Boss Of The Week

Olufolarin Ogunsanwo: Ilara’s Hope of a New Dawn

Published

5 years ago

November 9, 2019

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Among the very many qualified contestants for the stool of Alara of Ilara Kingdom, in the Epe Division of Lagos State following the demise of its previous occupier, Oba Hakeem Okunola Adesanya, over a year ago, one man stands extraordinarily out and fit for the throne. He is the Oba-elect, Prince Olukayode Olufolarin Ogunsanwo.

It took the unanimous decision of the community’s committee of five king makers, who upon going through the processes assented to the choice of the revered Prince from the Telade (Alara) ruling house of Ibonwon, as the man who will lead Ilara Kingdom as the next Alara.

Prince Ogunsanwo is by every standard reputed as a thoroughbred professional in tax administration. This feat is a consequence of years of hard work, commitment to duty and utmost desire to reach the zenith of professionalism. In fact, he took time to tend his now towering image.

He attended the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife between 1984 and 1988 and bagged a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) degree in Economics, before heading to the Lagos State University for a Masters in Public Administration (MPA). He also has a Masters of Science (M.Sc) from the University of Lagos.

Ogunsanwo kicked off his career with a brief stint in the banking sector before moving to a government establishment where he plied his trade as a tax administrator for twenty five years and rose through the ranks to the top.

Prince Ogunsanwo with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi

With a personality easily described as great, humane and humble, Ogunsanwo’s essence is anchored on service to the people and patriotism to the country. He is ruled by a philosophy that speaks directly to life, beliefs and professionalism.

Though ’eminently eligible’ to occupy the throne as a prince, Olufolarin has never, remotely or otherwise set his gaze on becoming a king. He was brought to the limelight by his outstanding success in the field of tax administration, his passion for the development of Ilara, as well as his people which he had demonstrated over the years. As a result, irresistible pressure from all quarters began to mount on him to contest for the throne of Alara. It was not therefore a surprise when he beat other contestants to emerge victorious.

A guru in tax administration, Ogunsanwo rose to become the Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) where he served between September 2015 and August 2016. He served with utmost discipline with enviable legacies trailing his stewardship. Even the plot to rubbish his image as he stepped down from the LIRS job was duly cleared by the Lagos State House of Assembly which found him innocent of every accusation.

Prince Ogunsanwo receiving a meritorious award

Among his landmark achievements and mind blowing innovations at the agency are:

• Achieved the highest internally generated revenue of 24.5 billion (Jan – Feb 2016) of the targeted 25billion for the period.

• Introduced Electronic filing of tax returns to ease filling of returns by employers of labour.

• Redesigned the assessment form from a 6 page form to 2 pages to encourage voluntary compliance in tax payment.

*Establishment of additional three tax offices at Ibeju, Amuwo-Odofin and Tejuosho to bring revenue centres closer to the people

*Establishment of LIRS tax academy for training and retraining of staff to improve their customer relations and service delivery to the populace.

*Introduction of tax audit operational manual to improve revenue generation.

• Served as a member of The Joint Tax Board which is the apex tax body in the country (September 2015 -August 2016)

Other achievements include:

Provision of performance bonus for staff across board
introduction of monthly revenue mobilisation
Introduction of office impress for all out stations
Introduction of cooperative and thrift society for staff
Introduction of staff union in line with civil service practice
Introduction of HMO scheme for staff
Increase of salaries of drivers and office assistants

In the same vein, Ogunsanwo extended his hand of grace to consultants and contractors as follows:

Reregistration of tax consultants to ensure only certified practioners are engaged
Introduced direct tax credit to tax consultants thereby eliminating middlemen and bureaucratic bottlenecks
Cleared all outstanding tax consultant commissions

Ogunsanwo’s social corporate responsibility status is as large as his personality. He has genuinely supported many people in his community by regularly handing out scholarships to indigent students and helping in providing social amenities to the community. It is on record the Oba-elect has assisted in easing power challenges by facilitating the distribution of a couple of transformers to some areas and donating generating sets to churches, among many other developmental interventions to ensure his people live well.

He has in addition single-handedly created job opportunities in the civil service for a considerable number of individuals from his community and beyond.

It is not by chance therefore that his people of Ilara and environs are elated at having him as their Oba, knowing that with his impressive public service record, passionate disposition, great influence in the right quarters, and most importantly, the attention of the development oriented administration in the state, it is only a matter of time before Ilara becomes a place to be in Lagos state, and as such will be able to favourably compete with other well developed towns in the state.

Endowed with the traits of a credible Omoluabi and Atobatele, Ogunsanwo has the backing of some notable traditional rulers and a good number of members of the political class who trust his pedigree. Some of them are royal fathers from Epe, Ikorodu, Ibeju and others. These are men he will join hands with to push the lot of the kingdom forward.

