The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Honour

  • Ex-VC Ibidapo-Obe, former Nestle chair Oshunkeye, others honour ex-Unilag staff school principal @ 70

    Ex-VC Ibidapo-Obe, former Nestle chair Oshunkeye, others honour ex-Unilag staff school principal @ 70

    Few days ago, the Peter family rolled out the drums in a grand celebration of Mrs Olusola Peters, who turned 70 still looking hale and hearty. A guest at the event even went ahead to tease her that she looked two decades younger!

    Indeed, it was a day that was much anticipated, a day that many had looked forward to honour and celebrate with Mrs Olusola Peters, who was the pioneer Principal of the University of Lagos international School. The venue was the banquet hall of Sheraton Hotels and Towers in Ikeja, Lagos. And for the love of the Peter family, the cream of the society came all out to share the joy of the day with the family.

    Among them were Ex-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Oye Ibidapo-Obe, who came with his gorgeously dressed wife, Olusola. Board room guru and ex Nestle Chairman Chief Olusegun Oshunkeye was there too. Oshunkeye who is the current Chairman of LAFARGE Cement WAPCO Plc, was there with his lovely wife, Abosede. The couple-dominated party also had Venerable Architect Sunday Akinola and wife and many others at the event. A touch of royalty was in the royal presence of His Royal Majesty Oba Afolabi Babade

    It was a party and a meeting of old friends as it was obvious that many of those in the banquet hall that day had known each other very well or had worked with one another at some point in time.

    The celebrant’s husband, Dr. Michael Obafunso Peters of the famed Unity Hospital Group Ltd, Ikeja, Lagos, was about the happiest person at the event apart from his darling wife, the celebrant. A gentle man of note, he stood solidly beside his wife throughout the event, a proud husband, as their children and grandchildren serenaded them, to cut the large four-deck birthday cake.

    And there was a raffle draw to also mark this beautiful day of joy. From the raffle draw emerged winners, who carted home various prizes. Afterwards, the celebrant and her husband gave words of advice. They charged parents to take the very formidable care and fundamental responsibility on their families, especially, at the growing formation of their children, with every divine opportunity endowed them in parenting the children.

    Condemning the unfortunate breakdown of law and order nationwide, they were quick to warn parents and guardians not to abandon their responsibilities to teachers, the society and the nation, but to actively and functionally supervise such children, against being used as political thugs or other vices that may stain the society or the nation’s good image.

    While appreciating the efforts of the organisers of such a very grand reception, they respectively enjoined parents and guardians to give their children a worthy education and adequate care at their formative stage.

  • Adamu battles for honour at Luxor Taekwondo Open in Egypt

    After his not-too-impressive performance at the maiden AFTU Taekwondo Open, Nigeria’s Abubakar Isah Adamu will today take to the ring at the second Luxor Taekwondo Opens in Egypt.

    The Luxor Open is a World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) G-2 ranking tournament which begins today and ends on March 1 at Luxor, Egypt.

    Being his first international tournament in the adult -58kg category, Adamu fell 6 – 18 in the first round to the more experienced France’s Kyliann Bonnet amid a strew of defensive errors at the AFTU Open last weekend.

    Also, Adamu’s compatriot, Jamilu Mohammed came back from a 10 – 0 deficit to dramatically defeat homeboy, Egypt’s Omar Ghonim 18 – 14 to progress to the last eight of the tournament of the AFTU championship.

    However, in the quarterfinals, in a mirrored repeat of Nigeria against France, Mohammed came up against Dylan Chellamootoo, who raced quickly to a 8 – 0 score line. A late surge in the 3rd round saw Mohammed close the deficit to 14 – 12, but could not complete the turn-around as he did in his first fight.

    At the Luxor Open, the Commonwealth gold medallists weighed-in yesterday in readiness for the draw conducted also yesterday while they will compete in the -58kg men’s category with the hope of doing well against the world’s best.

    On Adamu’s performance at the AFTU Open, three-time Olympian, Chika Chukwumerije who tutored the athlete at the event was unfazed by the results and content with the experience gained.

    “Adamu just turned 18 years old eight days ago. This is the first time he is competing in the adult category.

    Despite his enormous talent, he has to pass through the fire. I am extremely pleased he had a tough draw – it will only hasten his learning process.

  • Ajimobi, Obey, others honour Arisekola at 70th post-humous birthday

    Ajimobi, Obey, others honour Arisekola at 70th post-humous birthday

    The name of the late Islamic icon and business mogul, Alh. AbdulAzeez Arisekola Alao, resonated in Ibadan again last weekend as family, friends and well-wishers gathered to celebrate his 70th post-humous birthday.

    Alao was the Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land until his death. He died on June 18 last year at the age of 79 years.

