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Tag: tributes

  • Tributes as ex-NBA chair Olowokure is buried

    The remains of former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Kaduna Branch Chairman Olumuyiwa Olowokure have been buried. Legal Editor JOHN AUSTIN UNACHUKWU was there.

    It was a rain of tributes as the former Kaduna Branch Chairman of of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Olumuyiwa Olatokunbo Olowokure, was buried in his hometown, Ijebu-Jesa in Osun State.

    He died on March 18 after a brief illness. He was aged 56.

    The late Olowokure, popularly called “OO” by friends and associates, was a consummate and well respected Bar man.

    It was no surprise that lawyers from across Nigeria converged on his hometown to pay their respects.

    NBA General Secretary Mr. Jonathan Gunu Taidi said: “My heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Olumuyiwa Olowokure, members of the NBA branches in Kaduna State,  particularly the Kaduna branch of the association, over the loss of this wonderful father, husband, uncle, brother and colleague.

    “O.O., as he was fondly called by his colleagues, was a consummate Bar man who was selfless in his service to the Bar.

    “His contributions to the NBA as the Chairman, NBA Kaduna Branch, member NBA National Executive Committee, etc. cannot be over emphasised. He was indeed a man of honour.”

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Arthur Obi Okafor, said: “It is with a heavy heart and sense of great loss that I join family, friends and associates in mourning the untimely demise of  Olowokure  who passed on to eternal glory  after a brief illness.

    “O.O. , as he was fondly called, was an astute Bar man, a personal friend and confidant. As the head of my Technical Team during the 2018 NBA elections, I found in him a loyal, dedicated, dependable and committed ally who committed his time, energy and resources into my project to lead our noble association.

    “OO will be remembered as a detribalised and consummate Bar man with the midas touch who during his tenure as Chairman of Kaduna branch of the NBA hosted one of the most successful conferences in the history of the association. He believed in excellence and brought same to bear in all he did.

    “His sudden exit leaves a great vacuum that will be difficult to be filled. OO was a good man and my sincere prayers is that the Almighty grant his family, friends colleagues and members of the Kaduna branch of NBA,  the grace to pass through this dark hour and may the soul of the deceased find eternal rest in the bosom of the Almighty,”  Obi Okafor stated.

    ‘A life well lived’

    In her tribute to a good and loyal friend which was read by Ayomide Adewunmi, Mrs Funke Adekoya (SAN) said: “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear.

    “These words will comfort me and hopefully many others as I accept that Muyiwa, or OO as he was known to many, has left this physical world much too soon. OO was always full of life and passion, perhaps the reason why his illness was kept quiet for so long. It was a shock to me to learn of his illness, swiftly followed by the sad news of his demise.

    “OO loved the legal profession and was passionate about anything that would uplift it…I am encouraged by the words of Abraham Lincoln that ‘In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.’

    “OO lived a full life and left his impact on the legal profession, both in Kaduna where he resided and beyond. There was life in his years, and for that I give thanks to the Almighty.

    “I believe he is at rest because he is in a place where there are no wrongs to set right and no standards to raise. Muyiwa could not stand idly by in such circumstances. Go in peace my friend. You have earned your rest,” Adekoya stated

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), said: “OO, you were a great legal asset to the Bar, sleep well. You have gone to rest from the wickedness of this world. You fought hard to ensure that the All inclusive Bar became a reality.

    “But the combination of evil forces ensured you didn’t see the fruits of your efforts before your home going. OO, we love you but Almighty loves you more. Good night my brother.”

    ‘INEC chief pays tribute’

    Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Commissioner in charge of Publicity and Voter Education, Chief Festus Okoye said: “ OO was too passionate whenever you gave him an assignment.

    “He was a slave to due process, he was humble, professional and diligent in everything he did. He was a great guy, this death is personal to Kaduna branch, it is personal to Nigerian lawyer. We should not allow what he stood for to evaporate.”

    For Tajudeen Oladoja: “OO was a perfect gentleman, he deferred to the rule of law, he helieves in the gentlemanness of OO.”

    EBF, Egbe Amofin pay tribute

    Pan African Lawyers Union ( PALU) President Chief Emeka JP Obegolu spoke on behalf of the Eastern Bar Forum (EBF).

    The EBF had in their tribute signed by the Publicity Secretary of the Eastern Bar Forum (EBF), Mr. George Fortune Igbikikuno, said: “The governing council, elders and distinguished learned members of the Eastern Bar Forum ( EBF)  ably led by Chief Arthur Elvis Chukwu, with heavy hearts, condole with the esteemed learned members of the NBA Kaduna branch and the beloved  O. O. Olowukure family over the excruciatingly painful and untimely demise of a consummate Bar Man, an uncompromising defender of the truth, an epitome of a true-to-type legal practitioner and an extraordinary leader par excellence, the late Olumuyiwa O. Olowukure.

    “We pray the Almighty Jehovah God to grant all of them the fortitude to cope with the irreparable loss.”

    In his tribute for Egbe Amofin, former General Secretary of the NBA, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju stated: “The Bar must be united in honour of OO. He loved and worked for a united Bar, let us close ranks and work for a united Bar” Olagunju stated

    Former Chairman NBA Kaduna branch, Anozie Obi said the late Olowokure was too passionate in everything he did.

    “As a Bar man, as family man, as a father, as a husband as a brother, as an uncle, as a footballer as a fan and as a consummate Bar man. The Bar should keep his memory alive by upholding the iseals for which he lived,” Obi said.

    Arewa lawyers too

    Speaking for Arewa Lawyers, Nda Sule Sheriff said OO was indeed a pillar in Kaduna branch.

    “He stood for justice and fair play no matter whose ox is gored. The Bar should uphold those legacies he held dear.”

    Former President, Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) Mrs. Boma Ayomide Alabi said: “It has taken a while to sink in. OO was a perfect gentleman and a quintessential Bar man.

    “We owed a large measure of the success we achieved in the Kaduna AGC to his diligence and hard work. He was honourable, dependable and highly principled.

    “I was delighted to work with  him again for the Lagos AGC 2017. A true team player. I still write this with a sense of disbelief.”

    In his tribute, Chairman Kaduna branch of the NBA,  Sule Shu’aibu and Chairman of Barnawa branch, Emeka Ogbonaya said: “The entire Kaduna and Barnawa Bar  was in great shock as the news of the departure to the great beyond of our beloved Olumuyiwa Olatokunbo Olowokure.

    “OO was one of the finest you can find and for us in the legal profession, he was both an exceptional as well as consumate Barman.

