Big masquerades join Shina Peller to celebrate his mother 70th birthday

It was a gathering of royal fathers, political bigwigs and business moguls as popular socialite and acclaimed King of night life, Shina Peller celebrated his mother's 70th birthday in grand style.

Recall that Shina Peller’s mother, Alhaja Silifat Adeboyin Abeo .a.k.a ‘Lady Peller’ was the pretty wife of the late Africa’s foremost magician, Professor Moshood Abiola Peller who has been in the social scene for over 40 years and still rocking it. She also partnered with her late husband as they both performed magic side-by-side all over the world.

At the event, speakers after speaker testified to the goodness of lady Peller, as they described her as 'a virtuous and selfless woman who treated not only her children well but also, catered for the well being of other people.

Royal fathers who graced the event included, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba (Dr.) Abdulganiyu Adekunle Salau; Oba Saheed Elegushi, Oba of Itire, Oba of Igbosabe, among others. Also in attendance were Senator Gbenga Babalola representing Oyo North Senatorial District; Former Ekiti state Governor, Segun OniHon. Oladimeji Wasiu Dauda; NairaBet founder, Otunba Akin Alabi; Ace Musician, Yinka Ayefele, Salawa Abeni Madam Laraba Gloria Shoda (NCWS)Bayo Adelabu, AIG Tunji Alapeni, Sule Abiola, Otunba Lekan Osifeso, Alhaji Mai Mala Buni, , Madam Hannah Ogunesan, Hon. Abayomi Oke, Hon. Ajiboye Omodewu, , Ogbeni Abisoye Fagade, Kayode Thomas, Ayo Animashaun and a host of others. Meanwhile, it was believed that Shina Peller used her mother's 70th birthday to test his popularity among his people as he warms up to delve into politics in 2019. Who know!

When Dele Momodu's wife celebrated golden jubilee

Ovation Publisher, Chief Dele Momodu was in high spirits days back as his amiable wife, Mrs Mobolaji Abiodun Momodu clocked 50. He rolled out the drum to celebrate the love of his life and indeed, it worth the celebration. The birthday party which held at the prestigious Civic Centre, Victoria Island was graced by many eminent personalities led by the Ogun state governor Ibikunle Amosun. The glamorous ceremony kicked off with a Thanksgiving service led by Pastor Ojelabi while Pastor Ituah Ighodalo led the prayers for the family and laid hands on them. The highlight of the evening was the cutting of the birthday cake by the celebrant, who was flanked by her family. Governor Amosun coordinated the session with the support of APC Chieftain Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Chief Alex Duduyemi, Dr. Mrs Doyin Abiola.

Popular Gospel musician Evangelist Lanre Teriba was on the bandstand, dishing out great tunes that got everyone on their feet dancing. The celebrant’s mother Chief Mrs Christiana Ebun Adaramaja, her husband Chief Dele Momodu, her friend Eng. Mrs Christy Adelowo, her children, nieces, nephews, in-laws, were among those who eulogised Mrs Momodu, for being a rare gem and a woman of many parts. Among the dignitaries at the event were Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun; APC Chieftain, Aremo Olusegun Osoba; Chief Alex Duduyemi, Dr. Mrs Doyin Abiola, Chief Mrs. Toyin Kolade, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Pastor Ojelabi, Pastor Femi Faseru, Sir Shina Peters, Yomi Fash Lanso, Amb. Toye and Dr Jessica Okanlawon. Others were Prince Olanrewaju Elegushi, Mr and Mrs Demola and Wosilat Seriki, Mrs Ajike Asiri DG Lasmarines, Ken Caleb and Uju Olumense and Otunba Lai Okeowo among others.

Another honour for late Prof. Dora Akunyili's husband

Sir Chike Akunyili, late Prof. Dora Akunyili's husband recently added a feather to his overflowing cap when he was honoured with the Pontifical Equestrian Order (Papa Knights) of St. Sylvester, a rank known to be the highest in the Catholic order. The cheery news, our source said was first communicated to Sir Akunyili by His Holiness, Pope Francis and the man was said to have been happy beyond words.