    The event, which was held at his Oluwo Kekere home in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, attracted notable sons and daughters of the city as well as Islamic clerics.

    The programme was a special prayer to mark his 70th post-humous birthday

    During the special prayer, led by a popular Islamic cleric, Shikh Suleiman Onikijipa, from Lagos, he  acknowledged the virtues of late Alhaji Arisekola-Alao whom he described as a good example of godliness, who used his wealth in the service of mankind and left behind a household comprising well-trained children that fear Allah.

    He extolled the virtues of the late businessman and urged the living to emulate him. He emphasized that though Aare would have loved to celebrate his 70th birthday, Almighty Allah chose to call him to eternity before then.

    According to hm, his death reminds the living that the life of every human being is in the hands of God, and that he could take it at will.

    The state governor, Abiola Ajimobi, was also at the occasion to identify with the family and values of the late businessman and philanthropist.

    At the event, Governor Ajimobi announced his administration’s resolve to immortalise the late business mogul with the naming of the newly-rehabilitated Toll-Gate-Challenge Expressway after him.

    The governor further disclosed that Oyo State Government, in collaboration with Arisekola Foundation, would sponsor an unspecified number of muslim faithful on Lesser Hajj otherwise known as Umrah, in continuation with the practice of the late Islamic light.

    He added that other projects would be named after the late Aare. The governor remarked that Alhaji Arisekola-Alao was a special breed who, throughout his life, used his God-given endowments to impact positively on the society, adding that it would take another 50 years to find another person in his mould.

    Dignitaries from the cross section of the society graced the occasion. They included Chief Mrs Lanre Otiti; Alhaja Bose Adedibu; Amb. Ronke Adefowope; Alhaji Sina Alabi; former minister Prof. Taoheed Adedoja; Evangelist Ebenezer Fabiyi (Obey); Alhaji Lamidi Ajadi; Alhaji Lateef Oyelade; Chief Lekan Alabi; the Secretary to the Oyo State Government (SSG), Alhaji Ishmail Ali; Alhaji Azeem Gnolarumi and Dr Kola Balogun.

    Others were Dr Kamil Oloso, the Chairman, Muslim Wing of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Taofeek Akewugbagold, Muslim ulamahs and Muslim women under the auspices of Alasalatu.

    Beneficiaries of his philanthropy, including the physically challenged, beggars and traders, also attended the occasion.

  • Wamako: Honour well deserved

    The recent award of The Sun Man of the Year 2014 threw up the personality of the subject of this piece, Alhaji Aliyu Magatakarda Wamako, Governor of Sokoto State and Sarkin Yamman Sokoto. My interest in Sokoto State dates back to my undergraduate days when I developed a wish to meet Alhaji Aliyu Shehu Shagari, President of Nigeria from 1979-1983. There had been many comments about Shagari that motivated my young mind to meet him. I visited Sokoto State for the first time in the late 90s’. Naively, I embarked on this daring journey without informing my parents and colleagues. It was indeed a smooth journey from Lagos to Sokoto; much of sightseeing as this was also my first time of venturing up-north. It was in Sokoto that I faced a huge challenge of communication, and transiting from state capital to Shagari village. When I got to the village, I was told that the former President was not in the country. A kind Nigerian, one Alhaji Danbaba saved the day for me, facilitating my return journey to Lagos.

    Again, in March 2011, I visited Sokoto. It was on this occasion that we ran into the convoy of Alhaji Aliyu Magatakarda Wamako, Governor of Sokoto State. We were told he was returning home. As a governor, Wamako does not reside in the posh Government House preferring his private house within Sokoto metropolis. The house as I saw it then, is neither that fantastic nor majestic, and obviously not a new house. Behind, adjacent and not too far from this house are rows of shops which attracts heavy human traffic for buying and selling. In fact at the peak of transactions, the place could well be a market. Ever since these visits, I had somehow been following the politics and happenings in Sokoto.

    To start with, the ascendance of Wamako to the gubernatorial office was fraught with legal battles. Wamako was deputy governor of Sokoto from 1999-2006 before he resigned when things went awry with his boss. He went ahead to clinch the coveted post of governor in 2007 on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). On two occasions, Wamako faced two court-ordered rerun elections, and both occasions he triumphed. A cat with nine lives, you might say.

    Wamako has modernized Sokoto with numerous infrastructures with direct bearing on the populace. That Sokoto is massively shedding its old and rural character to urban and modern signatures will be an understatement. From the airport, a brand new Western bypass, an 11 kilometre six-lane carriageway welcomes the visitor. So also is the Eastern bypass with all allure just completed by Wamako. These expansive roads are lined on both sides with neem trees. Being a state where majority are farmers, government concentrated more on rural roads like Kalambaina-Arkilla-Nasarawa-Polythecnic link road, Tambuwal/Kebbe road, Sokoto-Ilela road (a border town with Niger Republic) has all been completed by Wamako.

