Events

Nigerians Celebrate Life and Times of Major General Adefope

Published

4 years ago

March 18, 2022

Eric

Nigerians from all walks of life, including friends and family members, gathered to celebrate the life and times of Major-General Henry Edmund Olufemi Adefope.

The event, which witnessed the gathering of eminent citizens, was put together by his family members and also saw the coming of his children and grand-children to Nigeria.

Eminent Nigerians present at the event include Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Prof Bolaji Akinyemi, Otunba JK Randle, Pastor Wale Adefarasin and Prof Anthony Kila.

Leading the eulogy during the memorial event and unveiling of the book, titled: “Major-General Henry Edmund Olufemi Adefope: A Legacy of Honour,” in Lagos on Thursday, was his first daughter and second child, Justice Olubola Adefope, who spoke on the topic: “A Legacy of Honor.” She described Maj-Gen Adefope as “A cherished child among his siblings.”

Saying that her father was “a man who was at peace with his life,” she added that the major general “Loved Nigeria with a passion and hated the endless pursuit of money.”

She said that her father had so much love for his family that “he decided to change his carrier to suit his family.”

The Judge described her father as a man who loved nature.

Corroborating Maj-Gen Adefope’s daughter was a retired Deputy Director of Sports, Usman Mamman Gora, who in his speech, described Maj.-Gen. Adefope as “A man who was committed to sports development.”

Describing Maj.-Gen. Adefope as a family friend, Gora said: “He picked me from nowhere in 1972 and made me who I am today. The late general was a mentor and a friend.”

He described Adefope as “One of those Nigerians that we have every reason to celebrate today.

“He was a man of integrity, a personality that can be reckoned with anywhere any day.”

Gora noted that Maj.-Gen. Adefope vowed to develop sports in Nigeria, while completing the stadium in record time.

Describing the late major general as being “Very approachable, fully committed to achieving testimonies,” Gora said that “Adefope provided purposeful leadership in national sports. He saved the face of Nigeria during the Olympics.”

Also, Nigeria’s renowned chartered accountant, JK Randle, who reviewed the book, titled: “Major-General Henry Edmund Olufemi Adefope: A Legacy of Honour,” described Maj.-Gen. Adefope as “An officer of the Nigerian Army and a gentleman to the core.

“He was a man of many parts. He was a combatant. He lived a fruitful life. He labored steadfastly and endlessly to lead a Christian life of service and worship, remaining transparent in the

work of the lord. He was a jack of many trade and master of the trade.”

In his tribute to the major general, Dr. Issa Aremu, General Secretary of the National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria (NVTGTWN) and vice president of the Industrial All Global Union, described Maj.-Gen. Adefope as “A mentor and a statesman in the true sense of the word. He was the most sustainable and constructive minister in Nigeria.

“He was the first number-one labour man and the labour administration, under the late major general, was the most remarkable.”

Noting that Maj.-Gen. Adefope made a great impact in labour matters, Aremu said: “His legacies are the most impactive and most constructive that I have ever known.”

Aremu noted that events, which took place under the major general were very remarkable.

“The first one is that before he became a minister, the first generation of unionists tried to have one labour centre. The four major unions including UFC, and others, were trying to form a second one and General Adefope put his feet on ground and brought these four centres together, which produced the NLC that we have today,” Aremu remarked.”

The second legacy that Maj.-Gen. Adefope left in NLC, according to Aremu, was to build a financially independent trade union movement.

According to Aremu: “It was during his tenure that we had an automatic check-off in which workers paid their union dues, which built financial independence for the union. This also made trade unions not to be dependent on foreigners who used to influence them.”

Third legacy, the labour unionist said, was that Maj.-Gen. Adefope brought restructuring, which led to the consolidation of industrial unions. “He brought trade unions together during his time. He believed that trade unions must be well equipped, well informed and that led to the creation of Michael Imoudu Labour Institute in Ilorin, Kwara State. It has built capacity over the years for the working people,” Aremu remarked.

He remarked that Adefope facilitated the independence of the trade unions, adding: “He was well educated, well informed and this led to the creation of Michael Imodu.”

Also, at the event, the Director, Centre for International Advanced Professional Studies (CIAPS), Lagos, Professor Anthony Kila, while answering questions on what the intervention of the late major general would have been as regards the Russia-Ukraine Crisis, noted that the two warring parties would “Need Like Of Adefope To Refrain From Going Trigger”.

Prof. Kila said that if Major-General Adefope were to be alive, “At a time like this war, Adefope would have advised the two warring countries to embrace dialogue, as nobody needs to carry a trigger.”

Commending the major general for possessing the qualities that make a man, Prof. Kila said: “Adefope had education, exposure, experience, and the environment. Those are the four things that make a man overall. Adefope brought in the Man Adefope.”

