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Adedeji Adeleke: Celebrating a Philanthropist at 67

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By Eric Elezuo

At 67, he still remains one of the most sought after personalities with the milk of human kindness. His philanthropy reverberates across the length and breadth of the African continent, and with a net-worth of over 1.7 billion in United States of American dollars, it is not hard to imagine that the erudite scholar and reputed oil and real estate magnate, Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, is a force to reckon with in the Nigerian socio-political and economic terrain.

To many, he is the hitherto unknown ‘Baba Olowo’, as represented by his son, David Adeleke, in his hit song, Emi Omo Baba Olowo, to many others, he is just the father of one of Nigeria’s successful musicians, Davido, and to many others, he is the pathfinder that has helped in paving a path of fruitfulness for the Adeleke family in particular, and the people of Osun State in general.

Ebullient and renowned, Dr. Adedeji Tajudeen Adeleke, a native of Ede in Osun State, was born on March 6, 1957 in Enugu State, to Ayoola Raji Adeleke and Esther Nnenna Adeleke. Growing up with his maternal grandmother, fashioned in him the distinct features of Nigerian-ism thus becoming one of the few Nigerians, who are privileged to savour the true Nigerian originality, boasting of two physical ethnicities – Yoruba and Igbo.

Adeleke’s linage is blessed as his siblings are also movers and shakers of the Nigerian political and economic environments. His elder brother, late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, was the first civilian governor of Osun State, and his younger brother, Senator Ademola Adeleke, is the present governor of Osun State.

Fondly called Deji by family members and loved ones, and Chairman by friends and associates, Dr. Adeleke, whose father was a renowned labour leader and activist, in addition to being the Balogun of Ede land and one time Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is many things one.

Tapping from the Igbo background of his beloved mother and the Yoruba originality of his father, Dr. Adeleke has overtime showcased qualities that stood him out as a believer in the oneness of the country, Nigeria.

Dr. Adeleke lived his early life in Enugu, where he developed inert abilities to mastering business craftsmanship, before moving to Ansar-Ud-Deen Primary School, Surulere Lagos, for his primary education. Thereafter, he proceeded to Seventh-Day Adventist Grammar School, Ede where he graduated from in 1975, obtaining his West African School Certificate in flying colours.

His brilliance, coupled with opportunities, created a leeway for him thereafter to proceed to Western Kentucky University in the United States of America where he distinguished himself in academics and other endeavours, and graduating with a Bachelors degree in Finance in 1979.

A thoroughbred lover of education, Adeleke followed up his bachelors degree triumph with an MBA in 1981 and thereafter a Ph.D. in International Business from Pacific Columbia University, Mills Valley, California in 1983. It is not an understatement to say the proverbial ‘baba olowo’ is well read.

Having completed the academic trilogy, and with undisputable qualifications, Adeleke returned to serve his fatherland in the capacity of a Corps member in the National Youth Service Corps scheme; a clarion call he obeyed with all his being as a true Nigerian.

Armed and totally ready to take on the world, Adeleke ventured into the entrepreneurial world, audaciously establishing a drilling company, Pacific Drilling Company Limited which soon became the brainchild of other entrepreneurial ventures, metamorphosing into Pacific Holdings Limited, with a distinct focus on finances and investments in different sectors of the Nigerian economy, which comprises other groups of companies with diverse biases, including Pacific Energy Limited.

An egghead of no mean abilities, Adeleke is one of few academics, who holds double doctoral degrees, as he was privileged to bag a second Ph.D from the University of Phoenix, Arizona USA, where he studiously laboured for his honours.

His lofty academic sojourns have in more ways than one paved the way for him to conquer the competitive world of entrepreneurship. He is also the founder and Chairman Board of Directors of Pacific Merchant Bank Ltd which later became one of the legacy banks in the guise of present day Unity Bank Plc.

Quintessential in all ramifications, Dr. Adeleke is a philanthropist of note as his foundations and establishments speak volumes of his worth, and what he is capable of doing. Among his many foundations, dedicated to the upliftment of mankind, is the Springtime Development Foundation (SDF), a not-for-profit NGO, which has become a vehicle for the awards of scholarships at all levels of education, and distribution of medical assistance to diverse medical units across board; locally and internationally to meet the needs of needy Nigerians.

Adeleke’s SDF is also the brain behind the establishment of the prestigious Adeleke University Ede, where he is the Pro-Chancellor. In addition, Dr. Adeleke sits on the board of various blue chip companies across the globe.