    Alu, as the governor Wamako is fondly called also made giant strides in the health sector: there is a General Hospital in all the 23 local governments. There are also two superb programmes: Free Medical Care (FREMCARE) and Rural Mobile Medical Care (RUMCARE). FREMCARE is a free health care programme dedicated to pregnant women and children under the age of five. The aim is to reduce maternal and child mortality rate in the state. RUMCARE, on the other hand, is designed for those that cannot afford healthcare services as well as those that live in places that are hard to reach.

    In addition, there is also an orthopaedic hospital with full complements of expertise drawn from within Sokoto and abroad. With over 500 indigenes studying medicine abroad on state government scholarship, and a College of Nursing and Midwifery to boot, Sokoto is sure on sound footing, health-wise.

    In spite of his aristocratic background, Wamako has chosen to work for the people of Sokoto. The new world-class Sokoto State University is testimony to Wamako’s commitment to education. New infrastructures like administrative blocks, staff quarters, and students’ hostel etc dot every corner of the university. It recently admitted its first set of students. Indeed, if truth be told, the Almajiri school system was the initiative of Wamako. He was first to establish an Almajiri school in Sokoto. The then Minister of Education, Professor Rukayatu Rufai gladly requested the assistance and expertise of Wamako on this scheme. It is rather unfortunate, that the Almajiri school system is now a subject of politics with federal government claiming the credit of this system in the north.

    With meagre resources and prudent management, Wamako has touched every aspect of economic value chain in the state, from housing, where over 5,000 units had been built and allocated; the ministry of the environment (created by Wamako in 2008) with triple components of forestry, environmental health and sanitation, and erosion and flood control. A brand new Independent Power Project (IPP) the first of its kind in Sokoto was built by Wamako. He also recorded giant strides in human capital development with its main hub in training and retraining of civil servants, youth employment and empowerment (with the creation of Sokoto Marshals and Skill acquisition centres). And unlike many states, physically challenged persons get a N6,500 stipend monthly.

    Asides strides in physical infrastructure provision, Wamako has displayed a high sense of tolerance in his political activities within Sokoto State. When, along with five other governors he switched political affiliation from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), his deputy Alhaji Mukhtari Shehu Shagari did not go with him. As a true democrat, the deputy was left alone, with all paraphernalia of office and duties intact. In fact, the relationship between him and the deputy governor is incomparable, vis-à-vis the numerous in-fighting between some governors and their deputies elected on the same political party platform. Wamako deserves commendation for this act.

    Humane, generous, accessible, team player and hardworking, Wamako has received several awards including Member, Muslim World League, Best Governor awarded by the House Builders Association, and the national honour of Commander of Niger (CON). The Sun Man of the Year 2014 is not only well deserved by a man who has created a new template for development in Sokoto, it is a confirmation of his superb administrative skills and prudence as a manager.

    • Badejo writes from Surulere, Lagos State.

  • Honour for NLNG award winners

    Last Thursday, top officials of Nigeria LNG (NLNG) Limited were in Lagos to present winners of the Nigeria Prize for Literature and Prize for Literary Criticism. Assistant Editor (Arts) Ozolua Uhakheme was there.

    Four months after they emerged winners of the Nigeria LNG sponsored Nigeria Prize for Literature 2014 and The Prize for Literary Criticism 2014, the duo of Prof Sam Ukala and Isidore Diala last Thursday got inducted into the hall of prize winners in Lagos.

    The public presentation of the winners (almost like a replay of the award night on October 9 last year) was held at the Agip Recital Hall Muson Centre, Onikan Lagos and it attracted literati, academics, top government functionaries, artistes and students drawn from about 10 secondary schools in Lagos.

    Essentially, it was also a forum to honour the prize winners and hear first-hand the authors talk about their muse and, ultimately, give an acceptance speech that serves as the final trappings of their investiture as winners.

    Guests at the event included Managing Director NLNG Limited Mr Babs Omotowa, his deputy, Mr Isa Inuwa, former Vice Chancellor University of Ibadan, Prof Ayo Banjo, Prof Charity Angya, Prof Austin Anigala (who represented Vice Chancellor Delta State University, Abraka Prof Victor Peretomode) and Delta State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Richard Mofe-Damijo.

    Others were Deputy Vice Chancellor University of Lagos Prof Duro Oni, filmmaker Tunde Kelani, Mrs Bolanle Austin-Peters, Prof Ahmed Yerima, Dr. Kudos Eresia Eke, Prize runners-up Friday John Abba and Jude Idada.

    Omotowa said over the years NLNG has raised the stake of the prize to $100,000 and remain fully committed to the prize irrespective of the economic challenges. “The prize has stimulated some new writers and it has helped to improve standard of publishing…We hope other organsiations will join us.