Yet another award

As a professionally certified tax expert with over 27 years of cognitive experience, there is no doubt the new Alara’s confidence, target driven personality and proven leadership skills that involve managing, developing and motivating teams to achieving set objectives will see him walking his talk to turn Ilara around for good.

Also he is a certified Fellow (of the) Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (FCTI), Member, Nigerian Institute of Management (MNIM) and Member, Institute of Directors (M I0D).

Ogunsanwo is not new to awards and honours following meritorious services that trail his professional and societal stewardship.

In recognition and appreciation of his outstanding service to Joint Tax Board, Ogunsanwo was in December 2018 honored with award of excellence. The award was presented to him by the former Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr. Tunde Fowler. In the same month, he was decorated with a Prestigious Leadership Award by Fight Against Corruption Organization (FACO).

There is no doubt that the status and exposure of the Oba, who was elected unanimously, will afford him opportunity to join the community of prominent Obas to move Southwest and the whole of the country forward.

The Alara stool is highly revered in Yoruba land, and is traceable to the cradle of Yoruba civilization, Ile-Ife. it is therefore, expected that the emergence of Ogunsanwo will usher in a new dawn and that once again, hope of development beckons.

Prince Ogunsanwo is happily married and blessed with children.

Boss Of The Week

Accolades Trail Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Lawal at 70

Published

4 weeks ago

February 16, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Since January 2008 when he was announced the Timi of Ede, and March of the same year, when his coronation ceremony was held till the present, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, has maintained a solid profile, which has demonstrated his capabilities and capacity to reign over his people.

As a result, as the monarch turns 70, drums have been rolled out to appreciate his benevolence, candour and humanitarian disposition in the affairs of the kingdom.

Ceasing the moment, the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, sent a heartwarming message to celebrate the landmark age as well as the monarch’s achievements in 15 years of rulership.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, and titled ADELEKE CELEBRATES TIMI OF EDE ON HIS BIRTHDAY, the governor hailed the monarch as a distinguished leader with remarkable flair for development, acknowledging his visionary and purposeful style to rulership, which has greatly impacted on the lives of subjects over the years.

He also lauded him for entrenching sense of togetherness and patriotism, which has guided the physical development and economic progress the ancient town has seen in recent time while affirming the immeasurable benefit of the counsels of the monarch in enabling peace and tranquility in the state and beyond, commending his historical role in promoting Yoruba culture and traditions.

He said: “As Oba Munirudeen turns a new age, I join family, friends and well-wishers across the globe to felicitate with him. Oba Munirudeen is a leader who prioritise the interest of his subject, exploring every opportunity to impact the lives of his people and cause admirable progress for his domain,” Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying in a congratulatory message.

“By divine guidance and Kabiyesi’s leadership prowess, Ede land has enjoyed incredible progress over the years. On a personal note, Kabiyesi is a positive influence for me, as I am always inspired by his passion to make a difference in the lives of our people.”

Also celebrating the monarch on his great day, popular hip hop sensation, Davido, gifted him a brand new GAC GS8 SUV luxurious car with total demonstration of respect and admiration for the chief custodian of Ede tradition. It is important to note that Davido is a native of Ede.

As a follow-up to the celebrations, subjects, friends, well wishers and the general public organized a well deserved party for the monarch with notable personalities including Governor Adeleke, prominent Osun government officials, natives of Ede from all walks of life and members of the Nigerian entertainment circle.

On the band stand on the day was the highly sought-after music maker, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey among others.

The monarch, regally attired with all the paraphernalia of royalty was all smiles as he interacted with guests, impressed at the barefaced show of love.

THE MAN, OBA MUNIRUDEEN ADESOLA LAWAL

As derived from Wikipedia, Oba Lawal, Laminisa II, the Timi of Ede’s life trajectory is captured as follows:

Munirudeen Adesola Lawal was born on 10 February 1956 to the family of Prince Kareem Abefe Lawal of the Laminisa ruling house and Abibat Akanke Lawal from Ile Imole compound in Ede in present-day Osun State, Nigeria. He commenced his primary school education at LA Primary School, Obada Ede from where he proceeded to Seventh Day Adventist Grammar School, Ede and in 1968, he subsequently gained admission to Baptist High School, Ede, where he eventually completed his secondary school education in 1973 and subsequently obtained his Higher School Certificate(HSC) in 1975.In 1978, he enrolled into the Adeyemi College of Education to study mathematics and chemistry dducation. He later gained admission to Bayero University where he obtained a degree in library studies and mathematics in 1984. In 1988, he enrolled for and obtained a master’s degree in business administration from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

In 1973 upon the completion of his secondary school, Munirudeen Adesola Lawal got an appointment into Universal Insurance Company, where he was trained as a policy seller. In October 1975,upon the completion of his HSC,he later got a job with the Osun Central Schools’ Board and was posted to Timi Agbale Grammar School as a mathematics and further mathematics teacher. He subsequently worked in Oba laoye Grammar School, Ede between 1991 and 1992; and later secured a job at the Polytechnic Iree in December, 1992, as lecturer 2, teaching mathematics and other courses and was there until January 2008 when he was named the Timi of Ede.

