Author: Ovation Magazine

What began as a chance meeting of two persons with similar interests in Bristol, England has ended in a wonderful celebration of love between Dr. Aisha Egala and Mr. Morgan Davies in Accra, Ghana.

The lovebirds got married following three days of cultural, colourful and religious ceremonies that were witnessed by family and friends who came from all corners of the globe.
This spectacular celebration kicked off with the very cultural “Lalle” Ceremony. This is an occasion where the bride is beautified with henna ink-and the females in the family come round to sing, cheer and generally rejoice with her.

Aisha, a practising Medical Doctor was full of smiles, as she sat through the whole ceremony with a joy on her face-she obviously was looking forward to this day-and from all indications it turned out exactly as she had imagined: Special.
Later that day, Aisha changed to lovely traditional attires, and the venue, her family home in Accra, Ghana, erupted with jollity as traditional and contemporary music wafted from the PA System.

It was at the prestigious Labadi Beach Hotel that the most elaborate reception was held the next day. For those who don’t know, Labadi is Ghana’s most iconic hotels. It was the hotel preferred by Buckingham Palace when Her Majesty The Queen visited Ghana-little wonder that royal treatment was also laid out during the wedding reception for Aisha and Morgan, a well-travelled Executive Chef.

Guests who arrived early were treated to cocktails and canapés before they were eventually allowed into the heavenly decorated hall. The Event Planner and decorator went the extra-mile to ensure that the venue was welcoming, warm and splendidly arranged. The floral and lighting arrangement were simply spectacular.

This lovely setting formed a perfect backdrop when the couple were ushered into the venue by the Master of Ceremonies. The whole event was seamless: From the couple and friends dancing excitedly into the arena, the cutting of the cake to them feeding and serving each with drinks, there was no dull moment.
However, what could be considered as the highest point of the ceremony was the emotional speech by the bride’s grandmother.

She recalled the days of Aisha as a baby, and go-getting, serious-minded teenager, she thanked Almighty Allah for keeping her alive to witness the day. She wished the couple a blissful marriage life.
Thereafter, the couple hit the dance floor, and were joined by guests-the dancing went on till the wee hours of the following day.
The Islamic Marital rites better known as the Wedding Fatiha was held the following afternoon. This was what could be described as the official joining of the Egala and Davies families.

The Master of Ceremonies was none other than Popular TV Personality, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu. he, it was, who introduced both families and also the Imams that were present. Mr. Osman Egala, father of the bride and Mr. Robert Davies, groom’s father were both present as the rites which included prayers and payment of the bride price took place.
When the couple were formally joined according to Islamic injunction there was a loud Allahu Akbar from all guests, and everyone was joyous.
Later, the venue was re-arranged for another session of eating, drinking and merry-making. It was a fitting finale to a colourful celebration which saw two hearts and two families become one!

In an interview with Ovation, the bride told us that his beau has always been full of lovely surprises and that has kept the flame of the relationship burning.
According to her, his proposal was so romantic “He booked a table at a lovely restaurant overlooking the bay of Naples, Italy, and the scenery was so wonderful. I had no idea he was going to propose and so when he popped the question, I said an instant Yes!”

Aisha told us that she loves his kindness and honesty and that throughout their five years of courtship, she never pressurized him over marriage because they were happy and comfortable in each other’s company.
About her experience with the henna ink, Aisha said she loved every second of it, though it took all of four hours, she noted that “The experience made the whole wedding extra cool.”

For Morgan, he really loves Aisha’s personality, her intelligence and her beauty. Reliving how he proposed, he told us that he wanted to make it as dramatic as possible and that was why he chose the restaurant with a spectacular view. According to him  “I went down on my knees and proposed and was overjoyed when she said yes”
Morgan told us that he had been to Ghana three times so far and loves the culture, weather and the hospitable nature of the people. He also loves the food. His favourite being Banku& Tilapia with some Shitto.

He revealed that he had no qualms marrying an African, for him “The questions I asked myself were: do I love this woman? Is this the lady I want to spend the rest of my life with? And when all the boxes were ticked? “And she felt the same way about me, this was a no brainer for both of us. I am happy it has happened at last”
The bride’s mother, the gorgeous Hajia Nahid Egala says the wedding of her daughter was the best day in her life yet. “As a mother, I am very proud of Aisha. She has always been an intelligent and obedient daughter and I am happy that this day has come and I can see joy written all over her face”

“This is the first of my children who will be getting married so you can imagine the excitement and preparation. But we thank God it all went well, and we are grateful to friends and family who came from far and near to share this joyous occasion with us”

Mrs. Egala told us that Aisha is a Princess and she really needed a Prince to complement her and in Morgan, she has seen a Prince Charming.
Having been married for 33 years herself, she wishes her daughter the very best and revealed that despite living in the United Kingdom, Aisha from childhood had always wanted to be married like an African “And I thank God that her father and I as well as all the family members have made her dream come through”. She also eagerly awaits taking up her new role as grandmother.
Robert Davies, the father of the groom said from his observation, the couple are genuinely in love with each other and so he had not hesitation when it was time to give his blessing.