Saying that Adefope never fought or rushed for any recognition, Kila added: “Adefope was a man who did his job and went home.”

Managing Director, Business Travels, Funlola Adefope, who is also Maj.-Gen. Adefope’s grand-daughter, described him as a meek man, whose character should be emulated by all. “He wasn’t arrogant,” Funlola added.

A U.S.-based medical doctor, Dr. John Mabayoje, described Maj-.Gen. Adefope as “A man who was gifted with wisdom and steady common sense”, adding that Adefope has good public comportment, as well as a man who knew how to handle crisis.”

Dr. Mabayoje said that with Adefope’s love for public service, the major general “incorporated rural service for medical doctors.”

Events

Elegance, Accolades As Silverbird Holds 2025 Man of the Year Awards

Published

5 days ago

March 21, 2026

Eric

By Ruth Akpan

There are evenings that pass as mere social gatherings, and then there are those rare, defining moments when influence, prestige, and national significance converge to create a spectacle that lingers long after the lights dim. The 20th edition of the Silverbird Man of the Year Awards belonged firmly to the latter. It was an evening where legacy shook hands with glamour and where Nigeria’s finest assembled not just to be seen, but to be celebrated in a grand tradition that has, over the years, become a benchmark of excellence.

The iconic Eko Hotels and Suites played host to this remarkable gathering, transformed into a theatre of elegance, as a stream of impeccably dressed guests glided onto the red carpet in a dazzling parade of style and sophistication. Each arrival added to the electric energy of the night, setting the tone for what would unfold as an unforgettable celebration of achievement.

Proceedings began with the recitation of the National Anthem, a unifying prelude that anchored the ceremony in patriotism. Shortly after, Ben Bruce, Chairman of Silverbird Television, delivered a stirring welcome address, reflecting on the vision behind the awards and reiterating its commitment to celebrating Nigerians who embody excellence, innovation, and national relevance.

As the evening progressed, the spotlight turned to the distinguished recipients whose achievements have set them apart as torchbearers of excellence. In a moment that drew resounding applause, Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State, was announced as the Silverbird Man of the Year 2025, a recognition that celebrates his impactful leadership and growing influence on the national space.

Equally compelling was the conferment of the Extraordinary Personality of the Year Award on Dave Umahi, whose contributions to infrastructure development continue to redefine Nigeria’s landscape. The Governors of the Year category were bestowed on Caleb Mutfwang and Abba Kabir Yusuf, both recognised for their distinctive leadership strides within their respective states.
Meanwhile, Festus Keyamo was recognised as Minister of the Year, underscoring his strategic role in revitalising Nigeria’s aviation sector.

One of the most poignant highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to the legendary Joke Silva, whose enduring influence in theatre and Nollywood has not only shaped generations of performers but has also elevated the global perception of Nigerian storytelling. In a moving tribute, several departed national icons were also honoured posthumously, their legacies etched in the nation’s narrative.

In celebrating creativity and industry innovation, Omoni Oboli and Ayo Makun were presented with the Trailblazer Awards, recognising their sustained influence and ability to redefine the contours of Nigeria’s entertainment scene.

Beyond the accolades, the evening unfolded as a rich tapestry of culture and entertainment. The stage came alive when music star 9ice delivered a captivating performance, his unmistakable sound igniting the hall and drawing guests into a moment of shared joy and rhythm.

True to its reputation, the event drew a remarkable constellation of dignitaries, including Senator Ita Giwa, Secretary to the Lagos State Governor, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, media icon Prince Bisi Olatilo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and Aremo Olusegun Osoba, alongside a distinguished assembly of legislators, ministers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and key stakeholders from across the nation.

Photos: Funmi Ilelabayo

Events

Champion Newpaper Celebrates Excellence at 2025 Awards

Published

6 days ago

March 20, 2026

Eric

By Ruth Akpan

The ambience of Eko Hotels and Suites was nothing short of enchanting, as an air of refined sophistication and quiet grandeur welcomed an elite gathering of Nigeria’s most influential personalities, all assembled for an evening where excellence would take centre stage. It was a setting that perfectly mirrored the significance of the occasion – an extraordinary night dedicated to celebrating brilliance, resilience, and the enduring impact of those whose contributions continue to shape the nation’s story.

With every detail meticulously curated to reflect prestige and purpose, the 2025 Champion Newspapers Awards unfolded in a blend of glamour and gravitas. The event drew a remarkable cross-section of society—seasoned statesmen, captains of industry, financial powerhouses, media executives, and emerging innovators—each united by a shared commitment to national development and excellence.

At the heart of this remarkable gathering was the visionary leadership of Dr. (Mrs.) Nwadiuto Iheakanwa, the Group Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Champion Newspapers Limited. With poise and an unyielding dedication to journalistic integrity, she has continued to position the awards as a prestigious platform that not only recognises achievement but also inspires a culture of excellence across sectors. Her stewardship was evident in the flawless orchestration of the evening, as every segment reflected a deep appreciation for merit and impact.