His investiture, alongside four other men of honour took place at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Awka, Anambra State penultimate Sunday. The event was graced by the high and the mighty in the society. Among them were political bigwigs Including Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State, former APGA National Chairman, Chief Victor Umeh; the State Governorship Aspirant, Mr. Peter Obaze. Others were Commissioners, business associates, traditional rulers; local government Chairmen. Also, Sir Akunyili children were not missing in action as two of them, Mr. Obumneme and Miss. Chidiogo, flew into the country from overseas to honour their dad. Indeed, for Sir Chike; "the honour means a divine call to do more in the vineyard of God."

A workaholic and skilled emergentologist, Sir Chike directs the affairs of one of the notable Hospitals in the coal city of Enugu, St. Leo Hospitals, which has two wings with one commissioned and dedicated in memory of his amiable wife, late Prof. Dora Nkem Akunyili. Within and outside the country, the Akuniylis' name needs no qualifier or modifiers. Sir. Chike's brand, built on humility, knowledge and selfless service, is in itself a testimony of the strength, and character of the man. He's blessed with four girls and two sons and they are doing well in their various endeavours.

Obiora Chukwuka picks date for daughter's wedding

This is the season of celebration and merriment and Dr. Obiora Chukwuka, the Executive Chairman of Greenlife Pharmaceuticals Limited and his darling wife, Obiageli are not sparing any time as they warm up to marry off their beautiful daughter, Chidinma Lindamaris in a fairytale wedding that will kickstart 2018. The lucky man is no other person than Taiye Adeyemi, a managing partner at SkitBox Communications and son of the Managing Partner of Intermarc Consulting Ltd, Mr. Adeyinka Adeyemi. The wedding is billed to hold immediately after the Xmas, precisely on the 13th of January, 2018. Our source says, the Chukwukas are planning big for the wedding as they are concerned with the happiness of their eldest daughter. The Greenlife Pharmaceutical boss who is known for his classical products which are second to none and his enviable humility is said to be leaving no stone unturned in his quest to host a super wedding ceremony for his loving daughter.

Recall that in August, the Chukwukas hosted the Adeyemis in their hometown in Nnokwa, Anambra State when they held the traditional marriage ceremony. According to those in the know, many have been jostling to grab the yet-to-be ready invitation card, following the status of the bride's father who has worked his way to the top through dint of hard work. Chidinma and Taiye supposedly met at the Leeds University Business School, UK, as students.

Modupe Ogunlesi's Adam&Eve: 20 years on

Mrs. Modupe Ogunlesi, the amiable woman behind Adam & Eve, an upscale luxury home life store located in the highbrow GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, is indeed a fulfilled woman of many parts. After two decades of living her dream of merchandizing on eclectic household items such cooking wares, utensils, furniture, electronics and more, the amiable woman recently rolled out the drums to celebrate 20 years of continuous operation in an unpredictable economic environment that has witnessed the rise and demise of several big retailers and retail chains such as Leventis stores, Chellarams among others. This is no mean feat by any standard! And this has been achieved without compromising the quality of the products on offer, delivered on a platform of the excellent customer service the store is known for.

Ogunlesi' flagged off the celebration with an art exhibition, featuring some of the most exciting Nigerian visual artists of their time, including the works of master sculptor, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Kolade Oshinowo, Lekan Onabanjo, Raqib Bashorun, Duke Asidere, Alex Nwokolo, Tola Wewe, Zinno Orara and Fidelis Odogwu. In continuation of the celebration, the Lagos socialite is also putting plans together to host the store's annual Christmas Carol in its premises at GRA, Ikeja, alongside the Harmattan edition of its flagship Art exhibition titled “The Content” which runs till December 15. The Christmas Carol, which is billed to hold on Sunday, November 12, and tagged, " 2017 Festival of Carols" is adapted from the newer traditional style of Carols from King's. Th event will be graced by their loyal customers, lovers of Christmas carols, society bigwigs and he general public.

