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Tag: Eko Akete

  • The Criterion Eko Akete 2025 conference opens Wednesday

    The Criterion Eko Akete 2025 conference opens Wednesday

    The 13th edition of the  National and 4th International Conference of The Criterion, tagged “Eko Akete 2025” opens Wednesday November 13 at Orchid Hotel, Lekki by 10:00 a.m.

    This year’s conference with the theme: “Breaking the glass ceiling: Muslim women overcoming economic and social challenges,” will convene leading voices, thought leaders, policymakers, scholars and industry professionals to examine the barriers limiting women’s advancement and to chart actionable pathways for empowering Muslim women to thrive globally.

    Chairman, National Conference Planning Committee (NCPC), Hajia Ibironke Siddqah Ogun (FNVS), emphasised that the Eko Akete 2025 conference will provide participants with practical skills, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to global best practices that will support women in scaling professional and entrepreneurial frontiers.

    “We aim to inspire, equip, and connect Muslim women with the resources, networks, and confidence needed to rise beyond limitations. The Criterion has remained consistent in nurturing women of integrity, influence, and impact—this conference reinforces that mission,” Hajia Ogun noted.

    The Chief Host of the conference and the International Amirah of the Conference, Alhaja Medina Akanni, described the conference as “a timely platform for reflection, reawakening, and re-strategising to strengthen the role of Muslim women in nation-building and global development.”

    Akanni, who is also the Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, added:“At a time when economic pressure, social stereotypes, and workplace limitations continue to restrict women’s potential, this conference serves as a beacon of hope and a rallying point for women determined to break barriers while upholding Islamic values.”

    Designed to address the concerns of all Muslim ladies across different socio-economic strata, the conference will feature keynote addresses by renowned female leaders and scholars; panel sessions with diverse professionals across sectors; masterclasses on leadership, business scaling, technology, finance, and work-life integration; interactive sessions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities as well as spiritual reflections and value-based mentoring sessions

    The Criterion was  founded as a platform for Muslim women committed to personal development, professional excellence, community service, and Islamic ethics, 

    The Criterion (Al-Furqan) has consistently advanced the empowerment of women through education, advocacy, humanitarian initiatives, capacity development, and faith-based leadership training.

    With active Usrah branches or local cells across Nigeria and growing international presence, the association continues to influence policies, inspire future leaders, and nurture women who uphold moral uprightness while excelling in diverse fields.

  • Eko–Akete Co-op unveils new officers at 63rd AGM

    Eko–Akete Co-op unveils new officers at 63rd AGM

    Eko Akete (Mainland) Cooperative Society yesterday held its 63rd Annual General Meeting/Annual Report.

    The event held at the Gabriel Orororo Multipurpose Hall, Ikotun, Lagos, also doubled as an unveiling of the society’s new executive officers.

    The new executive committee members for the next four years include: Falemi Victor Olusanjo (President); Dapo Alebiosu Ibrahim (1st Vice President); Muse Adeoso Bilikisu (2nd Vice President);Azeez Abdulwahid Olaniyi (General Secretary); Onabanjo Frederick Olufemi (Treasurer); Ajiboye  Oriyomi Fredrick (Ass. Gen. Sec.) and Rasheed Olukayode R. (Financial Sec.).

    Others are Zacchaeus Mobolaji (Ex-officio I), Adelagun Adeshina Ex-officio II, Babatunde Jonathan Ex officio III, Illo Fausat Adebimpe Ex-officio IV.  Oladeji Lawal Olawuyi, Okuneye Adejoke and Ashiru Akeem Olayinka are members of the Supervisory Committee.

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    Outgoing president of the club, Zacchaeus Mobolaji, in his welcome speech, appreciated all members for the privilege to serve them in the last four years, even as he urged more drive for new members.

    Presenting the management committee report for the 2024 fiscal year, Mobolaji said the society recorded a significant improvement from the year 2023 results, as it closed with an income of N651,931,372.65, while it incurred the sum of N267,604,768. 43 as expenses, leaving a surplus of N384,326,604.22.