Anchored on the theme of resilience, integrity, and service, the ceremony carried a deeper resonance that extended beyond celebration. In a time when institutions are tested and leadership is constantly scrutinised, the awards stood as a reassuring reminder that excellence remains alive—and that those who embody it deserve to be celebrated with distinction.

Among the evening’s most celebrated honourees was Hon. Akarachi Amadi, who emerged as Legislator of the Year. His recognition was not merely ceremonial but rooted in substance, highlighted by an impressive record of legislative productivity, including the sponsorship of 38 bills. His achievement underscored the vital role of purposeful representation in strengthening democratic governance and advancing national progress.

In the financial landscape, Access Bank Plc once again affirmed its dominance and innovative edge by clinching the coveted Bank of the Year award. The institution’s sustained growth trajectory, customer-centric approach, and strategic expansion have firmly established it as a leader in Nigeria’s banking sector. Complementing this corporate triumph was the well-deserved recognition of its trailblazing Managing Director, Adaora Umeoji, who was honoured as Banker of the Year. Her forward-thinking leadership and transformative influence continue to redefine excellence in the financial services industry.

The spotlight also shone brightly on the maritime sector, as the Nigerian Ports Authority emerged as Outstanding Agency of the Year. Under the strategic guidance of Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, the agency has embraced innovation through smart maritime logistics initiatives, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and reinforcing Nigeria’s standing in global trade networks.

In the realm of corporate communications and brand management, Austen Osokpor of Ecobank Nigeria Limited distinguished himself as Media Manager of the Year. His strategic acumen and ability to shape compelling narratives have elevated corporate storytelling, positioning his organisation at the forefront of impactful communication.

The evening was also a fitting tribute to legacy and longevity. Prince Feyisayo Soyewo was conferred with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition reserved for individuals whose lifelong contributions have left an indelible mark on the business and social landscape. In the insurance sector, Prestige Insurance Brokers was celebrated as Most Outstanding Insurance Broker of the Year, in recognition of its unwavering commitment to excellence, professionalism, and client satisfaction.

Adding a refreshing layer of youthful dynamism was Machuku, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Yukon Group, who was celebrated as Young Innovative Industrialist of the Year. His recognition served as a powerful reminder that the future of Nigerian enterprise lies in bold ideas, forward-thinking approach, and fearless ambition.

The ceremony was further elevated by the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including former Ogun State Governors Otunba Gbenga Daniel and Aremo Olusegun Osoba, whose reflections not only applauded the resilience of Champion Newspaper, but also underscored the critical importance of steadfast journalism in navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.

Photos: Ken Ehimen

Events

Wife’s Death: Mourners Throng Former Ovation Editor, Mike Effiong’s Home in Commiseration

Published

1 week ago

March 16, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

It has been a solemn atmosphere as a crowd of mourners continues to throng the Ogba, Ikeja home of Mr. Mike Effiong, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State (Lagos Liaison), Umo Eno, and immediate past Editor of Ovation International Magazine, following the death of his wife, Oluwakemi.

Kemi, as she is fondly called, died Friday night after succumbing to fatal injuries following a gas explosion in their home, as confirmed by her husband, Mr Effiong, in a statement on Saturday.

KEMI HAS GONE TO BE WITH THE LORD

It is with a deep sense of sadness and loss that I, on behalf of the James, Oyediran, Ojikutu, and Macaulay families, announce the passing of my very dear wife, OLUWAKEMI OYETEJU JAMES.

She was my bestie, dotting mother of our lovely biological children, Kufre and Aniete, and several other non-biological children, wonderful friends, aunts, cousins, and sisters.

Kemi exemplified her name. She was caring to a fault, hard when need be, and a philanthropist extraordinaire.

She passed after battling for weeks following a domestic accident. We are devastated, but we know that God knows best and she is in a better place.

We request your prayers during this incredibly difficult moment of grief.

May God continue to protect us all.

Michael Effiong James
Senior Special Assistant (Lagos Liaison) to Akwa Ibom State Governor

Among prominent callers to the home of the veteran journalist to commiserate with him are Chairman/CEO, Ovation Media Group, Chief Dele Momodu; Senator Tokunboh Afikuyomi, Representative of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Inemesit Eno; Mr. Funsho Adeagbo, Ken Caleb-Olumese of Niteshift, Members of the Rotary Club, Members of the 9JC and other professional bodies, the Ovation Family led by the Editor, Mr. Eric Elezuo, Nollywood Practitioner, Kunkle Afolayan, Azu Arinze, Gbenga Adeyinka, family members, friends, colleagues and a host of others.