Pastor Siju Iluyomade leads Onari Duke, Sola David Borha, Kate Henshaw, others on Arise 'Walk for Life'

Pastor Siju Iluyomade and husband 

As part of the activities to launch this year's Arise Women Conference, organisers of the annual event dedicated to improving the lives of Nigerian women through empowerment, held the 'Arise Walk for Life' on Saturday, 14th October, 2017.

Led by the Convener and Host, Pastor Siju Iluyomade, the Walk for Life featured prominent women such as Onari Duke, Managing Partner, Duke and Bob Manuel; CEO of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Sola David Borha; actress, Kate Henshaw, amongst others.

The charity walk which was held to promote preventive health care among Nigerians, also featured free medical screening & disease prevention talk, dancing, music and exercises.

Speaking with participants during the charity, Pastor Siju Iluyomade reiterated the need for preventive healthcare as a means to establish higher quality of life among all Nigerians.

“According to World Health Organisation, about 10,000 cancer deaths are recorded annually in Nigeria, with 250,000 new cases recorded every year. It is worrisome that only 17 percent of African countries are said to have sufficiently-funded cancer control programmes, while less than half of all countries in the world have functional plans to prevent the disease and provide treatment and care to patients," she said.

Themed 'Branded for Christ', this year’s conference will host over 15,000 women from different parts of the country, including the wife of the Nigerian Vice President, wives of the current and previous governors of Lagos, Kwara, Edo, Imo, Kebbi, Enugu, and Abia States.

“Arise is a platform for the total woman with a special focus on the impact each of us can make on our communities, regardless of the social strata. Every year, we use the conference and our voices to raise awareness for the work to be done for many more women, especially in providing access to treatment, and most importantly, prevent diseases,” she concluded.

This year, the conference will also have in attendance Pastor Sarah Omakwu, CEO, Family Ministry International (Africa) as guest speaker; Her Excellency Mrs. Omolara Omolewa Ahmed, Wife of Kwara State Governor; Her Excellency Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, Wife of Edo State Governor; Ebenezer Obey; Tope Alabi; Tim Godfrey; BJ Sax amongst others.

Arise Women Conference is set to hold on Saturday, 28 October 2017 at R.C.C.G. City of David, 1, COD Church Road, Dideolu Estate,Victoria Island, Lagos.

Tony Ojo ups the ante ...as strip night club owner

Top businessman, Tony Ojo who's the brain behind the popular nude bar, Club Unique, where fun seekers find pleasure in watching strippers is not resting on his oars to dot the city of Lagos with nude entertainment outfits. His latest addition, which is situated in the highbrow Lekki area of Lagos is already a destination for Lagos night crawlers. The premium lifestyle club was recently opened to business. The high class event had the likes of comic actor Charles Inojie, DJ Kentalky among other celebrities and Island big boys in attendance. Some people are whispering that the soft-spoken night club owner must have coughed out millions of naira to set up newest strip night club.

We learnt that the club which is the latest in town, however, boasts of foreign and local diva’s experience, international dishes among other side attraction. From all indications, Ojo seems to be a guru in the business of nude entertainment, where he stands as one of the pathfinders.

Bolaji Rosiji's next move

Former president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria,PMAN, Bolaji Rosiji, who resurfaced few years back with a people-focused outfit, Gaurapad Charities is not done yet with his quest for power. The human rights activist and son of late Chief Ayo Rosiji, industrialist and two-time minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is said to be plotting to delve into politics. And if the gossip flying around is anything to believe, the one-time Secretary General of Network of Nigerian NGOs and United Nations Ambassador for Peace is preparing ahead of 2019 general elections, when he will be throwing his hat in the ring. Hi Society learnt that the monk of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness is currently consulting with the power brokers and perfecting plans to launch out his political ambition. And a source close to him said, he's serious working towards realizing his ambition. Let's keep our fingers crossed till 2019.  

A happy reunion after 20 years

It will be a memorable reunion after 20years as 1997 graduates of Mass Communication, Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State gather this weekend,in Asaba, amid fun fare.