Asked what is reaction was when Morgan brought Aisha home, Mr. Davies stated “As an Executive Chef, I know my son mixes well with all kinds of people, so when we met her for the first time, we were happy for him. We were just glad that he had found love and was now ready to settle down to start his own family.
Soft-Spoken Mr. Osman Egala, father of the bride said the family is happy to receive Morgan into their home as their son.

He told us that Aisha will make a good wife because her mother has been a wonderful partner and good role model for her to emulate. “If she follows our teachings, she will do very well as a married woman. I am very happy for her”

Mrs Jayne Davies, the groom’s mother stated that she was very pleased for Morgan and Aisha. Like other members of the family, this was her first time in Ghana and she has been enjoying every moment of it.
While advising the couple to be true to each other, she reveals that she will definitely be back on  vacation. According to her “The Egala family are very warm and beautiful people, and I sincerely thank them for allowing our son marry Aisha”. She wished them the very best.

History is full of individuals whose presence changed the course of human events and altered the fate of nations. One man whose actions will never be forgotten in the political history of Nigeria is Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu
The former Governor of Lagos and All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader it was who used his sagacity and wit to ensure the occurrence of one of the greatest upsets in Nigerian politics where an incumbent President was upstaged by the opposition candidate, Muhammadu Buhari.

It was for this rare feat and more that the Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos was filled with A-List guests including Vice President, Prof.YemiOsinbajo  and Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote when he celebrated his 65th birthday.

Not one to opt for the ordinary, the main event of his birthday was marked in extraordinary fashion with the 9th Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Colloquium with the theme, “Make it in Nigeria: Use what we make, make what we use”.

Indeed no politician has faced greater existential challenges or perfected the technique of quiet adjustment to shifting realities with greater skill like AsiwajuTinubu, little wonder that everyone including Dangote now fondly refer to him as Jagaban of the World.

The Colloquium recognising the need to engage the youths and prepare for generation next, began with a Youth Segment-and the speakers and panelist gave very good accounts of themselves.
In his address, AsiwajuTinubu said it was time that Nigeria changed its economic model as it was obvious that the old model, where the country relied solely on revenue from crude oil export, had crashed.
He said it was good that the President Muhammadu Buhari’s government had realised this and had begun the painful process of salvaging the nation’s economy by embarking on diversification. He, however, advised the Federal Government to team up with Private Sector Players in its quest to diversify the economy.

He added that the country must borrow a leaf from the experiences of countries such as England, America and China, which had today become self-reliant by taking tough decisions.

“We must learn from England, which barred the migration of its master craftsmen and the export of textile looms at the dawn of the Industrial Revolution; to America and high tariffs it imposed on foreign manufactured goods for over 150 years from its independence until after the second World War; to China which implemented a most radical and comprehensive protectionist regime to become the world’s most prolific manufacturing nation”, Tinubu said.

He said, like England, America and China, Nigeria too must decide what its economic strength should be and focus on same.
“Whether we decide to focus our attention on steel, textiles, cars, machinery components, or other items, the truth is that we must focus on manufacturing important, useful things”, Tinubu said.

Tinubu also used the occasion to appreciate the Vice-President, Prof.YemiOsinbajo, for his exemplary values.
Tinubu stated, “For a moment, may I dispense with the formality of titles and protocol. Osinbajo is many good things. Today, may I simply call him my friend and brother.  I must applaud President Muhammadu Buhari. He meticulously followed our constitution by temporarily transferring the helm to the VP. As such, the two excellent men exemplified teamwork and true meaning of unity of purpose.

“These two men, although from different backgrounds, faith and professional experiences, have forged themselves into a team that manages complex matters of state and governance in a seamless and smooth manner. Try as critics might, they could not create any space between the President and his deputy.”

In his goodwill message, President Muhammadu Buhari, who was represented by Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retd.), said the theme of the colloquium was relevant to the country’s current realities.
Buhari noted that the country ran into trouble due to over-reliance on imported products, which he alleged the past government did nothing to address.

He said his administration was serious about facilitating local industries to make what the country needed, adding that only products that were strategic to the country’s development plan would be imported.
Also speaking, Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, admitted that the economic model that the Federal Government adopted was borrowed from the templatecreated by Tinubu in Lagos State which was being built upon by his successors.

Billionaire businessman, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, revealed that his cement factory had attained the capacity to export seven million tonnes of cement, adding that US was one of his company’s export targets.
He thanked Tinubu for facilitating his company’s acquisition of 208 hectares of land in Lekki, for the Dangote Refinery which, he noted, was six times the size of the entire Victoria Island, adding that his refinery would turn out 650 barrels of refined oil per day, which would be consumed by both Nigeria and 15 states of the Economic Community of West African States.

Dangote said the nation’s population, projected to hit 210 million in 2020, must be seen by all as a blessing.
In his speech, Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode described the celebrant as a great Nigerian political product and a successful leader who not only mentored many leaders in the country but laid the solid foundation for the sustained progress of the State.

