Headline

Iwo Stands Still As Dele Momodu, Wife Become Aare, Yeye Aare

Published

3 years ago

October 2, 2021

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

As the ancient of Iwo in Osun State comes alive today as a result of the magnificent conferment of chieftaincy titles on a great son of Nigeria, Chief Dele Momodu, and his amiable wife, Mobolaji Momodu, with Aare and Yeye Aare by the Paramount Ruler of the kingdom, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, a cross section of Nigerians from various walks of life have responded in solidarity.

Below are aggregated opinions of goodwill messages sent in by loved ones among others:

CONGRATULATIONS CHIEF DELE MOMODU: A MAN OF HIS WORDS – Dolapo Aina

With great joy, I felicitate with the family of Chief Ayòbámidélé Àbáyòmí Ojútelégàn Àjàní Momodu on his installation as The Aare of Iwo Kingdom by His Royal Highness, the Paramount Ruler of Iwoland, (Dr.) Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi.

Chief Dele Momodu, fondly called Bob Dee by his close friends, colleagues and contemporaries, is one of the most straightforward and honest global figures I have come to respect and regard with high esteem. A very busy individual whose every word is his bond. There are several personal experiences stretching from my first encounter with Chief Dele Momodu at the departure hall of Kigali International Airport to his penthouse in Ikoyi and back to Kigali in Rwanda.

Chief Dele Momodu’s giant strides which span several countries and several continents speak for themselves. Congratulations to a very honest gentleman on this significant milestone as the Aare of Iwo Kingdom. More milestones in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Congratulations My dearest mentor and leader – Elisha Attai

I congratulate you on your well-deserved honour. A mere Congratulations is just a token appreciation for all your tireless efforts in making this world a better place. You have by every standard, reached the pinnacle of heights, and I pray you continue to amass success and honours in all your endeavours.

Congratulations! Your hard work is speaking.

Dr. Elisha Attai
CEO – Studio 115 integrated services
Founder – African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO)
Global Board Member/Chairman Nigeria – International Hospitality Institute (IHI),USA.

You Have Played Active Role in the Development of Our Society – Isaac Oyedokun

Sir,
On behalf of TREKK SCOOTERS AFRICA, I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations you on your conferment Chieftaincy Title as the Aare Tayese and Yeye Aare Tayese of Iwoland.

It is my utmost prayer that the Almighty God will continue to grant you good health and strengthen you in the many more years of fulfilling service ahead of you.

It is a day to celebrate your stupendous and unrivalled contributions to the growth of your homeland and country. My Chairman, you deserve the title because of your sterling leadership and active role you have played in the development of our society.

I humbly and sincerely congratulate you and your beautiful wife on this wonderful milestone as the Aare Tayese and Yeye Aare Tayese of Iwoland.

I thank the entire people of Iwoland and His Royal Majesty OBA(DR)ABDUL RASHEED ADEWALE AKANBI ILUFEMILOYE TELU 1, THE OLUWO OF IWOLAND for the honour

Congratulations Aare & Yeye Aare Tayese Momodu.

Isaac OYEDOKUN
CEO, TREKK

This is a Well Differentiated Achievement – Aminu Owo

Felicitations Bashorun (Dr.) Dele Momodu on your well-differentiated achievement bestowed on you by his Royal highness Oluwo of Iwo: Oba Abdul Rasheed Akanbi. It is well deserved Sir! I am a beneficiary of your kindness and generosity. You gave me an excellent pedestal through BOSS Newspaper to express my innovative thoughts and published my research articles. This opportunity has exposed me and my company (African Manufacturing Group – AMG) to the world. Many thanks Sir! I am indebted to you and your BOSS Newspaper’s team.

May this unique Chieftaincy be an added blessings to you, your family and your businesses.

Congratulations again Sir!

Aminu Owonikoko MPhil (UK), MSc (UK), B. Tech- Hons (Nigeria) ( Founder of African Manufacturing Group – AMG)

The Oluwo Has Made a Good Choice – Yemi Edun

My Dearest Brother, Chief Dele & wifeChief Mobolaji Momodu

Hearty congratulations on your conferment as the AARE, and Madam, the YEYE AARE of IWO, by His Royal Highness Oluwo of IWO, OBA ABDULRASHEED ADEWALE AKANBI.

This is an honor that is well deserved, and you would undoubtedly enhance and illuminate the ideals of the title with your usual forthrightness and energy. His highness has indeed made a good choice with the conferment.

Wishing you and Madam the best of luck and warm regards,

Bashorun Dele Momodu is a Custodian of Traditional Ethos – Jamil Eniola

I write to rejoice with Chief (Dr.) Dele Momodu and his better half Chief (Mrs.) Mobolaji Momodu as they becomes Aare and Yeye Aare of Iwoland.