The reunion event tagged "The Ignition" kicks off today at the Royal Parks Hotel Asaba, and it's expected that members of the alumni from across the globe will grace the historic occasion to relive memories of their schooldays. The two- day event commences this evening with Karaoke night at Porch and Karaoke Bar. It will continue tomorrow morning with a road walk, which will start from Royal Parks hotel and terminates at Awai Road, Asaba. Other interesting activities lined up for the event include, lectures to be delivered by one of the organizing committee members, Charles Ajoku and and Okay Chukwurah, the former course rep, swimming, familiarization tour and visit to their alma mater among other side attractions.

Foursquare Gospel Church holds District Convention

L-R: General Overseer, Foursquare Gospel Church Nigeria, Rev. Felix Meduoye; District Overseer, Akowonjo District, Rev. Goddey Ebojie, and his wife, Rev. Mrs Charity Ebojie; National Treasurer, Foursquare Gospel Church Nigeria, Rev. Ogedemgbe, and his wife, at the 2017 Annual Convocation of Akowonjo District last Sunday

The Akowonjo District of the Foursquare Gospel Church was a beehive of activities last Sunday, as the church marked its District Convention, the eight in the series.

Themed ‘’The Unlimited God’’, the week-long event commenced on Monday September 18 and climaxed on Sunday, September 25, with different activities that included the convergence of members from far and near places, singing and dancing led by the church's choir. The event also witnessed convocation which elevated deserving members into different leadership cadre.

General Overseer of the church, Rev. Felix Meduoye, in his goodwill message expressed his gratitude to the congregation about what God has been doing in the district since its creation.

‘’I want to thank God and appreciate everyone for your noteworthy contributions towards expanding the kingdom of God. You have made significant impact in the pursuit and realization of the Decade of Multiplication vision of the Present National Leadership,’’ he noted.

He also commended the District Overseer, Rev and Rev (Mrs) Goddey Ebojie for his visionary, dedicated and dynamic leadership, as well as the other leaders in the District for a job well done.

‘’The theme of your convocation, ‘’The Unlimited God’’ is very apt, inspiring and instructive. God works in mysterious ways. He can bring about overwhelming victory to His people through limited human resources. God is unlimited and everlasting. He can intervene in our circumstances and bring us victory through unexpected means,’’ he concluded.

Earlier in his welcoming address, Rev G.O Ebojie, the District Overseer equally appreciated and thanked everyone in the District for contributing immensely to its progress.

“There were times we had to challenge you as your leaders and your response added to the steady progress that has been made. God prospered His church and members that we are not only surviving but achieving and adjusting to the reality of giving birth to another zone,’’ he remarked.

More grease to Capt. Idahosa Okunbo's elbow!

Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, fondly called Captain ‘Hosa, is indeed a man with a heart of gold. In his drive to get Edo youths off the streets and support the Edo State government's job creation initiative,Okunbo who is the Chairman of Wells Entertainment, has offered 50 Edo indigenes scholarship to study film making in the prestigious Benin Film Academy (BFA).

Idahosa who expressed his profound joy that a film academy is sited in Benin City, commended the initiators, Igbinedion University and Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen’s Nollywood Project 101 for deeming it fit to establish the academy in Benin City. He, however, urged all well meaning Edo sons and daughters in the state and beyond to support this “make a film maker” initiative of Benin Film Academy which is aimed at encouraging sponsorship of indigent Edo youths who are interested in the arts and craft of film making. Speaking further, he said this will help in making Edo state a hub for the business of film making and entertainment and also rid the streets of insecurities and lawlessness usually perpetrated by idle youths.

Known for his philanthropic activities and love for arts and culture, Okunbo has been a major supporter of entertainment in Nigeria which saw him sponsoring several Arts exhibitions home and abroad and many movies including 'Black November' produced by Jeta Amata, 'the Other Side of the Coin', 'Shadows in the Dark' and 'About Tomorrow.' He is also the backbone behind Wells Entertainment Ltd., Feva TV Canada and a host of other entertainment related ventures. Some of the selected beneficiaries of this great largess by the chairman Wells Entertainment are already dreaming big as Benin Film Academy remains the gateway to the heart of Nollywood.