Ambode likened Tinubu to a coconut blessed with divine task to be fruitful and useful to humanity, versatile, courageous, which could bear fruit for a long time. “Like the coconut, some by-products/fruits will get bad along the way or after being sold in the market; in actual fact, the political product may not be the favourite of some other people. “The bottom line, however, is simple. If Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, were a coconut; I dare say, with all simplicity, I would be among the forefront liners that will eat, drink and sleep B.A.T. 24/7,” Ambode said. While alluding to Tinubu’s contribution to the growth of the State, Governor Ambode said: “There is no doubt the Asiwaju political dynasty is a made in Nigeria product. The foundation laid and blueprints developed during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State which cuts across all sections of the State’s economy have actually simplified the process of governance till date.

It was an intellectually stimulating session that was enjoyed by all.
As expected for a man of his stature, there were many other birthday events, but one that was exceptional was the super exclusive Birthday Dinner hosted by Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi at the Lagos House, Alausa.
It was an evening to relax and enjoy good quality food, drinks and music-everyone, including the birthday boy had a great time.

There were a couple of speeches as expected by his admirers but the quality of guests especially top politicians from the North and the East was a testament to the clout of AsiwajuTinubu.
A very emotional AsiwajuTinubu told OVATION that he was thankful to God for keeping him alive and healthy. He also had wonderful words for all those who contributed to the success of his birthday.

 

How does one measure a life well spent? It might seem a simple  question but still puzzling when closely examined. Is life measured by the actions taken over a lifetime? Or is it measured by the number of challenges one overcomes in life?

Nonetheless, religion and history agree on the same thing, a life well spent is that which leaves a positive mark on the sands of time. This is the major reason Kumasi, Ghana’s second largest city literarily stood still when the world gathered to mourn the passing of Asantehemaa Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, Queen Mother of Asanteman and mother of The Nana Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, The Ashantehene.

A true offspring of the Royal Lineage of the Oyoko Clan of Kumasi,  late Nana Afia Kobi who was enstooled in 1977 as the 13th queen mother of the Asante Kingdom died in November 2016 at the age of 111.

On November 24, 2016 a one week of mourning was declared in accordance with tradition at Manhyia Palace-and many turned out to commiserate with the royal household.

However, it was many weeks later in January 2017that her final burial was fixed and activities spanning four days were put in place to celebrate this great amazon of the Asante Kingdom. The Asantehene as tradition demands was present at all ceremonies and served as Chief Mourner.

Activities began on Monday, January 16, 2017 where her remains laid in-state after some rituals had been performed at dawn. This ceremony was strictly for the members of the Asanteman Council, elders and royals. They all filed past the body and waited for the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to also do same. As it is norm, the colour throughout the mourning and burial rites was black-and everyone was appropriately dressed.

Later, the Otumfuo was heralded to the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace where he sat and received visitors who came to commiserate with him.Members of the public were given free access to pay their last respects to the revered Queen Mother.

On Tuesday, January 17, 2017, it was the turn of chiefs from other parts of the country including members of the National House of chiefs, various regional houses of chiefs and heads of corporate institutions  to file past the Asantehemaa’s body and express their condolences.

Wednesday could be described as the highest point of the funeral ceremony as an elaborate funeral ceremony was put in place.

Her remains were majestically brought to the forecourt of the Palace by well-clad Military Personnel who gingerly walked through a sea of heads and a guard of honor mounted by another set of officers before her remains were laid at a special well-decorated area.

There was a prayer session before wreaths were laid by prominent Ghanaians including President Nana Akufo-Addo, Former Presidents John Dramani Mahama, John Kufuor and Jerry John Rawling also came to commiserate with the Asantehene.

That was not all, there were representatives from the diplomatic corps, former UN Secretary-General, Kofi Anan and  Nigerian billionaire businessman, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, a close friend of the Asante King, were also there.

This ceremony brought to fore the culture, customs and colour of the Kingdom as mourners were mesmerized by local traditionalists who performed  assorted rites amid singing, dancing and firing of guns.

The whole of Kumasi literarily stood still, shops, schools and many commercial activities were suspended throughout the period and residents were even warned not to leave home at some times in the night too.

For many residents, it was a small price to pay in their quest to celebrate the life of the Queen Mother, whom they confessed was a mother in a million that they loved so much.

In a special tribute to his late beloved mother, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II exclaimed:  “Woahene, Asanteman joins me in mourning the passing away of our Asantehemaa. You will in time be succeeded by a successor to be chosen by me, but in the meantime, I have lost that which cannot be replaced. I have lost the mother who gave me life, my fountain of advice and counsel and the anchor of my very existence.

“You were the centre of my life. I owe everything I have achieved in life to you, to the unbounded love that you always showed to me and to the gentle tutoring that I received from you. You have been the example that has guided me and the beacon by which I have steered through life. You were not just my mother; you were also a mother to many others.

“With your passing away, many have lost a mother and a worthy example. To me you are irreplaceable. You have been my rudder and my guide; the mother of mothers. Without you, life will never be the same again for me. ‘Old Lady’ will forever remain unique to me. You made me proud by the example you set, and you gave me confidence by your very presence.

