Events

Anthony Kila Unveils New Book, Owe: Yoruba by Proverbs, to Propagate Yoruba Culture

Published

7 years ago

November 29, 2018

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The conference hall of the Centre for International Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS) came alive Thursday as the Director of the centre, Professor Anthony Kila, unveiled a book titled Owe: Yoruba by Proverb to further propagate the culture, traditional and language of the Yoruba people of Nigeria and the Diaspora.

The book according to the author, is a journey into the intricate and innermost mind of the Yoruba people, noting that the Yoruba culture is triumphant in the sense that it has blazed the trail.

Kila is of the opinion that the Yorubas remain one of the few people in the world who did not have to sweat or till the ground, fish or hunt to eat. All they had to do was think, research and learn the culture. Those people, he said were the priest, the catechist, seers, advisers and custodians of the culture.

While explaining that the book seeks to understand the ways the society and culture operate, he noted that it is not primarily a book about language, rather it provides an insight into getting to know the proverbs in Yoruba culture as part of everyday life.

Mr. Kila used the opportunity to intimate the people that his pet project on reading called ‘My Library Project’, was on the way and will hit the public space very soon, precisely on December 30, 2018. He cautioned the dignitaries and governments of various states against substituting one subject with another in schools, rather it should endeavour to expanded them. He further noted that the next on the line of major projects is a book on ‘Hausa Proverbs’.

In his remarks the representative of the Lagos State government, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, at the occasion, the Commissioner for Information. Mr. Kehinde Bamgbetan, expressed the governor’s goodwill message and his solidarity stand with the culture and tradition of the Yoruba oriented book.

The governor, he said, is passionate about arts and culture and the furtherance of the Yoruba culture, more especially.

“We are happy to identify with the author on this occasion because this effort correlates with the commitment of the Lagos state government to champion the arrival of the Yoruba Language. Earlier in the year, his Excellency signed a bill on Yoruba Language preservation and commercial law which made the teaching of Yoruba Language in both public and private schools in Lagos State compulsory,” he said.

He noted that the publication of the book is timely and apt as it makes for ‘cultural renaissance in our society, and gives confidence to our inept abilities to rise to our cultural responsibilities so that the cultural reawakening can be fulfilled. The book demonstrates that out people has the capacity to think’.

Speaker after speaker, the book as well as the author received deserved accolades, even as the Yorubas and lovers of Yoruba culture were encouraged to avail themselves a copy in order to reacquaint themselves with the opportunity to once again come to terms with the culture.

In their various speeches, Gbenga Olowo, Bola Makinde, who spoke via video, Prof Bola Akinferinwa and many others eulogised the book and Prof Kila, and called for whatever it takes to keep the Yoruba language and culture alive.

The event was attended by various heavyweights in the writing and culture preservation business as well as government functionaries among whom were Prof Tola Adeniyi, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba, Otunba Gani Adams, represented by Barr Yinka Oguntimehim, Secretary of Yoruba Elders Forum and Chairman of the occasion, Are Olajide, Chairman of Golfview Hotel, Governor of Sokoto State Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, represented by Alhaji Mohammed Bello; Father of the Day, Engr. Bello Suleiman; Lagos State governor represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Kehinde Bamgbetan; Mrs. Wunmi Adegunwa of CIAPS, Mr. Adekunle Adesoko, who represented the former governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniels, Mr. Jiye Ojo, Senator Ganiyu Solomon among others.

Events

Elderly Community Outreach Brings Hope, Wellness to Ikorodu Seniors

Published

3 weeks ago

November 15, 2025

Eric

The Leezeet Tender Heart Foundation, in partnership with Divine Care Hub, has held an inspiring Elderly Community Outreach Programme in Ikorodu.

Led by the founder, Mrs. Elizabeth Adegbite, the event celebrated and supported senior citizens, widows, and orphans, highlighting the importance of mental, physical, and social well-being for older adults.

The programme, themed “Promoting Economic Empowerment & Mental Wellness Among Older Adults,” included prayers, praise and worship, gentle exercises, massage therapy, nutrition talks, and economic empowerment sessions. Ms. Abimbola Shaba shared tips on Affordable Nutrition and Healthy Living for the Elderly, while Mrs. Adigun and Ms. Loveth highlighted social welfare and economic opportunities.

Creative moments included a heartfelt poem by Mrs. Grace Oni and a colorful senior fashion parade coordinated by Mrs. Oladehinde, reminding everyone that style has no age limit. The event was beautifully anchored by MC Mrs. Adebo and concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Fabunmi.

Mrs. Adegbite called on the Ikorodu community, NGOs, and individuals to step up interventions for the elderly, stressing that together, communities can ensure dignity, care, and hope for all seniors.