Adedeji Adeleke through the Springtime Development Foundation (SDF) founded Adeleke University in Osun State ede, to ensure less privileged students have access to a quality higher education.

Adeleke is known to be not just a father in words, but highly impactful, consciously and unconsciously imparting his children and any other person that crosses his path with his Midas touch of gold.

It has been said that no one comes his way, and leaves without a meaningful impact in his life. With his SDF tool, not a few lives have witnessed a turnaround.

Dr. Adeleke is blessed with four children, two males and two females named Adewale Adeleke, David Adeleke (Davido), Sharon and Ashley Coco, from his beautiful wife, Veronica, who died in 2003, and many grandchildren. His children are living examples of his paternal influence as they all have carved a veritable niche and influence for themselves in different areas of human endeavours.

His youngest son, Davido, is a world renowned musician and philanthropist, carting away awards after awards in many areas, and luving the life of a real chip off the old block with humongous acts of giving that has left many just wondering.

He also has numerous grandchildren among whom are Imade Adeleke, Hailey Adeleke and the newest twins, who are Davido’s children.

Adeleke is a lover of life, and the good things that come with it. As a result, he owns a Bombardier Challenger 605 Business jet and a Bombardier Global Express 6000 for both classic luxury and ease of movement, as an international businessman, who is constantly on the move.

At 67, Adeleke could be described as an accomplished husband, father, nationalist and entrepreneur.

We salute your dexterity and pray for more of wealth and health and many more years of celebrations. Happy birthday a true legend!

We celebrate you sir!

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Boss Of The Week

Nkem ‘Osuofia’ Owoh: When a Legend Turns 70

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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…!

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Boss Of The Week

Siminalayi Fubara: Celebrating a Detailed Governor at 50

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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!

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Boss Of The Week

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: More Laurels for Africa’s Most Creative Woman

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By Eric Elezuo

There seems to be no end to the flow of awards, honours and laurels coming the way of one of Africa’s living legends among women, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who is the Director General of the World Trade Organization, as a result of her leadership qualities, exemplary lifestyle and societal impact.

Only last week in far away Davos, the Nigerian export to the world, and former Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, was named and crowned the ThisDay Woman of the Year for obvious reasons.

According to the Editor-in-chief of ThisDay and Arise News,  Prince Nduka Obaigbena, while presenting the award, Okonjo-Iweala qualifies as “an uncommon African who is carrying the African flag around the world showing that the African century is upon us.”

He noted that the reason behind the choice of the former Nigerian Finance Minister lies in her exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future of the WTO which saw her recent reappointment for a second term.

“To the glory of God, it is an honour and privilege in Davos today, to present on behalf of the audiences of ARISE News Channel around the world and readers of THISDAY Newspapers in commemorating our 30th anniversary, to present our 2024 ‘Woman of the Year’ award to an uncommon African, who is carrying the African flag around the world, showing that the African century is upon us. It is a privilege to present our 2024 Woman of the Year award to the head of the World Trade Organisation, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala,” Obaigbena had said while making the presentation.

Okonjo-Iweala, who is not new to awards, even with the ThisDay organisational, applauded the honours noted that “…this is very, very, very special and I promise you I don’t take it lightly.

“I’ll continue to do my best to try and represent the country, and the continent the best way I can, and to make sure that the dividends of development also flow our way.”

Madam DG’s trajectory in the journey of administration has been phenomenal, and laddened with special touches of creativity, which has consistently placed her on the pedestal of greatness.

While looking forward to celebrate 71 on June 13, Okonjo-Iweala cannot help but accommodate the outpouring of affection and respect that have trailed her performances in all offices she has occupied so far. This underscores her significant influence in global affairs and her role as a respected figure on the world stage, and serving as a reminder of the personal connections and goodwill she has fostered worldwide. She certainly deserves every accolade.

Humble and family oriented, the face of African standard is a woman full of appreciation, and do not hesitate to put her in the forefront, irrespective of her humongous achievements.

She once expressed thus: “I consider myself blessed to have a loving husband, family, friends, and well-wishers! All Glory and Thanks to God!”

Okonjo-Iweala, who for the seventh time in her meritorious career, was recognised, and named one of Forbes’s World’s 100 Most Powerful Women in 2023, is an accomplished financial expert, a former Foreign Affairs Minister, who is fond and proud of her traditional ankara attire.

It is worthy of note that Forbes is an American business magazine owned by Integrated Whale Media Investments and the Forbes family with a particular focus on business, technology, communications, science, politics, and law.