“It gave me immense pleasure to observe the very easy relationship that you struck with all people, including the famous and well-known and the insignificant and obscure. You instilled in me true pride in my ancestry and joy in my pedigree; but you also taught me to show respect to everyone, regardless of their status in life. I shall miss you every day of my life.”

Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II was born into a family where Christianity as practised in the Anglican tradition was established.

Considering she was baptised and confirmed into the Anglican Church in her infancy, it was therefore not a surprise that her final journey would be tofficiated by Ministers of the Cathedral Church of St. Cyprian the Martyr in Kumasi.

The church service was overseen by a host of clergymen including the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kumasi, Reverend Gabriel Anokye, Bishop of Asante Mampong, Rev. Dr. Cyrul Kobina Ben-Smith and Reverend Peter Akwasi Sarpong, the Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kumasi.

In his sermon, Rt. Rev Prof. Osei Safo-Kantanka hailed the deceased, praising her efforts in uniting the Asante people. He implored the congregation to learn from the lifetime of the great woman who was an epitome of selflessness, hardwork and dedication to service.

The late AfiaKobi Serwaa Ampem II’s remains were buried at the Bantama Masoleum.

Nana Afia was born in a small room on a bright morning without traditional birth attendant. Her birth was heralded by an unusual incident of cocks jumping up and down with outstretched wings and continuous crowing. A traditional priest blessed her and foretold that she would attain an unusual longevity.

Her birth took place nine years after the exile of Otumfuo Agyeman Prempeh I, (Nana Kwaku Duah III) by the British, first to Elmina, then to Freetown, and eventually in 1900 to the Seychelles Islands.

The exiling of the King and other Royals resulted in the Oyoko Royals being scattered all over the Kingdom. This eventually affected Nana Afia, her mother, and her siblings. They stayed at Mmada in a shrine-house until King Prempeh I returned to Kumasi in 1924.

They then went first to stay at the Akwamuhene’s Palace at Asafo and then later to the Manhyia Palace, till Nana Afia moved to live with a stool wife of the Asantehene called Oheneyere Nana AfiaFookuo.

With a smooth dark complexion, Nana Afia grew beautifully and physically strong. She manifested virtues of humility, submission and hard work. In line with the prevailing climate that Royals should not go to school, she did not have the privilege of a classroom education, but was fully educated in matters of behavior, culture, hygiene, self-help, and so on. Her specialty was cooking various Asante dishes, such as adibia-nkyene-wom, apapransa, mfeho, and besoa. These were mouth-watering starters that she served her guests before they were invited to the main meal.

She was ushered into womanhood through the performance of the bragoro ceremony when she reached the age of puberty.

Even at that time, Nana believed in cleanliness of the body and clothing and surroundings as a veritable mark of a true cultured person. These traits singled her out as an Asante woman throughout her 111 years on earth.

Through her first marriage to Opanin Kofi Fofie of Besease, near Atimatim in the Kwabre District of Ashanti, she was blessed with three children – Nana Ama Konadu (popularly called Nana Panin, still alive, late Barima Kwabena Poku, and late Nana Ama Serwaa (alias Nana Ketewa or EnoAma).

Her second marriage was with Ohenenana Kwame Boakye Dankwa who hailed from Kentinkyiren in the Atwima Kwanwoma District of Asante.

Ohenenana Boakye Dankwa succeeded his father, Nana Kwaku Duah (Agari) as Brahyiahene, in charge of Otumfuo’s gun carriers and was also the grandson of Nana Kwaku Duah I, Asantehene from 1834-1867.

The marriage which produced two sons, Barima Akwasi Prempeh of blessed memory and Barima Kwaku Duah (the present Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II), had the full support of Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II, her brother.

It is said that after the birth of Barima Akwasi Prempeh, Nana Afia was contemplating seeking divorce but Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II advised against it. Nana Afia listened to her brother and conceived Barima Kwaku Duah.

The day Nana Afia called on her brother to present Barima Kwaku Duah, the child wet Otumfuo’s cloth, whereupon Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II tapped the child’s head three times whilst saying ‘Kratumi, Kratumi, Kratumi, wo aba a tenaase’, literally meaning ‘Powerful soul, powerful soul, powerful soul, I wish you long life’ and prophesying that this young boy would be great one day, specifically that one day he would sit on ‘Banwoma so’. And truly, he became The Asantehene.

Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II exhibited rare qualities of humanity, friendship, love, and justice as a human being. She was a woman who loved her children exceedingly well but never excluded others within and outside the royal family from her kindness as the Mother of the Asantes.

Adedayo David Eweje popularly known as David Wej is living his dream. He has a wonderful family an unshakeable faith in God and has begun to make money from fashion which is his passion.

This humble and media-shy gentleman who just turned 40 is gradually building a fashion empire right in Lagos, Nigeria. With six outlets in Lagos (Victoria Island, Ikeja, Lekki, Sururele 1 and Surulere 2) and strong presence in all top online shopping platforms, David Wej is certainly on the rise. Here is one young man who is silently making a giant stride in the Nigerian fashion industry.

