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Kola Adesina at 60: Celebrating the Subtle But Effective Leader

Published

2 months ago

September 8, 2024

Eric

By Adebola Williams

A few days ago, someone asked me to mention the top five most influential mentors in my life, I didn’t bat an eyelid when I mentioned Sir K as one of them.

One trait that all my mentors share is an enviable work ethic. They behave as though they have nothing but God and hard work. Privileges, networks and accolades are secondary to them. The work and the goal always come first. Sir K sees hard work as the true test of mettle. His story of grace to grace from Shomolu to the board room resonates deeply with my journey from Surulere and I have been privileged to glean from his incredible well of wisdom.

His work as an executive director at the Sahara Group has helped to position the multinational conglomerate as a market leader in the fossil and renewable energies industry. His impact is felt in Nigeria, where he advises on the boards of several influential companies including the largest power distribution business and the largest thermal plant in the region, serving thirty million homes and businesses in Nigeria alone. He also believes in knowledge sharing and routinely accepts opportunities to share his experience on energy-related issues with industry leaders.

Sir K has leveraged years of experience in management and business diplomacy and his Harvard and Wharton degrees to help governments across Africa devise innovative solutions to the continent’s energy problems. His contributions to the development of Nigeria’s contemporary economy are inimitable, and he demonstrates his belief in the potential of our young talent by facilitating the employment of 1,000 engineers across different functions across his organisations.

During his time as the chair of our company’s board of directors, he demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills and offered uncommon wisdom that helped us push our business to new frontiers. He was always available for meetings, punctual with obligations, available to guide in crisis, nurture in private, and promote our cause in public. When I have been at a crossroads in recent years, I have turned to him for his invaluable wisdom and his words have illuminated my path.

When we began planning his 60th birthday, he made it clear, he wanted a small and solemn celebration. It was unexpected, especially for a Nigerian man of his standing. Here, it is expected that at 60, a man should receive tributes and praises that massage his ego and exaggerate his achievements. But not Sir K. He said: “I just want people to celebrate with friends and family, I just want them and also I to have fun. I want it to be a fun night. It’s not about me or my ego. It’s just a night to thank God who has made it all possible by feasting with friends.” Well, he isn’t winning that battle but that’s his desire and it shows the kind of man he is.

Sir K has a special gift of seeing a seed and the tree it can become. Many evenings, I have been invited to his dinner table to break bread with young entrepreneurs, tech, finance, oil and gas CEOs, comedians, and musicians; some upcoming, a few established. He always surrounds himself with young people especially those he can help up the ladder.

Tomorrow at his birthday celebration, the play to be presented is by a young group in his church. When we extensively discussed options, we had many groups with a proven track record of delivering excellent performances. Sir K was emphatic that this group should do it. He said, “I want to give them a chance”. Trusting his discernment, I encouraged the committee to let them audition, and if we were unsatisfied, we would make adjustments.

And boy did they deliver! When I watched the rehearsals, this little-known theatre amazed me, and tomorrow, because of this great man’s belief, they will present before presidents, captains of industry and the high and mighty.

One shy to take centre stage, one not wanting to compete with God, one who just wants to be. I have walked into several rooms by his side where he insists I am accorded the same honour as he. He is a simple man who prefers subtlety to shows of power.

I remember one evening he had asked me to come with him to an event where he wanted me to meet a president of a country. It was a last-minute decision and he hadn’t had the time to inform the organisers. On getting there, there was a bit of chaos at the door because of the lack of prior notice. The organisers pleaded that he be seated whilst they made accommodations for me. He thanked them but refused to go in. He stood with me until arrangements were made to seat me.

This was a humbling and educational experience for me. A demonstration of the kind of consideration that has made him a friend to presidents. You would be hard-pressed to find a photo of him with a global leader anywhere on the internet, except for the rare occasions when official duties necessitate. But Sir K is a trusted advisor to many global leaders and captains of industry because he has earned their trust, proven his capacity and shown discretion.