    For us at NLNG, the prize is to develop human capacity. Ukala’ book Iredi War, is on leadership and there is no better time to address that than now in Nigeria. The success of NLNG is a testimony that Nigeria can hold its own in the comity of nations,” he said.

    Ukala, who dedicated his award to God almighty for the inspiration, talent and direction said: “I whole-heartedly and most gratefully accept the award of the Nigerian Prize for Literature 2014.”

    He said those he criticised most in his works are the leaders because ‘if the leadership is right all other things will be right.’

    “I feel fulfilled, grateful to God Almighty for the inspiration, talent and energy. I also feel indebted to NLNG for endowing the prize and processing the entries with utmost integrity and transparency through the appointment of an Advisory Board of truly honourable men, who, in turn, appointed persons of impeccable character as judges.

    “I also think the public presentation is a great idea. It might result in the promotion of this author and his work as well as the promotion of literature and literary artists in general. It might be a forum to spotlight the need for Nigeria to consciously cultivate and maintain a robust reading culture as a way of improving the standard of education in the country,” he added.

    In his acceptance speech titled: Warring twin or intellectual muse? Diala, who won the prize for literary criticism, said it was a privilege to emerge as the first recipient of an award that is bond to grow in prestige among scholars of Nigerian literature. He noted that exaltation of a great literary work is invariably also a literary criticism, noting that by endowing the literature prize, NLNG acknowledges one of the oldest functions of criticism: informed evaluation and judgment, discrimination between the mediocre and the great.

    “Charting and enriching the tradition of ideas on which the writer relies, the critic’s endeavour is thus of crucial import to the artist. Thus, the endowment of a specific literary criticism prize is the sponsor’s acknowledgment of the complementarities between creation and criticism. Yet, the literature and literary criticism prizes sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited are ultimately of greater consequences.

    Prestigious prizes play pivotal roles in determining the trajectory of a people’s literature and canonising its masterpieces. By its capacity to lift into prominence its preferred concept of excellence in African literature through publication, distribution, and the award of prestigious prizes, the West metonymically appropriates the African voice and endorses as authorised particular forms of the representation of African reality,” Diala said.

    The Professor of African Literature, Imo State University said the literary criticism prize would seek to authenticate preferred nuances in the reading of Nigeria/African literature. This, he said, was bound to generate controversies, some of which, hopefully, could serve a positive purpose.

    “Examining Isidore Okpewho’s astonishing novel, Call Me by My Rightful Name, in my winning entry, I approach cultures as necessarily syncretic, hybrid exogamous and appraise the writer’s realisation of his vision in the work of art,” he added.

    In a goodwill message,  Kelani said though he has not won NLNG literary prize, he had adapted seven books into movie and that what NLNG has started is sowing a seed that would grow.

     

  • Edo College old boys honour Alegeh, others

    Edo College old boys honour Alegeh, others

    The Chairman of Edo College Old Boys Association (ECOBA), Lagos Branch, Mr. Godwin Ize-Iyamu, has described the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) president Mr. Augustine Alegeh and other members honoured by the association as worthy ambassadors of the college that is based in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

    Mr. Ize-Iyamu spoke during the first meeting of the association in Magodo, Lagos.

    In a statement, the Publicity Secretary of ECOBA, Lagos, Mr. Charles Igbinidu, stated that the Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (Nimasa), Mr Ziakede P. Akpobolokemi,who was the key ote speaker at the event was also honoured.

    According to Mr. Ize-Iyamu, “the association is always very meticulous in choosing members to be honoured annually. The criteria used include integrity, handwork, excellence in various aspects of life and display of all the positive values inculcated in us in Edo College”.

    During its Annual Dinner and Dance at Ruby Gardens, Lekki, Lagos, ECOBA gave an award to the NBA President for excelling in the legal profession. Other awardees were the Chairman of Grenigas Limited  Emmanuel Aguele, who was bestowed with ‘The Life Time Achievement Award’, while the Country Senior Partner for PwC Nigeria, Mr. Uyi Akpata and an Executive Director with Ecobank Mr. Kingsley Aigbonkhaevbo were honoured for outstanding performances in their professions.

    While further commending the awardees, Mr. Ize-Iyamu implored them to continue to keep the flag of Edo College flying. He urged the younger ones to emulate their exemplary performance and character.

    Speaking on some achievements of the association, he said: “One of the major goals of ECOBA is to revive educational excellence at Edo College.  We are happy to report that in 2014, we financed the relaunch of the Annual Prize Giving Ceremony at Edo College.

    “Through the generous donations to the Education Fund by members, an initial principal sum has been invested and the interest income used to fund monetary prizes and Plaques to the best students in 11 subjects selected by Ecobites /donors.”