If you have not encountered his brand, just think about Saville Row suits, cuts, stitches and quality but with a friendly price, little wonder that some top celebrities now adorn the end product of his creative ingenuity.

On his 40th birthday, he hosted a lively thanksgiving service and party at the highbrow Eko Hotel & Suites-and it was attended by friends from way back, clients, church members and Pastors of the Daystar Christian Centre, (the church where he is an active member).

Days after, he had an engaging interview with Ovation, where he outlined his journey to the top.

At what time did you realize that you had a passion for fashion

I believe it is an inborn thing because I discovered my passion for fashion at the age of 5.That was when I learnt how to tuck-in and from there, getting into secondary school, I was like a neat freak, my school uniform was properly ironed, sparkling white socks and well-polished shoes. I have always had neatness in my blood. So when I got to the University when one had the opportunity to pick and wear what he or she liked, I was on top of the world. I explored a lot and I won many awards, including the well-dressed student in my department.

Fashion was one thing people noticed about me. It was the one constant thing, and it was no longer a big deal when people compliment me that I always look so good. When I got to Globacom, it got to a stage where people started persuading me to help them buy clothes for their husbands and wives, I didn’t think too much about this until when I began to ask myself what I could do on my own and I found out that the easiest thing I could do was following my passion which is fashion.

OK, lets take it from the very beginning, tell us about yourself

My name is Adedayo David Eweje. I was born on 29th January, 1977; I attended Command Children School, Ikeja and Command Secondary School, Ipaja, before I proceeded to Lagos State University. I started my career in the telecommunication Industry with Inter cellular Nigeria Limited, moved to Econet Wireless and later, Globacom before I started my own fashion brand.

Any reason why you went to Command for both your primary and secondary education

My father was an ex-military man and command is a military school.

Did you grow up with a silver spoon

Hmmm my spoon was far from being silver (laughs heartily, growing up for me was fun, I was raised all alone by my mum because my dad had many wives, he is late now and he died when I was 12 years old.

Even before then, we were not living together, so his impact on my life wasn’t really that great, it wasn’t felt.

My mum was an entrepreneur so I learnt a lot from her, she was taking care of five children at the same time but thank God that she was able to do her best, she sent us to school and I would say that I am really grateful to her.

She was a disciplinarian and a business tycoon, so I saw and learnt more from her business acumen. It gave me a clearer understanding of how I can start my business, how to make it grow and become a source of livelihood.

It was indeed rough, she had to struggle so much, it became rougher when she fell seriously ill at one point. I really felt this in my University days and that was what made me understand that I had to grow into a man fast. I told myself that, I should be able to start fending for myself, that was why I started work at an early age of 23, I had to sought things myself and God has been good.

Back to the fashion story, how did you nurture that love that began at age 5

From age 5, it was gradual development. I read a lot and also did a lot of research along the way.

Where are you from

I hail from Ogun State, Abeokuta to be precise but I have never been to my village (Smiles).

How did you decide on theb name for your brand

David Wej, David is my middle name and I got the Wej from my surname.

What is the connection between telecom and  fashion industries

If you look at it, Telecom business is for people with experience and also an acquired skill, while Fashion is passion. My idea was either to become an Executive Director of a telecom firm or probably set up my own firm. But as we all know, telecom is a highly capital intensive business, it is not what someone can set up in a day, so I looked at it that since fashion has been my passion, it was the next best thing for me.

Where there other considerations apart from fashion that made you leave Telecoms

One thing I looked at was the growth, You know telecom was one of the fastest growing industries as at that time but I just got tired and got bored doing the same thing every day, I was part of the resolution team, resolving customers’ complaints. I realized that I was doing the same thing every day, nothing interesting. I needed some zest and fashion was it. In fashion business, you are confronted with different challenges every day.

How did it begin and how did you get to where you are

Firstly, I started from the scratch, from the boot of my car. So there should not be any excuse for not starting that dream. I could not afford a store at that time. I used to take products to the clients and deliver to them, then I started using my house because it was a four bedroom flat, I converted some part into the storage and changing room. It grew from there till when I got my own store, so now I have 6 stores and we sell a lot online too.

What was the beginning like, being a telecoms executive to starting from the scratch as a fashion designer

Anything you aspire to do in life, you need motivation because I was one of the management staff of the customer care Department. I knew that starting from the scratch was the best thing; it would give you clear understanding of what the business is all about; you need to do research in order to sample people’s opinion on what product you are bringing into the market. It is a means of exchange, the shame wasn’t there because I was getting my reward, it was just a phase of time, things will change, I didn’t feel bad at all.

How many branches do you have

We have only 6 branches, all in Lagos and we decided not to go outside Lagos because our online platform can take good care of those outside Lagos. We just felt, since people are ordering our products all over the state, let’s just have branches in Lagos. We have two at surulere, two at Ikeja and two in Victoria Island. We have a tight operation of 32 staff.

