Society

The Royal 50th Jubilee Celebration of OIL MOGUL Dr. Babajide Agunbiade Atóbaáse of YorubaLand in United Kingdom

Posted on by Boma Al

Many close friends refer to him as a man of style and oil mogul, Dr Babajide Agunbiade, FNSE showed off this his well-known pedigree when he hosted two classy, colourful and glamourous ceremonies in the United Kingdom.

The Houston, Texas-based businessman and world traveller hosted a birthday that will linger on my hearts of the guests on account of the spectacular nature of the events.
The party train actually began at the famous Sunborn Yacht Hotel in London. Guests were greeted with champagne and hors d’oeuvres upon arrival as well as 80s Rhythm and Blues being played by London’s Sound House Band.

Guests were seeping in the wondrous atmosphere and savouring the scenery when the celebrant and his wife, Mrs. Olufunke Agunbiade, the Yeye Atóbaáse of Yorubaland walked in to applause from guests just as Fela’s “Water no get enemy” was blaring from all corners of the venue. The evening was a top-rate affair filled with lots of champagne, exotic drinks, good food and exhilarating music. Love and fun were in the air all night long. Fun was high on the agenda and guests had a full dose of it as a magician also spent many moments thrilling everyone with some flicks and tricks. The night ended with pulsating Afrobeats vibes delivered by London’s famous DJ Omowhyte.

 


The regal celebration continued the following day on the celebrant’s exact 50th birthday: Saturday, 16th of April 2022. The venue this time was the prestigious Leeds Castle in Kent which had been specially decorated for the occasion. Without a shadow of doubt, this was a befitting venue for a Royal celebration. The castle has been home to numerous Kings of England and was residence for other British aristocrats.

Leeds Castle has been a Norman stronghold; the private property of six of England’s medieval queens; a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon; a Jacobean country house; a Georgian mansion; an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous; and in the 21st century, it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Dubbed the centre of lavish hospitality for leading lights of the society. Leeds Castle was wearing anew look that day as a huge flag with the crest and insignia of the celebrant with his title: Atóbaáse of Yorubaland flying proudly on the Grade 1-isted building and heritage site.

Guests arrived dressed to impress and were greeted by a red carpet and royal guards holding flags that had the Atoobase crest. The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception where chilled drinks and canapes were served. Moments later the celebrant Dr Babajide Agunbiade and wife, Mrs Funke Agunbiade made a grand entrance to the sounds of trumpets blown by the British Royal Guards. The stunning couple gracefully walked down the stairs from the bowels of the Castle where they spent the night and enjoyed the stunning view.
Guests headed down to the dinner room where they were greeted with the sounds of a harpist in the most glamorously decorated space.

Guests enjoyed a gourmet 3-course meal and viewed a surprise documentary dedicated to the celebrant, which was produced by Mrs. Agunbiade. After the cake cutting and just when the night couldn’t get better everyone was ushered outside for a “special presentation” While outside, Dr Babajide Agunbiade gave a heartfelt speech, which he rounded off by thanking his friends and family and beautiful wife for a beautiful night and just as the toast was made, the celebrant and guests were surprised with a 6-minute fireworks display to Coldplay’s Full of Stars.
Just when the guests thought the night was over, the elegant  Mrs Funke Agunbiade had more plans up her sleeves for her dear husband.

Guests were greeted with an open bar, sounds by DJ Omowhyte, and beautiful go-go dancers. The celebrant was surprised by a personal show girl performance while everyone cheered.
Oh what a night it turned out to be as guests partied all night and left with an assortment of gifts which included Dolce & Gabbana Wine and Chocolates,  personalised Atobaase champagne, blue-tooth speakers, candles, amongst others. It was indeed a night to remember!

Sunborn Yacht London (Day 1 -Welcome party)
US Planner: @dureevents
UK Planner: @manolaluxeweddings
UK Planning assistant: @bolanle_lb
Hair: @eugenze @tifihair_houston1
Makeup: @mana.mumin
Bespoke Gown: @eseazenabor
Venue: @sunbornlondon
Hubby Tux: @mochee_kent
Band: @thesoundhouseband
Photo: @sottuphotography
Videography: @oprea.production
DJ: @omowhyte
Custom Acrylic Stationary @tntcreationsllc
Magician: @tombracemagic
Leeds Castle (Day 2 -Birthday Celebration)
US Planner: @dureevents
UK Planner: @manolaluxeweddings
UK Planning assistant: @bolanle_lb
Hair: @eugenze @tifihair_houston1
Makeup: @mana.mumin
Bespoke Gown: @eseazenabor
Hubby Tux @dolcegabbana
Venue @leedscastleuk
Photo: @sottuphotography
Video: @specialfunctionsfilms
MC: @ramthemc
Decor: @Chicwedsuk
Cake: @tycouturecakes
Fireworks: @alchemyfireworks
Custom Easter Baskets: @ribbonandbowstore
Custom Champagne & Box @ribbonandboestore
DJ: @omowhyte
Building Projection: stlproductiongroup
Harpist: Jeanette
Custom Acrylic Menus: @partypresentation
Gifts: @ribbonandbowstore

CHIEF GABRIEL OSAWARU IGBINEDION’s 87TH BIRTHDAY

Posted on by Boma Al

The city of Benin, and in fact the entire Edo State was agog and filled with excitement as the man of the people and first-rate businessman, Sir (Chief) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion marked his 87th birthday with prayers and thanksgiving.

