The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday Interview

  • Henshaw’s top ten

    Henshaw’s top ten

    Samm Henshaw is a British-Nigerian performing artiste and composer. The entertainer, who is the son of pastor, shares his favourite things with Olaitan Ganiu.

    Favourite wrist watch

    I don’t really wear any. Not a watch guy.

    Favourite car

    I love classic cars, so Mercedes w 123, That I really want. Really love that car.

    Favourite designer

    Ellie Misner. She’s amazing. Yeah, she does great stuff.

    Favourite perfume

    Mont Blanc

    Favourite travel destination

    Japan, fave place I’ve been to date.

    Read Also; Namibia’s President Hage Geingob dies at 82

    Favourite song

    At the moment, Everybody needs love by Marvin Gaye

    Favourite book

    I’m currently reading a Rick Rubin book.

    Favourite accessories

    I’m always wearing this bracelet and I’m always wearing my pinky ring. I found this in a store in LA on Melrose and I always go back to that shop because they always have these really special gems in there.

    Favourite actor/artiste

    Jeremy Alan White from the Bear

    Simon Rex from Red Rocket

    Nicole Kidman from Big Little Lies

    Favourite food

    Jollof Rice, chicken and plantain – classic!

  • How I met Beyonce backstage – Sir John

    How I met Beyonce backstage – Sir John

    Sir John Barnett known professionally as Sir John is a makeup artist, activist, and influencer. He has worked with several celebrities like Beyonce, Naomi Campbell, Serena Williams, Iman, Celine Dion, and Erykah Badu. During an encounter at the GTCO Masterclass in Lagos, he tells Yetunde Oladeinde about the memorable moments,  learning the ropes, meeting a lot of people, and inspiring others.

    Sir John was born in Buffalo, New York and he goes down memory lane to tell you how his grandmother, whom he adores named him Sir.” All my uncles are Marines, in the Navy, Army and Air Force. As her first grandchild, she gave me the name and title Sir”.

    From a very early age, he took an interest in art after receiving formal training from the age of six. He later honed his skillset at the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts.

    By the time he was 18 years old, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia,   following his passion for art, to study art history, printmaking, and sculpture at The American InterContinental University.

    While in Atlanta, Sir John discovered a love for make-up. His friend, a catalog model, invited him to accompany her to a photo shoot for an upcoming spread.

    Interestingly, the make-up artist scheduled for the shoot canceled at the last minute, and the shoot photographer, recognizing that Sir John studied art, offered him the opportunity to do his friend’s make-up.

    He did a marvelous job and this was the turning point for so many other opportunities to come. The following week, the photographer invited Sir John to work on another photo shoot, and soon introduced Sir John to some of his friends in the cosmetic industry; this led to his first full-time job at a local make-up counter for MAC Cosmetics.

    Read Also; Tinubu’s quest for living wage for Nigerian workers: 37 to the rescue

    At the age of 23, he pivoted into visual merchandising and executed displays for brands like Barneys New York, Henri Bendel, Bergdorf Goodman, and Gucci.

    He worked smoothly as he did the practical sessions with the two ladies with different skin tones and explained the reason for choosing the different colours and shades. Now, you want to know what his first attempts were like and he responds this way:

    “My first attempt at makeup was when I was very young. I didn’t know it was a job. I didn’t know you had to be paid to do this but I loved it. The first time I did this, I saw a great transformation. I also remember my mum was a single mum. She used to go to the bathroom and put stuff on her lashes, even before I knew what the name was. Happily, he recalls that each time, his mother came out she looked a little bit better. “So, that is the power of beauty. It is not something that you conceal. It is something that you can create. It is a feeling and that is why it is important to understand the personality you are working on”.

    Now, you want to know if he practiced with himself before you started working on others. “No. I was a make-up artist but I was scared of putting makeup on myself. Now, I am older and know much better now.

    Next, Sir John talked about his experiences in the sector and what it means to him with nostalgia. “ It has been a very exciting journey and I am happy doing what I do. This is the second time I will be attending GT Fashion Weekend. I had an amazing time. Any time I come for an event, I try to create a very powerful effect. Art is a vehicle for us to express pain, emotion, and the highlights within the room”.

    So, how did he discover Beyoncee, or was she the one who discovered him?“She met me backstage at the Tom Ford fashion show. I did her makeup and she liked it. My mother wanted me to do something she considered more professional and she wanted me to express myself differently. Sometimes, our choices make our parents worried. It wasn’t easy because I had the privilege of being a guy’s guy”.

    Next, he goes on to talk about mentoring young people and the need to discover what they are passionate about and excel. “A lot of our young people are doing very well, breaking new grounds and setting a pace for others to follow. They need a lot of support and encouragement I will continue to talk to a generation until I reach the target.”

    He continued: “ I just did a Master class that was very interesting. I have a podcast that is coming on and I love talking to people. I am from New York and I think the best thing we can do is to continue to raise our voices. The voice is more powerful even though I can do a lot with my hands”.

    Is Sir John married you asked? “No! I have been with the same partner for 11 years till date”.

    What are the new things and areas that he is  looking forward to ?“I am looking forward to how much we can go forward. I have been the creative director for  L’Oreal Paris USA for 10 years. I am the first black person to do that and now with CTZN Cosmetics which is French.  The goal is not easy, working with the French and pushing back the stereotype. We all have our space. luxury does not have to look like this or that”.

  • Rhoda Agbeyo: I teach my mentees to start from scratch

    Rhoda Agbeyo: I teach my mentees to start from scratch

    Rhoda Agbeyo is the creative director and CEO of Rhoda Micheals Academy.In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about growing up, being inspired to sew by her mother, challenges, surviving in the sector, how government can make things better as well as mentoring young entrepreneurs.

    Why did you go into fashion?

    I love fashion. I enjoy creating things, not just fashion. I also love business and my mum was a fashion designer. So, it was just easy. She taught me everything. I also learnt from all her mistakes. I was literally born into it.

    What were the challenges for you at the beginning?

    I don’t like focusing on the challenges. The basic challenges include electricity, lack of infrastructure and lack of funds. But when you sit down and map out your strategies, you will overcome them. You learn from it and you will be stronger.

    How would you describe your journey in the past 25 years?

    It has been interesting. For me, I love to be positive and always look at things from the bright side. I don’t stay in negativity for too long because if you dwell there, then it will consume you. Sometimes, you have the mountain top and sometimes it’s the valley. It comes with the business and it’s not going to change.

    How do you source your materials?

    They are locally sourced. Foreign exchange however is affecting everything. Whoever is bringing  resources  in would have to change it to dollars, so it’s a very big problem. If it’s going to be better, fine. If it is not, then we have to find a way to live with it.

    Apart from your mum, do you have other mentors in the sector?

    There are so many of them. You have the western designers and even the local ones in Nigeria. You have influences from right, left and center. When you are an artistic person, you just have to pick from everybody. So, I can’t say that it is one specific person.

    What is the inspiration for the training that you do?

    Every year we have always graduated students as entrepreneurs. But this year, we were very intentional because of the situation in the country. It is not everybody that can Japa. Japa is not that interesting anymore. The only reason why people are going away is the way Nigeria is in terms of security. If things were good, nobody would Japa. But how do we create this alternative? Personally, I don’t like living outside the country.

    If I  travel, after two weeks, I have to come back home. Home is home. How do I make it more habitable for the young person coming up? How do we make the business atmosphere more profitable? The economic instability is not really peculiar to Nigeria although it could be better. For the few of us that are left, we have to figure out how we can make it work.