So will you call yourself a fashion designer

Yes, I am not only a fashion designer, I also can sketch and design other things. I will say I am designer in Fashion (laughs heartily)

What is the difference between a fashion designer and a tailor then

There is a huge difference but people just believe that a tailor is someone who you give clothes to, describe the style that you want and he/she does it to your taste, while a designer is someone who handles it from start to the finish.

The designer sketches first and comes up with a design, he later actualizes the sketch into an outfit. The fashion designer comes up with a concept and actualizes the concept into reality. Most tailors are designers themselves but they don’t see it, there is no how you would sew for a long time and still not have the creativity to develop your own ideas. It is inter-woven, just like saying, what is the difference between an on-air-personality and a broadcaster. An On-Air-Personality will tell you that he is an OAP to brand himself well while a broadcaster will tell you that he is simply a broadcaster, it is all about branding and packaging.

So you are saying that technically, there is no difference

Oh yes, there is a lot of difference, you look forward to different styles and designs in the industry, Fashion trends, it changes, once the change comes up, you are seeing something new and everybody is excited. A designer is much more than a tailor.

Once it is 3 to 4 months, whatever is trending becomes absolutely something new. Because you are coming from the creative arm, you can create something on your own and people would accept it. So anybody that says Fashion is boring, the person is not a fashion connoisseur because there is always something new in this industry. In fashion, whatever happened yesterday is gone, and today is new. I am always excited, the adrenaline ignites the creative juice in me. There is always new ideas, new innovation coming up. Or even jazzing up something old to make it fresh. This keeps you going, I don’t think I am ready to do any monotous job, I can wake up today and say, all I want to do is styling, or product shoot, It is an interesting profession.

What has the experience been like

It has been so interesting, but the fashion industry is just growing, we are booming socially and economically but the infrastructures are not yet there. In your own little way, the economy is booming in terms of Fashion, a lot of people are coming out with a lot of creativity, people have offered me other things but this is where I choose to stay. This where my heart is. We will do far better with the right working conditions, the infrastructure.

Who are your clients

Politicians, bankers, those in the entertainment industry, we have the working class, just a lot. Initially, our main target was the working class but along the line, other clients came on board because of our styles and designs.

Are there some known names that have enjoyed your brands

Don’t know if they will like their names to be mentioned in print but I can say we have clothed Don Jazzy, Ebuka and many known pastors.

Now that we are fully retail, we have a lot of them, fashion has gotten to a big stage that you can’t say you can deliver the permanent wardrobe to someone.

Apart from the awards in School, any for David Wej as a brand

We have won a lot of awards from magazines like Fashion Brand of the Year, Best Fashion Retailer of the Year but I am not just into awards because the business is huge and we have built a customer base that is rising per second. We try to treat all customers equal which is our target.

Are you married

Yes, I am married to my beautiful wife, Oluwakemi. She is a Lawyer and we have two kids and we have said that is enough (laughs heartily)

Can you say that this job has made you successful

Yes, Fashion Industry has really made me a successful person at my age.

How was it like when you made your first million

First, your passion that becomes a source of livelihood is great, Fashion has really paved way for me in the financial aspect but that wasn’t my main intention from the scratch. Making my first million wasn’t a time for me to celebrate, it was a time to understand that this business is real and the struggle continues. I have to take it very seriously and make sure that we expand. Expansion in terms of selling online to Ghanaians at the moment, although we are still working on our online platform, trying to expand it. There is a lot as long as Fashion is accepted worldwide. It is like food and I am trying to build a generational brand so that new people can take over from where I stopped.

How do you feel at 40

I thank God for making it an easy journey from the beginning because I was raised by my mother all alone. I will always be forever grateful to my wife, kids and my entire family. I also thank God for the great men I met on this journey: Bishop David Oyedepo, Pastor Sam Adeyemi and Dr Mike Adenuga.

I am thankful to the Almighty Lord for being my pillar, shield and buckler.

It was indeed another glorious day for the Olatunde and Awogboro families when they hosted the traditional wedding/engagement ceremony of their children: Temilade and Tayo.

The ceremony held at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos was filled with glamour, colour and culture. There was no dull moment as the Yoruba wedding traditional rites was in full swing throughout.

The bride, who looked radiant in her sparkling attire with enough smiles to match, complimented her heartthrob, who was very dashing and exuded so much joy like true Prince Charming. From the body language shown by this pair, it was obvious that they were truly in love.

As it is the norm, the groom’s family began proceedings when they came to pay homage and exchange pleasantries with the family of the bride.

It was after they had been comfortably seated that the groom and his friends were invited.He too arrived in style with a large entourage. As soon as he got to his in-laws, he like a well-groomed Yoruba man, prostrated as a sign of respect. He was not alone. His friends too joined the great expression of respect which is held very sacred in Yoruba culture.

He was then showered with prayers, first by the Olatunde family and later by his parents and elders of his family. With the wide smile on his face, no doubt, Tayo was enjoying every moment of the ceremony.