Chief Momodu is a man of many enviable attributes and a wizard of strategic deals, with worldwide acclaim for his performances.

I have known Chief Dele Momodu for many years as millions of others probably do: as a professional, entrepreneur, philanthropist and community change maker. But since coming closer to him in the United Kingdom almost ten years ago, I have enjoyed his continued support and encouragement of my foundation for humanitarian initiatives in the United Kingdom and Nigeria with free access to him at any time.

I have been further privileged to know at a more brotherly level as well as interacting more intimately with the man we love to call Bob Dee.

Perhaps one striking quality in the Chief Momodu’s persona is his ability to maintain a strategic balance between two fascinating worlds – a successful media entrepreneur and a passionate philanthropist without barrier.

Chief Dele Momodu is a custodian of traditional ethos. His avuncular but affable disposition has earned him the patronage of many organisations. The Yorubaland will benefit positively from this great cultural ambassador as Aare of Iwoland in access to better education, good healthcare, youths, girls and vulnerable empowerment and basic social activities.

He is always very calm even when under a stressful situation. Above all, he is a devoted father and a caring husband to his brainy and beautiful wife.

Once again, I salute a worthy big brother and a distinguished Nigerian. We rejoice with you and your wife, may your shadow never grow less. May your reign as Aare and Yeye Aare of Iwoland be fulfilled and your future, bright and beautiful with good health and much more happiness. Oye Amori ooo.

Jamil ‘Mobolaji Eniola
President UI Alumni Global Network
President/Founder Hen & Associates/ Hen Foundation

An Honour well deserved – Princess Adebowale Odutola

My darling brother (Bashorun Dele Momodu) and his adorable jewel of inestimable value (Chief (Mrs) Bolaji Momodu), I felicitate with you both on your Chieftaincy as the Aare Tayese & Yeye Aare Tayese by Oba (Dr) Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi Telu 1, Oluwo of Iwo.

I pray that God’s blessings and protection will be upon you and your family.
Congratulations!

Best Wishes,
Princess Adebowale Odutola.
COO/ Creative Designer.
TPS LUXURY LTD.

THE BASHORUN AND AARE OF THE WORLD – Otunba Bimbo Ashiru

Hearty congratulations to you my dear brother, Bashorun Dele Momodu, and your darling wife, my dear sister, Chief (Mrs) Mobolaji Momodu, on the conferment of the high chieftaincy titles of Aare and Yeye Aare Tayese of Iwo land.

This is a well deserved honour. It reminds me of the song Evangelist Ebenezer Obey sang for your Mentor (late Chief MKO Abiola), “ki a to fi enia je oye larin ilu oni lati je eni rere”.

Once congratulations to you and your beautiful wife on this great occasion.

My family and I rejoice with you.
“Oye a mori o” Amin.
Otunba Bimbo Ashiru

Congratulations Chief Momodu – Abdullahi Sa’i’du Baba

I wish to felicitate with you on your conferment as the Aare Tayese of Iwoland and your wife, Yeye Aare Tayese of Iwoland.

I received the news with great joy and happiness. It is my most noble desire that the Almighty God will continue to grant you good health, even as he guides and prospers you in fulfilling many more years of profitable service to humanity.

I humbly and sincerely congratulate you on this great milestone and pray Almighty God in his infinite mercy guide and protect you throughout your stay on earth.

I thank also the Oluwo of Iwo Kingdom, Oluwo Abdulrasheed Akanbi for such a worthy decision.

Congratulations Chief (Dr.) Dele Momodu.

Abdullahi Saidu Baba (Hafizi)

Bob Dee, a quintessential media Guru – Princess Aderemi Adebowale

Congratulations to the quintessential media Guru, Dele ‘Bob Dee” Momodu on your conferment as the Aare of Iwo kingdom.

Your entire life has been one big, exciting and inspiring tutorial on success garnered on the back of great vision, purpose, integrity and fervent patriotic fervour.

The dynamism of the Nigerian media and freedom of the press were achieved on the back of great sacrifices made by you and other seasoned and committed professionals with undying love for the sector, just of course as the entertainment terrain has enjoyed tremendous leaps owing to the salient contributions by gurus like you.

The political and investment climates in the country are not left out of your Midas touch as these sectors have also witnessed remarkable strides owing to the creative and invaluable input of men and women like you, whose dedications to people-oriented causes and love for humanity have brought immense value to the socio- economic, political and cultural landscape of the country.

The entertainment sector is one that has over the years witnessed exponential growth, being also a terrain you hold sway in, and which has a strong affinity with you. Today the prime places of Ovation International magazine, Ovation Carol, The Boss Newspaper, Ovation TV as well as other weights you pull in several other areas of investment and humanitarian inclination all butress your unbridled commitment and desire to meaningfully contribute to the growth of the Nigerian economy.

