Category: Sunday magazine

  • Build intimacy, couples urged

    To you know your wife’s lingerie’s sizes? Do you know the name of the primary school she attended or her grandma’s name? If you are not too sure, you can start working on these areas and more so you don’t get caught pants down. These were some of the lessons garnered at the grand finale of the one- week conference of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Redemption zone, Lagos Province 9 Agege recently. It was at a family seminar with the theme: The overflowing family. Speakers after speakers spoke on how to successfully keep a home as well as sound parenting skills for the participants, who included men, pastors’ wives and members. A guest minister, Pastor (Mrs.) Abigail Adarabioyo, urged men to build intimacy with their spouses by taking note of seemingly irrelevant details such as the sizes of their shoes and clothes. To women, she said: “Women should also not provoke their husbands to anger or disrespect them, either in public or in private. A wise woman builds her home. “A good woman will follow the winning examples in Proverbs 31. The 10 Virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman reminds us that God’s Word is applicable to our lives today. “When a couple is in unity of purpose, it will be easy to raise the children, hence an overflowing family.” The hostess, who is also wife of the Pastor in-charge of the zone, Assistant Pastor (Mrs.) Olusegun John, enjoined men to learn to appreciate women. Speaking after demonstration of how to dress for babies by men, she said: “You can see that it is not easy to dress up for children. So whenever you feel your wife is taking time and ‘delaying’ you, bear in mind that children must not be mismanaged and your wife is a professional, trying to prevent crises.” The weeklong event saw the women in the zone embark on evangelism and donation to motherless homes as well as environmental sanitation in the neighbourhood.

  • Adeboye to govt: Treat teachers well

    The General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has appealed to government and other stakeholders to keep encouraging teachers so they can give their best to the nation.

    He spoke at a special prayer and thanksgiving service for teachers and students organised by the church at the National Headquarters, Throne of Grace, Ebute-Metta in Lagos.

    According to him, teachers all over the world are the instruments used in positioning youths for exploit and deserve encouragement to offer their best.

    He lamented the spate of neglect of teachers’ warfare, which he described as a generational problem that has inhibited the performance of today’s students to excel in the work place.

    Adeboye, who spoke through his Special Assistant on Personnel and Administration, Pastor Johnson Odesola, noted that proper investment in education is not negotiable because it remains a veritable platform to prepare youth for a prosperous future.

    He said: “I have discovered that if we want to make progress, it is the youth that is engaged, empowered, and envisioned that would lead the change we want to see in Nigeria.”

    Adeboye added: “We cannot drive the engine of the 21st century with old, obsolete and parochial mechanisms, which have pervaded the system and continue to draw us back among the emerging economies of the world.

    “We are all products of the work and commitment of a teacher and they are supposed to be appreciated and celebrated to do more.”

    He admonished the teachers to perform their duty with patience, honesty and the fear of God, which would go a long way in shaping the future of their students who look up to them for guidance and direction.

    “Teachers, please train these children to fear God, train them to love God. When they are young, the song we sing and the words we speak go deep into their heart and at crucial moments when they have to decide, they remember and it help them to lead a better life,” he said.

    He restated the commitment of the church in supporting education, especially in the remotest parts.

  • Trinity House mourns Munroe, wife, daughter

    It was a time for sober reflection, hymns and songs at Trinity House Lagos during a night of tributes for the late renowned leadership coach and pastor of the Bahamas Faith Ministries International, Dr Myles Monroe, who died with his wife, Ruth and daughter Christy in a air crash on November 9 in the Bahamas while on the way to a crusade.

    The night of tributes was one of the ways Trinity House honoured Munroe, who was slated to be in the church next month for ministration.

    The session featured Bible readings and video clips of the last interview of the late Monroe.

    The senior pastor of the church, Ituah Ighodalo, described Monroe as one of the most dynamic men in the world, who influenced so many people with his sermons, books and lifestyle.

    In a brief sermon, Pastor Niyi Akenzua urged the congregation that since all will die some time, everyone should try to fulfill purpose before death comes calling.

