls Church in Bodija Ibadan, Oyo State. TAYO JOHNSON reports.

    It was fun when Christopher and Opeyemi went to the altar to say ‘yes, I do’.

    Family members, friends and well wishers gathered for the celebration of love.

    The groom, Chirstopher, wore a sharp black suit with a white shirt; his bride was in a flowing cream gown with a pair of white flat shoes.

    The groom who arrived in the church at 9:45am, waited patiently before the bride walked into the church around 10:02am, hand-in-hand with her father, Mr Nathaniel Oluwole.

    The groom’s father, Rt. Revd. Christopher Temitayo Omotunde, the Bishop of Ekiti Diocese of the Anglican Communion, was clad in a Bishop’s robe. Mr Oluwole was in cream agbada and wine cap to match. The couple’s mothers wore the same cream native attire with a wine head gear and ipele to match.

    The event began with a processional hymn Praise my Soul the king of Heaven; the service was supervised by Lord Bishop of Ibadan Diocese, Most Rev. Joseph Akinfenwa; the sermon was delivered by Rev Titus Olayinka.

    Rev Olayinka admonished the couple to uphold the marriage vow.

    “You are coming from different background but by the virtue of your marriage, you have become one. You should be open emotionally, psychologically, spiritually and financially. You should not hide anything from one another,” Olayinka charged

    The cleric urged the wife to be respectful, submissive, and to the husband, he said: “Love your wife as Christ loved the church”

    He urged them to train their children in the way of the lord, praying that God would grant them wisdom, knowledge and understanding to build their home.

    Shortly after the sermon, the couple exchanged rings after which they were presented as husband and wife.

    The marriage certificate was later signed in the presence of selected family members and friends before it was presented to the couple by Most Rev. Joseph Akinfenwa.

    Thanksgiving followed and the service ended with a withdrawal hymn Father I place into your hands.

    After a session of group photographs in front of the church, the reception followed immediately at the Chapel of Resurrection Hall, University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

    The couple’s parents were called to the podium as the ceremony began and their entrance into the hall was welcomed with a standing ovation by guests.

    The reception was chaired by the former Deputy Provost of Adeyemi College of Education, Dr Gboyega Ajayi.

    Ajayi urged the couple to take good care of their children and love each other, stressing that marriage comes with its challenges. He prayed to God to guide them through.

    “Christopher, your wife is a banker, so I expect you to be patient, understanding and supportive” Ajayi said.

    The groom’s father, Bishop Omotunde enjoined the couple to be prayerful and God-fearing.

    “Both of them have been giving me joy with good testimony following them. Opeyemi is a wonderful woman, she is more than my daughter because of the way she has been relating with our family,” he said.

    Bishop Omotunde urged them to follow God’s laid down principles for marriage, as it is the only way to a successful marriage.

    The bride’s mother, Mrs Funmi Oluwole said:” I am happy for them because they are children of God, they met in the Lord and will live their live with his words.”

    She described his son-in-law as a child of God, humble, and well brought up in the way of God.

    The groom described his wife as the best partner God can ever give to a man, beautiful, pleasant and God fearing.

    “Her good heart and behaviour got me attracted. She is caring and loving” Christopher said

    Opeyemi said:” I feel very happy because this is the day the Lord has made and I am getting married to my better half. He loves me and I love him so dearly too”

    She described the groom as’ godly, loving caring, hardworking and a man of God.

    Among dignitaries in attendance were: Ekiti State Deputy Governor Prof Modupe Adelabu; Elekole of Ikole Ekiti, Oba Fasika Ajibade; Alara of Aramoko Ekiti, Oba Adegoke Adeyemi; Oniyin of Iyin Ekiti, Oba Ademola Ajakaye; wife of Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Olori Bose Adejugbe, among others.

  • Celebrating 50 in style

    Rev. Olalekan Adeleke of The Shepherds Flock International Church in Ikeja, the Lagos State capital, has marked his 50th birthday. The event was held at Moremi Alatede Kitchen Restaurant and Bar in Ikeja, Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    THE Moremi Alatede Kitchen Restaurant and Bar in Ikeja, the Lagos State capital, was filled with business associates, friends, family and church members of Rev. Olalekan Adeleke of The Shepherds Flock International Church last Sunday.

    They came to celebrate with him on his 50th birthday. Rev Adeleke is  also the Chief Executive Officer of Alpha Multibrand Solution Ltd.

