Events

EX BEAUTY QUEEN NIKE OSHINOWO SPEAKS EXCLUSIVELY TO OVATION ABOUT LIFE, LOVE AND TURNING 55

Posted on by Christopher Darteh

Whatever time of the day and whichever part of the world you meet Adenike Asabi Oshinowo popularly known as Nike Oshinowo, you cannot but be wowed. Her beauty is that real and timeless.

Raised in Ibadan and London, the lady once described by a celebrity journal as the sexiest woman alive has moved from being a beauty queen, restaurateur, fitness expert to pageant organizer, traditional title holder, wife and mother.

Ever since she entered our consciousness in the early 90s as the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 90/91, she has continued to be a newsmaker. Though she hardly speaks, any time she does, she never fails to impress with her intellectual depth and candor.

In this special interview to mark her 55th birthday, Nike Oshinowo opens up about life, love and future plans.

What has been happening to Nike Oshinowo, you just dropped off the radar

I don’t know about dropping off the radar (Laughs heartily)

I needed to figure out where my true priorities laid. I had these two precious gifts I had been given – My Twins ; and I very much wanted to be part of their lives: fully.

Being a ‘celebrity’ mum or a Society mum or even a ‘Yummy Mummy’ just didn’t have much appeal to me.

As in all other situations, something’s gotta give . In my case what went was the partying and the social butterfly aspect of my lifestyle!

Is it true you now live permanently in the UK. If so what happened

My twins now attend Prep School in the UK and I want to be with them.

So I commute.

I essentially live in both countries -Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

It made for a heck of a lot of flying Pre COVID-19.

Like everyone else, I’m having to reevaluate our Pre pandemic lifestyle and make the necessary adjustments.

It is what it is.

Many years after you were a beauty queen, you tried to revamp the Beauty Pageant business. Tell us about that experience

Yes I ran the Miss Nigeria Pageant for a period of three years when its parent company- The Daily Times of Nigeria was taken over by Folio Communications.

During my three year stint, we were able to successfully rebrand the pageant and also successfully organized two shows.

That period remains the most hectic period of my life. My team and I toured Nigeria in a bid to reintroduce the Miss Nigeria brand to the Nation.

We garnered a phenomenal amount of support from both the people and the Nigerian Press which eventually translated into sponsorship deals.

But seriously, I don’t think I slept a wink in those three years !

Who are your role models and why

Sadly, I no longer look for or look to or even believe in role models.

We’re all such imperfect and complex beings…

Growing up my role models varied from Diana Ross and Princess Diana to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis , Mother Theresa and my mother .Then you read thier Biographies and disappointment sets in.

Now I find inspiration in everyday people and everyday occurrences. In the simplicity of nature and creation. Even in my 7year olds. Their adaptability and can do spirit. I’ve learnt a lot from them. It’s rather humbling….

I am told you will be 55, wow. How does it feel to be just 5 years away from 60

I’m 55 in December. In fact , by the time this publication is out I’ll officially be 55years old !

I love being 55. I love that I’m being given  the opportunity to live a completely different life from what I had before . It is a huge privilege and I’m beyond grateful.

I look forward to what 60years of age brings. Hopefully it will include good health and an abundance of Grace.

What are the key things you have learnt from life at 50

Just one very big lesson: That it’s ok to do it My Way !I’ve torn up the rule books and I’m just living the way I choose.

This is no flattery, you look stunning for your age. Let us into your beauty secret.

The first thing I noticed when I saw the pictures from the photo shoot was how much ‘lockdown weight’ I was still carrying.

And I’m ok with it.

The secret is : There is no secret.

I often sleep in my makeup because I’m too tired to wash my face before I fall into bed at night!

I eat all the things I’m not supposed to albeit in moderation.

I live simply and enjoy my life. Fortunately that involves exercise-a fair amount of walking and jogging.