     

     

  • Honour for the home boy

    Honour for the home boy

    Eighty-two monarchs gathered in Mbosi in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State to confer two chieftaincy titles, Ide of Ihiala and Obata Obie of Mbosi, on an illustrious son, Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace Airlines.  KELVIN OSA OKUNBOR writes.

    or three years, he politely turned down the offer. But after due consultations, the Chairman of Air Peace Airlines, Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, accepted the offer. Last December 30, he heeded the call of his community, Mbosi, and the 10 towns in Ihiala  Local Government Area of Anambra State, to receive two chieftaincy titles.

    The event attracted the crème de la crème from the business world, diplomatic corps, politics, entertainment, banking and aviation.

    The event had the trappings of royalty, as the lawyer cum businessman pulled who-is-who in Anambra and beyond to his community, contributions.

    Decked in red attire with other accoutrements of royalty-staff of office, a red cap decorated with feathers to match-Onyema with his wife, Alice, marched to the palace of the traditional ruler of Mbosi to perform the traditional rites.

    They were welcomed by Ozo, title holders and some villagers, who blew flutes and traditional gun shots to herald their decoration as one of the most influential chiefs in the community.

    Amid tight security, guests were welcomed into the Onyema’s expansive country home, which is a study in architecture, as music supplied from various cultural dance bands rent the air.

    To demonstrate the celebrator’s detribalised nature, the chieftaincy awards on Onyema drew the cream of personalities from other parts of the country, including the former president of the Ijaw Youth Council, Dr Chris Ekiyor and the President of Arewa Transformation and Empowerment Initiative, Alhaji Mohammed Danjuma, a long-time friend of the celebrator.

    There was representation from Kogi State, where Onyema’s wife, Alice hails from.

    A battery of elegantly dressed women from Igala decked in white blouses and red wrappers complementing jewellery. Middle aged men were visible at the event to support their son–in-law.

    The monarchs made up of all Igwes in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state gathered at the event, witnessed by over 70 other traditional rulers from the South-East, to decorate Onyema for his sterling contributions to the development of the community.

    Speaking on behalf of the Igwes, The Ezeoha of Isseke, Igwe Emmanuel Nnabuife said Onyema deserved the honour. The Oluoha of Ihiala, Igwe Cosmas Okechukwu, also noted the contributions of Ide Onyema to the peace and stability of the community.

    Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Matters, Hon Kingsley Kuku, described the chieftaincy title to noteworthy.

    Waxing proverbially, Kuku said like the prophet, who is not honoured by his people, the Ihiala community had reversed the trend by recognising one of their own.

    Kuku urged Onyema to see the title as a clarion call to do more for his community.

    The Special Assistant on Special Duties to Presidential Amnesty Programme Chairman, Chief Henry Ugbolue, described, Onyema as a distinguished indigene any community would be proud to have and.

    Ugbolue said Onyema is a worthy Nigerian who contributed immensely to the return of peace in the hitherto restive Niger Delta region in the demobilisation and reintegration of ex- agitators in the region.

    Overwhelmed by the out-pouring of emotions, Onyema thanked the traditional rulers for the honour. He said it took three years to convince him to accept the chieftaincy.

    “I always like to assist my community in my own way without making noise in appreciation of the blessings God had bestowed on me,” he said.

    He promised to use the Ozo title to uphold justice and truth in his Mbosi community.

    He said: “I am grateful to the entire community for the honour. I am grateful to God for His blessings upon my life and how he has assisted me to give back to my community, which truly appreciates. I will use this opportunity to further strengthen the bond between me and my people as far as it does not infringe on my Christian faith.”

    His wife, Alice, described the chieftaincy title as a call to service.

    Ace comedian, Okey Bakassi and Nollywood Star, Mr Kanayo O.  Kanayo were on hand to compere. Superstar musician, the Limpopo King, KCEE led an array of other musicians who performed at the event.

    Also at the event were representatives of the United States Embassy led by Tom Heines; officials of Air Peace led by the Chief Operating Officer, Mrs Toyin Olajide.

    Others were staff of the Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria (FEHN); former managing director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr Timi Aliabe , was represented. The celebrant’s friend, Chief Obi Kings, the Gburu Gbururu of Ihiala LGA was also present. Besides, members of the religious community were not left out.

  • A deserving honour

    A deserving honour

    Alumni of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have celebrated the school’s 52nd anniversary with an award/dinner. The event was held at the university’s Multipurpose Hall, reports SAFIYYAH ABDUR-RAZAQ

    The Multi-Purpose Hall of the University of Lagos, Akoka, was tastefully decorated in red. The chairs were in white and red colours; the tables had butter colour overlays .

    The high table was decorated in red and yellow.