As a person with a kind heart, unassuming nature, friendly mien and integrity, you remain a role model and a shining light in the country, for which you are admired and respected for.

It is no surprise then that you have been chosen to be coronated with the crown, the Aare of Iwo Kingdom for which I heartily congratulate you and join others in felicitating with you on the remarkable milestone.

Princess Aderemi Adebowale

Tribute to a Quintessential Statesman – Raymond Nkannebe

Chief Dele Momodu represents the best of us in many ways. As a man he has proven by the sheer force of example that hard work and diligence are indispensable tools to life’s success and accomplishment.

As a Journalist par excellence of Ovation Magazine fame, he has told the Nigerian story from various perspectives; deploying the famous Ovation Magazine in particular to tell the story of the nouveau rich in the Nigerian society since its inception over two decades ago. I had caught on with his writings in the ThisDay Newspapers as a young undergraduate and suffice to state that I instantly fell in love with the man behind the pen whose eclectic writings helped to shape my understanding of the Nigerian polity before I ever attempted to be a contributor to the national question. I have always looked up to his famous Pendulum Column every Saturday on the back page of the ThisDay Newspapers where he wrote in his characteristic elegance on various issues including but limited to governance, politics, education, philosophy, culture, and entertainment.

He proved to be a mentor, and one with an uncanny interest in seeing others rise to their full potentials when on the 19th of June, 2018 he graciously afforded me the privilege to be published in The Boss Newspapers which he publishes. I had simply tweeted at him on that day, asking for a follow back, as I’d like to discuss something with him. Lo and behold, he did follow back, and much to my surprise. Conscious of his rather busy schedule, I knew I had to be brief and succinct in making my case. I needed a platform at the time, to take my writings to a larger readership and I found in the Boss Newspapers, one. This much, I articulated in that short message to him. “Please send your number”, he replied, and went further to introduce me to the Editor of the publication—Mr. Eric Elezuo. “Please tell him you’re from me”. He concluded. That was how what has been a Mentor-Mentee relationship began even though I am yet to personally meet him, on account of his frequent travels and tight schedules. That chance event bears eloquent testimony of Bob Dee’s distinctive persona and which has made him a source of inspiration to many young Nigerians.

Indeed, his well deserved conferment of the prestigious title of Aare Tayese of Iwo Land, by His Royal Majesty, Abdulrasheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo; and his beloved wife, Mobolaji Abiodun Momodu, as the Yeye Aare Tayese of Iwo Land, all together answers to his dynamic ability to influence and drive positive change through his numerous undertakings.

As an embodiment of Yoruba history, culture and civilization, I have no doubt that the traditional and spiritual essence of this title would not be lost on him, and we can all expect that he would, in his typical manner, deploy it in the best interest of the people of Iwo Land, the Yoruba Nation, and Nigeria at large.

Raymond Nkannebe, Lawyer and Public Interest Commentator.

FOR DELE MOMODU, HONOUR WELL DESERVED – Ichie Azuh Arinze (KSM)

And I will tell you why – Bashorun Dele Momodu is certainly not the most privileged Nigerian, but he’s undoubtedly one of the biggest promoters of our country, our people, our possibilities and our rich culture.

Rarely seen in foreign attires these days, Bob Dee, like close friends affectionately call him and his Ovation brand have done for Nigeria, especially our image, what some government officials who pocket millions of taxpayers’ money for that job can never, never do.

An unusual patriot and one of the most hardworking souls I’m privileged to know, doing good flows naturally in his blood.

As a prodigiously creative mind, he’s constantly reinventing himself and breaking new grounds. Unafraid to speak his mind, his ability to access and penetrate all those that matter and at the same time, continue to sit pretty on top of his industry, inspire proteges like us a great deal. However, it will be a disservice not to remember that this uncommon and extraordinary journalist is always working for a better and egalitarian society.

Loud and unapologetic, his brilliance is both unmistakable and unparalleled, especially in the high society where he is a Don.

A very, very emotional person, once you upset him and he pours it out, that would automatically be the end. No time for him to bottle things up, and remember old issues and wounds. Bob Dee is equally too large-hearted and cosmopolitan to unsettle his mind by looking back. For all these and more, I love and admire him and will continue to do so.

Today, as the Oluwo of Iwo, HRM Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi adds another feather to his big cap as the Aare Tayese and his wife, Chief (Mrs) Bolaji Momodu, as Yeye Aare Tayese, my prayer for him and his family is that the OVATION will continue to be louder and louder. And as our BOSS, may his FAME also continue to spread throughout the world.

Congratulations, Bob Dee and thanks immensely and immeasurably too for showing us love, hope and the way.

The recognitions, by the way, have only just begun!