In Lagos I jog across the Lekki-Ikoyi bridge at 6 every morning. In the UK, I walk and run in Ashdown Forest .

How will you describe your personal style

Simple, comfortable but always elegant.

READ FULL INTERVIEW IN THE MAGAZINE

THE REGAL WEDDING OF ADESEKEMI ADEREMI AND ANTHONY ATUCHE IN LAGOS

Posted on by Christopher Darteh

It was regal, it was glitzy and glamorous. In deed, it was the numero uno ceremony of that period in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital when Adesekemi Aderemi and Anthony Atuche united in marriage.
Born to Prince Adedamola Aderemi and Princess Olukemi Aderemi, Adesekemi comes from a distinguished royal and noble lineage. She is a descendant of the late Ooni of Ife and first Black Governor, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, and Premier of Western Nigeria and Balogun of Owu, Alhaji Dauda Adegbenro, on the paternal side, and erudite and eminent school principal and one of Nigeria’s pioneer Ambassadors, A B O Oyediran and the Premier of Western Nigeria and Vice Chairman of the Federal Executive Council under General Yakubu Gowon, the Sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo on the maternal side.
Adesekemi Aderemi completed her secondary education at the world renowned ladies Public School, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, United Kingdom before going on to study Law at Oxford University. Blessed with beauty and brains, she was awarded a special commemorative gold minted coin as the best postgraduate student in the entire Buckingham University when she graduated with Distinction in her Masters of Law Degree and she was called to the Bar in 2012, receiving the top Inner Temple prize for outstanding achievement in her Bar exams.
Similarly well-educated and from a privileged background, Anthony Atuche schooled at the historic St Edmund’s College, England’s oldest Catholic school, before attending the prestigious Imperial College , London. Anthony also boasts an impressive and illustrious background; he is the first born of prominent businessman and erstwhile top banker, who is now a property magnate, Farncis Atuche and wife, Elizabeth Atuche. The Atuches are also nobility and hail from the princely merchant town of Ibusa, Delta State, which is famed for the numerous entrepreneurs and icons of the Nigerian business and corporate world that it has spawned.
It was without any shadow of doubt the coming together of two illustrious families when the duo began their love-filled journey to marital bliss as friends and family convened to celebrate their traditional marriage at the prestigious and discreet The Bell Event Centre on Campbell Street, Lagos Island. The ceremony was an exhibition of culture and class.
What made the occasion spectacular was that despite the fact that the couple are from different ethnic groups and cultures, the conviviality and air of friendship at the venue was really heart-warming.Little wonder that everyone confessed that they had loads of fun.
A few days later, the lovebirds affirmed their love with holy solemnisation at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Victoria Island.
The beautiful bride, was so elated & joyous as she exchanged “I do’s” with her dashing & soft-spoken husband.

For FULL details click on ISSUU on the site or contact your nearest VENDOR for a copy

 

THE LIVELY WEDDING OF ABIMBOLA AYININUOLA AND PAUL TAFOYA AT CONRAD HOTEL, NEW YORK

Posted on by Boma Al

It was a lively and lovely celebration when Abimbola, the adorable daughter of top banker, Mr. Sam Ayininuola and businesswoman, Mrs. Ikoliba Ayininuola wedded dashing Paul Tafoya in New York, United States of America.

The very intimate ceremony attended by close family and friends only was held at the prestigious Conrad Hotel in Downtown Manhattan, New York City.
With an excellent view of the Hudson River, Conrad New York Downtown is a luxurious facility, top-star facility that offers guests classy pampering and a wonderful dining experience-and theses were what guests savoured on this special occasion.


The wedding proper kicked off with the solemnization ceremony. It was short and sweet ceremony that was co-ordinated by Pastor Mike Carrugth. The highest point of the occasion was when the couple said “I do”, exchanged rings and shared a first kiss.