    So, this year we were very intentional. The reason is that we have to make entrepreneurship work. If you are not going to be the best entrepreneur, we have to make you the best employee. But truly, if you cannot serve, you cannot even lead. First, we created employees from all our students and then turned them to budding entrepreneurs.

    Hence, we had to register their businesses and they are standing as businesses this year. Experience is the best teacher but it doesn’t have to be your experience. If you can climb the shoulders of those who have actually been there, then it makes it easier. So, that is what we give them. Inasmuch as we are a school, we are also a surviving business in Nigeria. So it’s easy to impact the principles that we have learnt. We just teach them how to start with the barest minimum.

    You don’t have to have it all because at the end of the day, you realise that it is not only the cutting and sewing. Anybody can cut and sew. What they lack is that entrepreneurial spirit. That ability to collaborate, communicate and network. So, those were the key principles this year. We also taught them diligence and time management. No matter how successful you are and you don’t have those skills, everything is just a waste.

    How are you going to ensure that they have the necessary funding?

    You don’t have to depend on loans. You shouldn’t even take loans as far as we are concerned. You are just a budding entrepreneur. You don’t even know the pitfalls yet. So, what we teach those that I  have mentored  is to start from scratch. There are some stages that if you skip you will meet it in front and you will meet it at a higher level. When you start from the scratch, you will understand the rudiments of the business. What you cannot solve without money, you cannot solve with money.

    If you pump a lot of money into fashion, it would take it but it won’t bring it out at the rate at which you pump it. Fashion is ever evolving, it’s changing. So, we just taught them the pay as you go syndrome. If you try this and it’s not working, then you can try something else. When you start with one machine, then two or three years later, you can get another machine. Then five years down the line, you can start saying I want to collect money, because now you know what you are doing.

    Funny enough, in this generation, three to five years is another learning curve again. You are starting another stage, fashion is actually something that can bankroll itself if you know what you are doing.

    How would you describe the impact of the economy in the past one year?

    I must say that it hasn’t been a very good year because of the fuel, not just the naira. Most designers rely on the generator, the fuel is already at par with diesel. The small designer is bearing that impact. I always advise that when there is no electricity , use the black head machine to sew. Also, get the smaller generator, you don’t have to use the bigger one. If you are not careful, the fueling would consume your profit.

    Is it 10 years as a designer or of the Academy?

    It is 10 years of running the school, our fashion academy. As a designer officially, I have been in the sector for the past 25 years, even though I have been in it since I was 8 years old. I quit designing 10 years ago because you cannot be competing with your students. Now, I do more mentoring . My mum had a fashion school, Parent care Fashion college then and she just kept me there.

    How many graduates do you churn out every year ?

    Each year we train an average of 20 to 50 students. You have to be certified and the process of being certified is important because sometimes you need to go abroad or get permission from the husband. There are different steps and you have to handle them with care.

    So, if you go through the process of liasing with models,  going through the process of negotiating with tailors, understanding the rudiments of the fashion industry, take them on excursions and talk to other fashion designers. This year , what we did was to take them to Alumni’s fashion houses , this helps them to understand that this is a profitable journey.

    Do you always have fashion shows?

    Yes, we have fashion shows every year. This has been the pattern and we have the graduation as well. This year was smaller because we considered the economy as well. Although, it is usually about 80 per cent of the cost is sponsored by the school.

    What can the government do to make things better ?

    Let them just create the enabling environment. If there is light , access to market, access to products. Make sure that the young designers in Nigeria are able to export their products.  So, that is what the government can do to make things easier for people. Just do the needful and strengthen the naira.

    Did you or any of your students benefit from any of the government initiatives?

    When it comes to loans , it is easy to collect. If you do not have an enabling environment , how can you repay a loan of 10 to 22 per cent? It is not realistic and so we do not train our students to go in that direction. What we teach you to do, you must actually make money from it. This is because a lot of things are involved when it comes to pushing a product.

    If you don’t get your marketing niche right , then there is a problem. So, if you collect a loan into a disaster , that is why you see people getting in trouble. It is because those percentages are unrealistic.

    Do you have an area of specialization?

    We do everything from children, male , female wear and bridals. This year we have gone hybrid, which means that the school is both digital and physical. We got students from outside Nigeria and last year all our students graduated from Accra Fashion school in Ghana. We took them all to Ghana. It can be anywhere next time. Ours is just to expose our students and to make sure that our certificate is really strong. So, that anywhere you go with it , they will know that it is credible.

    Let’s talk about some of the memories?

    I am proud of all my students . I have most of them launching brands every single day . This is just the beginning and by the time we come back in three or four years , it would be unbelievable. If you cannot outlive what you are doing , then you have a very big problem. That is what we also teach our students, you have to learn to collaborate . We are not just teaching you to take care of yourself, you  have got to take care of society.

    What about your mum?

    She is retired now. She does bridals sometimes.  For me, combining motherhood with designing was easy because I understood the seasons. I know the successes that I would have in ten years time and those that I would have in 20 years time. If you can understand that and do things according to your environment, then you would be fine. The truth is that a woman can’t have it all. No matter how you sweet talk it. So, if this business is taking 25 per cent, then I am giving it my all. That is what I have done and I have been able to balance it all.

  • Suenu Fasinro/Magbamiloruko: How two Lagos royal families reunited after century–old feud

    Suenu Fasinro/Magbamiloruko: How two Lagos royal families reunited after century–old feud

    • Reunion was long overdue – Onisabe

    • Most of the present generation does not even know reason for the feud

    Tuesday December 26, 2023 will go down as a date to remember by members of the Fasinro Soenu family of Lagos Island and the Magbamiloruko Oloto Royal Family of Mainland Lagos, as it was a date both families reunited after about a century old separation. Onisabe of Igbobi-Sabe, Yaba Lagos, Oba Owolabi Adeniyi and Dr Akinlade Babafemi of the Magbamiloruko family who spoke to The Nation, said the significance cannot be over-emphasized.

    The reunion, which took place in Otto, Lagos Mainland, also had notable family members, including Olori Ebi Fasinro Suenu family, Suenu Jimoh Senior, Pa. Mukthair  Kayode Jenmi, Chief Mohammed Bashir Akinola, the Odoffin of Otto & Mainland, Pa Lamoriu Sanusi, Amidu Sulaiman Suenu (Fabiyi), Bankole Olalekan Orishayomi, Alhadja Saidatu Amodu among others.

    Notably, offerings were also made and a big get-together bash was organised to commemorate the occasion.

    According to Dr Akinlade Babafemi, who was speaking in the presence of the Onisabe of Igbobi Sabe in his palace in Igbobi-Sabe, Magbamiloruko, whose real name was Ifayemi got married to two husbands, one after the other, both of who, incidentally, were of royal families at different times in her lifetime.

    “The first was a prince of Benin of the Adele Ajosun Family while the later was of Suenu family, both of Lagos. She married Prince Akapo, who was the third son of then reigning Oba Adele Ajosun. When that one passed, she got married to Orisadaran, an Apa Prince from present day Badagry. Orisadaran was a warrior and mercenary, who due to his valiant exploits, accompanied Oba Akinsemoyin and was honoured to become the first Suenu of Lagos. Magbamiloruko herself wasn’t without royalty in her blood, as she was the third born of Oloto Baalo, who reigned between 1816 and 1859 after Oloto Akinjufe who reigned between 1730 and 1765.