According to Forbes’ 20th annual ranking of 2024, the distinguished Nigerian Economist holds the 87th spot, moving up four spots, and surpassing South African businesswoman, Mpumi Madisa, who stands at 88th.

Okonjo-Iweala also beat Tanzanian President, Samia Hassan, who made her debut on the list at the 93rd position, alongside Nigerian media mogul and philanthropist Mo Abudu at the 98th. Her position bestowed on her the status of the most powerful woman in Africa.

Topping the powerful woman chart, however, is Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission for Impactful Policy and Budget, while Christine Lagarde, European Central Bank President, secures the second spot, with U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris following closely in third place.

Okonjo-Iweala, who shattered barriers in 2021 as the first woman and the first African Director-General of the WTO, is celebrated for her remarkable career at the World Bank, and impactful economic reforms in Nigeria.

Her recognition on Forbes’ list underscores not only her significant contributions to global trade but also her commitment to economic development, governance, and international leadership.

In 2022, “The World Trade Organization head Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, made the No. 91 of 100 powerful women in the world, and continues to play a crucial role in providing financial assistance and promoting global trade as the threat of a global recession rises.

A statement from Forbes added that Okojo-Iweala is “an economist and international development professional with more than 30 years of experience working in Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and North America.”

Also in 2021, Okonjo-Iweala was recognized by another media platform, Time magazine as one of the world’s most influential people for the year under review.

“In March 2021, she became first woman and the first African to serve as Director-General of the World Trade Organization.

“She has said she believes in the power of trade to lift developing countries out of poverty help them achieve sustainable development.

“Earlier in her career, Okonjo-Iweala served two terms as Nigeria’s Finance Minister, from 2003-2006 and 2011-2015; she also briefly served as Foreign Minister in 2006.

“She was also Chair of the Board of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance that has immunized 760 million children globally.”

According to Wikipedia, Okonjo-Iweala was born on June 13, 1954 in Ogwashi-Ukwu, Delta State, Nigeria where her father Professor Chukwuka Okonjo is the Eze (King) from the Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Ukwu.

Okonjo-Iweala was educated at Queen’s School, Enugu, St. Anne’s School, Molete, Ibadan, and the International School Ibadan. She arrived in the US in 1973 as a teenager to study at Harvard University, graduating magna cum laude with an AB in Economics in 1976. In 1981, she earned her Ph.D in regional economics and development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with a thesis titled Credit policy, rural financial markets, and Nigeria’s agricultural development. She received an International Fellowship from the American Association of University Women (AAUW), that supported her doctoral studies.

She spent a 25-year career at the World Bank as a Development Economist, scaling the ranks to the Number two position of Managing Director, Operations between 2007 and 2011. She also served two terms as Finance Minister of Nigeria (2003–2006, 2011–2015) under the leadership of President Olusegun Obasanjo and President Goodluck Jonathan respectively. She also had a stint in the external affairs ministry as minister.

She is a seasoned economist and international development expert, and sits on the Boards of Standard Chartered Bank, Twitter, Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), and the African Risk Capacity (ARC).

She is married to Dr. Ikemba Iweala, a neurosurgeon. They have four children – one daughter, Onyinye Iweala (AB, MD, PhD, Harvard) and three sons, Uzodinma Iweala (AB, Harvard, MD, Columbia), Okechukwu Iweala (AB, Harvard) and Uchechi Iweala (AB, MD, MBA, Harvard).

Okonjo-Iweala became a US citizen in 2019 after spending several decades working and studying in the United States. Among an avalanche of high class honours trailing her, Okonjo-Iweala is also the founder of Nigeria’s first indigenous opinion-research organisation, NOI-Polls. She also founded the Center for the Study of Economies of Africa (C-SEA), a development research think tank based in Abuja.

In 2012, Okonjo-Iweala contested for Presidency of the World Bank. She lost to Jim Yong Kim. Eight years in-between in November 2020, she contested the DG position of the World Trade Centre, and emerged winner.
An apostle of good governance, Okonjp-Iweala is quoted as saying: “Let’s continue to show that good governance, good public policy and a people-centered approach to work matters.”

Many has praised her leadership acumen at the WTO and her dedication to global trade issues, underscoring her impact on international relations and economic policies.

Considering her speed, acumen, productivity, proactive nature and eye for details, the end to her honours and recognitions is nowhere in sight.

We once again say a big Congratulations to Madam DG.

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