This elicited cheers and applause from all corners of the hall especially the elated parents of the bride. This signaled the end of the first part of the occasion.
Part two began when the guests were treated to a cocktail reception while the bride, groom, family and friends took glamorous pictures under the New York City skyline.


After about an hour and a half, guests were invited to take their seats in the main banquet hall for the reception. The groom’s band, where he’s an instrumentalist, thrilled guests with pulsating jams throughout. There were some speeches, which added spice to the event, dinner was served and finally the cutting of the cake by the lovely couple.
The formal ceremony over, guests partied till late into the night.

DEBBIE CAPTAN CELEBRATES 45TH BIRTHDAY IN STYLE

Posted on by Boma Al

Ghanaian business woman, gorgeous Debbie Captan has proved to the world that her nick name “glamour babe” is no fluke as she hosted a classy party to mark her 45th birthday.
The celebration began the day before with photo shoot. This set the stage for a one-of-its-kind party which unfolded at her home in the Spintex Area of Accra, Ghana.

As expected for one who takes the things of God seriously, the event began with  a praise worship and prayer session attended by family, friends and loved ones. Then, it was time for jollity as music took centre stage as guests savoured assorted meals.

The ever cheerful birthday lady, always a perfect hostess, had prepared to pamper guests to breakfast, lunch and dinner-and she did not disappoint. An array of african and continental dishes were served from morning till almost midnight when guests were still rollicking.

Debbie looked stunning and amazing as she took the center stage in the course of the celebration to displayed her wonderful dance moves.  That was not all, her children also presented a special, well-choreographed that was rehearsed for many weeks.


What could be described as the highest point of the occasion was when all those born in her month were invited to join the glamour babe, and the Happy Birthday song was sang delightfully.

The day ended with popping of champagnes and a toast for more life and prosperity. Indeed it was a day of love, joy and glamour for the beautiful ageless beauty.
In a chat with Ovation she stated ” Today, I just want to thank God for adding another year to my life. It was a beautiful birthday organised by my husband and children. It was one of the happiest moments of my life.

“I was really happy that friends that have known for many years came to surprise me.As the years go by, leaving their marks and memories, I begin to realize how beautiful and blissful a life it has been.I am grateful to God for His mercies on me and my family. I will continue to thank Him for all He has done in my life”

ADETUTU AYENI CLOCKS 50 IN GRANDSTYLE

Posted on by Boma Al

Adetutu Ayeni, the adorable wife of Chairman/CEO of Skymit Motors and unassuming businessman, Tayo Ayeni, hit the BIG 50! And the family rolled out the drums to mark it with pomp and pageantry.

As a God-fearing pair, the day naturally began in the presence of the Lord as the celebrant, her darling husband, family and friends gathered at the Church of Nativity, Parkview, Ikoyi. In fact, the celebrator told us exclusively that the thanksgiving service was the most important aspect of the celebration because she had every cause to thank God for her life.
The service was conducted byVenerable Tayo Aduloju, who, in his sermon, praised Mrs. Ayeni for her commitment to God’s work. With wondrous hymns and choruses the service was enlivened, while later, there was a session of prayers for the good health and well being of the golden lady.


Later, guests were hosted to a sumptuous reception at the Harbor Point, Victoria Island, where food and drinks were aplenty just as Shuga Band and King Sunny Ade were on hand to provide high quality entertainment.

Guests who shared the moment of joy with the Ayenis included: Ogun Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun & wife, Bamidele; Ekiti Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi,  Kwara Governor, Mr Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq; Speaker House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and wife, Olufunso; Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Hajia Bola Shagaya, Mrs. Nana Otedola, Senator Sanusi Daggash, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Mr Timi Alaibe, Olorogun Sonny Kuku, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Chief Mike Inegbese & wife, Mary; Mr. Ernest Ebi and wife, Ngozi; Aremo Olusegun Osoba, The Okoya-Thomas family, Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe, Prince Bolu Akin-Olugbade, Lady Maiden Ibru, Mr. Francis Ogboro, Mr. Yomi & Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya, Otunba Funso Lawal, Sir Olu Okeowo and wife, Joke; Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo & wife, Uche; Alara-elect Folarin Ogunsanwo and Mr. Bosun Oredola, Mr Tope Abere, Chike Ogeah & wife, Mrs. Nkiru Anumudu and Seyi and Bola Orolugbagbe.