    Read Also; Tinubu’s quest for living wage for Nigerian workers: 37 to the rescue

    Because Ifayemi’s marriage to Akapo was of two royal families –  Oba Adele Ajosun as the Eleko on Lagos Island and Oba Baalo Oloto on the Mainland, the Lagos State gazette of the Oloto came out recently, the term they used was ‘resuscitation’, which means the Lagos State Government recognised in history that past Olotos were Obas. The Oloto inherited the seat of power of the Olofin kingdom at Iddo. The two obas were said to have sat side by side during the celebrated marriage of Magbamiloruko. The people and palace of the Eleko brought out the Eyo Orisha Agere as dowry. Till today, Eyo Agere concludes its visit to the Oloto Palace before any Adamu Orisha play by visiting the Esugbayi Oloto compound in Otto to pay homage in continued recognition of the historic marriage.

    “After the death of Prince Akapo, Princess Ifayemi married Orisadaran as her second husband. Like I said, Orisadaran was a mercenary and he was involved in most of the Yoruba wars around that time; that was why he was honoured as the first Suenu of Lagos, domiciled in Isale-Eko, Lagos Island.

    “History has it that Ifayemi was into slave trade and that she was a contemporary of Madam Tinubu, the legendary Egba warrior woman and slave merchant; and that it was during her trade forays along the Badagry slave routes/markets that she met Orisadaran. Orisadaran had the honour of been a member of the entourage of Oba Akinsemoyin to Lagos. The mother of Akinsemoyin was from Apa and that created a base for the ascendancy of Orisadaran in Lagos history.

    “From the first marriage, Ifayemi had Esugbayi and Adejo and from the second marriage, she had Fasinro and Omontorisha. The Fasinro family have kept a long lull and absence, owing to historical disagreements and rarely showed up except and only during coronation or other important events to celebrate their roots. The story of the Fasinro Suenu stock had been marred by disagreements over properties, destruction of documents and sharing of spoils with the Omotorisha family over a centenary. Many in this present generation barely understand the crux of matter and issues. The descendants of the other siblings have grown used to only the Omotorisha in the Oloto family.

    According to Oba Owolabi Adeniyi, “One of the significance of this marriage was that it fostered the relationship between the Apa Kingdom in Badagry and the Olofin kingdom at Iddo. It was during this period that the Oba Alapa of Apa honoured Oba Akinsemoyin with the Kerevesi, which was later adopted by the white cap chiefs in central Lagos. The other significance of that relationship was that the then Oloto Akinjufe gave Princess Ifayemi (Magbamiloruko) and Orisadaran,  Abebe village for their genealogy to inherit, which covers part of today’s Breweries, Apex Mill and some parts of Iponri low-cost Housing estate and Eyin Iganmu.”

    Dr Akinlade Babafemi explained that the marriage of Orisadaran to Magbamiloruko during the reign of Oloto Akinjufe is ably supported by colonial and archival records. It was also the habit of the past Olotos to give land to future descendants, especially notable personalities who were their in-laws. Oloto Akinjufe did the same when Ogabi the son of Chief Kupae, the first Eletu-Iwase married his daughter called Erufa. Oloto Akinjufe gave the descendants of the union some parts of Mushin, which is today inherited by only children bore to him by Erufa and excluded descendants of other wives of Ogabi. The fact of this ownership was buttressed when the reunion meeting between the Omotorisha and Fasinro Suenu took place on May 21st 2021.

    “Bear in mind that even though the Esugbayi and Adejo  families are products of Oba Adele Ajosun in Lagos Island, both their descendants preferred to stay more in their maternal home of Otto, because Otto was also a seat of power of the present day Oloto of Otto. The present day Oloto palace in Otto was built by Esugbayi, the second child of Magbamiloruko, with the majority contribution from Omontorisha.

    Babafemi added: “Esugbayi became king in Otto, ably supported by his sister Omontorisha and Chief Fasinro Suenu. He (Esugbayi) was the son Ifayemi bore to the Adele family after Adejo in her first marriage. That cemented the reason they felt more at home in Otto. In fact, being descendants of a past king, their roots are firmly cemented there. When it was time for Odun Agba (Agba Festival), which by the way, is the oldest festival in Olofin enclave, Ifayemi descendants born to Orisadaran (Suenu Family) would come over to Otto to partake and play their part. Agba is the name of the deity worshipped in Otto.

    How Ifayemi came by the name Magbamiloruko

    Shedding more light, Oba Adeniyi said, “The real name of our matriarch was Ifayemi; however, according to the historical narratives passed on by our elders, an incident happened in 1888, which changed her name publicly and that of the family to Magbamiloruko, especially in Otto. Oba Oyekan the first had directed that an Oloto should be capped in 1888.  However, in the process of capping the Oloto, the person who was supposed to put forward the new Oloto was an uncle to Ifayemi; his name was called Fagbayi. The Oloto family had ceded the throne to Epe returnees led by Fagbayi after a long absence, owing to the Epe exile arising from the Kosoko-Akitoye war. Fagbayi is the progenitor of all of today’s Fagbayis in the Oloto family. There was so much funfare at Olumegbon’s palace while they awaited Fagbayi ‘s arrival via the sea. The name on everyone’s lips was one Buramoh Bello. He came with a large entourage and brought a lot for guests to eat and drink. Historical accounts of the day said Fagbayi was not interested in the stool while some said he was too old or had some bodily condition. The most important thing, however, was that he was on ground to state that the said Buraimoh Bello was an Ibiga of Oloto Baalo and not a child of Baalo. He thus denied Buraimoh Bello, who would have been wrongly crowned as an Oloto of Otto.

    “Chief Fasinro Suenu thus forbade the usurpation of his name in Oloto family affairs, hence the name Magbamiloruko, meaning “do not steal my name. Subsequently, the name Magbamiloruko, which ordinarily was an alias, became so rife that it literally obliterated our real name. That is why if you go to Otto today, the name you would hear is Magbamioruko rather than Ifayemi.

    “Eventually, it was Esugbayi, the grandson of Baalo, who unexpectedly became king. Fagbayi busted Buraimoh Bello’s attempted impersonation and told Oba Oyekan (I) that he was not the Fasinro known to the Oloto family.

    Akinlade picked up the narrative: “Esugbayi himself was not even aware that he would be crowned king that fateful day but Omontorisa prompted by the Progenitor Fagbayi looked everywhere for his brother who was coming from fishing on the Lagos Lagoon. Esugbayi was then given an Aroko (a customary signal) to take to the Olumegbon’s palace and that eventually stopped the impostor from usurping the throne and Esugbayi was immediately seized and crowned with Oloto throne.

    “Because he wasn’t prepared, it was the food and clothes brought by the impostor that were used to celebrate Esugbayi’s enthronement on that day.”

    How is it possible for someone else to step in with the family name on such an occasion?

    Oba Owolabi Adeniyi explained: “You know in the past, people can dwell in a royal court (Iga or Agbole) and start bearing the name of that family after a while, with the original owners of the name not batting an eyelid or complaining, so long as they are not dragging the name in the mud or transgressing. The man may have been one of such. This happens even in present day Lagos. So we are the real Fasinros in the Oloto family, I mean those of us from the Suenu branch. Fasinro was the son that Magbamiloruko bore to the first Suenu, Orisadaran .The first child was Omotorisha whose name was shortened from Omotorishadaran.

  • Odebunmi Ifedayo Fadekemi: Working with celebrities very inspiring

    Odebunmi Ifedayo Fadekemi: Working with celebrities very inspiring

    Odebunmi Ifedayo Fadekemi is the CEO and Creative Director of SofTouch Couture, Soft Ivory Men, and My Soft Ivory. The brand interest cut across male and female luxury wear and essentials.

    Happily, she goes down memory lane to recall how it all started while in the university and improved on her skills by attending a fashion school; Felenge Couture.