I know this will upset Sir K, but I feel the occasion demands that I break the strict policy of silence he has about his philanthropy and talk about some of the many ways he has given back to his community. Sir K is a quiet doer, not concerned with optics, only impact. I will respect his embargo but I feel compelled to mention that his philanthropy encompasses infrastructural development, humanitarian work, education, access to healthcare, innovation and mentorship. There are thousands of us who are grateful beneficiaries of his limitless potential for charity.

Sir K is a present father to his children Oluwatimilehn, Oluwagbemisoke and Oluwafamimora, and an exemplary husband to Mosunmola, his wife. His devotion to his family and faith is only rivalled by his commitment to corporate excellence. Sir K would always say, “be nothing and God everything”. He never jokes with his prayers at dusk nor his vigils at dawn and plays an active role in his church. Unlike many, he also worships at a local church and supports all their projects. He believes that God is everywhere, but like Elijah, he hears God best where there is less noise. With national honours to his name and global recognition, I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor.

Today I thank Sir Kola Adesina for giving me unprecedented access to learn from his life, for using his candle to light mine, and for holding my hand up as I climb the ladder of life.

Today I doff my hat to a leader, a friend, a nation-builder, a mentor, and an exemplary husband and father.

Happy birthday sir and thank you!

Featured

Tunde Bakare Celebrates Legacy Year, Thanks God @70, Launches New Book

Published

17 hours ago

November 15, 2024

Eric

By Temidayo Adewole

November 11, 2023, marked a significant milestone in the life of Pastor Tunde Bakare, the Serving Overseer of The Citadel Global Community Church, as he celebrated his 70th birthday. The day was filled with gratitude, praise, and festivity, reflecting the pastor’s life of service, leadership, and dedication to God’s kingdom.

The celebration began with a heartfelt thanksgiving service at The Citadel Global Community Church. The sanctuary was packed with members of the congregation, dignitaries, family, and friends, all gathered to honor Pastor Bakare’s life and legacy.

As the service commenced, Lady Evangelist Yinka Alaseyori led the congregation in soul-stirring worship, setting the tone for a spirit-filled celebration.

Afterwards, the Bible reading was taken by Fisayo Bakare, one of the daughters of the Pastor Bakare.

The likes of Former Governor of Awka Ibom Victor Ata, Former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, Former governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba, Mr Jimi Agbaje, Professor Ibe kachuwku and many others paid glowing tributes to the birthday boy.

A short documentary of the life of Pastor Tunde Bakare was broadcast for the guests just as relatives, close friends and more special guests Pastor including Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Bishop Wale Oke, and Pastor Paul Adefarasin. They separately highlighted Pastor Bakare’s contributions to nation-building, leadership, and community development, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to serving God and humanity.

There was also prayers for the Celebrant by Pastor Oladele, Bishop Wale Oke and Rev. Dr Babajide.

There was afterwards the unveiling and launching of the Celebrant book titled “The Last But Definitely Not the Least” led by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, assisted by other dignitaries.

The vote of thanks was given by the Celebrant, Pastor Bakare, who reflected on God’s faithfulness throughout his life, sharing personal testimonies and experiences that highlighted his journey.

In his words (My father has 22 children and I am the 22nd and I’m the only one alive with 22 grandchildren).

He also said (I was trained by 3 Generals In the ministry, Pastor Kumuyi Taught me Holiness, Pastor Adeboye taught me about Faith) He emphasized the importance of gratitude, humility, and service, encouraging the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith.

After the thanksgiving service, guests proceeded to the church’s event center for a grand reception. The atmosphere was filled with joy, laughter, and warmth as friends, family, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate Pastor Bakare’s life.

The reception featured a cake cutting ceremony, gift presentations, musical performances by renowned highlife artist King Sunny Ade. and photo exhibitions showcasing Pastor Bakare’s life and ministry. Dignitaries, including politicians, business leaders, and clergy, took turns to felicitate with Pastor Bakare, praising his selfless service and leadership.

Pastor Bakare’s family members, including his children and grandchildren, presented a heartfelt tribute, expressing their gratitude for his love, guidance, and example.