REDTV SHAKES LAGOS WITH SHOWDOWN 2019

Posted on by Boma Al

The much-awaited RedTV Rave 4 finally berthed in Lagos, and it lived up to the hype of being a high octane evening of pulsating entertainment.


REDTV, a fast-paced lifestyle channel that puts Africa on the global stage which is powered by the United Bank for Africa, left no stone unturned as it gave everyone present an opportunity to relax, recharge and enjoy.

The entertainment platform ensured that that there was no dull moment at the Lekki Special Events Centre venue as top stars such as Burna Boy, Olamide, Jidenna and Africa’s Star Boy, Wizkid thrilled hundreds of guests.


That was not all, rising stars Fireboy, Tems, Ajebutter22, SDC, BOJ, DRB as well as DJ Concequence and DJ Sparrow all delivered big time.
A special feature that  made the event extra special was not only that admission was free, but guests got complimentary food and drinks!  It was without any shadow of doubt a night to remember.

SUJIMOTO CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS IN GRAND STYLE

Posted on by Boma Al

He is less than forty, but his achievements so far has placed him shoulder to shoulder with the nation’s best and brightest. This is the story of  Sijibomi Ogundele, a young man that is carving a niche for himself as a force in the luxury real estate sector.

Popularly known as Sujimoto, after his company, the young man through a dint of hard-work and dedication has built a huge business concern, Sujimoto Construction, which marked its fifth anniversary with a splendorous bang.


Held at the site where his ambitious and eye-popping project, LorenzobySujimoto, is situated, in Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos, and attended by the cream of Nigerian society; the ceremony was hosted by Bovi and Dayo Benjamin-Laniyi.

Hailed as a testament to the fact that prestige, creativity and grandeur that people now associate with the Sujimoto brand is no fluke, Ogundele went all out to give the best in gourmet dining, choice cognacs, upscale champagnes and exotic wines.


It was from a cocktail area that the event began, as guests alighted from their cars, they were welcome with canapes and cocktails by well clad ushers and usherettes, it was sign that the event’s promise of a superlative evening will be delivered big time.

PROPHETESS MARY OLUBORI OF HAVILAH MOUNTAIN OF FIRE CELEBRATES GOD AT SPECIAL CRUSADE

Posted on by Boma Al

Uk-based woman of God, Prophetess Mary Olubori was the cynosure of all eyes when she hosted a week long prayer and fasting session to celebrate the wonderful work of God at a programme called “All Mighty: 7 Days Celebration”.

The Prophetess, who is the Founder, Havilah Mountain of Fire and her husband, Prophet Israel Olubori, ministered to hundreds of faithfuls during the spiritually-stimulating event and many souls were saved for Christ.

The soulful event, which was rounded off with a power-packed praise and worship session was attended by such personalities as Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Timi of Ede, HRM Oba (Dr.) Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Representative of HRM Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, CSP Dolapo Badmus and Mr Seye Kehinde, Publisher of City people Magazine.

Guests were entertained by Ayefele, Kehinde & Taiwo Adegbodu, Boye Best while comedians Ashiri and Baba Alariya added a touch of spice with mature jokes.
The highest point of the occasion was the presentation of a gift by Ooni of Ife and wife, Queen Naomi, to the elated Prophetess Olubori who then showered the royal couple with prayers.

GLOROIUS FAREWELL FOR COMMUNITY LEADER, CHIEF ADEDIRAN ALABI IN IBADAN

Posted on by Boma Al

Chief Adediran Alabi, a Community Leader and Man of the people has been given a most spectacular farewell at his funeral in Ibadan, Oyo state.