Ichie Azuh Arinze (KSM)
Odenigbo 1 of Azia and Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, YES INTERNATIONAL! Magazine

The Most Detribalized Nigerian I know – Sani Sa’idu Baba

Many may wonder how Chief Dele Momodu was severally spotted and conferred many chieftaincy titles by many high profiled traditional rulers from far and near, but not me owing to the magnitude of goodwill and contacts at his disposal with which he has piloted uncountable programmes that led to human development in the country.

We are aware that all these goodwill emanated from his stupendous and unrivalled generosity that can only be compared to that of his late boss, His Excellency, Chief Moshood Kashimowo Abiola (MKO), a man that Nigeria love, admire and missed so much.

Chief Dele Momodu is a man of capacity, I know that this traditional chieftaincy title will spur him to do more for the growth and development of Iwoland. In fact, it has started already. Just two weeks ago, he solicited the repairs of the dilapidated Iwo-Ibadan road, and results immediately derived

Consequently, the conferment on Chief Dele Momodu as the Aare Tayese of Iwoland, and his wife chief (Mrs) Mobolaji Abiodun Momodu as the Yeye Aare Tayese of Iwoland, Osun State is a welcome development.

I congratulate him on behalf of myself, family and my friends, and pray that GOD will give him wisdom and the needed strength to continue contributing his quota for the advancement of Iwoland and other deserving places in general.

It would be recalled that Chief Dele Momodu has been conferred with such valuable chieftaincy titles from both Nigeria and International communities, notably Ghana and Liberia. Now about to be conferred with the seventh title.

I am very much confident that if all traditional rulers will confer chieftaincy titles to people of Momodu’s pedigree across the country, Nigeria will soon become truly united. He’s the most detribalized Nigerian I know.

We will continue to place him on a very high premium and pedestal and pray that GOD will continue to strengthen him as he moves from glory to Glory!

Congratulations Chief Dele Momodu

I celebrate with you and wish you even greater heights and acheivements.
Queendalyn Yurglee

To a Rare Mentor, Congratulations sir!

In everyone’s life, there is that special being who makes a definite impression on us. I have a companion who is just like that, my mentor. He’s just like a soaring kite. We were led by the path he took. In scorching sun, he is like a patch of shade In the endless desert, like an oasis On a bruised heart, like soothing balm he is You’ve shaped our intellect, interest and life in general We’ve learned from your views and perspectives and wealth of knowledge . You carve your name on hearts. You’ve been an inspiration to us all.

Once again, congratulations sir! It’s a well deserved title. Your selfless service and contribution to humanity has earn you this distinguished honour.

WALE BOB-OSENI

You Are Appreciated for Your Contributions

Dear Uncle and Aunty,
Congratulations on your Chieftancy titles as the Aare and Yeye Aare of Iwoland. l rejoice with you as you add another feathers to your cap, this shows that you are appreciated for your contributions to the development of this great nation and to mankind.
Ewe oye a mori ooo.
With love from Adesoji Adeyanju
Atlanta Georgia.

You are an icon of integrity and hard work – Kayode Emola

I congratulate you for the honour being bestowed on you today by the Oluwo of Iwo which epitomises the good work you are doing in the society. May you be gifted with life’s biggest joys and never-ending bliss. As you yourself are a gift to earth, so shall the best things in life continually be your lot. Thank you for the smiles you put in the faces of millions of people around the world who are inspired by your good works of your hand. You have been an exemplary and visionary mentor to me, a great leader who has dedicated his life to the service of humanity. You are an icon of integrity and hard work, as well as a great philanthropist. Your achievements and outstanding leadership qualities are worthy of emulation. Thanks once again for all your encouragement and support.

Kayode Emola

You are a man of the people – Comrade Ayodele Adewale

I congratulate you Chief Dele Momodu and your wife, Bolaji, on this historic occasion. Long may you live with all members of your family, team and loved ones to serve GOD and humanity better.

You are a very good man no doubt, fearless and productive. Your giving and loving nature is unmatched He risk all to get nothing.

You are a man of the people, and I respect you so much. The fact that you are a leader that leaves no one behind makes me look up to for that much desired inspiration. Congratulations!

A Big Congratulations to Chief Dele Momodu – Henry Ukazu

According to John Quincy Adams, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” Chief Dele Momodu, you have truly been a patriot to Nigeria and a great ambassador of Nigeria and Africa to the world. As you add a new title and feather today to your numerous caps, I pray our gracious God will continue to use you as a vessel to serve humanity.

Henry Ukazu – Lawyer, Author, & Public Speaker- New York

Headline

Nigeria’s Who’s Who Joins Otedola to Turn Sod for FirstBank’s 43-Storey New Headquarters

Published

11 hours ago

March 6, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Conducted in an atmosphere of class, beauty and wholesome networking, the event drew the likes of the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, as the special guest of honour.

Other dignitaries that graced the occasion were the governors of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; and former governor of Delta State, Mr. James Ibori.