    Since then, she has steadily styled and designed for a number of our celebrities.  In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, the graduate of Computer Science takes you into her world, memorable moments, plans for 2024, and more.

    What is your plan or projections for 2024?

    Looking back I must say that the year 2023 was very interesting and we achieved a number of the things we set out to achieve at the beginning of last year. This year we will consolidate our plans and take the brand to the next level. My plan for 2024 is to go global, create more visibility, and satisfy our clients locally and on the global scene.

    The economy is tough, what keeps you going?

    The crux of the matter is that the economy is affecting a lot of businesses and Nigerians in general. However, I am not deterred because my focus is on God. This is  because without him I don’t think I would be here, His grace keeps me going. 

    Did you ever feel like quitting?

    I am a strong lady and I am motivated by the urge to make a difference. I must say that the challenges spurred me to do more. No matter the obstacle, I have not been discouraged, I never thought of quitting. Instead, it allows me to look for alternatives and find solutions to any present situation that I find myself in.

    What are the other things that occupy your time?

    I really can’t call myself a loner because I like to attend social events and network with other people.  Usually, if I am not working I am likely to be in a group meeting, or trying to get another means of income.

     How would you rate the performance of our designers?

    Nigerian designers are like some of the best designers in the world. They are very determined and creative, and as I speak you discover that the level of our creativity now is one hundred percent. The things and collections that I see across the country are inspiring and I am happy we are now one of the best designers worldwide.

    Did you have special training in fashion designing?

    Yes, I do. I learned the skill and went into the sector while I was at the university. I started small and got patronage from family and friends. I went deeply by going to a fashion school; Felenge Couture.

    How long have you been into fashion design?

    I have been into fashion for about ten years now but it started as a passion and the business started to grow gradually and I am happy about the journey so far. 

    What factors have contributed to your success in the industry?

    I must say that my determination, dedication, and perseverance have helped me. In addition, being strategic, following my passion, and monitoring and evaluation have helped me. The media and how the industry has evolved have also played a major part in my growth and development.

    What inspired your brand name, Softouch’?

    My brand name was DAYO’s clothing when we first started but at a point, we needed to rebrand. That was when I thought of taking the name of the brand to another level and I am glad that I made that decision then. I wanted a name, something everyone all over the world could pronounce because I saw my brand going International, even though I was just starting.

     I also wanted something that can give meaning to the ear. So, on that fateful day, I was listening to a song that had just been released by FALZ; a Nigerian musician, the song is titled ‘ SOFTWORK’ and that was the year 2015.

    Read Also: Tinubu advocates equitable capital market access for developing countries

    There and then I fell in love with the name SOFT and I decided to put it down with the other names that I have been compelling in my notes. I met with my boyfriend back then now my fiancé, I gave him the list that ‘Oh I want to change my business name ‘and that we should pick something together to cut the story short he also picked SOFT, but we were like oh why just soft then we but concluded in adding touch to it,” like something that is Soft and can be touch. That’s where the inspiration came from.

     How affordable are your designs?

    My clothes are pocket-friendly. Something that can be worn by different people, in different unique ways. Every collection is different and you will always find something interesting for everyone. We always try to add little details that make a difference,   we make outfits that are unusual and creative.

    Are you planning to unveil a new collection, can you tell us more about it?

    Yes, I am unveiling a new collection

    And we have 10  extraordinary bridal pieces to unveil. 

    Can you mention some of your celebrity clients?

    I have worked with some celebrities and the list includes Anita Joseph (Actress), Chichi (Big Brother Naija Housemate), Nkechi Blessing (Actress), Gleeoflife (hair guru), Dayo Amusa (Actress), Saskay (Big Brother Naija Housemate), Funmi Awelawa (Actress), Maria Chike (Big Brother Naija Housemate ) and more. I must say that working with celebrities has been very inspiring, they bring out the best in me.

    Which other celebrities would you love to style?

    I would love to style Tiwa Savage because I love her personality. Then, Chioma Ikokwu known as Chioma Goodhair, I love her fashion world. Lastly, Toke Makinwa, I love her charisma.

    What are the challenges you face as a Nigerian entrepreneur?

    Honestly, business in Nigeria isn’t for the weak and it hasn’t been easy running mine due to poor infrastructure (electricity), bad economy, and lack of funds opportunities.

     How has the current state of the economy affected your business, and what do you think the government can do to help?

    It has affected my business because mostly I order some items outside the country. The dollar rate is alarming and it’s causing my business difficulties. To convince some clients to pay more is always tasking. Some of them can’t even afford the price. I wish the government could look into our money exchange and help business owners.

     Who are your industry inspirations or mentors?

    I don’t have anyone. I practically inspire myself.

    Can you mention some fashion shows you have graced?

    I do not attend fashion shows because of my tight schedule. It has been work, work, and more work. Most of the time I spent at my workshop as well as training others. But I was able to participate in a show titled Zeena and ZARA. It was very interesting with lots of lessons learnt. Look forward to doing more of that this year. 

    Which runway show do you look forward to featuring?

    London Fashion Week, London Fashion Gala, GT Fashion Show.

    What are your plans for your brand?

    To be global. To be a happy woman, you need to give yourself attention, relax, and focus on touching lives. Your peace of mind and contentment are also very important.

     Tell us about your personal style?

    Personal style is an integral part of a fashion designer’s identity. My personal style can be described as bold, edgy, and eclectic. I love experimenting with unique silhouettes, unexpected color combinations, and incorporating avant-garde elements into my designs. I find inspiration from a variety of sources, including art, culture, and street fashion, and strive to create pieces that are both visually striking and empowering for the wearer.

    How do you relax?

    Relaxation is crucial to maintain a healthy work-life balance as a fashion designer. To unwind, I enjoy practicing meditating to clear my mind and find inner peace. I also love spending time with nature,  going for a movie and engaging in activities that I’m passionate about. I like reading fashion magazines or attending art exhibitions. They actually also help me relax and recharge creatively.

     Tell us about life as an entrepreneur and your survival strategies?

    Life as an entrepreneur in the fashion industry can be challenging yet rewarding. It requires perseverance, dedication, and a strong work ethic. Survival strategies include having a clear vision and mission for my brand, focusing on creating high-quality products, and understanding and adapting to market trends. Networking and building relationships with industry professionals have also been instrumental in expanding my brand’s reach and opening doors for new opportunities.

    What advice do you have for young people who want to come into the sector?

    For young people aspiring to enter the fashion sector, my advice is to develop a strong foundation in design and technique. Pursue formal education in fashion, gain experience through internships or apprenticeships, and stay updated on industry trends. You also need to build a portfolio that showcases your creativity and individual style. You must be prepared to work hard and embrace failure as a learning curve. Networking and building industry relationships are vital, so attend fashion events, join professional organizations, and collaborate with fellow creatives.

      Where do you see your brand in the next few years?

    In the next few years, I envision my brand expanding its global presence, collaborating with influential fashion houses, and showcasing collections on international runways. I aim to continue pushing the boundaries of design, incorporating sustainable practices into my brand, and becoming a leading force in the fashion industry. Through strategic marketing and brand development, I plan to attract a wide customer base and establish a strong brand identity that resonates with fashion-forward individuals?

    Let’s talk about your pieces and what makes them different and unique?

    The natural world inspires my fashion design, it provides a wealth of inspiration, such as organic shapes, patterns, colors, and textures found in flora, fauna, and landscapes. 

    Also art and culture has been very useful. As a designer, visual arts, paintings, sculptures, music, films, and various cultural traditions  sparks  creativity and influence design themes, motifs, and aesthetics.