In his characteristic manner, the occasion began with a series of cultural performances and visitation by different groups. The real celebration got into full swing on September 11, 2021 with the Annual Morning Dew Service, which unfolded as an interdenominational devotional service where Christian Ministers took turn to shower the octogenarian with prayers.

The event which unfolded at the God’s Historic Chapel, located within the expansive home of the inimitable philanthropist was well attended by royal fathers from across Nigeria and leading lights of the state. In their separate messages, Rev Felix Omobude, Rev. (Dr.) Olu Abinuomo, Rev. B. O. Ekhator, Bishop M. A. Okpebholo, Rev. (Fr.) Alfred Agbonlahor, eulogised the celebrant, and prayed for more years in good health.

The following day, a Thanksgiving Mass was held at St Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Church to offer praises onto the Lord for the life of the Esama who has touched many lives with his wealth as an employer of labour.

AT THE REGAL AND COLOURFUL CORONATION OF ONIRU OF IRULAND, OBA ABDULWASIU OMOGBOLAHAN LAWAL IN VICTORIA ISLAND, LAGOS

Posted on by Christopher Darteh

Iru Kingdom, located in Victoria Island, Lagos was thrown into mourning on September 19, 2019 when Oba Idowu Abiodun Oniru passed on at the age of 82, but eight months later after a thorough search and healthy competition, sadness turned to joy with the announcement that urbane and astute public servant, Prince Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal of the Abisogun and Akiogun Ruling Houses will be new Monarch.

The announcement by the government was followed with a formal presentation of staff of office and instrument of appointment by Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, making Oba Lawal, who will be known as Abisogun II, the 15th Oniru of Iruland.

Though many traditional rites had been carried out, the ceremonies were rounded off with a spectacular coronation event that was upscale and regal. It was filled with a rich display of the kingdom’s culture and tradition.

Held at the expansive Oniru Palace, the event was attended by Lagos high society including Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat,  former Lagos Governor and National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Oba Saheed Elegushi, The Elegushi of Ikateland, Lagos First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Chief Rasak Okoya and wife, Chief ( Mrs.) Folashade, HRM Oba Aromire, Prince Samuel Adedoyin, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, Rev. Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi and husband, Rev. Ademuyiwa Ajayi, HRM Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi, HRM Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali and HRM Oba Lateef Adams. The event had three segments: Prayer session, Speeches session and the Fun Session.

What was termed a very historic day in the life of the kingdom began with a special prayer session led by Islamic clerics. The new monarch was showered with prayers by many and there were also prayers for the continuous development of the community.

Thereafter, the new Oba who was joined by his gorgeous and graceful wife, Olori Maryam, in his full regalia, complete with beaded crown and instrument of office, took centre stage.

An elated Oba Lawal stated “Today begins another significant chapter in the annals of our dear Iruland as well as my life’s journey. Personally, this brings to my mind the complexity of life as espoused by Garth Nix who said and I quote “Does the Walker choose the path, or the path, the walker”. I am convinced that all these were in the pre-determined plans of Almighty Allah, who makes us as pencils in His magnificent hands.

“I started from the Palace in 1977 precisely, then went out of the Palace, and Lagos to other places, only now to arrive back here in the palace where I will remain until I join my ancestor”

Oba Lawal paid glowing tribute to his late dad, Chief Taurid Omobolaji Lawal-Akapo, Ojora of Lagos (1977-1993) and his sweet mother, Olori Kemi Lawal Akapo for their special love and strict upbringing which had helped him over the years.

While expressing his deepest appreciation for all the encomiums and prayers showered on him since he was named the Oniru, Oba Lawal, a three-time member of the State Executive Council, went ahead to unveil his economic development plan for the kingdom, titled:  Let’s Develop Iruland Together condensed in the acronym “LeGIt”.

In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat described traditional institutions as “indispensable branch” of Yoruba society, stressing that the socio-economic growth witnessed in Iru Kingdom in the last two decades had contributed in no small measure to the development of Lagos.

Mr Governor commended the monarch for keeping peace and for sustaining the effort to unite members of the royal families after ascending the throne.