    “His tenure as Chairman between 2009 and 2011 was a watershed in the annals of our collective history. He brought dynamism into Bar administration and this engendered trust and belief in the system.

    “OO was a detribalised man who related to all as one. He did not discriminate. OO’s sun set in the morning.”

    Classmates pay tribute

    His classmates of Faculty of Law, University of Ife, 1985 set, in their tribute, said: “Olumuyiwa Olatokunbo Olowokure, our classmate, brother and life-long friend, known to us from our days at the University of Ife as ‘Muyi’, ‘Muyiwa’, and later on in life, to others as ‘OO’.

    “Debonair, suave and urbane, with a flattering ‘Britico accent’; soft-spoken, always smiling, none of us ever saw him lose his gentle, cool demeanour. And if he ever did, then the situation must have been doubly deserving!

    “Muyiwa, you excelled in your chosen career and rose to become an astute Bar man par excellence. You plied your trade throughout your career in Kaduna, where you led the Bar branch as the Chairman: you were greater in operational influence than any local Bar Branch, the whole of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was your constituency and beyond.

    “You were present at gatherings of Lawyers in any part of the country, whether at the Annual Bar Conferences, NBA National Executive Committee Meetings, meetings of the Egbe Amofin but to mention a few.

    “As a Leader at the Bar and a Bar Politician, you campaigned assiduously, were fiercely loyal and highly supportive of whichever  candidate you leaned  towards, all in the bid to further the cause of the Bar for the better.

    “You were impervious to the issues of race, tribe and creed, you embraced all with sincerity of heart: with you Muyiwa, there was no political correctness, you were guided and led by your convictions, regardless of whatever was at stake, integrity was your hallmark.

    “A great pity it was then that the NBA did not reward your passion anddevotion to it in 2012 when you sought to be its General Secretary; but that did not deter you from continuing to give your  very best to the Nigerian Bar until you breathed your last. A great pity too that all your striving and packaging to attain the Silk will never materialise.

    “It is an ironic testimony to your stoic and enduring personality that you spared us the details of your illness before you eventually passed on; you typically bore your travails with great grace and equanimity.

    “However, we cannot help but wish as your closest non uterine siblings, classmates and friends, that you had accorded us the privilege of support to you in your greatest time of need even if it was still going to end the way it did.

    “Your passing though very grievous to us has birthed for us the inexplicable joy of reunion. Even in death, with all our pains at your untimely passage, you have brought us great comfort and  so we chose to celebrate your life and times and treasure you the more in our hearts.

    “Whatever else is said of you, nothing can be more true than that you have left your enduring affection in our hearts and your gentle footprints on the sands of time.

    “We will forever treasure our moments with you, memories of your gentle demeanour, your very warm and welcoming smile and all that you stood for,” the class stated

    Other lawyers pay tribute

    Former chairman NBA Lagos branch, Alex Muoka said: “OO loved the bar. He had been Chairman in his adopted home state of Kaduna and was a respected and much admired bar elder there.

    “He aspired to National office and was vocal at NBA NEC and on several National committees. He served the bar selflessly and never sought reward or accolade. He ran a thriving practice and didnt live off the bar.”

    Immediate past NBA First  Assistant Secretary Mr. Okey Leo Ohagba  said Olowokure’s death shocked him.

    Mr. Abimbola Kayode, chairman  NBA Abuja,  said: “May his gentle soul rest in peace and may the good Lord grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss.”

    Prof. Ogugua Ikpeze said: “Anybody can die without notice.  In the mist of life, we are in death. The reality of this saying is now palpable. May the Almighty God grant OO’s gentle soul eternal rest. Amen.”

    Taiwo Olusesi of Ijabuode branch  said: “Olowokure, the detribalised bar man. A master strategist and bridge builder. A loyal friend and loving family man. Our tears refuse to stop flowing for my English egbon from Ujesha land.

    “You did your bit, you achieved so much within your short stay in this world but in our selfish way, we wish you could be with us for a longer time for the job is yet to be completed.

    “A man of courage and uncommon character,  O. O. the great. Everyone had the same thing to say about you. We are comforted by the tribute of your son Tobi who said ‘thank you daddy for living a good life such that I didn’t have to lie about you.’

    “Sleep on wonderful friend and colleague,” Taiwo said.

    Ibrahim Lawal said the late Olowokure was a strategic partner in Bar elections.

    Oluwokure’s son, Oluwatobi said: “It will really take a long time  for us to recognise that he has gone. He was a great man; he was always very calm and bowed to superior arguments.

    “I thank my father for not making me to lie about him and his life.”

     

  • Tributes as M. A. Bashua & Co . clocks 50

    A general services law firm, M. A. Bashua & Co, has marked its 50th anniversary in Lagos. The event also featured a prize giving ceremony to current and former members of the staff. ROBERT EGBE was there.

    It was Mr. Moshood Aderemi Bashua, who best explained the event.

    He said it was not only to mark the 50th anniversary of M. A. Bashua & Co, but to celebrate the firm’s founder, Mr. Mikhail Adisa Bashua (SAN), while he is alive.

    The audience, Judges, members of the inner and outer Bar, family, clients and other guests, nodded in agreement.

    They all gathered at the Oriental Hotel on Victoria Island, Lagos, to celebrate with the firm and its founder, Bashua, who had, one way or another, left a mark on some of them for half a century.

    The man, his firm

    Bashua, 89, is Aderemi’s father. He was called to the English Bar in 1960 and on his arrival in Nigeria, founded M.A. Bashua & Co., which he registered in 1968.

    His brother, Shafiu Alade Bashua, who was also called to the English Bar in 1968, teamed up with him as a partner in 1980.

    The older Bashua was enrolled in the Lincoln Inn, while the younger was at Grays Inn.

    The firm commenced operations at No. 45, Iga-Idunganran Street, then known as Reclamation Street, Lagos Island. The office was later moved to its present place at  218, Bamgbose Street, Lagos Island, in 1980.

    While his older brother took Silk in 1997, the younger Bashua became Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

    Bashua SAN was elected member of the Federal House of Representatives, Lagos Constituency from 1962 till 1964. He was conferred with the national award, Commander of Order of the Niger (CON) in 2008. He is a member of Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch.

    The Bashua brothers were both born into the Bashua Chieftaincy family of Lagos.

    Two lawyers from the firm have risen to the Bench. They are Justice Kafeel O. Dawodu and Justice Abisoye J. Bashua, both of the Lagos State Judiciary.

    Advice for young lawyers

    Bashua SAN encouraged younger lawyers, who wished to excel, to make honesty their watchword and cultivate a culture of integrity.