    Examining fashion from different periods and diving into vintage clothing inspires me a lot.

    I would also say advancements in technology, materials, and techniques have pushed the boundaries of my fashion design, leading to innovative and futuristic creations.

     Lastly, collaborating with other creative minds, such as artists, musicians, or architects has given vast inspiration to what I do.

  • Vivian Okiche: Challenges taught me resilience

    Vivian Okiche: Challenges taught me resilience

    Vivian Okiche is an entrepreneur and real estate developer who is passionate about the things that she does. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, the CEO of Graygold Investment Limited takes you through her experiences and making an impact in the industry.

    With over 10,000 satisfied clients, Okiche opens up on her strategy and how she became internationally known for her trustworthiness while dealing with her clientele. “My commitment to 100% integrity has earned me multiple awards and recognition in the industry”, she enthuses.

    Happily, she takes you into her world and how she was inspired to go into the Real Estate business.

    ‘The inspiration behind entering the real estate business stemmed from a deep understanding of the importance of providing people with secure, affordable, and quality living spaces. For me, it is about making a positive impact on lives through valuable investments”.

    Okiche goes on to talk about her experience working in the sector and the things that she has done differently. “I would say that my experience in the real estate sector has been dynamic. Over the years, we have focused on transparency, timely delivery, and meeting our customer’s expectations. What sets us apart is our commitment to honoring promises, ensuring instant allocation, and embracing innovative approaches in the market which is ever evolving”.

    Looking back, Okiche informs that it hasn’t been a bed of roses. “You learn a lot with every project and each experience is different from the other. Some of the lessons learned taught me that flexibility and adaptability are crucial in this sector. It is very important to learn from the feedback you get from clients. Also important is understanding market trends, and being agile in response to challenges. All these have been invaluable lessons and I keep learning from time to time”.

    Read Also; Helen Oduyemi: I learnt farming from my grandparents

    Now, you want to know some of the things that she is looking forward to in the sector and she replies this way: “We look forward to contributing significantly to closing the housing deficit, introducing innovative solutions, and establishing a benchmark for excellence in the industry”.

    Okiche also talks about her experience working on her latest project and the priority this way: “Our experience in the current neighborhood has been enriching. It has been very interesting engaging with the community, understanding their needs, and aligning our projects with the local environment”.

    Now, you want to know some of the memorable moments in the sector and she responds: “There have been a number of memorable moments. This

    Includes some of the successful projects that we have launched, client satisfaction, and witnessing the positive impact our developments have had on the community”.

    They all come with challenges, which Okiche describes as stepping stones that have built her personally as well as the brand. “The challenges for me include regulatory changes and market fluctuations, which of course are inevitable. However, overcoming these challenges has strengthened our resolve and taught us resilience”.

    So, how will she compare life as an entrepreneur to what she was doing in the past you ask?

    “Being an entrepreneur requires vision, risk-taking, and leadership. It’s a journey of constant learning and adaptability, offering a sense of fulfillment that actually surpasses any previous professional experiences”.

    Talking about the new areas that she would be exploring and the other things that occupy her time, Okiche strongly believes that the best is yet to come.    “We are exploring sustainable and eco-friendly developments which aim to contribute to environmental conservation while providing modern living spaces. In addition, we would also be doing more of community engagements, staying updated on industry trends, and fostering a positive work culture.

    For young people who would like to go into the sector, Okiche’s advice is to build trust. “I think they need to embrace learning, stay innovative, and prioritize integrity. Real estate is about building trust, and success comes from a combination of passion, knowledge, and ethical business practices. Personally, I admire visionaries who have revolutionized industries, like Elon Musk, and leaders committed to social impact, such as Bill and Melinda Gates”.

    The greatest influence for Okiche is the desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives through accessible and quality housing solutions. “My message to Nigerians is to invest wisely in real estate. It’s a tangible asset that secures your future and contributes to national development. Government needs to prioritize policies that encourage sustainable real estate development, as it plays a pivotal role in economic growth, job creation, and improving citizens’ quality of life”.

    Okiche holds the prestigious office of President at Platinum Cape Realtors Group, which caters to over 20,000 active real estate brokers in Lagos State.

    As a role model in the industry, she has also dedicated herself to training and mentoring youths, helping them to become better professionals and individuals.

    Offering an insight into her career, in Lagos, Okiche talks passionately about her homeownership campaign and its overall impact.  “This is the Mission1000 land and homeowners”, which then gave birth to “Mission 5000 land and homeowners. This is part of our efforts people achieve impressive returns on their real estate investments, and has been a huge success over the years”.

    Okiche obtained her degree from Caritas University and furthered her education by earning a Professional Course Certification from the Lagos Business School (LBS) She also holds the prestigious title of Doctor in Real Estate Management and Development from the Chartered Institute of Public Resources and Politics, Ghana.

  • Selasi’s Top Ten

    Selasi’s Top Ten

    Trayc Selasi is a British-Ghanaian singer and songwriter. She tells OLAITAN GANIU her favourite things.

    Favorite wrist watch

    I am not a fan of the wristwatch.  I don’t wear one. But if I had to choose, it would be a Hugo Boss watch because my partner’s got one and it’s quite nice.

    Favorite car

    The Mercedes G-wagon is my favourite car

    Favorite designer

    I’m not a designer girl. I like anything nice, but if I had to choose one, it would be Ghanaian designers. They are amazing and I can’t wait to work with them one day.

    Favorite Perfume

    I don’t have a favourite perfume, but I like my good-smelling Oud either from Dubai, Saudi Arabia or wherever.

    Favorite travel destination

    I love going to so many different places and seeing so many different cultures, but my ultimate favourite is Ghana. I love being back home. You know, being back home is just the ultimate.

    Read Also; Helen Oduyemi: I learnt farming from my grandparents

    Favorite song

    My favourite song is ‘Soft Life’ by Seyi Shay and Banji Mak because I co-produced and co-wrote that song.

    Favorite book

    My favorite book is The Alchemist. I love reading that book. I would even be going back to read that book again for like the fourth or fifth time.

    Favorite actor/artist

    My favourite actor or artist? One I can think of right now, actor-wise, is Taraji P. Henson. She’s absolutely an amazing actor. For artists, I think who I love right now is Tems. She’s my favourite right now.

    Favorite accessories

    I love some good jewelry. I love my rings. I love some flower rings and African-shaped rings, triangle rings.

    Favorite Food

    Favourite food is beans and plantains. Yeah. If it’s not beans and plantain, then it’s Banku with red pepper sauce with fish and eggs. Yes, I’m a Ghanaian, and we love eggs.

  • Helen Oduyemi: I learnt farming from my grandparents

    Helen Oduyemi: I learnt farming from my grandparents

    Helen Omowunmi Oduyemi is the CEO of Helen Genius Agro Products Limited and Shealux Limited. In this interview with YETUNDE OLADEINDE, she takes you into her world, learning from her grandparents who were farmers, Value addition, training and mentoring others, getting grants and support from the Central Bank, and Heritage Bank, and experience in export.

    What has been the experience?

     Shealux Limited is into value addition, shea butter, and black soap. We make cosmetics from shea butter and black soap, products, and skincare solutions for people using essential oils and herbs. All these are agro-related. For Helen Genius we deal with farm processing, agro-processing, the exportation of Agro produce, and real production.  I started in 2016 in Osun state, and people started calling me the lady farmer from Etsaoke. I went into Agriculture because I saw a large gap coming from an agrarian community in Osun state. My grandparents are farmers and I saw that there was no dissemination of information. It was that information that I took to Etsa-oke, no improved seedlings, the framers were not notified. They do garri processing and the way they do the garri processing is not hygienic enough, there is drudgery and the effort that they need to put into it is just crazy. So, I decided that I would keep going there to train them, not thinking that I would be a farmer. I was a scientist. I studied Science Laboratory Technology at Ladoke Akintola University.