Also joining the retinue of the first class citizens were the Ghagoury brothers; Gilbert and Roland, Senator Daisy Danjuma, Mr. Deji Adeleke, Mustapha Ndimi, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Mr. Tunde Folawiyo, Dr. Bukola Saraki, Mr. Ben Murray-Bruce, Chief Dele Momodu and a host of white cap chiefs, who represented the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiotu.

Known for its penchant for creating firsts, the Nigeria’s premier and leading money deposit bank, as well as financial institution of choice, the bank is set to deliver a state-of-the-art edifice, described as the first of its kind in Nigeria, the West African subregion, and by hindsight, in the entire African continent.

It is also reported that on completion, the edifice will house a variety of facilities that will buttress, and toe the line of the Eko Atlantic City original manuscript, and lend candour to the skyline and nightlife of the exclusive city.

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Nigeria, Mr. Segun Alebiosu, had remarked in a statement that the building is a significant milestone and an ambitious project set to be an engineering and environmental delight due to its technologically advanced, eco-friendly and sophisticated construction that would set a new standard for the financial services sector in Africa.

“The groundbreaking ceremony signifies the beginning of a transformative journey that reinforces FirstBank’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

“We are proud to mark this significant milestone in our journey towards excellence. Our new Head Office is envisioned as a world-class structure that represents our dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability.

“We believe that this development will play a crucial role in fostering economic growth and development across Africa, creating long-term value for all our stakeholders,” Alebiosu said.

The statement by the bank further revealed that the new headquarters is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring a green-certified building that reduces operational costs, and positions the bank as a leader in sustainable banking practices.

In his welcome address however, Alebiosu said that “The groundbreaking ceremony is a momentous occasion for us to redefine our commitment to position solidly as the bank for the future. Therefore, this new headquarters is not just about a modern architectural masterpiece; it is reimagining banking for generations yet unborn. It will serve as a hub for financial innovation, digital transformation, and operational excellence, ensuring that FirstBank remains ahead in an era where technology is reshaping activities.

“Situated in the heart of Eko Atlantic City, the iconic FirstBank headquarters complex, a 43-story edifice, will become the tallest building in Nigeria upon its completion.”

In his speech, the chief host, who is also the Chairman FirstHoldCo, Mr. Femi Otedola, praised the resilience of his FirstBank team, the Chagoury brothers for ‘creating land’ for Nigerians, stakeholders and the banking community, who have supported the FirstBank brand in 131 years of existence.

He noted that the gathering highlights the importance of collaboration and support from various sectors in bringing ambitious plans for the new headquarters to life.

“I appreciate the CBN for its efforts in sustaining the stability of the Nigerian financial services industry. I commend the Chagoury Group for their commitment to the infrastructural growth of the Nigerian economy. Worthy of note is that Chagoury has always been an inspiration and business model to me. I have personally felt that the creation of Eko Atlantic City is the ninth wonder of the world, coming after the eighth wonder, which is the Dangote Petrochemical City. These two wonders continue to reaffirm that Nigeria is indeed a great nation.

“To our customers and stakeholders of the bank, we must constantly be reminded that FirstBank is and will continue to be a legacy to behold. We shall continue to invest in cutting-edge technology, vibrant human capital, strategic partnerships, and customer-centric innovation that will define banking globally even as we detail our footprint across Nigeria, Africa, and the world. Thank you all for being a part of our rich heritage as we unveil this iconic building that will serve as the engine room of the bank’s next phase of dominance in the financial services sector and efforts to contribute our quota to the financial inclusion,” Otedola said.

The gathering was boosted by goodwill messages from stakeholders present including governors Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun and Aiyedatiwa. Other goodwill messages were delivered by Senator Danjuma, Mr Folawiyo, Alhaji Dangote, Mr. Adeleke and others.

In his charge, Sanwo-Olu ssaid, “First Bank, as usual, has led the way. I want to thank the visionaries who created a new city that will be Africa’s model city that all of us will be proud of. Mr. Femi Otedola, well done, well done to your board, well done to your management, and CBN Governor, thank you for the approval. We want you to give other financial institutions approval as well. There is space for them as well.”

One of the hallmarks of the event was the presentation of certificate to the FirstBank group by the Governor Sanwo-Olu, on behalf of the Lagos State government, to authorize commencement of construction.

In his keynote address however, the special guest of honour, President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, lauded the building as representing and symbolising Nigeria’s ambition and progress.

“Today we lay the foundation for a monumental structure in Nigeria’s financial landscape, the First Bank iconic tower, a symbol of our nation’s progress and ambition. This tower will stand as a testament to our economic strength and vitality. The tower, which will be the tallest building in West Africa at 40 stories upon completion, is a symbol of confidence in our country’s future. For 130 years, FirstBank has been a pillar of our economy, empowering businesses, supporting families, and driving financial innovation. FirstBank has extended its reach from Lagos to London and all around major financial centres worldwide, proudly flying Nigeria’s flag on the global stage.

tower will symbolise ambition and excellence in Eko Atlantic, an investment that consolidates Lagos as a leading financial hub and showcases the dynamism of Nigeria’s private sector.