Accompanied by drummers, dancers, friends and family members, the resplendent bride breezed into the venue. Taking one step at a time gingerly, like a Princess, she danced majestically to the centre of the arena. Each step o the way, she was showered with prayers and applause.

Prayer is key at occasions like this, and the bride also got this spiritual fortification aplenty from her parents and members of the Awogboro family. It was only after this session of prayers that she was allowed to identify and join her husband!

This was a union of two top families and the evidence was in the number of VIPs at the ceremony. However, it must be said that the groom’s mother, Mrs. Adetokunbo Awogboro, Founder of the famous, Nail Studio, who has been in the grooming business for almost two decades, took this ceremony more seriously that others. Deep into the ceremony, she was still seen giving instructions to ensure that guests were adequately pampered.

It must be said that in terms of planning and execution, this was one classy occasion that will linger in the hearts of many for years.

From Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote to wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Toyin Saraki to leading politicians and technocrats, Nigerian’s high society in their numbers stormed the 60th birthday ceremony of Hon. Olajumoke Abidemi Okoya, the three-time former Member, Federal House of Representatives.

The celebrant who is one of the daughters of late Corporate Titan and Asoju Oba of Lagos, Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas pulled all the stops to ensure that the event held at the highbrow Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos was classy, colourful and filled with fun.

The member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) began the day in the vineyard of the Lord with a power-packed session of worship, praise and prayers.

The Thanksgiving session was coordinated by two renowned men of God: Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of Trinity House and Pastor J. T. Kalejaiye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Little wonder that the celebrant and her guests described the experience as spiritually-stimulating.

After the service, guests were ushered into another part of the venue where a first-class party complete with gourmet dishes, fine wine and good quality music had been prepared for guests.

Now changed into a silver Iro and buba, the celebrant sparkled as she made her entry into the venue exchanging pleasantries with everyone as she made her way to the top table.

The evening’s comperes were Comedians, Tunde Adewale (Tee A) and MC Abbey-and they were at their humorous best throughout.

It was indeed a wonderful Diamond celebration for the former lawmaker who was described as a gem by some family and friends.

During her 3-term stint in the House of Representatives, the celebrant who is interested in social development of women and children served as Chairman, Committee on Public Procurements as well as Prisons. She also served at various times as Member of Banking & Currency, Diaspora, Niger Delta and Women Committees.

Oluwani shola  (God creates wealth) Estate located on the Lekki/Ajah Expressway  the home of billionaire businessman, industrialist and Chairman of Eleganza Group, Chief Rasak Akanni Okoya is famed for its elegant architecture, stylish lawns and classy fittings.

It was within this heavenly and classy ambience that friends and family gathered to celebrate the 77th birthday of this remarkable man who holds the Chieftaincy title of Aare of Lagos.

Though many were involved in the preparations, there was no doubt that at the thick of things was his younger wife, Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Okoya who was working the phones even till the very last minute to ensure that the day was a huge success.

Indeed, the day turned out very grand and colourful with an assortment of celebrated Nigerians turning out to honour the Chairman of Eleganza Group of Companies.

From the décor, which was stately, to the full course meal, the exotic drinks to the refreshing music provided by Demola Olota and his band, guests were certainly in the mythic seventh heaven!

It must be said though that as a faithful Muslim, the ceremony began with a session of prayers by some Islamic clerics who also spiced the session with Quranic recitation. Family and friends, including his first wife, Alhaja Kuburat Okoya took turns to donate a few naira notes to the cleric for special birthday prayers for the celebrant.

According to Chief Okoya, there was no way he was going to host a birthday party without prayers because, he was fully aware that it is Almighty Allah that has brought him this far and showered him with blessings and excellent health.

With the prayers over, the session dovetailed into a full-fledged party complete with five-star pampering from the Okoya family.

In an interview with Ovation, the celebrant’s wife, Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Okoya stated that the party “was intended as a jolly  evening, simply to have  fun where everyone present enjoys and remembers”

Born on 12 January 1940, Chief Razak Okoya is a real Lagos boy. He was bread and buttered in the heart of Lagos popularly called Isale Eko.

As a young boy, he worked in his father’s tailoring business which also included the sale of tailoring accessories. The experience he got gave him the confidence to start mini tailoring activities on his own. He saved every penny he made until he had 20 pounds. His mother gave him an extra 50 pounds, with the blessings of his father. That was when he went solo! With with then Seed Capital of 70 pounds what has become the behemoth Eleganza group was born, His first business was importing and trading in goods from Japan.

Chief Razak Okoya’s business expanded swiftly, he travelled far and wide and learnt how things were manufactured having the strong feeling that Nigerians could match that quality if not better.

His first wife, Alhaja Kuburat Okoya, was obsessed with costly jewellery and he was always baffled at how much she said they cost. He strongly felt the prices were outrageous since the metals which could be designed at a cheaper price were readily available in Nigeria.

The serial entrepreneur saw an opportunity in the making of costume jewellery. He soon went abroad, bought the machine and set up Eleganza Jewelry. The success was phenomenal. They could not keep up with demand because, the products were beautiful, durable and cheap.  He also started manufacturing buttons.