    He said: “Young lawyers must be honest and understand the fact that Law is the noblest profession, so, they have to uphold its etiquettes.

    “Upholding the profession’s etiquettes will get you anywhere you want to go. Never allow overburdened interests to becloud you as a lawyer; the client’s interest should always come first.

    “Every upcoming lawyer should see this profession as a very interesting one; it should never be seen as a chaotic, problematic and difficult work. Once, as a lawyer, you enjoy what you do, the sky is the limit.”

    Tributes

    Aderemi heaped praises on his father for showing him the ropes in Law practice. He said his father’s good reputation opened doors for and earned him friends “in the most unexpected of places.”

    He also noted the firm’s impact on the legal profession, including winning cases, which have become locus classicus.

    Aderemi said: “Its continuous legal practice and consultancy services have been mostly recognised in several ground breaking cases, one of which is the case of Mohammed v. Olawunmi (1990) 2 N WLR (Part 133) R 458 SC.

    “This case, upon the judgment by the Supreme Court, became an authority often cited by lawyers and the Courts.

    “The principle of law in that case is when a decision of Court is regarded as a final or interlocutory decision, and, whether a party appealing to an Appellate Court requires leave of Court before appealing against an interlocutory decision of Court.

    “The case became a locus classicus on those two issues of law. The Supreme Court agreed with Mr. M. Adisa Bashua ( SAN), CON. that leave of Court was necessary.”

    For Justice Dawodu, whose father, M. A. Dawodu, is also a Lagos lawyer, it was difficult for people to tell which law firm he belonged–his father’s or Bashua’s.

    “This was because I regularly practiced with both law firms,” he said.

    The judge added: “I thank God for making today possible to gather in honour of our father. I cannot say much about my life without mentioning Alhaji Bashua and the chambers of Alhaji Bashua. I am one of those who benefited immensely from his wisdom and guidance.”

    For the celebrant’s other son, Justice Bashua, he would never have become a judge without his father’s advice and guidance.

    The judge said: “He told me something one day. He said it is a person like you that would be a success in practice, and I took it upon myself to be the best and learn from him.

    “While I was with him, he taught me a lot and I really thank God that I practiced under him, because while I was going with him, he would tell me, ‘take your book along with you, take notes’ and I would do that.

    “He would tell me, ‘read a lot of law reports and make your notes.’ I would do that. All of the notes I was making then, I have a compilation for them now. I use them when I am writing judgments, till today. I want to thank him very much because he has played a big role in my life.”

    Justice Bashua noted that he did not want to practice or become a judge. He said: “I did not want to at all. He (Bashua SAN) called me one day and said you have the qualities to be a judge.’

    “I told him I wasn’t interested. He didn’t say anything more. The next thing I saw was one of my uncles, who told me: ‘Your father told you to consider becoming a judge you’re saying you don’t want to. You have to do it oh!’ He talked to me a lot, encouraged me.

    “So, I agreed to give it a thought. I consulted my senior, Justice Dawodu and some other people and I changed my mind. Now, I have no regrets at all. I can see what he saw then.”

  • Kunle Ajibade@60: Tributes to doyen of combative journalism

    Executive Editor of The News and P.M News Kunle Ajibade has marked his 60th birthday with a colloquium on Nigeria’s future. Dignitaries gathered in Lagos for the one-day colloquium and an evening of poetry and tributes. Evelyn Osagie reports.

    Imagine Nigeria as a play with so much suspense, ironies, paradoxical plots, enthralling yet unimaginable scenes, and oftentimes mismatched characters who become key players. The play is watched by its self-imposed audience, who are also characters in the plot. Then, imagine the rage of critics.

    And when you thought there was nothing more to see, the constant twists that showcase characters who, at various times, silently but painstakingly take on the role of the diehards, ‘righting the wrong’ or rather ‘writing the wrong’, a role that most often comes with a price – prison or death. Welcome the heroes of democracy, among who Kunle Ajibade is numbered.

    The author of Jailed for Life and What a Country!Ajibade is 60. And as the Nobel Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka puts it: “He has a lot to be thankful for”.

    As a young journalist, he was on fire. And his pen, a biting sword, came hard on military juntas and corrupt public office holders. But with the same pen, Nigeria’s “combative” investigative reporter, pursued, supported and promoted good causes. Ajibade, along with Bayo Onanuga, Babafemi Ojudu, Dapo Olorunyomi, Seye Kehinde and Idowu Obasa formed The News Magazine.

    And like his friends and comrades, his foray into journalism almost cost him his life, especially when, in 1995, he was tried and convicted with coup plotters during the draconian military administration of Gen. Sani Abacha. Sentenced to life in prison for a story published by the magazine, but for death of the military junta, which led to his  release by Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, Abacha’s successor, not even the international outcry would have saved him from the long years in Makurdi prisons. The rest is history and his three years’ prison experience is now a book, Jailed for Life.

    That “fire reporter” turned 60 on May 28 and the media, civil society organisations, activists, lawyers and prominent Nigerians trooped out in their numbers to celebrate him. And true to his patriotic spirit, he chose to mark his anniversary with a one-day colloquium at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) with a discourse on achieving a brighter future for Nigeria.  The day ended with an evening of poetry and tributes at Freedom Park, Broad Street, Lagos.

    They called him “a true Omuluabi”, “ a gentleman to the core”, “an exemplar of high-minded family ethics”, “a scion of the community in whom there is temperance”, “good-nature”, “public-spiritedness” and more.

    “You remain a respectable doyen of the media. I am very glad that Abacha jailed you, because he probably saved your life. So be grateful for small blessings. I congratulate you on achieving your 60th birthday,” cheered Prof Soyinka at the colloquium chaired by a one-time Ogun State Governor and eminent journalist Chief Olusegun Osoba.

    Decrying the large percentage of journalists killed and assassinated in the course of investigative journalism, Soyinka praised the courage and zeal of the ‘birthday boy’. “I can only urge the young journalists to follow the tenacity of KunleAjibade. Forget the fact that he is a jailbird. Sometimes, it is a badge of honour. And I admire the fact that this man sitting there (Ajibade), had the nerve when Abacha was in charge, to come to my office at Abeokuta. He would come every morning. And I asked him ‘Kunle why do you keep coming to my office?’ and he said: ‘I want to be here when you are arrested!’ That is investigative journalism for you.

    “And one day he finally blurted out: ‘I don’t understand, why haven’t they arrested you?  I took that as a cue and made sure a few weeks later I was not available for arrest.  So, you have no idea, how through studying you, I was also studying my own safety.