  • Cleric urges patriotism

    The Area Superintendent of The Apostolic Church in Kano,    Pastor Festus Olotu, has admonished Nigerians to tolerate one another and imbibe the spirit of patriotism towards fighting terrorism in the northern parts of the country.

    He spoke last week during the annual convention of the church.

    Olotu said only the collective prayers of Nigerians will enable the nation overcome its daunting challenges.

    Describing the spate of terrorists’ attack in the region as unbearable considering the huge damages of lives and properties, the cleric added that the situation is a spiritual war which requires intensive prayers.

    On the 2015 elections, Olotu urged the non- indigenes in the northern region not to relocate due to fear but remain prayerful as nowhere is crisis-free.

  • Odeleke celebrates 40 years on pulpit

    •Set for ‘new move’

    After 40 years of full-time ministry, Africa’s first female Bishop, Dr Bola Odeleke, is set to move on to new projects.

    The nation’s first female televangelist informed she is set to return to television ministry with a new talk show that focuses on practicality Christianity.

    Speaking last week ahead of the convention of the Power Pentecostal Church with the theme Grace made me, Odeleke, who pioneered television evangelism with the likes of the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa and late Prophet Timothy Obadare, said the new TV show will commence in the first quarters of next year.

    According to her: “There are too many sermons on television these days and I just thought I should have a show where entrepreneurs, pastors and Christian professionals can talk about practical Christianity.

    “It is so easy to preach but people want to know how to bring God into their daily activities and professional life. That is what the show will be seeking to achieve.”

    Odeleke described herself as a product of grace, saying setting out on November 16, 1974 as a female preacher without bible training was nothing but sheer miracle.

    According to her, grace has kept her in 40 years of ministry despite all the ups and downs.

    She also disclosed the launch of a non-governmental organisation that will focus on the empowerment and education of girl-child across the nation.

    The anniversary, which kicks off today, features guest speakers such as Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, Apostle Anslem Madubuko, Prophet Wole Oladiyun and Pastor Kalejaiye, among others.

  • Moses Ayum’s love for tortoise

    MOSES Ayum started out in Abuja with an upscale interior dÈcor outfit, Cherrywood. He, however, shot into limelight with his luxury hotels in highbrow areas which include Bay Dorchester,Edge Water Resorts,Cherrywood in Lagos and Abuja.

    One thing that the Benue State-born businessman cherishes is his tortoise. Sources close to him said the tortoise is over 70 years. The tortoise is big and scary to others,but Ayum is passionate about it.

  • Glitz and glamour as Eko Club markes 40th anniversary

    Glitz and glamour as Eko Club markes 40th anniversary

    A week long activities to mark the celebration of Eko Club were recently held with glitz and glamour. Justice Ilevbare who was at the event, reports that the celebration was a spectacle of some sort and one that would not be forgotten in a hurry.

    It was display of glitz and glamour at the just concluded 40th anniversary of the Eko Club, Lagos.

    For one week in a row, the secretariat of Eko Club in Surulere, Lagos was a beehive of activities. There was music, stimulating discussions, dance, etc all combined to make the event a dazzling one for members and trustees alike.

    Indeed, the 40th anniversary of the club provided a veritable platform for members, families and friends alike to celebrate in an atmosphere of conviviality. It was one event that would not be forgotten in a hurry.

    For a club that has been in existence for that along, it was indeed understandable why the members and trustees decided to roll out the drums in celebration in high spirits.

    The President of the club, Babatunde Faruk Grillo was visibly excited all through the event, “I am very proud to be associated with Eko Club. And to be celebrating today, we give God all the glory,” he said at one of the sessions of the week-long event

    Activities’ marking the week -long event kicked off on a high note with a thanksgiving Jumat service which provided opportunity for members to appreciate God for sustaining and keeping them together for 40 years.

    The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN, was also on hand to celebrate with members. He personally flagged off activities to kick start the celebration.

    Governor Fashola who spoke at the Club secretariat in Surulere, urged  members to join hands in building the state, “We must choose on the basis of what today’s problems are and we must choose on the basis that value has become an issue, the difference between good and bad is clearly been blurred”.