    What did you do with Science Laboratory Technology (SLT)?

    After studying SLT, I went to business school at the Entrepreneurship Development Center (EDC), Lagos, then run by the Central Bank of Nigeria. I went there at Ikeja and did the course and I was inspired. I was able to write Concept notes and Business Plans. So, I felt that instead of looking for a job, I could be doing something with my time. I used to train people before I graduated in vocational skills under the Commissioner for Women Affairs in Oyo state then under Gov Alao Akala. They usually engage me to train villagers in the different zones for women empowerment.

    What are some of the things that you were training them then?

    I trained the local women hat making, confectionaries, cake making, soaps, and detergents and we segmented them. They will always come to the zonal office and I will be there with other facilitators. Then after school, I went back to Esa oke, my town and I tried to raise other people through vocational skills.

    Then I saw the gaps for farmers. Then I said if these people provide the food that people eat then why is it difficult and they cannot afford the basic things in life? Why is it that only a few of them can afford a decent life? Then I saw that gap, the trees that my grandparents planted, people are still using that kind of seedling. People are still using that kind of low-yield seedling input to expect high-yield outputs, which is not possible.

    So, I took it upon myself to organise with the king of our town in the palace. I started training people and I went to JDPC in Oyo the Reverend father and one of the members assisted because they saw the passion in me. That time they were doing vitamin A cassava stem under harvest clubs and they made me one of the advocators. At a time they gave me a whole pick-up of Vitamin A Cassava stems. Improved variety and I took it to Osun State. At that time the variety was not in Osun state and that was how I entered Agric fully. When people have one problem or the other they would call me and I started learning more. I did not study agriculture in school.

    How did you learn?

    I did not go to any agricultural school to learn about agric. I was born into Agric; I am a third-generation agriculturist. The use of herbs and agro-produce is a norm in my family. But improving on it was a challenge that I saw with people. My grandparents were royals, they had money. When they were alive, I did not know that farmers were poor. My grandmother had two 911 that carried oranges, and pineapples to Lagos and neighbouring towns for her. So, I didn’t know that farmers were poor; I used to think farmers were wealthy. I have always been participating in farming from a young age. My dad is an accountant and my mum is a teacher, they didn’t go to the farm. Later my dad after retiring went back to farming. But, I always got tips from my grandparents and I loved to always stay around them. So, every holiday I would follow Grandma to the farm. When I was going home, she would pack so many goodies for me. And there is that bond. She taught me a lot about business.

    How many years have you been in farming?

    I started in 2016. I registered the first company, Helen Genius Global Services in 2015 and got support from the Central Bank through Heritage Bank, EDP Youth Development Initiative. That was the first support that I got.

    What gave you the opportunity?

    I went to business school in 2012 and it was sponsored by CBN then. They gave us 3 million naira as a loan for the winners, about 90 of us out of 3000 applicants or more. At a stage, we got to three thousand people and then they had to screen us out till we had 90 people. Then in Osun state, out of the 90 people in Nigeria, I was one of the beneficiaries.

    What did that exposure do to your business?

    For the first time, I was able to have cash in the first place. I was just doing those things out of passion. My grandparents had died and my parents were just average. And they were not supporting what I was doing because they felt that you have not fed yourself, you are trying to help people. What is the meaning of this nonsense? However, I felt that even if I had the money and everyone around me was poor, then all of us were still poor. But, how do I convince villagers that what they are doing is wrong, when I don’t have proof of concept?

    So, Heritage Bank was able to help me to have the cash to prove the concept. To say this is the way, everybody comes and follows. I have gone out to find out and knew that around that time they were rejecting Nigerian garri production, which is value added to cassava. I know that people around us in Ekiti state plant Cassava, but not as much as in Oyo state. So, when I got this fund, we bought stainless steel machines. So that whatever produce we have would be exportable.

     We had challenges along the line but it was a good start. In a day in that factory, we could have like 10 people working. These were women who on a good day may not know where to go. It was standard and with that, we got a grant support from World Bank under GEM in 2018. That was 11 million naira support and our community started supplying wood. We wanted to have our station where we could generate power and run green energy. So, we started the bioproduction and that was where that project had to stop.

    Looking back to when you started and now, what has changed?

    When I started, I did not have enough information. I only had passion. I did not have any structure. If I am not there nothing works. My level of knowledge was low compared to now. I now have more resilience that no matter what happens n, things can always get better. And if we give it all it takes, it will be successful. I now know that my concepts are doable, they are achievable, they are replicable. Whatever we do in Osun state, we are replicating in Oyo state and can always diversify. I was not thinking of planting anything when I started. I just wanted to help other farmers. But over time, I saw a lot of lapses and realized that if we were going to prove this to people, you would have to do it first and let them see it. In 2019, we saw our cluster planting cotton, we tried some places with our hand and another with a hand pusher and saw the different outputs. So, we want all of them planting different things to be able to use a planter and not their hand. The hand would not give the actual plant population that is required to bring profit. No, I can create the economics of production for a particular crop before going to farm at all. Also, with herbs and other things that we have access to, I can map out a farm with the drone that we are now using. So, you can be sure that if you are planting on one hectare, it is one acre that you are using; sometimes the surveyor may not be accurate. In the past, you could put an input of 5 hectares on land that is 3 and a half acres. It happened to us at Onifufu village in Ibadan in 2019. When we brought the drone there, we found that what they told us they had measured was not the actual digital space that we had. That was a loss on its own. So, the information that we have now is way far better.

    Read Also: Pump price hike: Will Nigerians suffer fuel marketers’ folly in 2024?

     Do you have young people that you are mentoring?

    I have older not younger people that I am mentoring. In my circle, most times I am always the youngest. Most times, the people who are serious with life most times are above 40. In cosmetics, the Nigeria Export Promotion Council just recently gave us a hand of collaboration to mentor people into value addition of all these organic natural cosmetics for exports. We export palm oil, shea butter, and peeled beans. People send their requests for different foods, I do only agro products. The cosmetics we do are like food to the skin. From shea butter, mango butter, and cocoa butter Mango has butter inside the seed, which helps the skin to glow, for anti-aging. I keep learning and from SheTrades I can say that the transformation that I have had so far, 60 percent is because I am with SheTrades. They have trained us consistently and when you apply these things to your business, you discover that there is a whole lot inside of you to explore.

  • Why we hold meetings in hotels, public places – Lion Samuel Ayobola

    Why we hold meetings in hotels, public places – Lion Samuel Ayobola

    Call him Nigeria’s number 1 Lion and you may just be right. However, Multiple Council Chairman, Lions Club International Multiple District 404 Nigeria, Lion Chief Samuel Ayobola’s unassuming personality, belies this huge position; until you start a conversation with him. In this interview with GBOYEGA ALAKA, he sheds light on the Lions Club structure, how his desire to support the less privileged led him to join the club 31 years ago and how he rose to the top position.

    The title, Multiple Council Chairman’ of Lions Club International Multiple District 404 Nigeria, sounds like some club Governor-General or overseer. Could you explain it to us?