    In attendance at the colloquium were Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola; Prof Soyinka; Vanguard Publisher “Uncle” Sam Amuka-Pemu, Mr. Odia “the poet” Ofeimun; Mrs. Bisi Fayemi; Mr. Femi Falana (SAN); former President of Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) Mrs. Ayo Obe, Ambassador Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu; Louis Odion; Sani Kabir; Omooba Yemisi Shyllon and  Ajibade’s professional colleagues, who also went through turbulent periods under both Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and Sanni Abacha military regimes, including Sen. Babafemi Ojudu, Mike Awoyinfa, Owei Lakemfa, and others who were also there to lend their support.

    For his comrade of many years, Ofeimun, who spoke for the Friends of the celebrator, organisers of the event, Ajibade is “simply the sibling in his performance of civic roles – the good brother as a good citizen, who creates, near and far, a comfort zone for all”. Recounting Ajibade’s journey through journalism and various face-offs with military dictatorship, he said: “It is true journalism has claimed and given him a platform of value for the promotion and defence of civic competence. But it is in his love of creative writing, beyond the facts of any matter that brought our paths to criss-cross.

    “Normally, Ajibade is very unobtrusive, but in the end quite an unrelenting pursuer of good causes. He may be over-sensitive to rough tackles and too genteel in whishing the world a place of calm and never over-done camaraderie. …he is quite a man of hidden strength which he flaunts when there is a problem to solve.”

    Aregbesola said: “With people like Ajibade, there is still reason to be hopeful. I believe that we can succeed in efforts to make the country better.”

    While recalling the early days when he became part of the struggle and financing of the defunct guerrilla tabloid: Tempo magazine, which Ajibade one its founders, Shyllon stated that:  ”Ajibade is a complete gentleman. He is a seasoned journalist who has contributed a lot to this country. What we are celebrating today is importance of having self-worth over net-worth. Some of us believe that good name is better than riches and that is what Ajibade stands for.”

    Describing Ajibade as “an Omoluabi to the core”, Mrs Fayemi called for reorientation of the  public on what good leadership should be about. She observed that good leadership is not only “found at the ballot box when we go to vote or when people become governors, senators or public offices”. “As we continue in our search for the right leaders for our society, we need to think about what it means to create good leaders. And it begins in the home.”

    Others at the colloquium, including Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, Ayisha Osori, Idowu Obasa and Lai Babatunde (SAN).

    The celebrant Ajibade thanked the guests for the encomium showered on him, noting that his wife and friends contributed to his ability to surmount the challenges posed his incarceration.

    “I thank Aremo Osoba who came from Spain this morning because of the event. I will like to say Prof. Soyinka has been inspiring; my colleagues have done well to encourage me and importantly my wife and in-laws from Ikenne Remo who gave me one of their best daughters,” he said.

  • Tears, tributes as Daramola, journalism scholar is buried

    It was an admixture of tears and tributes as Dr Ifedayo Daramola, a journalism teacher was laid to rest yesterday at his Ajipowo community in Akure, Ondo State.

    Daramola, until his death, was the acting Head of Mass Communication Department, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba (AAUA), Ondo State.

    At a well- attended lying in state and funeral service held in Ajipowo, family members, colleagues and well- wishers paid him their last respects.

    Daramola had published several books which are now being used in Mass Communication and Journalism Departments in several Nigerian institutions.

    Daramola died on May 19 during a brief illness at age 60 and is survived by a wife and three children.

    In his sermon, Assembly Pastor of  St. Williams Christ Apostolic Church, Pastor Moses Adeoye, urged Nigerians  to live an exemplary life and touch the lives of others.

    “Above all, be of good character, desist from evil ways as we will all end up in the grave where termites will consume us,” he said.

    Adeoye described the deceased as a man who had deep passion for education and helped many to achieve their academic pursuits.

    His colleague, Prof. Akinsola Agofi, who described the deceased as a hardworking, pleasant and loving scholar, said he  had  impacted greatly on his generation.

    One of his students, who identified herself as Ronke Adetola, said the deceased was a jovial lecturer who made classes interesting with comic relief.

    “He is one of the lecturers who had a large heart and made classes interesting through his jovial means of teaching.

    “He built academic excellence in us, ” she said.

    The deceased began his career as newscaster at Radio Lagos in 1983 and later joined Punch newspapers as a sub-editor.

    He was also a lecturer at the Nigeria Institute of Journalism, Lagos, Lagos State Polytechnic and AAUA.

    Until his death, Daramola had a Ph.D. in Mass Communication from Babcock University as well as  BSC  and MSc in Mass communication from  the University of Lagos.

     

  • Tributes to a worthy teacher at 60

    Teachers provide so much to their students: inspiration, motivation and, ultimately, their future. It is, therefore, required from such students to show their gratitude by treating them as important as well as showing their gratitude in all areas.

    For the King’s College Old Boy’s Association (KCOBA) 1978-83 set, it was payback time for their teacher, Dr Nkem Okoro, who made an impact on their lives.

    Speaking at the thanksgiving service to celebrate her 60th birthday/ retirement and book launch held at Guiding Light Assembly, Lagos, KCOBA Deputy President, Dr Leke Oshunniyi, said she was a no nonsense teacher.

    Oshunniyi, who was among the 115 boys she taught, described Mrs Okoro as a role model.

    Mrs Okoro’s career at the Federal Ministry of Education spanned 35 years (1983-2018). She taught Biology and Integrated Science at King’s College and supervised the KC Science Club, Conservation Club and Christian Society between 1978 and 1983.

    Mr. Akinbami Seun, another old student, described his former teacher as a compassionate disciplinarian who stood for equity and fair play.

    “This year marks 30 years we left King’s College, but the values you imbibed in us and your teaching has helped us in so many ways and today we can stand tall among our peers. You are loved treasured and admired,” Akinbami said.

    The General Overseer, Guiding Light Assembly, Pastor Wale Adefarasin, enjoined guests to impart the right values into children, like Mrs Okoro did.

    “Mrs Okoro is a person of strong character, integrity, a high sense of justice and fair play, friendly disposition and love for all that endears her to many people, Adefarasin said.

    In her response, Mrs Okoro said: “I don’t owe anybody any apology because I am a trainer. To be an educator and a teacher is to train lives. Trainers have to be firm and shout; it is for a purpose; to take that posture to draw attention to the seriousness of the work we are called to do. That is why I said I love the profession. I love the children and I believe in fair play. Moulding human lives is a serious business. If you want the students to turn out right, then you have to give your everything to make it happen. All over the world, wherever my students see me, they celebrate me. Today, I am fulfilled.”

    But Mrs Okoro does not plan to be idle.