In his response, Pastor Bakare thanked God, his family, and the church for their unwavering support. He reiterated his commitment to serving God’s kingdom, emphasizing that his life’s work was far from over.

As the reception drew to a close, Pastor Bakare was surrounded by loved ones, basking in the joy and appreciation of a life well-lived.

The 70th birthday celebration of Pastor Tunde Bakare will be remembered as a testament to his enduring legacy, a life marked by faith, service, and dedication to God’s kingdom.

Featured

Quality Service Delivery: Bowen’s VC Commends Globacom’s Strides

Published

2 days ago

November 14, 2024

Eric

Globacom has received commendation from the Vice Chancellor of BOWEN University, Iwo, Osun State, Professor Jonathan Oyebamiji Babalola, for consistently delivering digital services to the university over the years.

This acclamation was made by Professor Babalola during a business meeting in his office at the University of Iwo in Osun State, when he hosted a team from Globacom’s Enterprise Business Group.

The VC conveyed how much he enjoyed working with Globacom and encouraged the company to keep up its uninterrupted services to the academic community.

In order to help the university fulfill its mission of creating better products and advance the frontiers of academic development, he also asked Globacom to support BOWEN University through a number of CSR initiatives.

Speaking at the meeting, Adeniyi Odejobi, the Enterprise Business Lead, Globacom, said that the company has been a major telecommunications service provider in Nigeria, providing telephony and digital solution services for millions of people across the country as well as enterprises, small and medium-sized businesses, large corporations, public sector organizations, and universities. It is also a digital solutions company.

According to Adeniyi, Glo has been at the forefront of revolutionary changes in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector for more than 20 years and is largely to be commended for democratizing the use of telephones and telephony services across the country over the years. “Because of Globacom, every Nigerian today can afford a telephone line”, he noted.

According to Adeniyi, Globacom also evolved a good number of innovations that have aided revolutionary developments in the Nigerian telecom sector, such as Globacom’s fully owned international submarine cable, Glo 1.

In order to advance the university, Adeniyi urged it to deepen its collaboration with Glo in order to offer digital services such as Glo LMS, Toll-Free Data, and Mobility services.

Featured

Henrietta Ugboh Becomes Independent Non- Executive Director As Owanari Duke Retires from UBA Board

Published

3 days ago

November 13, 2024

Eric

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has announced the appointment of Henrietta Ugboh as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

The appointment has been approved by the relevant regulatory bodies, including the Central Bank of Nigeria.

UBA’s Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, CFR commenting on the appointment, said, “Henrietta Ugboh brings a track record of professional success, integrity and leadership, which will further strengthen the UBA Group Board, underlining once again the Group’s commitment to robust corporate governance.”

Ugboh holds a degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of Benin, an MBA from ESUT Business School, and is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School’s Executive Management Program. She has over 30 years experience in banking with Citibank and is an Honorary Senior Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria and a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration (FICA).

Elumelu added that with her considerable experience and expertise, which includes commercial banking, credit, and risk management, the UBA Board is delighted to welcome Mrs Ugboh to the Group Board, “We look forward to her invaluable contribution to the Group, as we continue to execute our unique growth strategy across Africa and globally.”

The Board also announced the retirement of Mrs. Owanari Duke, an Independent Non-Executive Director, who joined the UBA Group Board in October 2012.

During her tenure, Mrs. Duke provided distinguished leadership, serving on Committees of the Bank including the Board Governance Committee, Board Audit, Governance, Nomination & Remuneration Committee, Board Credit Committee, Finance & General Purpose Committee and Statutory Audit Committee.

On behalf of the board, Mr. Elumelu expressed UBA’s deep appreciation to Mrs. Duke for her dedication and significant contributions to the Group, wishing her the best in her future endeavour.

United Bank for Africa Plc is a leading Pan-African financial institution, offering banking services to more than forty-five million customers, across 1,000 business offices and customer touch points in 20 African countries. With presence in New York, London, Paris and Dubai, UBA is connecting people and businesses across Africa through retail, commercial and corporate banking, innovative cross-border payments and remittances, trade finance and related banking services.