Benin gears up for Oba Ewuare II's coronation anniversary

Excitement is high in the ancient Benin Kingdom as subjects of His Royal Majesty, Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II warm up to celebrate his one year coronation anniversary.

Recall that Oba Ewuare 11 ascended the revered throne of his forefathers on the 20^th of October 2016, after his father, Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolopkolo, Oba Erediauwa's passed on April 29, 2016. The colourful event witnessed an effusive display of the rich cultures of the Benin Kingdom.

Hi Society gathered that the celebration will kick off on the 9^th of October and run till the 22^nd of October. Part of activities lined up to mark the anniversary, according to a source close to the organizers, include cultural displays, drama and traditional gaming in line with the cultures of the people. Also, there will be an inaugural lecture of Oba Ewuare II, which will be delivered by Professor Wole Soyinka as the Guest Speaker. Dignitaries from all walks of life are expected to throng the ancient Kingdom once again to celebrate with the monarch who picked the title of ‘Oba Ewuare II’ after Oba Ewuare, the first Monarch of the Benin Empire, who reportedly ascended the throne between 1180 and 1300 AD. Ewuare was seen by many as one of the greatest Obas of Benin Kingdom.

Ogun State Deputy Gov, Yetunde Onanuga's low key birthday bash

Deputy governor of Ogun State, Yetunde Onanuga turned 57 recently and many had expected an elaborate birthday bash given he social standing as number two citizen in Ogun. But lo and behold! The plump healthy-looking woman decided to make her 57^th birthday a low-key affair. Right inside her boss office, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, joined by his wife, Olufunso, presided over an extra ordinary session of the State Executive Council in honor of the deputy governor.

Mrs. Yetunde Onanuga was born 11 September 1960 in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State in Nigeria. Her father was F.T. Fabamwo. She was educated in Ogun State and then in Lagos where she obtained her teachers certificate. She later completed an MBA at Ogun State University.

She was working in the Lagos State ministry of environment when she was chosen as the running mate of the seating governor Ibikunle Amosun in 2015.

Rising profile of Toke Makinwa

Radio girl and author of best selling book 'On Becoming' Toke Makinwa is a news maker any day. She's sparing no cost in making herself one of the best dressed ladies in Nigeria

The YouTuber recently won a fashion award in Ghana,leaving many ladies coveting her wardrobe especially her shoes and bags collection,

With several Gucci and Valentino in her collection already, it is safe to say that Toke Makinwa is one of the top fashion icons in Nigeria. The 33-year-old Toke was spotted rocking a simple dress few days ago and one would not have paid any attention until feelers emerged that the simple dress was not just a simple dress but a limited edition, Sylvie Chain print Gucci dress of 2700$!

The dress, which is said to be a 2017 Gucci edition in Nigerian money is very close to a million naira. But Toke is still on top of her game. More grease to her elbow!

Titilola Aboyade-Cole adds another feather to her cap

London-based Nigerian On Air Personality, show host and CEO of Podium International, Titilola Aboyade-Cole has added yet another feather to her already overflowing cap. This time, she has delved into the education sector, establishing a state-of-art modern school, Podium International Schools to raise the standard of education in the country. The school, located in the highbrow Ikota Villa Estate, Lekki area of Lagos was declared opened to business last Sunday.

It was a dream come true for the single mother of one who disclosed that the laudable project was a joint effort of herself alongside her overseas-based sister. It was also an up shoot of her brainchild, ‘Podium Recognition' which held in 2010, at the Aquatic Hall, Water Parks, Ikeja, where she recognized a number of hardworking and talented Nigerians. She used the opportunity to launch the much-awaited Podium International Magazine in Nigeria and now, Podium International Schools.