    “I am retiring, but I am not tired because my hands are full. Watch out for the greater part of me,” she said.

    Highlight of the event was the launch of Mrs Okoro’s book, Blissful Marriage: A self-2Help Resource, which she said is useful to both married and single people.

  • Tributes for art patriarch at 83

    Renowned artist Timothy Adebanjo Fasuyi (TAFAS) has celebrated his 83rd birthday. To mark the event, the art community gathered in TAFAS Gallery in Lagos to honour him. He was presented with a monograph by the National Gallery of Art (NGA) documenting his life and times and his solo-art exhibition; while participants canvassed for the ratifying of Nigeria’s cultural/art policy, return of the African Regional Summit and Exhibition on the Visual Art (ARESUVA), and Art Expo, among other events. EVELYN OSAGIE reports.

    Calls for the return of the African Regional Summit and Exhibition on the Visual Art (ARESUVA), Art Expo and the ratifying of Nigeria’s cultural/art policy dominated talks at the 83rd birthday celebrations of legendary artist Timothy Adebanjo Fasuyi (TAFAS) at the TAFAS Gallery in Lagos. As a mark of honour, he was presented with a monograph documenting his life and times andhis solo-art exhibition by the National Gallery of Art (NGA).

    The events were initiated by Chief Joe Musa as NGA Director-General in 2008.

    “We use this occasion to urge the Federal Government to do more for artists by ratifying the cultural policy so that art can bring benefits to  artists and the country. If ratified, it should take care of insurance and endowment for artists,” said celebrated artist and founder of Harmattan Workshop, Prof Bruce Onobrakpeya, who was the keynote speaker at the book presentation to mark the 83rd birthday of the foremost art educator and artist.

    The event, chaired by founder, Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Arts Foundation (OYASAF), Omooba Yemisi Shyllon, was hosted by NGA led by the Chairman of its Governing Board, Ambassador Umaru Azores Sulaiman. The book, a research on the artist’s early life, career and late return to professional practice, was presented by the pioneer DG of NGA, Dr Paul Chike Dike. It was edited by NGA DG, Abdullahi Muku and Simon O. Ikpakronyi, a Director at NGA.

    “We ask NGA to bring back African Regional Summit and Exhibition on the Visual Art (ARESUVA) that brought artists from across the globe. When Nigeria celebrated FESTAC in 1977 here in Lagos, we thought it would be an annual event. Then, ARESUVA came and we thought it would be developed to fill the gap. Like Art Expo, it has since been rested and the artist does not have such international platforms of cross-cultural exchange which is healthy for growth of the sector,” continued Onobrakpeya, who described Fasuyi as “an artist/art educator and Nigerian ambassador extraordinaire”.

    According to him, Nigeria owes it as a duty to honour Fasuyi to sing his praise as someone who fought and won respect for Nigerian artists and the art profession in the country. Fasuyi, who is said to be the first graduate of painting with a first class degree from the then Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology (NCAST), the forerunner of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in 1959, is referred to as a ‘principal of principals’ and ‘a school entrepreneur’ in the educational sector. In Nigerian contemporary art, he is a foremost pacesetter and social mobiliser, who was formerly an art adviser to the Federal Government, representing the country in the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

    Praising the celebrator’s contributions to the development of the art, Onobrakpeya linked Fasuyi’s achievements to his God-given endowment and his studies at the NCAST, observing that: “Today, an artist can take position in governance, that was formerly reserved for other professionals.  He was one of those who negotiated with the Federal Government to give art graduates from Nigerian colleges a salary status equivalent to those of other degree holders. He was one of the founding fathers of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) of which he was the secretary for many years. We thank NGA for giving us another document that will move Nigerian art forward. I congratulate Fasuyi and family on the exhibition being put up. The artist never actually retires.”

    While urging younger and budding artists to draw inspiration from Fasuyi’s example, he decried the state of the art sector. He called on the artist and government to promote the art informal education set like TAFAS gallery and Harmattan workshop.

    “During FESTAC 77, some of us, young artists, were very naïve and never asked for anything. Now we are asking the Federal Government to build for the Nigerian artists a befitting secretariat where they can practice. It is rather shameful for a country like Nigeria to be without a proper gallery. We ask the FG to build us a national gallery of art. Many years back, NGA showed us a plan of a new Gallery, but nothing has come out of it. We also ask FG to enact into law that a certain percentage of the amount that the work of any artist is sold in any art auction go to the artist or his family,” he said

    While disclosing that the board was working towards ensuring that the agency is empowered to actualise its mandate, Sulaiman described Fasuyi as “an art educator par excellence, who is still painting and executing sculptures”.

    “We are enthralled by your dogged spirit. You are dynamic, creative and above all passionate. At 83, you are still very active energetic and restless – traits normally reserved for the very young. We salute you and wish you many years of services to the arts and God. I am therefore glad that the NGA has been able to document this enigma for today and generations unborn. It is a collector’s item which I recommend to all artists, art collectors and the public at large.

    “We, at NGA, will work towards actualising the building of a befitting gallery and ensure that the effort of the National Assembly to review the Act setting up NGA to make sure that revenue generating is realised. My coming here, therefore, is part of the desire of the board to partner NGA management in its drive to revitalise the fine art subsector,” he said.

    For Omooba Shyllon, the event, which also featured the solo art exhibition, spanning three decades, was a testament of the ingenuity of the artist, which Fasuyi represents. He decried the plight of the artists, saying Nigeria’s comparative advantage is in the arts, not in technology.

    “Art is the easiest way Nigeria can establish itself on the world map. We need to harness this resource we have in abundance and use it to promote tourism. America made 1.5million in tourism using art. Artists in other parts of the world are highly regarded, but Nigeria is yet to give their artists the support and acknowledgment they deserve. Let us properly develop and harness the sector and the artists. I hope that the country will honour Fasuyi with national honours.

    On his part, the NGA D-G said Fasuyi is “a consummate artist” worthy of documenting for posterity. “In realisation of one of the key functions of the National Gallery of Art: sponsoring and encouraging research into all aspects of arts, I did not hesitate to approve the research into all aspects of arts; I did not hesitate to approve the research and documentation of this foremost artist and art educator.

    “It is a testimony to his abiding interest in the art practice that at a time people of his age would rather stay quite in retirement, he revived TAFAS Gallery, picked up his paint buckets, dusted up his brush to paint and even sculpt at 83. He is inspiring art educator who did all he could to enhance the image of the fine artist,” he said.