    Fashola would later hoist the 40th Anniversary flag of Eko Club to symbolically flag off the celebration of the 40th Anniversary with the theme, “Eko Club at 40- Building for a Better Future”.

    That done, other activities went full swing leading to special family day, sporting activities and later thanksgiving church service.

    Day 4 of the event featured a symposium and photo exhibition.  This segment of the programme was significant to members of the Club and the entire Lagosians.

    The symposium, which had in attendance very prominent members of the club and seasoned professionals, provided a platform for discussants to extensively dwell on the very important and strategic roles of Lagos in nation building.

    It was unanimously agreed at the event, that Lagos state has contributed in no small measure to the overall development of Nigeria in all facets of human endeavours.

    Speaking on the theme; The Role of Lagos in Nigeria- Past, Present and Future, Chief Tunde Fanimokun said Lagos has been at the fore front of moving the country forward in many ways.

    Fanimokun said, “The transformation of process of Lagos indicates a strong reconnection with the past centuries. Hence, her success story as Nigeria’s centre of excellence; model of plural society in peaceful coexistence; unique territory of captivating contrasts; favorable investment culture with tremendous hospitality; and beacon of hope for a greater tomorrow in all spheres of life.”

    He said till date Lagos still remains the nerve centre of the nation economic, financial, and commercial and communication activities.

    Earlier, the lead discussant, Bashorun Jaiye Randle also stressed on the contributions of Lagos state to the overall development of Nigeria since its creation.

    According to him, its importance to look back at the Lagos of yester years as that would help in planning for the future, adding “Lagos has been a place of peace and comfort. And we hope in the future, we would continue to build on this to make Lagos an enviable state as it used to be.”

     

     

     

     

     

    He however, believe that with the daily influx of people to Lagos, the government and other stakeholders must begin to think of ways to cope with the surge in the nearest future.

    According to him, “the role of Lagos in the future is very clear. We must therefore be cautiously optimistic particularly in the area of housing and good transport system.”

    In his view, Lagos is a very peaceful state accommodating every state and tribe and therefore urged both indigenes and residents of Lagos to eschew bitterness and rather seek ways to ensure peaceful co-existence.

    On his part, Supo Sasore (SAN) stressed on the importance of protecting the history of Lagos while at the same time fighting against economic and social justice, “In protecting our future, we must fight for our democracy and unity as Lagosians,” he added.

    Other discussants at the symposium included; Chief Musiliu Alade Olaiya Anibaba, Chief Babatunde Benson (SAN), Alhaja Sekinat Yusuf and President of Eko Club, Alhaji Faruk Babatunde Grillo.

    There was a photo exhibition to showcase the beauty of Lagos in the past and now.

    Even though, the celebration has come and gone, it would surely remain green in the minds of the members and those that took part in the event.

    Other activities that added glamour to the event was cultural day, Founding Father’s special day and was rounded off with a gala which also brought together families in celebration.

  • Chioma  Madubuko  slows down

    Chioma Madubuko slows down

    CHIOMA Madubuko, the Company Secretary, Dangote Salt Plc, has been a staple on the social scene. In her 50s, nothing in her look suggests she is a grandmother. Petite and light skinned, she remains one of the matriarchs of high society. The lawyer and former banker has slowed down. She is noted for choice attires and matching accessories. Her appearance at gigs always leaves mouth wide open.

  • Monarch raises foundation  in service of his people

    Monarch raises foundation in service of his people

    Oba Frederick EnitiOlorunda Akinruntan, the Olugbo of Olugbo is marking his fifth year reign by setting up a Foundation to help his riverine community writes Olayinka Oyegbile 

    A few months ago, Forbes magazine named His Royal Majesty, Oba Frederick EnitiOlorunda Akinruntan, the Olugbo of Ugbo in Ilaje Kingdom, Ondo State, as the richest monarch in Nigeria. He was listed along with the King of Morocco and…..

    The monarch who is also the Chief Executive Officer of the Obat Petroleum, has decided to launch a Foundation as part of activities marking his fifth ascension to power as the paramount ruler of his Ilaje Kingdom.