According to Titilola, “ Podium International Schools, we are committed to molding our young ones from inception. The Bible says, If the foundation be destroyed, what can the righteous do?'

“Our commitment is a love care and build pupils to the highest standards of the Nigerian/British curricular to bring out the hidden talents and also build confident, healthy and honest Global citizens.”

“ We are aware of the growing need for Montessori learning and have made provision for that too. We have a Montessori class that is full of learning resources according to each child's ability.”

The unveiling of the school, which was attended by her family members, aging mother, friends and celebrities marked a new dawn in her life. And of course, the third year student of the Institute of Legal Executives (ILEC), London, went emotional at the event, while paying tribute to her 83 year-old mother. Kneeling down before her mum to thank her for raising her and her siblings after she lost her husband at the age of 40, Titilola broke down in tears, recalling how her octogenarian mum refused to remarry in order to fend for them. 

Alaafin of Oyo’s love for talented artist, Alesh Akeem

Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III and Alesha Akeem

IF he was not on the throne , perhaps the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, would have been mentoring historians in Nigeria. This much he demonstrated recently when popular pencil artist, Alesh Akeem, paid him a visit. The artist is currently on tour of his project "Celebrating 10 Kings," which is an initiative of Alesh Akeem and his management, “The RedAce Company.”

Receiving Akeem with the love of a father in his Palace, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who was professor of Ancient and Modern history did not only bless the celebrated artist, he also took him on a trip into the past, reuniting the artist with the history of the black race. The Alaafin noted that as Africa continues to re-write its history and stride into the millennium, there is urgent need for leaders in the continent to begin a systematic documentation of what they have in the name of cultural property.

These, he pointed out, should include objects made by forefathers, the monuments of the land and things created by us today that would become of historic importance tomorrow.

Oba Adeyemi said,"Africa is opening up herself to the world in a way that she had never done in the past. We are no longer 'the Dark Continent' and Africans are no longer 'the primitives.’ The civilizations that once flourished in Africa have become the issue in the Art world today. Hence, the head-count of our cultural property should be properly and fully documented in this regard."

For the representative of Alesh Akeem’s management, Olubunmi Adeyera, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III is being recognized in the project for his continuous effort in maintaining peaceful co-existence between the Yoruba nation and other ethnic groups in Nigeria. The projects, according to Akeem, is aimed at recognizing 10 traditional rulers in Africa with outstanding excellence, and by extension showcasing the Nigerian monarchical system to other parts of the world.

What Stylenest Hair has in common with MBGN 2017

STYLE Innovations Limited, a human hair company in Nigeria is stepping out to make a statement with the sponsoring of this year’s edition of Most Beautiful Girl Nigeria, MBGN, beauty pageant yearly organized by Silverbird Group.

The MBGN beauty pageant which will hold at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos on September 15, marks the 30th anniversary of the pageant since its launch in1986 in Nigeria.

Speaking with the media in Lagos, the Managing Director of Stylenest Innovations Limited, Mrs. Goodness Okwu said Stylenest prides its self as a company that promotes not just physical beauty but inner beauty of women across the continent. “For us to help women look and feel confident in their respective fields of endeavour, Stylenest decided to add its voice by supporting the MBGN, the most prestigious beauty pageant in Africa” she remarked.

Okwu, while affirming that the Stylenest brand will continue to support programmes designed to empower girl-child in the society, she urged the government to also create and support more initiatives that would give empowerment to the girl-child in the country. Recall that in 2001, Agbani Darego was crowned Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria and the same year, she also emerged winner of the famous “Miss World” competition.

Mo Abudu soars higher

MOSUNMOLA Abudu popularly known as Mo Abudu is indeed a woman of many parts. She started out as a talk show host, TV producer, media personality, human resources management consultant, entrepreneur, and a philanthropist. Now, she's debuting as a movie director to crown it all. Forbes once described her as "Africa's Most Successful Woman" and that is what she is. She took time out of her busy schedule to attend a three-week course for directors at the London Film School, and the end-product of her training is debuting as a movie director soon.