    Let me explain the structure to you.  We have a club that is known as the Lions Club. A Lions Club is headed by a President. Next to that is the Zone, which is made up of a minimum of five to six clubs, and headed by a Zone Chairperson. Then the number of clubs in one state or part thereof forms what is called a Region, which is  made up of not less than ten clubs and headed by a Region Chairperson. Then you now have a District. A District is a collection of not less than 35 clubs and 1,250 members and is headed by a District Governor. Lest I forget, a standard Lions Club should have a minimum of 20 members. In a country or geographical area, where you have more than one district, you now have what is called a Multiple District. The Multiple Council Chairperson is expected to be a past District Governor, who now coordinates the sub-districts. So where you have two or more districts, you have a Multiple Council Chairperson as coordinator. He makes sure there is a meeting point between the various districts that make up the multiple districts. So, literally, I supervise all the districts across Nigeria.

    How demanding can holding such a position be?

    It is very demanding. Supervising district governors, leaves you with a lot of responsibilities. It is demanding in terms of time, resources and mental work. For instance, I don’t live in Lagos; I’m a member of Ilorin Central Lions Club and I live in Ilorin; but as we speak, I’m in Lagos for a Special Delegates Meeting to ratify a candidate for the position of International Director. We all came from all over Nigeria. The whole of Nigeria constitutes MD 404 (Multiple District 404); so anytime there is any activity that combines all the districts, be it in Lagos, Abuja, Calabar, Abeokuta, wherever; as Multiple District Council chairperson, I have to be present.  So most of the time, I’m on the road covering/supervising one activity or the other.

    How did you get to this enviable position? It, surely, couldn’t have been a stroll in the park.

    Our administrative structure is bottom-up. Before anything, you have to have served as Club President; then Zone Chairperson; Region Chairperson, before you can qualify to serve as District Governor. It is after serving as a District Governor that you can now qualify and aspire to be a Multiple Chairperson. I joined the club some 31 years ago.

    For your members to have supported you all the way, there has to be something you’ve been bringing to the table. Tell us about it.

    Of course, to get elected to such a position, you must have proven your mettle. So, with every sense of modesty, I believe I have shown that I have the capacity to lead. Besides, you must be able to interact freely; because for them to elect you, they must know you and know your onions. So once these qualities are met, it becomes relatively easy to climb up the ladder.

    The popular opinion out there is that you must be wealthy or have some good money before you could join Lions Club, especially because of the projects you embark on.

    It is not so. But again, you we need to define what it entails in terms of endowment to be  a Lion. Clearly, you don’t need to be a millionaire or billionaire to be a Lion, but there are certain things/qualities you must possess before you can be admitted. First, you must have a sustainable means of livelihood. Don’t forget that the idea of Lionism is to help the needy; and a needy cannot help the needy. So you must be gainfully employed, to the extent that you can fend for yourself and have something left, which you can use to assist the less-privileged around you. Number two is to have the heart to share what you have with others. Some people are multi-billionaires, but to part with their money is difficult.

    There is this belief that clubs like Lions Club gives members network opportunities to grow and attain better job/appointment opportunities. Is this a myth or reality?

    To a large extent, if I say we are friends, what are we friends for, if we cannot lend helping hands to each other? Nonetheless, we always tell intending members at the point of interview not to come to the club because of personal benefits, but with a heart of service. Along the line, benefits may come. If you deal in batteries and I need a battery for my car, without doubt, you should be my first point of contact. Same if you’re a printer, a medical doctor  or any other service you render. So of course we give our members priority and connect each other where there are opportunities.

    You’ve been in the saddle as Multiple Council Chairman for six months; tell us about your activities or achievements so far.

    First, we can only have one Multiple Council chairman in one country, which is my humble self, although we have six district governors. The first activity that I embarked upon at the beginning of the Lions Year, was the presentation activities of the district governors, where I also assisted them in raising funds, which they would use in carrying out projects in their various districts. By the way, we have six districts in Nigeria. We lost one of our members last year; he was a past council chairperson; so what we try to do is to insure our members under a welfare scheme, where we get certain sum from the insurance company, which we share among the deceased’s members’ family. This same out-gone year, we lost a prominent member, the doyen Lion in Nigeria actually, Pa Akintola Williams. He was the first Nigerian to be a Lion. As an association, we were able to organise a befitting burial service for him in conjunction with his family. This same year, our International President, Dr Patti Hill, visited us in Nigeria with his spouse, and we were able to give him that well known Nigerian hospitality. They were here for three days and they took advantage of their visit to see some of the projects embarked upon by Lions here. I have also taken Nigeria Lions Club to Ghana to participate in All African Forum; this is where all the Lions in Africa gather to interact and carry out lots of activities. Like every other human organisation, we also have challenges of little misunderstanding; there was a time we had issues between District 404B3 and B4; we successfully met and resolved the issues. We have also successfully had a Special Delegates Meeting, where we endorsed a candidate that’ll be presented for the position of International Director at the next International Convention taking place in Melbourne, Australia in June this year.

    A major slogan of the Lions Club is, ‘Wherever there is a need, there is a Lion;’ in your 31 years as a Lion, which project have you led or been part of, which resonates with you the most?

    Before I go straight to your question, let me quickly explain this: We have what we call Focus Areas. we have eight Focus Areas. Environment is one of them, Relieving Hunger, Sight Reservation, Youth Engagement, Pediatric cancer. And I would say it is our efforts towards caring for pediatric cancer that has touched me the most. When you have a 5, 6 years old child suffering from cancer, and you know that cancer has no cure; it could be very touching.

    You were former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Kwara State; how did that impact on your activities as a Lion?

    Normally, your background will always have a role to play in whatever you do. I retired as Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports in 2018, but I had served in various other ministries and positions before then. In Lionism, we put the youths at the front burner, and that is why we have the youth arm and activities we refer to as the Leos: Leadership, Experience, Opportunities. This is to inculcate in them the heart of service and giving, even before they become gainfully employed. In like manner, as a Perm Sec in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, what we tried to do basically was to find ways to engage our youths – whether through sporting activities, skills acquisition, empowerment and all sorts; naturally, I tried to introduce this to the association too, to see how we could engage our youths in terms of skills acquisition. In any case, we have a programme known as Lions Quest, dedicated purposely to the upliftment of the youth. Personally, it has been my priority, wherever I find myself, to make sure that interests of our youths are adequately taken care of.

    What inspired you to join the Lions Club? Years back, a lot of people saw it like some cult.

    Back then, my boss in the ministry had been invited as a special guest of honour to their Investiture Ceremony, and he asked me to accompany him. There I  saw how enthusiastic they all were about raising funds to help the less privileged. That naturally aroused a certain feeling in me. And I thought that if people could be so passionate about helping other people, why couldn’t I be part of them?

    About Lions Club being perceived as a secret cult; yeah people used to think so, and that is why Lions Club meet in hotels. Our meeting is usually in public places/hotels, and we don’t meet at night; so that people can have access to us, listen to what is being discussed; just to convince everyone that there is nothing secret about Lions Club.

    Let me also use this opportunity to invite pubic spirited individuals, people of means and sustainable income with the heart to give, to come and join us. Like the bible says, ‘the harvest is plentiful but the hands are few;’ in the same manner, the enormity of work to be done is much; so the more the merrier.

    How have you juggled your responsibility as a Number One Lion with family?

    Well, I’ve been married for 37 years and I’ve been a lion for 31 years, that means my family have lived with this way of life for so long. What distabilises the family is when you change your pattern of life suddenly. Besides, all my three children are grown up. Two are married and the last would be getting married anytime soon. Besides, my wife is also a Lion, so she understands everything I do.