“As president, I reaffirm our unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where significant investment and transformative projects like this can thrive through bold economic reforms, strategic public-private partnerships, and infrastructure development. We are ensuring that Nigeria once again becomes the top destination for investment,” Shettima said on behalf of President Tinubu.

The event of the day was concluded with the turning of the sod to signify commencement of building activities for the 43-storey ambitious project, which will change the landscape of the Eko Atlantic City, banking industry and architectural intelligence.

Headline

Olusegun Obasanjo: Celebrating Africa’s Influential Leader at 88

Published

3 days ago

March 4, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, arguably, is the most influential African alive. He would have been the second most influential if the Madiba Nelson Mandele still lives.

Obasanjo has transcended generations of greatness ever since he joined the army as a career soldier, fighting in the Nigeria/Biafra Civil War before testing political power as the Chief of Staff Supreme Headquarters to the then Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed, and then becoming the Head of State in 1976 following the assassination of General Mohammed. He was in charge between 1976 and 1979 when he handed over to Alhaji Shehu Shagari.

Obasanjo has been described as one of the great figures of the second generation of post-colonial African leaders, and has received praise both for overseeing Nigeria’s transition to representative democracy in the 1970s and for his Pan-African efforts to encourage cooperation across the continent. He however, remains the most senior in Nigeria’s political leadership, behind General Yakubu Gowon.

A two-terms civilian president and former military head of state, Olusegun Obasanjo, has celebrated his 88th birthday, looking fit as a fiddle, and throwing banters among protégé, associates and leaders of thought, whobare his mentees.

As usual, Obasanjo’s birthday celebration was multi-faceted, and like every other year, accommodated praises and worship, get-together and sumptuous dinner among others, thereby igniting the Obasanjo Farm home of the former leader, located in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and the awesome The Delborough in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The birthday celebrations kickstarted with a special Global Breakfast Prayer session, which was in its 61st edition, on Saturday, March 1, 2025. It was a time of spiritual renewal and upliftment with representatives from about 29 countries in attendance both on ground and virtually.

The prayer session was facilitated by the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria, South West Zone, Bishop T. Akin-Akinsanya, and moderated by Rev. (Engr.) A. Ojeshina, with prayer and worship sessionsed by the Gatekeepers Worship Team.

Much as it was a spiritual exercise, the aura of greatness Obasanjo is known for was visible as ministers of God from different nations participated in the prayers, reflecting Chief Obasanjo’s far-reaching influence and the deep respect he commands across the globe, and well as the awesome glory to God for sparing his life for 88 eventful years.

Everyone, who was given an opportunity to share his thoughts about the African leader spoke glowingly, acknowledging Obasanjo’s role in fostering diplomacy, African development, and visionary leadership. Notable among these ministers that attended were Ven. O. Ogunremi from Kenya, Pastor M. Nwanegbo from Belgium, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, Bishop E. Adekunle, Rev. Mother Esther Ajayi, Apostle M. Oluwajoba from the United States of America, Dr. Juliet Hammond from the United Kingdom, and Bishop David Bakare.

The following day, the party shifted to Chief Stanley Ugochukwu’s The Delborough on Victoria Island where the creme de la creme of the society gathered to fete the octogenarian. They young entrepreneur was also present at the event.

Dignitaries at the dinner included former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, former President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Koroma, Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo and Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

The event also drew an impressive lineup of business heavyweights, including Chairman of Ovation Media Group, Chief Dele Momodu; the CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema; E-Money and his brother, Kcee, and Obi Cubana, Cubana Chief Priest and renowned entrepreneur, Chief Rasaq Okoya.

The occasion underscored Obasanjo’s lasting influence in Africa, especially Nigeria’s political and economic landscape. Dignitaries, who took turns to extol the respected leader, harped on his leadership, contributions to national development, and his roles as a statesman.

Beyond speaches on the night, the event created an atmosphere of conviviality, camaraderie, networking and catching up, as distinguished guests shared fond memories, banters and experiences of working with the elder statesman. The birthday proper is scheduled for March 5.

It would be recalled that in 2024 in commemoration of the 87th birthday, Obasanjo unveiled a new book, titled: “The Art of Leading: Unconventional Wisdom from Biblical Leaders.”

In his tribute to the former president, Atiku took to his X account to share moments from the occasion, and expressed appreciation for Obasanjo, who is his former boss, and described the gathering as a momentous celebration.

“I joined others at the dinner hosted by my former boss, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, at The Delborough Hotel, Victoria Island, in Lagos,” he wrote.