The story is told of how he began to manufacture shoes in Nigeria. He was a large importer of shoes and on one of these occasions, the shoes were not delivered despite payment.

He traveled to Italy to see the manufacturer only to discover that they had used his money to settle bills. He was so angry that he decided to buy all the machines he needed, brought in some experts to train some local staff and began making his own brand of shoes!

Today, he is the Chairman of Eleganza Industries and also owns the expansive Eleganza Industrial City. Eleganza produces a wide range of household goods and utensils including cutlery, collieries, food warmers, ice chest, electric fan, cosmetics and ballpoint pen. Eleganza products known for its time-tested quality are household names in Nigeria and neighbouring African countries.

His factory locations in Lagos include,Oregun-Ikeja, Isolo, Alaba and Iganmu. The Group now directly employs over five thousand Nigerians and non-Nigerians including those working in his RAO Property Investment Company.

Okoya’s Eleganza Group is certainly one of the biggest home-grown conglomerates in Nigeria today.

Quiet birthday celebrations are usually unheard of among the cream of Nigerian society. It comes as no surprise then that the  richest woman in Africa, Mrs. Folorunso Alakija pulled all the stops to ensure her birthday was celebrated with as much fanfare as possible.

Not only that, the indefatigable Society Lady, tripled the joy on this occasion with the celebration of her 40 years in marriage and the launch of her inspirational books on the same day.

The philanthropist and owner of Rose of Sharon foundation, appeared many years younger than her age, a glaring evidence that she is not only a successful woman in the world of business but also a successful home maker.

A devout Christian, she ensured that before anything else, God tooks centre stage as the celebration kicked off with a church service at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos where family and friends from different parts of the world gathered to thank God for her life.

The order of Holy Communion and thanksgiving were done with the usual doctrines of the Anglican Church while melodious hymn were rendered by the church choir.

Many people testified to her  wonderful attributes which were worthy of emulation and prayed for her continued success. The Alakijas spent  time dancing and praising God in the course of the event. Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International Choir provided extra-special songs that also gladdened the hearts.of the congregation.

After the church service, guests made their way to The Ballroom, Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island for a grand reception. From the entrance to the interior of the hall everything was magnificent. Life size portraits of the beautiful 65 year old celebrant were spotted at strategic corners of the venue. Everywhere was sparkling with a touch of crystal gold; the glass chandeliers, the accessories on the chairs and tables were all beautifully laid out by Victoria F events. It was a thorough display of finesse expected of a multi-billionaire of her class.

Guests in resplendent and exquisite outfits occupied almost all the seats, the venue was packed full, an evidence of the love and respect that the Alakija family commands.

The comperes, Koffi and Helen Paul really did a good job as guests were not bored for a second.  It was no doubt fun and laughter all through.

The birthday girl, being the cynosure of all eyes, beamed gorgeously with smiles in her amazing dress made by Lanre da Silva-Ajayi while a documentary on her success story was played on the giant screens.

The businesswoman, who had announced at several occasions that she is a lover of fashion, wore two stunning outfits in the course of the celebration. Guests were thoroughly entertained by Faith Band.  They trilled till very late into the night.

Mrs. Alakija started her career in 1974 as an Executive Secretary at Sijuade Enterprises, Lagos, Nigeria. She made her mark in the fashion industry as the President of Fashion and Designers Association of Nigeria, FADAN. Her label, Rose of Sharon metamorphosed into Rose of Sharon Prints and Promotions; then Digital Reality.

To show that the celebrant’s philanthropic exploit was no fluke. Some guests went home with lot of gifts after playing a creative game which was all her idea.

Guests were treated with sumptuous list of meals by Abilar Catering, all one needed to do was to place an order from the menu placed on every table, and bang, you had it.

As guests were having a good time in the venue, the celebrant launched her inspirational books, which was reviewed by Pastor Shola Adesoye.

She presented six wonderful and amazing books in wonderful colours. Some of the titles are; ‘Folorunso Alakija Speaks’, which contains her words; ‘His name is’ which reveals the different names of God in different languages, and then there were ‘Wish for it? ‘Pray for it’ and many others.

Her husband, children, grandchildren and special guests joined the unveiling as the books were presented to the world.

The event also saw many forms of entertainment. There were thrilling performances by the Soloist, Ms. Elsie Otto. The impressive performance of Oyinbo Jesu got everyone amazed based on the fact that she is a white woman who sings basically Yoruba gospel songs.

After the cutting of the cakes, members of Rose of Sharon Foundation which enjoy the full sponsorship of the Alakija family took centre stage to thrill guests.

The party was top-notch as Captains of Industry, big wigs, political elites, and more were spotted everywhere. They included Senate President’s wife, Mrs. Toyin Saraki, Sen. Florence Ita-Giwa, former Cross Rivers State governor, Donald Duke and wife, Onari, wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, wife of former Lagos State Governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola, Imo State Governor’s wife, Mrs. Nneoma Nkechi Rochas Okorocha and many others.