    He said members’ savings also increased to N8,862,014,601.40 from N7,992,,800,785.11 in 2023, while membership loans increased from N6,616,890,530.13 in 2023 to N7,702,244,602.77 in 2024.

    Notably, Mobolaji also announced a minimum salary adjustment for the society staff members to N80,000. This, he said, was to forestall corrupt tendencies amongst them.

  • Eko Akete awards N4.5m scholarships to indigent Lagos students

    Eko Akete awards N4.5m scholarships to indigent Lagos students

    In a significant move to support education and empower indigent students in Lagos State, Eko Akete, Houston Texas, United States has awarded N4.5 million in scholarships to 30 students enrolled in higher institutions. Each beneficiary received N150,000 to support their academic pursuits.

    The scholarship presentation ceremony took place at the Crown Plaza Events Centre, Ijesha Road, Itire, Surulere, Lagos. Students with a minimum of a second-class grade were selected following a rigorous screening process.

    Speaking at the event, the Immediate Past President of Eko Akete, Houston Texas, Hakeem Bombata, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to education as a cornerstone of success. “Education is fundamental to achieving success in life. By subsidising the education of indigent students in Lagos, we aim to give back to our community and empower the next generation,” he said.

    Bombata highlighted the organisation’s mission to provide support for children, enabling them to overcome barriers and reach their full potential.

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    “Our goal is to nurture their education, health and well-being, building a brighter future for the generations to come. Charity begins at home, and we are dedicated to investing in our roots while also continuing our charitable efforts in Texas,” he added.

    He reflected on the challenges many faced growing up in Lagos Island and the limited opportunities available. “This initiative is a way to ensure that students in need can access the support necessary to achieve their goals and become change-makers in society,” he said.

    The head of the scholarship selection committee, Dr. Agboola Kotun of Life Bridge Clinic, described the selection process as transparent and thorough. Out of 300 applicants from various higher institutions across the country, 30 students were chosen based on merit.

    “The applicants demonstrated exceptional intelligence and determination, with 90 per cent achieving first-class grades. Beyond academics, we engaged them on the history and culture of Lagos, encouraging them to understand and preserve their heritage,” Dr. Kotun explained.

    He urged the beneficiaries to embrace a culture of giving back. “As you rise, remember to prioritise supporting your communities and contributing to Lagos State’s development,” he advised.

    One of the beneficiaries, Mubarakah Banire, a medical student at Lagos State College of Medicine, expressed her gratitude, describing the scholarship as life-changing.

    “This support empowers us to excel and achieve the greatness destined for us. It is more than financial aid; it’s a reminder of the importance of our culture and the need to preserve our past for future generations,” she said.

    She noted that the scholarship initiative is a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of investing in education.

  • Sisi Eko releases new single Eko Akete

    Sisi Eko releases new single Eko Akete

    Fast rising act, Oyinkansola Sanni aka Sisi Eko of Lagos, has released a new single entitled Eko Akete.

     The song, according to the songstress, is to showcase the beauty, strength, uniqueness and grandeur which Lagos possesses.

     Sisi Eko, who performed at the 2023 Greater Lagos Fiesta countdown into the New Year, said the track is inspired by the uniqueness of Lagos and its beauty.

    “Lagos is a great city where everyone wants to visit; it’s just like a small London. Once you mention Eko, everybody wants to come. It’s a great place to showcase and develop talents. Whatever you do in Lagos will definitely be profitable, no matter how small.

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     “So, the Eko Akete single is inspired by the beauty which Lagos represents, its rich cultural heritage, its religious diversity, as well as the strength and uniqueness of its divisions,” she said.

     Sisi Eko also hinted that her full album is set for release in the next two months.

     On why she chose music, the singer said: “Music is just the thing for me. I’ve been doing music for a while. I have a live band and we perform at different events and occasions. Music is an inspirational thing for me so I choose it because it gives me good vibes.”