  • BBC documentary: Our memories of T.B. Joshua, by neighbours

    BBC documentary: Our memories of T.B. Joshua, by neighbours

    • Dele Momodu, Fani-Kayode defend late prophet

    As more reactions continue to trail the recent BBC documentary on the alleged escapades of the late TB Joshua, ADEOLA OGUNLADE, who visited the church’s neighbourhood in the Ikotun suburb of Lagos, captures the feeling of residents of the community, a good number of who were admirers and beneficiaries of the late televangelist’s renowned generosity.

    Last Friday morning, the premises of the Synagogue Church of all Nation (SCOAN), Ikotun, Lagos, was calm with security operatives on ground. A retinue of people were seen paying their respects to the late televangelist by looking at his giant portraits displayed by the side of the church. Some stretched forth their hands to the pictures praying while a man was seen kneeling and praying with his hands on Prophet TB Joshua’s picture. Not too far away, rubbles of the collapsed church guest house which claimed the lives of 116 people a few years back could be seen.

    Just a few days back, precisely, Monday, the BBC had aired a three-hour documentary on the late founder of the church, the late Temitope Balogun Joshua. The three-part documentary featured over two dozen SCOAN ex-members (disciples), taking turns to share accounts of alleged sexual assaults, manipulation, forced abortion, and other abuses attributed to the late cleric in his lifetime.

    These individuals are from Nigeria, South Africa, the United Kingdom among others.

    Reacting to the allegations, SCOAN Public Affairs Director, Dare Adejumo in a statement, said the BBC documentary, titled: ‘Disciples: The Cult of TB Joshua,’ portrayed the late founder in a negative light.

    Adejumo claimed that the individuals the BBC interviewed and featured in the expository documentary were unfamiliar to the church.

    Adejumo maintained that the documentary was aimed at tarnishing the image of the late T.B. Joshua.

    SCOAN stated that while investigating and reporting are at the core of journalism, straying from ethical principles is unacceptable.

    Highlighting journalism’s role as a societal watchdog, the church stressed the importance of fairness, balance, and objectivity for the media to maintain dignity as the fourth estate of the realm.

    Church neighbours react

    While there have been different reactions to the BBC report, those who knew Joshua while he was alive have continued to maintain that the late preacher was a man of God.

    One of the late SCOAN leader’s neighbours, a middle-aged woman, who spoke to The Nation on condition of anonymity, said that the BBC documentary is a lie, as it is a plot to discredit the good works the late TB Joshua did to so many people and residents within the community.

    “The late TB Joshua had a wife. I am not sure he has the time to engage in nefarious activities. During Yuletide season, he sent a whole trailer of rice to the community, with lots of money. He was a good man. We are not perturbed by the plethora of allegations levelled against him.”

    Also, a trader, who sells fast moving consumer goods and lives on Adekunjo Street right opposite the church, said her daughter told her about the video going around about the late TB Joshua. “The question is why didn’t they release the videos while he was alive, so he could clear himself of all the allegations? I told my daughter not to join them in discrediting TB Joshua. His judgment is not in our hands but in the hands of God. The BBC documentary is suspicious and unnecessary, especially after the man had died”

    Also, a couple who are members of the church and who lives on Adamo Street, not too far from the church area, said that the BBC report was ‘a piece of fake news’.

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    According to the couple, the wife of the late evangelist and Lead Pastor of the church, Evelyn Joshua, had announced to them that the church’s popular satellite broadcast channel, Emmanuel TV, would go off Dove TV, Startime and DSTV from the 17th of January, saying that the station was supposed to be free but the church was paying so much to retain it on the satellite networks.

    A flier was also distributed to alert church members. 

    The couple said they suspected foul play in the BBC report and literally rained curses on the people behind the documentary. The church according to them started a long time ago and the miracles and the plethora of good works displayed by TB Joshua are worthy of note. The wife, a trader and nursing mother, said: “Can someone who performed so many great miracles across borders be doing such dastardly acts as portrayed in the documentary? TB Joshua’s evangelists are around today doing a lot of miracles; are they also using demonic power? It can never be true. We have not just seen miracles, we saw and we are seeing good works displayed by the church. From Agodo to Liasu Road and Aminu in the environs, scores of persons were given rice and money during the last Yuletide Season. The documentary is just a plot to discredit him and his ministry. It will not work.”

    Also, a Muslim woman within the neighbourhood said the documentary was misconceived. “My husband did some work in the church and our house was greatly blessed.”

    She said her husband repaired the air conditioning and the church gave him some work to do. He was not discriminated against because of his religion. “After payment for the job had been made, he would give every artisan who worked in his church extra transport to take them home. We miss him. I am a Muslim but we appreciate him. He started from a humble background and became a global brand.”

    In the words of another woman, who deals in grocery on Adamo Street, “We are in support of the ministry, as the wife has continued the good strides and legacy her husband left behind.”

    According to her, she has been living in Adamo Street for a while and from the much she knew, the late TB Joshua was a kind and spirited minister of God.

    Evelyn Joshua reacts

    In what could be considered her reaction, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, on her Facebook page, Friday, posted “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Prophet T.B. Joshua reminds us of the words of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ when He was on the Cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (Luke 23:34) Prophet T.B. Joshua says: “Your response when you are hurt, embarrassed, misjudged, wrongly accused, persecuted and hated, determines your future.”

    Even before the BBC documentary, Pastor (Mrs.) Joshua had responded to one of the women in the now fast-circulating tape, Mrs Bisola Johnson, who also accused the late T.B. Joshua of wrongdoing.

    Pastor Evelyn Joshua, during a recent ministration in the church, said that the lady came to TB Joshua and narrated the story of being homeless and needing help. Joshua said the church later provided her a shelter at the synagogue. .

    A video of her past in the church was also shown, where Johnson spoke of her homelessness.

    “One day, she drank poison because her husband said that he was not interested in the marriage anymore. Her husband rushed her to the hospital. Two weeks later, she poured kerosene and petrol on her house, and the property worth N3 million got burnt.

    “Over the years, Johnson wanted to be my friend and I said ‘No,’ because I didn’t know her. While living at the Synagogue, I noticed her ways were not pure but thankfully, the late Prophet, according to his wife, did not give in to her foolishness. “Stay away from foolish people so that you do not be like them.”

    Also reacting to the BBC documentary, politician and Publisher Ovation magazine, who was also friend of the late prophet, Dele Momodu, drummed support for the founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) amidst the controversy.

    Momodu said that “although there is good and bad in every mortal”, the late Joshua was “an angel on earth.”

    Femi Fani Kayode, former Aviation Minister also reacted to the documentary on his X account, questioning the legitimacy of these allegations. He said that as far as he was concerned, the late preacher was a blessing to the church and the Christian faith in Nigeria.

    He tweeted, “So true! You touched many lives, fought a good fight, stood till the end, and established a great and enduring legacy. No man or institution can destroy it with dirty lies: not even the BBC! Continue to rest in peace brother and thanks for being such a blessing to the Church, the Christian faith, humanity, and our beloved nation Nigeria. We are and shall always be very proud of you.”

    Rubbishing the BBC documentary, musician Daddy said: “Say what you like, the time wey the man dey here, una no talk, so who dey hear una blackmail?”

    Another musician, Victor Adere also granted an interview to speak about how TB Joshua healed him and saved his family.

    He said “In 2021, my dad, late Mr Emmanuel Adere introduced me and my entire family to SCOAN [in] 1996, and ever since then you have been a blessing to us.”

    Tourism journalist, Okorie Uguru, who related closely with the late Joshua, also recounted his over a decade encounter with the late evangelist on his Facebook page.

    “I related with the late Prophet T B Joshua for many years, and in all these years, I have no negative to say about him, except that he was a workaholic and drove his aides same way…. Anybody can say what they feel like saying, but I know what I know….”