    It had in attendance the book presenter, former DG, National Gallery of Art  (NGA), Dr Paul Chike Dike; Acting Executive Secretary of National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Mr. Louis Okpako Eriomala; Mike Omoighe; former Dean, Faculty of Environmental Design, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Prof. Jerry Buhari; Dean of YABATECH School of Art, Dr. Kunle Adeyemi; President of Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), Oliver Enwonwu; Dr Kunle Filani; owner of Quintessence Gallery Lagos, Chief Aino Oni-Okpaku; foremost artist Jerome Elaiho, and SNA Lagos Chairman, Idowu Sonaya.

    Awards were conferred on some personalities who have contributed to the development of the arts sector, such as Onobrakpeya, Sulaiman, Muku, Shyllon, Adeyemi, and Buhari.

    While responding to the honour bestowed on him by NGA, Chief Fasuyi said: “This honour today gives me great joy because this book is like a prize which I will share with fellow artists and possibly take a copy heaven.”

    At 83, Pa Fasuyi says: “What is important is that every day of our life, feel good, be grateful to God and bless Him for keeping you. After all, what happens to you every day is not necessarily what you planned. So there is a creator who plans and kee[ps you going to do what He wants you to do. I am therefore extremely grateful for who I am and what God has done with me and for me.”

  • Testimonies, tributes for Tinubu at Colloquium

    Nigerians from all walks of Iife yesterday converged on Eko Hotel & Suites to celebrate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 66th birthday. A colloquium was organised to mark the occasion. RAYMOND MORDI and LEKE SALAUDEEN capture the event.

    The 10th edition of the Bola Tinubu Colloquium yesterday drew a galaxy of audience. At the Convention Centre venue of the intellectual discourse, organised to mark the 66th birthday of All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, were politicians, captains of industry, members of the diplomatic corps, government functionaries and beneficiaries of the Social Investment Programmes (SIPs), introduced by the APC-led Federal Government. The SIPs’ beneficiaries gave testimonies on how the scheme changed their fortunes. Many of the audience paid glowing tributes to the former Lagos State governor.

     

    He’s an exceptionally visionary

    politician, says Mohammed

     

    INFORMATION, Culture & Tourism Minister Lai Mohammed yesterday described the All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as “an exceptionally visionary politician who has invested in many people”.

    Speaking on how Tinubu had invested in people, the minister recalled how he made him Chief of Staff about 20 years back as Lagos governor.

    “Not being from Lagos state, many people found it strange for him to have made me his Chief of staff.

    “Today, I can say boldly that at least in the federal cabinet, we have those occupying positions who had served in his cabinet at one time or the other.

    “We have the Vice President, myself, the Minister of Power Works & Housing, Raji Fashola and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.

    “If you also look at governor in many states today, whether it is Osun or elsewhere, they had worked with him in one capacity or the other.

    The minister, who said he felt elated about the day, wished the celebrant a long life in the service of the nation and mankind.

     

    Lagos Speaker: his vision, ideas led to creation of modern Lagos

     

    Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa described the celebrator as the founder of modern Lagos.

    The pioneering efforts of the APC stalwart at raising the standard of governance in the state, have taken the Centre of Excellence to loftier heights.

    He said: “Asiwaju combines his vision, ideas and leadership qualities to laid a solid foundation for subsequent administrations after him to build on and the result is what we have today – a modern Lagos that is moving rapidly from a mega city to a smart city; the fourth biggest economy in Africa moving towards being the third biggest economy in the continent.

    “His vision gave us Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, who performed well as Governor of Lagos State and now the indefatigable Akinwunmi Ambode whose performance as Governor of Lagos State for just a little over three has made him the number one state Governor in Nigeria making Lagos the role model for its counterparts not only in Nigeria but in the entire continent of Africa.”

    According to him, “it is to credit of Asiwaju’s leadership quality and his ingenuity that gave him the courage that those who came after him will continue to build solid structure and the foundation he had laid.

    “Today, Asiwaju has written his name in gold and there is no doubt about the fact that Lagos history cannot be complete without Asiwaju, the architect and founder of modern Lagos.

    “On behalf of my colleagues at the Lagos State House of Assembly, I wish you more healthy years in the service of this great state and the country at large.”

     

    How social investment schemes impacted our lives, by beneficiaries

     

    IT was testimony time for some beneficiaries of the Social Investment Programmes (SIPs) introduced by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government.

    They took turns to give insight into what they have benefitted from the various schemes in the last two years.

    It was at the 10th Bola Tinubu Colloquium with the theme: “Investing in People”, and anniversary of his 66th birthday at the Eko Hotel, Lagos

    One of them, nien-year-old Muhammad Anas Ishaq and a beneficiary of the Home Grown School Feeding Programme, sent the audience roaring with laughter with his testimony.

    The primary school pupil from Tundun-Wada in Kaduna State recounted how he used to stay away from school but that the free meal provided by the authorities rekindled his interest in education.

    Ishaq said when he informed his friend who used to stay away from school, he too started coming to school regularly.

    He thanked the Buhari administration for the free-meal programme and urged the government to sustain the laudable programme.

    Mrs. Janet Ekerette Udoh, who supplies eggs for the implementation of the school feeding programme in Akwa Ibom State, said many farms are flourishing with increased employment capacity, because of the school feeding programme.

    Reliving the success story, she said the food items for the programme are sourced from the local communities where the institutions are domiciled.

    Similarly, Mrs. Rosemary John Ignatius, a food vendor, said many women, who hitherto had no bank accounts have imbibed the banking culture.

    Her words: “Since we started the programme, people who had nothing to do with banks in the past now visit them (financial institutions) every 10 days, to withdraw their earnings.”

    Mrs. Ignatius said she is glad to be part of the Home Grown School Feeding Programme, because it has given her the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to her community and enhanced her business.

    The vendor, a caterer at Ikotidaha, Ibiono Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, said that with her years of experience as a professional cook, she has been able to deliver well-cooked meals to the pupils promptly and efficiently.

    Mrs. Kehinde Awodele, a trader from Igbo-Ora, Oyo State, a beneficiary of the Federal Government’s N5,000 monthly Conditional Cash Transfer Programme (CCTP), said that through the scheme, she has been able to raise money to grow her business.

    The fish trader said that prior to the commencement of the CCTP, she and her household were struggling to make ends meet.

    But through the CCTP, where she receives N10, 000 every two months, Mrs. Awodele has been able to join a savings group in her community which has helped to save enough towards enhancing her business.

    The Minister of State, Budget & National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, said the Federal Government introduced the SIPs to tackle poverty and to ensure an equitable distribution of income among vulnerable groups, especially, women and children.

    According to her, 7.4 million Nigerians have benefitted from the (SIPs) and that another 7.5 million have benefitted indirectly.