Chief Alabi, the father of author,  philanthropist and Member, Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Akin Alabi, began his journey to the great beyond with an emotional wake at his residence, where close family members, friends and colleagues alike paid glowing tribute to his life of impact.

The following day began with a church service at the Cathedral of St Peter, Aremo, Ibadan. It was very well-attended and the church was filled to capacity, a testament to the clout and connection of Chief Alabi and his children.

 


The service was conducted by Reverend (Dr.) Andrew Adeniyi who showered encomiums on the departed for living a fulfilled life and leaving footprints on the sands of time.
The interment took place privately after which guests were hosted to a lavish reception at Liberty Stadium with King Sunny Ade and DJ Secxy releasing tons and tons of melodious and danceable tunes till very late.

Guests at the event included: Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, former Oyo State Governors, Senator Abiola Ajimobi and Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, Brig. Gen Raji Rasaki (Rtd), Hon Shina Peller, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu and Senator Teslim Folarin.

FIDELITY BANK THRILLS STAFF, CUSTOMERS WITH SPLENDID APPRECIATION PARTY

Posted on by Boma Al

One of Nigeria’s huge financial institutions, Fidelity Bank Plc hosted an amazing night of colour, glamour and glitz to celebrate and honour outstanding staff and customers.

The bank which prides itself as having a high quotient of integrity surely kept its word of delivering an exciting, fun-filled and captivating ceremony attended by Nigeria’s best and brightest.

Held at the Eko Convention Centre, the evening of excellence tagged “Give Them Wings” hosted by the duo of Kate Henshaw and Ebuka Obi-Uchendu reached its most memorable point with a wondrous speech by its debonair Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo.

According to him ” The reason we dubbed this year’s celebration’ Give Them Wings” symbolizes how Fidelity Bank has been supporting people who otherwise would not have had the opportunity to soar and make a success out of life. He then invited some of them on stage to the delight of all those present. One of those recognised was Michael Showunmi, a physically challenged man who was given employment by the bank.

He also used the opportunity to reveal that the bank has been growing from strength to strength.According to him “Fidelity won “The Best Digital Networking Bank Entrepreneurs, Africa, 2019, at PWM Wealth Tech Awards, held in London UK, It won second position in Sustainable Agricultural Transaction for its compliance with sustainable banking and also moved up four places to reach second on the 2019 Nigeria Banking Industry Customer Experience Survey, published by KPMG”.

After reeling out hard facts about the successes the bank had achieved in the past few years, noting that the future is bright, he went ahead to shower praise on the staff and customers that have kept faith and helped it become the formidable force that it has grown to become.

Some of the awards handed out that evening included: Best in Fidelity Helping Hand Project, (North East), Best Staff in Customer Service/KPI, which were won by Martins Izuogbe and Field Marshal (Adebayo Ogunbiyi) respectively.

Guests, who savoured a 3-course dinner, were thrilled by artistes such as Kcee, Niniola, Timaya and Flavour while Bovi added a touch of spice with mature comedy.

Celebrated Nigerians in attendance included: Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; Deputy Governor of Kano State, Dr. Nasiru Gawuna; Deputy Governor of Benue State, NIMASA’s DG, Dr. Dakuku Peterside,  Mr. Benson Abouno; Chief Mike Inegbese and wife, Mary; Anselm Tabansi, Prof Pat Utomi and wife, Ifeoma; John Obayuwana and daughter, Jennifer;  Air Peace MD/CEO, Mr. Allen Onyeama, OtunbaLai Oriowo, GMD/CEO, United Bank for Africa, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, Chairman, Nova Bank, Mr. Phillip Oduoza and wife, Jumai, Mr Francis Ogboro and wife, Otunba Seni Adetu and wife, Janet and Prof. Tokunbo Fabanwo.