Munirudeen Adesola Lawal is a Muslim and he is married with children.

From all of us at The Boss, we wish the monarch many more years of fruitful leadership, and healthy endeavours.

Boss Of The Week

Nkem ‘Osuofia’ Owoh: When a Legend Turns 70

Published

1 month ago

February 10, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Who could have imagined that standing in for someone to play the role of a drunkard in one of the major Nigeria sitcoms in the 1980s, The New Masquerade, would be the pedestal one of Nigeria’s funniest men, Nkem ‘Osuofia’ Owo, needed to launch big time into the world of acting, theater and entertainment. Ever since, the prolific actor has not looked back, but has broken barriers, smashed records, and has continued to be relevant even as he joined the septugerians’ club. Yes, drums are rolled out to celebrate Osuofia at 70.

Born in Enugu State, on February 7, 1955, Nkem Owoh, better known by his screen alias, Osuofia, has come of age in every facet of existence including merchandise, family and entertainment.

A graduate of Engineering from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Osuofia had both his primary and secondary education in Nsukka, also in Enugu State. Reports have it that his acting became noticeable at early age, and during his primary and secondary days, before getting better polished and manifested during his university days, from where he graduated to acting in various television and film productions, including writing scripts.

Although he studied Engineering, his heart belonged to creative expression through acting, writing, and singing. After completing his National Youth Service Cirps scheme, he joined WACO Engineering but left after just one year, finding leverage in opportunities to explore radio and television productions.

The Wikipedia presents more of his trajectory as follows:

In 1979, he embarked on his journey in the entertainment industry, starting as a writer at Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). He further established his writing credentials by penning scripts for notable productions, such as: The New Masquerade and Basi and Company (a sitcom created by Ken Saro-Wiwa). He also once filled in for an absent actor, playing the role of a drunkard in the groundbreaking sitcom The New Masquerade. This unexpected opportunity launched his successful career.

However, Owoh ventured into the movie scene when he was contracted to handle the subtitling for the Igbo language movie Living in Bondage upon its completion. Following the success of Living in Bondage, acting opportunities began to flood in. A year later, he landed his next significant role as a customs officer in the Igbo language movie Circle of Doom. His good performance announced his arrival on the scene, captivating producers, who not only sought him for his acting talent but also valued his scriptwriting skills.

Following Circle of Doom, he landed his third film role in Taboo which he co-scripted.

In 1995, Owoh wrote and produced the iconic film Ikuku, where he portrayed the unforgettable character, Osuofia (a drunk). His portrayal of Osuofia in the movie earned him widespread recognition, transforming him into a beloved household name. In 1997, he produced Ikuku 2 a sequel to the first movie, where he reprised his role as a drunkard. He also produced Pampam the same year, teaming up with Okey Bakassi.

The character Osuofia was once again brought to life by Nkem Owoh in Osuofia in London (2003) and its sequel Osuofia in London 2 (2004), produced by Kingsley Ogoro. His appearance in this movie earned him international recognition and also his nickname. This breakthrough paved the way for a lasting career, with continuous screen appearances from then on.

Owoh is also known for performing the song “I Go Chop Your Dollar” about advance fee fraud. The song was featured in the film The Master in which Owoh plays the role of a scammer.

Hw had had his own ups and downs in the business as well as in life. It is noted that the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission banned the song, citing it was promoting fraud. Also in 2007, he was arrested in Amsterdam, Netherlands while performing at a musical show, but was later released.

In November 2009, he was kidnapped, and a ransom N15 million naira was demanded. He was said to have been released after his family members allegedly paid a ransom fee of 1.4 million naira.

In 1998, he married his wife, Ngozi Nkem Owoh, from Amagu Village, Udi Town, who she still lives with. They were blessed with two daughters, before the cold hands of death snatched one in June 2023.

For his great efforts in the industry, Osuofia is not new to awards. In 2008, he received the prestigious Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for “Best Actor in a Leading Role” for his outstanding performance in the film Stronger than Pain.

In 2017, at the 13th edition, he was honored with the prestigious Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) Lifetime Achievement Award.

In2012, he partnered with MTN for a multimillion-naira endorsement deal that has been repeatedly renewed.

Osuofia remains a known face to many generations of movie watchers, as well as a formidable force in the Nigeria film industry. He is a legend, having contributed more than enough to spreading in homes.

Happy 70th birthday sir…!