    She listed indirectly the indirect beneficiaries as farmers, cooks and transporters.

    The Special Adviser to the President on SIPs, Mrs. Maryam Uwais, said the programmes target the youths and women, particularly, those living below the poverty line.

    She added that about 43 per cent of Nigerians live below the poverty line.

    Mrs. Uwais said about 300, 000 are currently benefitting from the CCTP and that their earnings are paid directly into their bank accounts.

    The roll call

    President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, his wife, Dolapo, the host governor, Akinwumi Ambode, his wife, Bolanle, Governors Rochas Okorocha (Imo State), Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Ibikunle Amosu (Ogun) Waziri Tambuwal (Sokoto), Mohammed Abubakar (Bauchi), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), Mohammed Bindow (Adamawa), Abdullahi Danguje (Kaduna), Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) (Ondo) and Abubakar Badaru (Jigawa).

    Hale and hearty, Tinubu entered the hall around 10.50, accompanied by his wife, Senator Oluremi. Before taking his seat, where the president later joined him, he went round the hall to exchange pleasantries with guests, including the APC Interim Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, former Chief of General Staff, Lt-Gen. Oladipo Diya, the Eleko of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akinolu, Dein Keagborkyzi of Agbor, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi 111, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba AdedotunGbadebo, the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Adewale Akanbi, former Chairman of the defunct All Peoples Party (APP), Alhaji Yusuf Ali, former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, his Ekiti State counterpart, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Ogbonaya Onu, former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Senator Abu Ibrahim, Senator Joel Ikenya, Senator James Akpanudoedehen, former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Alhaji Nuhu Ribadu, and Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.

    Dignitaries at the historic event also included the Minister of Communication, Alhaji Adebayo Shittu, the Minister of Works, Housing and Power, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), the Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, eminent industrialists Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Jim Ovia, Oba Otudeko, Chief Kessington Adebutu, and Chief Rasak Okoya-Thomas; APC National Deputy Chairman Chief Segun Oni, APC National Vice Chairman (Southwest) Chief Pius Akinyelure, Lagos State APC Chairman Chief Oladele Ajomale, Senators Ben Bruce, Babajide Omoworare, Ganiyu Solomon, Ajayi Boroffice, Ayo Arise, Solomon Adeola, Prof. Itsey Sagay (SAN), one-time Commissioner of Finance in Lagos State Hon. Wale Edun, Prof, Ropo Sekoni, Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN) and Supo Sasore (SAN).

    The ceremony was also witnessed by Senate Leader Ahmed Lawan, Osun State Deputy Governor Titi Tomori-Laoye, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babashir Lawal, Secretary to Lagos State Government Mr. Tunji Bello, Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs Senator Babfemi Ojudu, Senator Barnabas Gemade, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, former Oyo State Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, former military governor of Lagos State Brig-Gen. Raji Rasaki, former Lagos State Deputy Governors Olufemi Pefro, Abiodun Ogunleye and Mrs. Sarah Sosan; former Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly Hon. Yemi Ikuforiji, Chief Ologbotsere, Senator Tony Adefuye, House of Representatives members Nnana, Jide Jimoh, and Ayinla Yusuf; Princess Adenrele Ogunsanya, Chief Rabiu Oluwa, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, Cardinal James Odunmbaku, Hon. Olawale Oshun, Alhaji Suraj Ayilara, Hon. James Faleke, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu and other Lagos white cap chiefs, Chief Mutiu Are, former Police Inspector-General Musiliu Smith, Hon. Jayeola Ajatta, Dr. Wale Ahmed, Alhaji Ganiyu Badmus, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, Hon. Eshinlokun Sanni, Funso Olukoga, Apena kaoli Olusanya, Hon. Bashiru Bolarinwa, Dr. Bashiru Ajibola, Hon. Funminiyi Afuye, Hon. Sunny Ajose, Mr. Dele Alake, Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele, Demola Sodiq, Dr. Yomi Finnih, Prof. Tunde Samuel, Chief. M.A. Taiwo, Hon.Bayo Adesanya, Hon. Jide Sanwo-Olu, Chief Olusola Oke (SAN), Hon[U1] . Bimbo Daramola, Prof. Pat Utomi, Brig-Gen. Elias Attu, Hon. Nasiru Aliko Koki, Chief Lanre Rasak, Southwest APC Women Leader Chief Kemi Nelson, Comrade Ayodele Adewale, Mrs. Toun Adediran, Toke Benson, Hon. Niyi Fabikun, Hon. Emmanuel Bamigboye, and Ikem Isiekwena, the master of the ceremony.

  • Imoke, Adeola, others pay tributes to Obasanjo’s late ADC

    Imoke, Adeola, others pay tributes to Obasanjo’s late ADC

    Former Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke, Former Head of the Service of the Federation, Steve Oransanye and Former Managing Director of Gurantee Trust Bank Plc, Mr. Fola Adeola, were among prominent Nigerians who yesterday paid glowing tributes to Late Brig. General Solomon Giwa Amu, the former Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukuk Buratai, represented by the Chief of Civil Military Relations, Maj-Gen. Nuhu Angbanso and other professional colleagues and friends of the late ADC also lauded the late Giwa-Amu for his contributions to the society and nation. Former Governor Imoke who chaired the 10th Anniversary of Solomon Giwa Amu at the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja, described the late ADC to ex-President Obasanjo as compassionate, generous and disciplined, saying the late ADC gave his best to his fatherland.

    Imoke further said if Giwa-Amu were to be alive today, he would be distressed and disappointed at the power supply situation in Nigeria considering the fact that he was in the know of efforts to boost electricity supply in the country through the PPP more than 12 years ago. According to him, as at the time he resigned as Minister of Power to contest election for the Cross River State gubernatorial seat, there were plans to increase power generations in the country through the PPP and the late Giwa-Amu was very passionate about the project and every other project that would advance the growth and development of the country.

    The former governor lauded the resilient of the family, particularly his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Judith Giwa Amu and friends for putting together series of events in memory of the late ADC as packaged by the Solomon Giwa-Amu Foundation.

    In his remarks, the former Managing Director of Gurantee Trust Bank, Mr. Fola Adeola said Solomon Giwa Amu as a friend and brother was a man of integrity, highly disciplined, professional in his calling and generous.

    Adeola who cited instances of his encounter with the late Brigadier General said Nigerian youths have a lot to learn about him, stressing that the country as well would continue to require people like him in position of power and authority especially for his gift to use leadership position for common good.

    Adeola said: “As we reflect on the state of our nation and the role of individuals, the message here is simple: It is good to have a job or career but good societies are built by people with a calling. There was no doubt Solo found his purpose wherever he was and made the most of the resources that life gave him at the time.