The Governor said he looked forward to more rewarding development activities in Iru land, but urged residents to rally round the Oniru and maintain peace in order to achieve the monarch’s outlined objectives.

Sanwo-Olu said he had absolute confidence in the leadership ability of Oba Lawal to transform the kingdom into a 21st century city of commerce and culture, urging him to bring his wealth of experience in public service to bear in the administration of Iru land.

According to the Governor “During the installation ceremony in June, I enjoined the Oniru to strengthen the existing bond of unity within Iru land for the overall development of peace and progress of this kingdom. Two months on the throne, I’m pleased to note that the monarch took this advice to heart as exemplified by his very impressive actions characterised by wisdom, knowledge and large heartedness.

The speech making segment was rounded off by Asiwaju Bola Tinubu who eulogized the monarch and called for unity among Lagosians.

Thereafter, the venue exploded into a full party scene with good music, choice beverages and gourmet dishes flowing freely till late into the night.

The Oniru was born in 1970 to late Chief T. A. Lawal- Akapo, the Ojora of Lagos (1977-1993) and Olori M. A. Lawal-Akapo. Gbolahan is a Lagos Prince from the Ojora, Aromire, Shokun and Abisogun branch of Oniru Royal families of Lagos State.

He holds an Executive MSc in CITIES (LSE, Cities) from the London School of Economics and Political Science. He also obtained an MSc in Violence, Conflict and Development from the School of Oriental and African Studies [SOAS], University of London in 2008; a BSc Hons. in Botany from the University of Port-Harcourt in 1992 and a product of the famous St. Gregory’s College, Lagos.

He is a seasoned administrator with over 25 years postgraduate experience with an in-depth knowledge of the workings of the public sector.

Lawal started his career as a Scientific Officer with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council at the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology in 1994. He later joined The Nigeria Police Force and was commissioned as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent. He was once ADC to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

CHIEF (SIR) GABRIEL OSAWARU IGBINEDION CELEBRATES 86TH BIRTHDAY IN GRAND STYLE

Posted on by Christopher Darteh

 

Just as he has been doing for many years now, influential business titan and Esama of Benin Kingdom, His Excellency Sir (Chief) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion literarily shut down Benin City, the capital of Edo State when he celebrated his 86th birthday.

The ever stylish and colourful Esama, who never settles for anything but the very best, despite scaling down festivities due to the global COVID-19 pandemic still attracted hundreds of thousands in the course of the week-long celebration.

This year, Chief Igbinedion began his programme with an intellectually-stimulating birthday lecture on September 3, 2020 at Nigeria’s  numero uno private university, Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State.

The Guest lecturer was none other than His Excellency Dr Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, former Governor of Gombe State who spoke on the topic “ “Globalisation and the future of Tertiary Education in Nigeria”

According to the Guest Lecturer “To be invited to deliver the 86th Birthday Lecture of this distinguished and illustrious Son of Africa, His Excellency Sir Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom is indeed to me, aunique privilege and an honour. I thank the authorities of the Igbinedion University especially The Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor and the Governing Council, Vice Chancellor, Senate and Congregation, the Academic community, the Administrative staff and all the students of this university for this recognition, I am deeply honoured to have been invited to join you on this auspicious occasion of the 86th Birthday Celebration of the Esama of the Universe of Igbinedion UniversityOkada.”.

Today’s lecture is captured “Globalization and the Future of Tertiary Education in Nigeria”. The choice of this Birthday Lecture topic is quite deliberate and highly instructive. First, the celebrant is an international business colossus, great patriot, educationalist, philanthropist and pathfinder. He has been operating businesses at a global level for several decades before the concept and issue of globalization began to gain worldwide attention. He, in a way, is a globalized person including in marriage.

He then went on to explore such sub-topics as: Nigeria educational policies, current educational policies, history of globalization, the impact of globalization, cross border education, mobility of students and lecturers, the Push Factor, future takeaways and deliverables and then rounded off thus: “In Nigeria today, most of our best eleven are professionals and expatriates working in different parts of the world in which significant number got there via internationalization or globalization. Nigeria must therefore design some deliberate policies to combat theattrition rate by putting in place a reward mechanism for those thatchoose to return, improve the quality and standard of education in thecountry to world class status and erect some international bureaucratic barriers that could discourage foreign studies and enhance effective utilisation of human mental resources within the knowledge economy.

An empirical validation of actual number of Nigerians lost through this phenomenon and an understanding of the real push-pull factors shouldbe carried out and investigated.

“ I congratulate the celebrant, the Great Esama of Bini Kingdom, his family and friends on this day of joy. For the Celebrant today, I cannot resist saying my favourite prayer for you; as your days, so shall yourstrength, your wisdom and favour with God Insha Allah.

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.

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.