Boss Of The Week

Siminalayi Fubara: Celebrating a Detailed Governor at 50

Published

1 month ago

February 2, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

What looks like the entire Rivers State was out last week, precisely on January 28, 2025, to celebrate their Governor, Sir Amaopusenibo Siminalayi Fubara, as he hit the golden age.

Leading the charge of celebrations and encomiums, was his amiable wife, Lady Valerie Fubara, who organized a surprised party for the governor, with the who’s who in Rivers State government and Peoples Democratic Party present, including former Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman, Uche Secondus; Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Victor Oko-Jumbo; and a former governor, Sir Celestine Omehia.

Superbly attired, and defeating the surprised undertone, a very elated Fubara walked side by side with his water as the entered the open venue event, with aides, we’ll wishers and staff tagging joyously along.

Speaking straight from the heart, Governor Fubara, who fought and is still fighting many battles of his political life just 20 months after becoming governor, expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “This morning I feel so humbled. I have been swept off my feet. Sincerely, all my life I have never subscribed to celebrating birthdays, particularly in this way. What has been done this morning, in conjunction with my wife, shows so much love and appreciation that honestly, I do not know how to pay back.”

In one moment of intense joy, the celebrant, assisted by his dear wife, performed the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake, much to the delight of their guests. The laughter and the camaraderie that followed was a joy to behold.

The scene appeared to wipe clean all the political turmoil that has trailed the governor and Rivers State in 20 short months.

An ethnic Ibani-Ijaw, born in Opobo Town in the Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State on January, 28 1975, Fubara was sworn in as the governor of Rivers State, on May 29, 2023, after winning his electoral victory on March 18 of the same year.

He previously served as Accountant general of Rivers State, under Barr Nyesom Wike as governor.

Fubara had his primary education at Opobo Primary School and on completion, attended Comprehensive Secondary School, Opobo, before proceeding to study Accountancy at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology. He followed it up with an MBA and MSc degrees in 2013 and 2016 respectively from the University of Port Harcourt.

Fubara started his career in 2003 as a Principal Accountant with the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board. He rose to the position of director of finance and accounts at the State’s government house in 2015 and rose to the position of Permanent Secretary in March 2020. He was appointed the Accountant General of Rivers State on December 23, 2020, up till May 2022, when he won the People’s Democratic Party governorship primaries for the 2023 general elections. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management, Fellow of Association of National Accountants of Nigeria.

Less than two years after becoming governor, Fubara has amid turbulence situations, launched out to deliver good governance to Rivers people. He is known to have signed N195.3bn contract with Julius Berger for the construction of Port Harcourt Ring Road project. The project when completed would traverse six local government areas of the state, thereby decongesting Port Harcourt. Fubara further stated the State would pay over N150 billion advance for the project. This is among many other notable projects.

Fubara is the second of five children and the first son of Late Joseph Fubara, a former soldier who had an overseas training tour of duty, and Late Love Fubara, a civil servant. He is also a knight of St. Christopher (KSC) Order of Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion. He holds the traditional title of Amaopu-Senibo of Opobo Kingdom.

He is married to Valerie Fubara and they have three children.

President Tinubu Celebrates Governor Siminalayi Fubura at 50

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, according to a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on his 50th birthday.

The President lauded Fubara’s contributions to governance in Rivers State and his efforts to foster growth in the region.

President Tinubu further urged Governor Fubara to redouble his efforts in promoting peace and unity, emphasising the importance of harmony as a foundation for sustainable development.

“As you celebrate this milestone, I commend your dedication to the service of your people. Governance thrives where peace reigns. I encourage you to continue working tirelessly to bring people together, resolve differences, and create an environment where progress can flourish for the benefit of all Rivers people,” the President said.

President Tinubu wished Governor Fubara continued wisdom, strength, and success in his leadership journey and prayed for more remarkable achievements in the years ahead.

Governor Oborevwori Felicitates with Fubara at 50

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, commended Governor Fubara as a courageous leader who deserves recognition for his significant contributions to the governance of Rivers State.

He characterized Governor Fubara as a wise and capable individual, divinely appointed to lead the people at this pivotal moment in the political landscape of Rivers State.

Oborevwori stated, “Since becoming Governor, you have consistently prioritized good governance, focusing on improving the standard of living for the people by fostering development, peace, and security within the state.”

He further expressed confidence that Fubara’s development agenda would continue to positively influence the growth and progress of Rivers State.

“On behalf of the government and citizens of Delta State, I congratulate an outstanding professional, seasoned accountant, and my brother, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, on his 50th birthday,” he added.

“As you celebrate this milestone, I pray that God grants you greater wisdom and good health to continue your exceptional service to Him and to humanity.”

Other prominent individuals, who celebrated the governor included Party faithful, aides, loyalists, industrialists and a whole lot more.

From us at The Boss, we wish Governor Fubara more fruitful years!