    It was a gathering of the old and the young. Many came from church and were in traditional attires. Few wore English dresses.

    Chairs were arranged round tables with fruits on them. A banner with the celebrator’s big picture and a “Happy 50th birthday” inscription   written on it was by the door.

    Guests were served continental and local dishes and non-alcoholic wine.

    When the birthday ‘boy’ came into the bar, he was all smiles in sky blue Buba and Sokoto with gold cap. His wife, Love, who wore the same attire, ushered him in. He went round to greet the guests.

    The party started after his entry.

    The opening prayer was said by Rev Albert Atunnise while Olubukola Durojaiye led the praise and worship session. It was followed by the rendition of the hymn, “Great is thy faithfulness”.

    The event continued with testimonies about the celebrator.

    Group Captain Tunji Ibitokun, described the celebrator as a resource person. “He is good, loving, nice, caring and wonderful,” he said.

    Rev Atunnise described the celebrator as a mentor, a faithful Christian and a good friend.

    The celebrator’s sister, Mrs Folashade Odusoga, described him as a role model and a man of his words who taught his siblings faithfulness, sincerity and integrity.

    “He is always there to stand by you and he is someone you can trust and depend on. He is caring and a brother indeed. I call him daddy because that is what he is to me. I thank God for his life,” Mrs Odusoga said.

    One of his workers, Michael Asekhame, said: “I have learnt a lot from him. He is a good boss.”

    Mrs Adeleke wished her husband many more fruitful years, adding: “He is caring, supportive and never tired of praying and I thank God for his life and that of the ministry.”

    The celebrator said God has been gracious to him, adding: “I feel very happy whenever I have the opportunity to worship God because I enjoy the presence of God.”

    After the testimonials, the birthday cake was cut. It had chocolate and sky-blue  colours with a figure 50 shape.

    The celebrator, his wife and children took photographs. Guests moved to the serving point to relish the cuisine.

    After eating, they settled down for the sermon, which was delivered by Rev Teny Akinyemi.

    The cleric said celebrating 50 is worthwhile because life expectancy in Nigeria is below that. He said the celebrator is living a life of focus, fulfillment and purpose.

    After the sermon, Mrs Adeleke gave the vote of thanks and the closing hymn: “Our God our help in ages past” followed.

  • Union of love birds

    The Marriage Registry at Ikoyi, Lagos, was filled when Aramide Olasope tied the nuptial knot with Prince Ademola Akinloye, reports AMIDU ARIJE.

    Their relationship started 12 years ago at the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) tutorial in Ile Ife, Osun State. When they were joined at the Marriage Registry in Ikoyi, Lagos, Aramide Olasope and Prince Ademola Akinloye were happy that what began as mere friendship has blossomed into life-time companionship.

    The groom arrived in a black Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), looking regal in his black suit; Aramide was elegant in her blue gown.

    After guests took their seats, the registrar called for the signing of the marriage register and oath of marriage form.

    It took the couple a few minutes to sign the dotted lines. It was witnessed by their parents.

    After the ceremony, the couple, their family members and guests posed outside the registry for photographs. The bridal train moved to the nearby Golden Gate Restaurant for the reception.

    Dr Segun Omisore anchored the reception. All stood as the couple entered the hall, with the bride’s maids.

    The reception began with prayers. It was chaired by Mr Emmanuel Fajorin, who urged the couple to put their trust in God always.

    “Make God your partner because with Him, all things are possible. There will be no distraction whatsoever with God,” he said.

    He advised the couple to resolve their differences amicably without interference from any quarter.

    “Your parents have given you the independence to go and have your own family, I am sure there won’t be any interference from them. So, always resolve your differences amicably,” he said.

    He supervised the cutting of the cake.

    The Oniru of Iruland, Oba Idowu Oniru, and the Ojomu of Ajiranland, Oba Tijani Adetunji Akinloye, blessed the couple, urging them to live a God-fearing life.

    The groom, an Animal Nutrition graduate of the University of Wageningen in Holland, said it was his happiest day. He described his wife as calm and good natured.

    “She is a calm and loving woman. Her calmness attracted me. We met in 2002 at Ile Ife during a pre-university programme,” he said.

    Aramide, a graduate of Medicine from Obafemi Awolowo University, said, she felt fulfilled.

    “I married my friend of many years. He is very reserved, caring and has the fear of God,” she said.

    Dr Abiodun Olasope who represented the bride’s father enjoined the couple to continue on the foundation of love and never allow a third party in their affairs.