    As the guests trooped into the hall in dazzling attires, ushers dressed in white and black welcomed them and offered them the programme pamphlet. They exchanged pleasantries, sealing it up with hugs. They shared jokes about their days in school.

    It was the award/dinner of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Alumni Association to commemorate the 52 anniversary of the school.

    The event, which was anchored by Prince Dayo Akeju, began with recognition of guests. Prof Oluwatoyin Ogundipe said the opening prayer.

    The Chairman on the occasion, Alhaji Musiliu Smith, former Inspector-General of Police, represented by the National President of Health Care Providers Association of Nigeria, Dr Umar Oluwole Sanda, praised the association for always giving back to their school.

    The Vice Chancellor (VC), Prof Rahamon Bello, hailed the association for recognising the achievements of some of the alumni with awards. He also urged the alumni to support the school.

    “Projects in the university are very expensive to fund and we are relying on internal funds which are not enough. We are currently building five high-rise buildings and we need you to support your various faculties. We appreciate your contributions so far and we look forward to collaborating with you so as to live up to its name as the University of First Choice and the nation’s pride,” he said.

    The speeches were followed with award presentations. Some alumni of the university who have excelled in their various fields and other well-wishers of the school received awards.

    As the awardees were called to the podium to receive their plaques, their family members and well-wishers followed them. They posed for pictures after receiving the awards.

    Enter Tunji Bello, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment. Bello was hailed by friends and admirers. He got the Distinguished Achiever’s award.

    After receiving his plaque from Prof Babajide Alo, UNILAG Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Research), Bello exchanged plesantries with some guests on the high table who congratulated him. His friends joined him for photographs.

    To him, it is always a thing of joy to be honoured by one’s alma mater.

    “Whatever we are today, a substantial aspect of the foundation was laid by this university. I left this university thirty-one years ago, I am always here every year and I would continue to be here every year because I appreciate the impact this university has had on my life. I feel elated and humble,” he told The Nation.

    Bello’s Transportation counterpart, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, barely came into the hall when he was called.

    An elated Opeifa said the award coming from one’s alma mater made it special “especially if the alma mater is University of Lagos.”

    “It’s not as if it is just an award you get just because you have an appointment. That is why I give this award a lot of respect in the league of so many awards,” he said.

    Another awardee, a Principal Medical Officer of the school, Dr Olayinka Olufunmilayo Coker, said: “I feel great. I have worked for about 20 years in the university. My father was a lecturer here and I have lived on this campus for nearly 45 years now with the break of about two years in between. I am happy for receiving this award.”

    Also, Mr Leke Akinola, said: “I am very excited about the award. I left this university about 31 years ago and they are remembering me. It is something I appreciate so much and I thank God for it. The award is challenging me to do more for my community and for Nigeria as a whole. I think I have the responsibility to do more for UNILAG than ever.”

    Abieyuwa  Sanyaolu, an architect,  who was born the year the university was founded said she hoped to keep doing more for the school.

    “I am exhilarated to see that the university is still growing. Every time you come here, you always see a different thing, you see something different going on with UNILAG definitely by far and wide the best university in this country (in my opinion), I am proud of being an alumnies of the school. It has never let me down and I would not let it down as well. We would always support this university as far as we are able.”

    Some other awardees were; Wife of the late Managing Director of Guiness Nigeria Plc Chief Beatrice Ubeku; UNILAG Registrar, Dr Taiwo Folashade Ipaye; Prof Mopelola Omoegun; Prof Olukayode Oladipo Amund; Mr Olalekan Sunday Ajisafe; Mr Oluseun Abiodun Ajayi; Miss Temitope Adebulu; Former Chairman, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, Lagos Chapter, Comrade Adekola Adetomiwa Adeniyi and many others.

  • Honour for history-making sisters

    Honour for history-making sisters

    The Lagos State government has held a reception for Justice Ayotunde Phillips, the immediate past Chief Judge, and her sister, Justice Funmilayo Atilade, who succeeded her. It was a gathering of eminent personalities in the judiciary, reports JOSEPH JIBUEZE 

    It is rare for two siblings to succeed each other as the Chief Judge of a state. But it happened in Lagos when Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade succeeded her elder sister Justice Ayotunde Phillips as chief judge.

    Justice Atilade was sworn in as the fifth Chief Judge of the state on August 20.

    The state has had three successive women chief judges in the past five years, starting with Justice Inumidun Akande, followed by Justice Phillips and now Justice Atilade.

    To honour the history making sisters, the state held a reception for them at the prestigious City Hall on Catholic Mission Street on Lagos Island.

    The massive hall was decorated in sparkling golden colours.

    Gorgeously dressed men and women in  suits, bow ties, dinner gowns and other formal attires graced the occasion.

    There was enough to eat and drink. Before the event began, there was a cocktail, featuring assorted wines and spirits. Guests clinked classes in celebration.