    In her remarks Dr. (Mrs.) Judith Solomon GiwaAmu commended the committee of friends for standing by the family, saying she would remain eternally grateful for their support, prayers and calls which have helped in no small measure to sustain the legacies of the late husband.

  • Tributes to Hugh Masekela holds in Lagos

    Tributes to Hugh Masekela holds in Lagos

    As the news of the passing of Hugh Masekela is reverberating all over the world and with many governments, corporations and individuals pouring encomiums on the act of the legend, Nigerian Jazz musicians were also not left out, as  Othello’s, a leading upscale hospitality outfit in Lagos, has hosted its clients to a tribute session in honour of the deceased, an international Jazz legend and father of South African Jazz Bra who died on January 23, 2018.

    The event, themed ‘white and black and baddest’, was powered by Inspiro Productions, organisers of the annual Lagos International Jazz Festival. Present on the band stand that night were Jazz Master & Director of The SPAN Academy of Jazz & Contemporary Music – Bright Gain, Top Jazz Trumpeter & Educationist – Biodun Batik, Ace Jazz Trumpeter – Taiwo Clegg, Multi-instrumentalist & Performer Seun Olota, FemiSlide the Afrojazz/Highlife Trombonist, Leading Jazz Trumpeter Kwitee, fast rising Saxophonist Darex and others.

    At the well-attended event, guests were received with exotic cocktails and light refreshments before the performance kicked off with Rapha the comedian compering the event. The live performances were interspersed with tributes to the great man, his music and impact. Jazz Impresario and CEO of Inspiro Productions, Ayoola Sadare, spoke glowingly about his encounter with Bra Hugh and contact over the years and also announced the dedication of the Lagos International Jazz Festival in April 2018 to Hugh Masekela. Dede Mabiaku popular musician and protégé of Afrobeat founder Fela Kuti spoke passionately of how over the years Hugh Masekela had become a father to him, his connection and many visits to Nigeria.

    Amongst dignitaries at the event were the German Consul General Ingo Herbert, a delegation from South Africa led by their Vice Consul Political Mr. Mbedzi and representing Honourable Steve Ayorinde, the Lagos Commissioner of Tourism, Arts & Culture was Mr. Frank Legunsen of the same ministry.

    Others include the President of the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association Of Nigeria and his wife Mr. and Mrs Pretty Okafor, JazzMan Olofin and son of Highlife legend Bayode Olaiya representing his father Dr. Victor Olaiya.

    The tribute session rounded off with a raffle draw and the prizes were for guests to win Othello’s 5 Days Of Valentines package of a three-course dinner for couple during the valentine period which five lucky couples won.

    Singer Annjay supports JAMB applicants with free forms

    In her way of helping her fans fulfil their dreams of getting an education, singer, song writer, model and entrepreneur, John Angela Chioma, better known as Annjay, has donated JAMB forms to some applicants.

    According to the singer, the move is aimed at not just starting the year on a bright note, but also to put a smile on the faces of her fans while giving them a ray of hope, no matter how small.

    Taking to her Facebook and Instagram pages, she wrote: “Few 2018/2019 Jamb forms up for grab from me….Send your phone number/Email address to my Dm. My team will contact you if you are among the lucky people. Start now as entries closes by 6pm today. For student in Lagos only pls. All the best.”

    Annjay stated that she will be giving out a number of forms only as the applicants have to do the registration themselves.

    “I don’t want to disclose the number of forms because the aim is not to brag about it,” said Annjay, who released a couple of singles including, ‘Man No Be God’.

    “However, I and my team are comfortable knowing that we have set the process in motion for some people. That is the reason we are not taking photographs with them. Education is a very important part of human existence and we would like to be a part of someone’s process.”

    She also launched Annjay Hair, a product which she says caters for all females, irrespective of class.

    Speaking on the quality of her products, the singer said; “We are presently well stocked with Brazilian Virgin human hair, eye lashes for women and we have a range of other products which we will be introducing into the Nigerian market soon.”

    On the music front, she said that her fans should expect more singles from her before the year runs out.

     

  • Tributes as Law School Class of ‘80 honours SGF

    Tributes as Law School Class of ‘80 honours SGF

    For members of the Nigerian Law School (NLS) class of 1980, their reunion last week at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) Abuja was exceptional, memorable and could count as one of the best in recent times.

    Apart from the usual fanfare and opportunity for former classmates to meet, socialise and felicitate with one another, this reunion set the stage for the class to honour one of its own who was  appointed Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Boss Gida Mustapha.

    The gathering included several senior lawyers, including former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Mr. Joseph Bodunrin Daudu (SAN), former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) and the wife of Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku, Mrs. Ann Ishaku.

    The class singled out the SGF for special praise and paid tributes to his achievements in law, politics, and administration before conferring him with an award.

    It described Mustapha as “a distinguished statesman, astute politician, consummate administrator, quintessential boardroom guru, seasoned solicitor and advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, opinion molder, role model and leading light of the Nigerian Bar Association, a devout Christian, an accomplished and incorruptible Nigerian for the Award of Excellence by his peers and classmates of the Nigerian Law School Class of 1980.”

    “Yours is a strange destiny. A consummate practitioner, you transformed into a leading administrator. A specialist in Corporate Law, you have changed into a politician of repute and public policy analyst of distinction. It would seem that your temperament, your quiet passion, your peaceful force of will was required to bring about such a profound transformation.

    “Excellence endures, and your excellence has endured the longest amongst your peers.  You are a man of remarkable depth and breadth of interest, an accomplished politician and a distinguished public servant who stimulates debates and leads the pack by sheer charisma and examples.

    “The class of 1980 of the Nigerian Law School salutes you today for your numerous achievements and sagacity.  The honour we are today conferring on you is unique because it is inspired not merely by the manifestation of excellence but more importantly by a sublime attribute which has ennobled your undertakings. The Class of ‘80 is really proud of you and honoured to call you our friend, colleague and classmate.”

    Daudu urged Mustapha to keep the flag flying.

    Azinge congratulated Mustapha on bringing “great honour and pride to the class”.

    Mrs. Ishaku prayed for God to propel the SGF to greater heights.

    Mr Babatunde A. M. Fashanu (SAN) prayed God to protect Boss as he discharges the onerous task.

    Sir Adebonajo Badejo (SAN) congratulated the SGF and wished him success as he takes on “the great responsibility bestowed”.

    Other SANs at the event included Mr. Emmanuel Ukala, Mr. Ifedayo Adedipe, and Mr. Offiong Offiong (SAN).