    He said his decision to start the Foundation was borne out of his love for education and the need to lift his people out of poverty and want.  The event is to be chaired by another royal father, His Royal Majesty, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. It will also be witnessed by the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives Abuja, Emeka Ihedioha. At the event, eminent scholar and teacher, Professor Toyin Falola of University of Texas at Austin, United States of America will be conferred with a chieftaincy title.

    Oba Akinruntan who is also the chairman of the Yoruba Traditional rulers council on Conflict Resolution would also deliver a lecture on “Peace and Conflict Resolution in Yorubaland.” This will hold at the completed Ohamakin Osamgangan Multipurpose Events Centre, Ugbo.

    Speaking about the foundation, the monarch said he is happy to give back to his community from his wealth. According to him, “If it pleases God to bless me and make me king in this land, I think I have to actualise God’s vision for Ilaje people. Our people have been neglected and relegated to the background. The terrain is difficult; many people don’t want to come here unless you can leave on top of water. And that is responsible for the high level of poverty in this community.”

    Giving back to community

    He added that since fishing was the major source of livelihood for the people of his community, “I have acquired some flying boats equipped with medical facilities and qualified personnel to go round to these riverine communities and treat our people free of charge. We bought drugs and if the doctors diagnose any ailment that cannot be handled at that level, they will give first aid treatment and refer such patients to the General Hospital.”

    He said he decided to assist his people because government alone cannot provide all that is needed. “Some of us that have opportunities should complement government efforts and I am glad that our efforts have been yielding positive results.”

    The monarch said the Foundation will provide grants and micro credit to empower traders and artisans in the community, adding that his intention was to “teach people on how to fish than feeding them. I know the essence of education and I know that is the best way to liberate people and encourage them to achieve their purpose in life. To let you know how much I value education I was already a comfortable billionaire with the largest oil tank farm in Africa and third largest in the world when I went back to the school for university education.”

    He said his desire is to see to the education of youths in the country, and most especially in his kingdom. To achieve this aim, the Foundation is to offer scholarships to cover education both at home and abroad. He said, “I have already started a scholarship scheme for them (the youths). As at now I have about 50 in various Nursery and primary schools, 80 in secondary schools and about 45 in the universities. Some of them are in private universities which many considered expensive but I negotiate the fees with the owners or Vice Chancellors of these schools. And one thing that has been given me joy is that most of them are doing wonderfully well in their studies. But with the Foundation, we shall do more and increase the numbers of beneficiaries every year.”

    Charity begins at home

    Oba Akinruntan who recently conferred with the National honour of Commander Order of the Niger (CON) by the federal government said he got the inspiration to start the Foundation after he was invited as a guest by the Clinton Foundation in the United States.

    On why his Foundation is directed at only Ilaje people, he said, “Charity begins at home. I can feel a lot of poverty around me. I am a king to this people and anything I am doing must start here. I want to see my people happy, that is when I will be happy as a monarch. I share their pains and their joy and that’s why my domain has been witnessing unprecedented development since I became the monarch. Many of our sons and daughters that had not been coming home now come to own property and participate in the development of the economy of Ilaje community.”

    Giving back to his community is not strange to the monarch since he ascended the throne, as a reputed business man before becoming a royal father, he has continued to open up his hitherto closed community to the world. He has built a three star hotel while his multi billion naira palace has been described by architects as the first of its kind in Africa. It is situated over seven hectares of land.

    He emphasized the need for peace saying, “The time has come for traditional rulers in Yorubaland to come together and allow peace to reign and stop attacking ourselves on the pages of newspapers. We occupy an exalted office and we should conduct ourselves the ways our forefathers did. I have been involved in conflict resolutions among the monarchs and I am pleased that we are achieving positive results.”

  • Florence Otedola receives  friends at house-warming

    Florence Otedola receives friends at house-warming

    SINCE her graduation a few months ago, Florence, aka DJ Cuppy, the daughter of billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, has been living her dreams.  The fast-rising female disc jockey who is now running her Master’s programme in Business Music Management played host to friends at a house warming for a new apartment in New York last weekend.

    The twenty-one-year-old entrepreneur is big in London and also plays regularly in Dubai and Paris.