    Justice Phillips is the first Chief Judge to use a laptop at her own expense to do her job, according to the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ade Ipaye.

    She became a judge after a stint in the Ministry of Justice and was sworn in as the 14th Chief Judge on June 15, 2012. She retired on July 26.

    Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) described the gathering as exciting, adding that the rivalry between the sisters is “healthy”.

    “We couldn’t have been more fortunate in Lagos. We take pride in celebrating those who excel, who serve us with all their heart.

    “We’ll continue to send out messages that all is not lost in Nigeria,” Fashola said.

    Fashola believes Lagos has a judiciary that is not corrupt.

    “We’re also sending out a statement that our integrity is more valuable to us than all our personal assets,” he added.

    The governor drew a parallel between excellence in judicial administration and party politics.

    Referring to the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, Fashola said: “We’ve sent a strong message about the kind of politics we also want to play. A candidate has emerged and we’re moving on. No candidate has complained.

    “The presidential primary was a model for the whole of Africa. We have shown that we can take care of our own affairs. Those are the things that make me happy to celebrate,” he said.

    Fashola said Justice Phillips and Justice Atilade assumed leadership of the judiciary by merit.

    “In the race to excellence, there is no finish line,” he added.

    Supreme Court Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour, who worked with Justice Phillips in the Ministry of Justice, recalled her passion for music.

    Justice Phillips, he said, was a leading member and vocalist in the Soul Assembly Band in the 60s.

    “She was a tomboy all over Lagos. I was following her at her back,” he said jovially, adding: “I think I should stop there.”

    He wished her good health in retirement, and expressed confidence in her sister-successor.

    “Justice Atilade will be a great success. I have no doubt she will excel,” he said.

    Justice Rhodes-Vivour gave an anecdote on which is the oldest profession in the world among medicine, law and engineering.

    According to him, while the surgeons claim God made woman from man’s rib in the first act of surgery, the engineers claim God made the world in six days with engineering precision.

    However, it is on record that God rested afterwards because of some kind of “chaos” in the world. “Who do you think created the chaos?” he asked, in reference to law, generating laughter in the full hall.

    To Ipaye, it takes someone interested in the delivery of quality service to introduce something that had been lacking: judicial information system, which includes electronic filing of cases.

    For the first time in the Lagos judiciary, there is an electronic search and archiving system, thanks to Justice Phillips.

    During her tenure, the high court’s fast-track procedure was revamped, while several new courts were commissioned.

    The court’s civil procedure rules also made Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) track compulsory.

    “Justice Phillips is known today as the Chief Judge that heard the cries of detainees. We hope she will continue to serve as an inspiration to others,” he said.

    Justice Raliatu Adebiyi recalled that Justice Phillips ran an open door policy.

    “We congratulate you. We’ll miss your infectious smiles, the judges’ meeting where we share cake and tea, and those dance steps,” she said.

    The judge, who along with Justice Phillips attended Queens College, recited the school’s anthem. Other old girls present joined in the hearty rendition, to a loud applause.

    Justice Atilade,  who was called to the Bar in 1976, started  as a Senior Magistrate Grade II and rose to a judge.

    Ipaye believes the new Chief Judge will succeed because she “has a burning desire” to surpass her sister’s achievements by, first, ensuring that cases are disposed speedily.

    So far, she has superintended the appointment and swearing-in of four new judges, with three to follow soon, Ipaye said.

    “I can’t think of any other Chief Judge who has brought in two batches of judges within a short time. That is why Lagos State judiciary remains a shining light,” he said.

    Chief Magistrate, Eniola Fabanwo identified qualities which stand the sisters out: being down to earth, and their impeccable manners.

    She said while Justice Phillips is an extrovert, Justice Atilade is a bit more reserved yet fun-loving, with a steely character.

    She expressed confidence that the lot of magistrates would improve, with Justice Atilade at the helm.

    “She’s one of us and is not unfamiliar with our challenges.

    We pray the good Lord to give her more energy as we look forward to working with her,” she said.

    Chairman, Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Mr Alex Muoka, said lawyers had excellent relations with Justice Phillips.

    “For the first time, a sister has succeeded a sister as CJ of Lagos. Most of us may not see that history repeated,” he said.

    He expressed hope that the Bar would work harmoniously with Justice Atilade.

    “We wish her a successful tenure,” he said.

    A friend of Justice Phillips, Mrs Bolaji Aboderin, said being with the celebrator was always a pleasure.

    “There were no gossips…we just talked about ourselves. At her house she had piles of files, but she likes to enjoy herself. She loves to cook. She had time for her children,” she said.

    Justice Phillips shared fond memories of how her band entertained Lagosians during her youth.

    “We painted this town red. In secondary school, I painted the whole of the Western region red.