Born on March 5, 1937, in Abeokuta, Obasanjo, who is arguably Nigeria and Africa’s biggest political brand, served as President of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007, during which time he played an instrumental role in bringing democracy back to the Nigeria.

His political and economic sagacity within the period has remained a reference point for subsequent administrations both in Nigeria and the African continent.

He was Chairperson of the African Union from July 2004 to January 2006, and was inducted by the UN as Special Envoy for Africa in 2008. Since then, he has overseen elections in countries across the African continent on behalf of the African Union and ECOWAS.

A man, who draws accolades, and sometimes criticisms as result of his fearless position on issues of both continental, regional and national importance, Obasanjo has received praise both for overseeing Nigeria’s transition to representative democracy in the 1970s and for his Pan-African efforts to encourage cooperation across the continent.

The Wikipedia captures Obasanjo’s personal life as follows:

Ethnically, Obasanjo is Yoruba, a cultural identification he reflected in his speech and choice of clothing. However, he always foregrounded his Nigerian identity above his Yoruba one, repeatedly stating that “I am a Nigerian who happens to be a Yoruba man. I am not a Yoruba man who happens to be a Nigerian.”

Throughout his life he expressed a preference for rural over urban life. He has been a lifelong teetotaller. He has been characterised as having a sense of discipline and duty, and emphasised what he saw as the importance of leadership. He was meticulous at planning, and Iliffe called him an “instinctively cautious man”. Obasanjo always emphasised the importance of deferring to seniority, a value he had learned in childhood. Iliffe described Obasanjo as a man with “great physical and intellectual energy” who “exercised power with skill and ruthlessness, sometimes unscrupulously but seldom cruelly”. Derfler similarly stated that, although Obasanjo could appear “boorish and dull”, he had a “sharply perceptive mind” and the capacity to be “tough and ruthless”. He had, according to Iliffe, a “remarkable capacity for work”. He was cautious with money, living modestly and seeking financial security by investing in property. He is softly-spoken.

In his sixties, Obasanjo would regularly work 18 to 20 hour days, getting very little sleep. He would start each day with prayers. Obasanjo suffers from diabetes and high blood-pressure. He enjoyed playing squash.

Obasanjo’s writings after his imprisonment reflected his commitment to Biblical literalism. He called the Darwinian theory of evolution a “debasing, devaluing and dehumanising” idea. After his release from prison his writings placed far less emphasis on traditional culture as a guide to morality, calling on fellow Nigerians to reject much of their pre-Christian “way of life”. Iliffe noted that Obasanjo’s born-again Christianity was “strikingly orthodox” and was aligned with Orthodox Pentecostal teaching. He rejected the prosperity gospel that was taught by some Pentecostalists in Nigeria.

Providentialism also became a key part of his worldview after his imprisonment.

In addition to a variety of other chieftaincy titles, Chief Obasanjo is the holder of the title of the Olori Omo Ilu of Ibogun-Olaogun.

A prolific writer and author of many books, Obasanjo is not a stranger to awards and honours as he has them in endless list.

A father to many children, including Iyabo Obasanjo, one of his children, Adeboye Obasanjo, took after him, and is presently a Brigadier General in the Nigerian Army.

Headline

Natasha’s Allegation: I’m Innocent, Says Godswill Akpabio

Published

3 days ago

March 3, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

This is not the best of times for Nigeria’s number three citizen, and President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, as accusations of sexual and moral malfeasance has been leveled against his person by the Senator representing Kogi Central senatorial district, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Natasha is the wife of a former governor of Delta State, Mr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.

Natasha had clashed with Akpabio on February 20, 2025, when she protested a reassignment of her Senate seat, sparking a heated plenary confrontation. The incident, rooted in a reshuffle following defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), led to her referral to the Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions Committee on February 25 for disciplinary review. The move prompted her to seek legal redress against Akpabio, demanding N100.3 billion as damages for infringement on her fundamental human rights, at the FCT High Court.

Natasha’s damning accusations came soon afterwards, and were broadcast live before millions of television viewers across the nation and beyond on the Arise News Channel. Ever since, the media space has not been the same with divergent voices taking sides, and queuing behind the two senators, depending on either reasoning, sentiments or alliance.

Speaking a matter of factly, Mrs Uduaghan narrated what appears to be a tale out of school holding Nigerians spellbound at how a ranking public officer would descend to the level of asking another man’s wife for sexual gratification, and victimizing her at her refusal.

Natasha claimed that Senate President Akpabio subjected her to sexual harassment and subsequent victimization after she rebuffed his advances.

But since both gladiators belong to different parties, the matter has since developed into a political firestorm with a majority of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) calling for Akpabio’s probe and resignation, while the members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has remained more silent and condemning of the Kogi Senator.