Events

Princess Emily Teniade Ogunsakin Celebrates 90th Birthday in Style

Published

1 month ago

November 8, 2025

Eric

By Ruth Akpan Photos: Tunde Bolarinwa

The city of Ile-Ife lit up in colours penultimate week as the matriarch of the Ogunsakin family, Princess Emily Teniade Ogunsakin, was celebrated by family members, friends, associates and well wishers as she joined the nonagerian club.

It was a moment of grace and gratitude as all and sundry gathered to honour a remarkable woman of faith and grace, who joyfully marked her 90th birthday. The milestone event, hosted by her children led by Asiwaju Segun Ogunsakin, was a heartfelt celebration of a matriarch whose life has been defined by devotion, discipline, and divine favour.

The celebration began in the most fitting way; with praises and prayers at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ayegbaju, Ile-Ife. The church, filled with joyful hymns and the fragrance of thanksgiving, echoed with gratitude as Mama, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and loved ones, gave thanks to God for nine decades of His faithfulness.

The service was officiated by Rt. Rev. Olubunmi A. Akinlade, Bishop of the Diocese of Ife (Anglican Communion), who in his sermon extolled the celebrant’s unwavering commitment to the things of God. The Bishop described Mama as “a vessel of grace” whose life of prayer and humility has shaped generations.

He encouraged her to continue steadfastly in prayer, noting that “a mother’s prayer is the greatest covering a family can have.” His message resonated deeply with the congregation, serving as a reminder of the quiet but powerful influence of a godly matriarch.

The service was rich in hymns, scriptural readings and heartfelt prayers. The high point came when Mama, radiant and energetic, was called forward for a special thanksgiving. With graceful steps, she danced to the altar, her face glowing with joy and gratitude; a living testimony of strength at 90.

The service concluded with special prayers for her continued health, peace and prosperity. The congregation also joined in a stirring rendition of the “Happy Birthday” song, filling the sanctuary with warmth and celebration. A short photo session followed with the clergy and family, capturing moments that reflected the beauty of faith, family, and longevity.

From the church, guests proceeded to the Ojaja Arena, Ile-Ife for the grand reception. The spacious venue had been beautifully transformed into a scene of elegance and colour to reflect royalty befitting for a princess.

The event was masterfully compered by Yinka Salawu, who kept the guests entertained throughout the programme.

One after another, family members and friends took turns to share glowing tributes about the celebrant. Her children spoke of her as a prayer warrior, a pillar of wisdom, and a mother whose life of integrity continues to guide their paths. Friends described her as compassionate, disciplined, and deeply God-fearing.

For the Ogunsakin family, the day was not just about age; it was a celebration of legacy, values and enduring strength of a mother’s love.

The cutting of the beautifully designed birthday cake, surrounded by her children was a joyful moment. The hall came alive with applause, laughter, camera flashes and toast in honour of a woman who is well-loved by all.

Guests were later treated to a lavish spread of local and continental dishes, complemented by an array of drinks while the Adonai Band serenaded the gathering with a medley of gospel and highlife tunes, keeping the atmosphere vibrant and festive with melodies that carried both nostalgia and joy.

Events

Sanwo-Olu, Umo Eno, Adeleke, Smart Ogbonna Headline 2025 African Global Excellence Awards

Published

1 month ago

October 27, 2025

Eric

The stage is set for the highly anticipated 2025 edition of the African Global Excellence Awards (AGEA), a prestigious recognition platform dedicated to celebrating individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to Africa’s growth and development across diverse sectors.

Scheduled to take place on November 1, 2025, at Ivy Hotel (formerly Presken Hotel), Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, this year’s ceremony promises to be an unforgettable gathering of distinguished guests, business leaders, policymakers, entertainers, and media executives from within Nigeria and across the continent.

Among the eminent personalities expected to be honored at the event are Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, and Dr. Smart Ogbonna a visionary leader widely recognized for his outstanding contributions to business, leadership, and philanthropy.

The awards ceremony, hosted by renowned media and PR expert Victor Udoh, seeks to spotlight individuals and institutions that exemplify excellence, innovation, and integrity in their fields. It also serves as a platform for dialogue and collaboration among changemakers dedicated to advancing Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

Other notable honorees for the 2025 edition include Kingsley Okoli, Dr. Smart Ogbonna, the Moses Taaboo Foundation, Queeneth Agbor, and Lauretta Ogboro, Director-General of Edo State Diaspora Affairs, alongside several other distinguished achievers who continue to make remarkable strides in their respective endeavors.

The glamorous evening will feature electrifying musical performances by top Nigerian artistes, alongside exquisite cuisine, fine drinks, and world-class entertainment promising guests a truly memorable experience.

Speaking ahead of the event, the convener, Victor Udoh, reaffirmed the core mission of the African Global Excellence Awards, stating that the initiative continues to stand as a beacon of recognition for Africans driving meaningful impact and transformation.

“Our goal is to recognize and inspire those who are not only achieving excellence but also creating opportunities and driving progress across the continent,” he said.