    “If I had continued, maybe by now I’d be a senior, senior, senior Don Jazzy.

    “I’m still a bit of a rascal. My red hair shows a bit of my rascality,” she joked.

    The retired CJ attributed her success to the support of all in the judiciary.

    “Everyone seemed to be in sync with what we were doing in the judiciary. I pray my sister will do whatever I have done 10 times better,” she added.

    For Justice Atilade, it is reassuring to be recognised.

    “I’m not unaware of the enormous responsibility entrusted on me by this appointment. It is even more demanding as the 2015 electoral process approaches,” she said.

    Her focus, she said, would be on human capital development, improving the facilities and working conditions, decongesting the prisons and ensuring quick determination of cases.

    “We shall continue to work harmoniously with the executive and the legislature to achieve a society where good governance is guaranteed,” she added.

    Also at the event were former Chief Judge of Lagos, Justice Ade Alabi; Justice John Tsoho of the Federal High Court; doyen of accountancy, Chief Akintola Williams; Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun of the Supreme Court; Chief Emeka Ngige (SAN), Lagos State Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Justice Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN) and Dr Sola Labinjo, among others.

  • An honour well deserved

    An honour well deserved

    Last Sunday, the Eko Renaissance Group, held a meritious service/award to wrap up the year. Ten illustrious sons and daughters were honoured, reports NNEKA NWANERI.

    Eko Renaissance Group, an indigenous group, comprising of career young men from Lagos State indigene, was formed to protect the interest of its members in Nigeria and abroad. As depicted from the name – Eko – means only men and women of Lagos origin are qualified to be members.

    For 15 years, the association has waxed strong with membership strength of over 50. Last Sunday at the Campus Mini Stadium on Lagos Island, they stepped out for yet another occasion. It was a day to reward excellence in service delivery to humanity as well as hold a sort of end of the year party.

    Decked in well starched white sokoto and shirt and blue aso oke caps, they gathered to celebrate their partners and those who have done outstandingly well. according to the President of the Eko Renaissance Group, the spectrum of those awarded are people that have distinguished themselves in their career, and have been of tremendous service to those around them.

    Though it wasn’t a large gathering, it comprised people of substance and calibre. well organised and precise, they went straight for the business of the day after an opening prayer led by the Chairman of the Lagos Muslims Pilgrims Board and lecturer at the Lagos State University (LASU), Dr Kabiru Paramole. He led others in reciting the Suratul Fathia from the Quran.

    Dr Paramole wore a double cap; the guest speaker cum representative of Lagos Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Hon Oyinlomo Danmole, the Chairman on the occasion. He urged all to live lives of legacy to find favour before God and men.

    He said: “Let us all impact positively in our neighbour’s lives and be supportive to all humans, because whatever we do today will be history tomorrow. God watches all we do”.

    The group’s president, Mr Babatunde Onigbanjo, in a welcome address said, there is more to the gathering than honouring people. The group seeks to promote the interest of its members in the public and private sectors across the tiers of government.

    “We are here to curtail marginalisation in organisations and to this, a lot of people have benefitted from us. Many people have benefitted from these 10 and it is for this that we are rewarding them, the award will also encourage them not to relent but keep doing more for humanity and be a clarion call for or members and guests to rise to the challenge”.

    The Distinguished Administrator of the year award was bagged by Mr Razaq Amodu, who served as the council manager in Ikoyi-Obalende Local Government and now is Council Manager for Somolu Local Government.

    A post-humous award was given to the late Comrade Joseph Ajasa, who was described as a dogged fighter, who contributed tremendously. Onigbanjo, who spoke on behalf of other members of the club, said not giving him the award will be a great injustice considering the effort and zeal he put in the past.

    “His effort cannot be in vain because he is an aluta man to the core and really deserves this award,” he said.

    While presenting the award to the widow of the late Ajasa, Anthonia, one of the new men of bench in the Lagos State High Court, Justice Abisoye Jubril Bashua, said the event was his first official duty as a Lagos State Judge.

    Others were: Mrs Florence Omotunde-Peters, who is the Oriade LocaL Government Council Manager won the Distinguished Special Administration award; the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Teachers Establishment and Pensions Commission, Otunba Nurudeen Ojora-Adejiyan bagged an award in recognition of his leadership role in Lagos State as well as another retiree of the Lagos Civil Service, Mrs Basirat Akinsanya.

    Amodu, who spoke on behalf of the awardees, thanked the organisers for a job well done.

    Secretary to the Lagos Muslim Welfare Pilgrims Board, Mr Kamal Sanusi, in a goodwill message accorded the group for impacting positively to the affairs of the government and all should see the essence of the group as a challenge to help the government be better.

    The musical interlude lasted into the night as members engaged their guests in wining and dining.