The Senate President, yet embattled on the physical side, had had his various camps coming out in staunch defence of his integrity, saying he was being lied against. Akpabio’s denial through his camp, has further fueled the ensuing public debate, and blames and counter blames.

But the Senate President, through his media consultant Kenny Okulogbo, vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them “tissues of lies” concocted by a disgruntled senator, and saying he is innocent of all accusations. He noted that Natasha’s accusations stems from her removal as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, suggesting that her claims were a retaliatory smear campaign.

“She is just angry because she was removed as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content,” the Aide opined

Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan unveiled that her troubles with Akpabio began in December 2023 during a visit to his residence in Akwa Ibom State. The visit, which coincided with celebrations for their shared birthday, turned uncomfortable, according to her, when Akpabio allegedly made inappropriate advances.

The Kogi Senator further said that the Senate President held her hand while showing her around his home, with her husband trailing behind, and suggested she spend “quality time” with him there, implying a romantic liaison.

“He said, ‘Now that you are a Senator, you are going to create time for us to spend quality time here and you will enjoy it,” she recounted.

She added in her allegations that Akpabio’s harassment continued in the Senate, where he reportedly blocked her motions, with special reference to the Ajaokuta Steel Company in her district unless she acquiesced to his demands. She described a specific encounter where, after being advised by colleagues to meet him privately, Akpabio told her, “Natasha, I am the Chief Presiding Officer of the Senate. You can enjoy a whole lot if you take care of me and make me happy,” and quoted the Senate President, equating her situation to “a student being punished by a lecturer for refusing to sleep with him.”

She categorically stated that her refusal led to persistent marginalization, including a recent seating dispute, which uncovered the can of chill crawling worms, and even saw her being referred to the Senate’s Ethics Committee.

The Senate President’s office was prompt, amd shortly after the revelation, released a statement that dismissed the claims as baseless, alleging they stem from Natasha’s frustration over her removal from a key committee post.

While recalling that in 2020, Akpabio was involved in similar misdemeanor when he was slapped by a former Acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mrs Joy Nunieh, when he was the Minister of Niger Delta Affair for sexually assaulting her, most Nigerians have faulted the Senate President, saying he may have the capacity to behave inappropriately with the Kogi Senator.

It was also through Arise News interview that the former NDDC boss made her disclosure, stating boldly that that she is the only Nigerian woman who has slapped the then minister. The incident, she said, happened at his guest house in Abuja.

“Why did he not tell Nigerians that I slapped him in his guest house at Apo? I am the only Ogoni woman, the only Nigerian woman that has slapped him. I slapped him because of his plan B. Since he couldn’t get me to take that money, he thought that he could come up on me.

“He didn’t know that I’m a Port Harcourt girl. Port Harcourt girls are not moved by money…by somebody telling me that he will make me the substantive MD. Akpabio’s meetings with me were either at Apo or Meridien…Yes, I am accusing him of sexual harassment,” Nunieh boasted.

But instead of prosecution, Akpabio became the Senate President, the nation’s third most powerful person.

Natasha and Akpabio however, apart from a a history of undeveloped affair, have been embroiled in cat and rat imbroglio before the present.

In July 2024, Akpabio sparked outrage by telling Natasha not to speak like she was in a “nightclub” during a plenary session, a remark that was frowned at and labeled the first among equal Senator as a misogynist. He ate the humble pie however, when he was forced to apologize to Senator Natasha and following a public backlash from Nigerians, motably, women’s groups.

But while Akwa Ibom women have protested against Natasha for her accusations, most women groups, not including APC, whose Women leader could not categorically condemn the act, have risen to condemn Akpabio.

Among backlashes for Akpabio’s action are the ones from the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and former Senate President, Bukola Saraki. Both leaders advised Akpabio to step down, and face a disciplinary committee.

The incidents of harrassment, both present and past, has placed Akpabio on the radar of one is averred to the progress of women.

But the Senate President’s wife, has stood up for her husband, describing him as a disciplined man, who can do what he has been accused of. She dismissed Natasha’s allegations as lies, dragging her to court for N250 billion damages.

As divergent opinions continue to thrive in the public space with the Senate declaring that they will do about about the matter until a petition is brought before it, Natasha’s allegations remain allegations until proved.

If and when the matter is finally brought for adjudication, it is obvious that a head or heads will roll. Akpabio, as Senate President, may likely lose his power, influence and position if Natasha’s allegations is proven to be accurate. But if on the other hand, Natasha’s allegations happen to be, as some said, a mere figment of her imagination, her slim political relevance will crash like a pack of cards.

Someone, who craved anonymity had chipped in that come what Natasha’s end as a senator is fast approaching.

“If she manages to complete this particular tenure, she’s definitely not coming back; the powers that be will ensure that,” he said.

The story is developing, and though the Senate and Senate President feel upbeat, the consequence will be dire if Akpabio is found culpable.