As the CEO of EbonyFilms, Mo Abudu has produced some popular movies, including “The Wedding Party”, “Fifty,” and “The Royal Hibiscus Hotel”. “The Royal Hibiscus Hotel” will be premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) later this month, while “The Wedding Party 2” is projected to hit cinemas in December.

“I felt that it was really important to continue my growth as a filmmaker, with a view to directing my first feature in the near future,”she said, adding “One critical area of learning for me was mise-en-scène – the arrangement of everything that appears in the frame – actors, lighting, decor, props and costumes.”

“I have learned so much over the last few weeks and I am really looking forward to putting all of it into practice very soon.”

Meanwhile, the course was fronted by “The Yellow Handkerchief” director, Udayan Prasad.

Billionaire, Folorunso Alakija soars higher

When many thought that Nigerian businesswoman and billionaire, Folorunso Alakija is slowing down in her humanitarian efforts, she springs up more surprises that beat the imagination of her admirers. Just weeks after she was unveiled the grand matron of Africa Cinematography Festival,ACF, the Amazon who clocked 66 years last month returned strongly to reckoning few days ago, announcing the launch of “Flourish Africa”, a non-profit organisation aimed at creating a global community that encourages and helps women to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Alakija is currently ranked amongst Forbes’ most influential women in the world with a net worth of $1.7 billion. Her latest initiative is designed to create a platform for both female millennials, and adults alike, to have access to information that will help them grow in the areas of career, living, love and relationships and inspirational messages from leading change makers.

“Flourish Africa”, she said is an idea that was conceived to create a community of like-minded women, who share their individual experiences and encourage each other to be who God has created them to be. It is a platform designed for women by women to empower both the young and the old to flourish.

The online platform, the first phase of a series of initiatives under the “Flourish Africa” umbrella, is designed to help women in all aspects of their lives.

Alakija who is also the founder of the Rose of Sharon Foundation (an NGO with its focus on helping widows and orphans), has been an advocate of empowering women for many years; her philanthropic work has improved the lives of thousands of women and orphans in Nigeria.

While “Flourish Africa” is aimed primarily at women, Alakija points out that its message can relate to both genders. “I believe both men and women can benefit from the ethos of the “Flourish Africa” platform. I know that given the opportunity, women have the power to change the course of any nation and together, we can break down the stereotypes that hold us all back, making our communities much more stronger and greater,”she said. More grease to her elbows!

Eghosa old boys reunites in Benin

IT was a homecoming affair for old boys of Eghosa Anglican Grammar School, Benin City recently, when they held their 6^th global convention/60^th anniversary gala/award in Benin, the Edo State capital. The old boys took time to visit their alma mater. Led by Bishop Agbe Davies, the delegates to the conven­tion inspected the school premises and facilities and after seeing the decay of the structures, resolved to ask the state government to immedi­ately take over the school in the interest of education in the state and the students who are learning under unconducive environment.

But the highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards of Excellence to deserving old boys of the school including the executive governor of Edo State Mr. Godwin Obaseki and the Secretary to the Government, Barrister Osarodion Ogie. Also, other deserving old boys association members were honoured at the event.

The event also witnessed the election of new executive members into various positions to steer the ship of the association for the next two years. The elected members were Col. Paul Osa Ihianle (Lagos Chapter) as the Global President, Lucky Ikponmwosa (UK Chapter) - Vice President, Eboigbe Victor Idahosa - Secretary General(Benin City Chapter), George Obaroghedo (Chicago Chapter) - Asst Secretary General, MR. Vincent Nehikhare (Port Harcourt)- Treasurer, Pastor, Ken Okungbowa - Welfare Officer (Benin City Chapter), others are Henry Omoregie Esq. - Legal Officer (Benin City Chapter), Christian Omatsone - Asst. Legal Officer (Benin City Chapter), Harry Omatsone - Director Of Social and Publicity (Benin City Chapter), Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen - Assistant Director of Social and Publicity as well as Capt. Amadasu Esosa who is the Electoral Officer.