Boss Picks
My Achievements, a Function of Clear Vision, Strategic Plan, Dedicated Team – Senator Ajagunnla
Published
2 years agoon
By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
While most Nigerians complain about the inefficiency of most of their representatives in the Senate, very many others are head over heels in joy and excitement regarding the humongous projects their frontliners are churning out, ranging from infrastructure development and human capacity development to sheer philanthropism.
One of such senators, who is at home with the reasons he is in the Senate, and dishing out maximum performance, is the Senator representing Osun Central Senatorial District, and the Basofin, Ajagunnla Olubiyi Fadeyi; a wholesome entrepreneur, family man and a man with an eye for details.
In this exclusive interview with The Boss, in his Abuja office, Senator Ajagunnla went down memorylane to provide answers to the myriad of firsts that make him the ceteris paribus of senatorial representation, as well as a deep reflection on his 18 months of stewardship as a senator, the magnificent launch of a Two Billion Naira Intervention Fund among a host of others.

Excerpts:
Senator Fadeyi sir, could you please start by sharing a brief of your educational background, and how it has shaped your political career?
Certainly! My educational journey dates back to my early days in Ife, where I attended the prestigious University of Ife now Obafemi Awolowo University. I followed it up with a Masters degree in the United Kingdom, and went ahead to attend the renowned Harvard School, Oxford, and London School of Economics. This great institutions have been, and make profound influence over my career trajectory.
Education for me has always been a pathway to make a difference, and Nelson Mandela’s words resonate deeply with me: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is this philosophy that motivates me daily to serve my constituents, and the broader Nigerian community, in the Senate, striving to use my platform for impactful change.
That’s really very obvious. Now, before joining politics, what was your professional journey like, and how did it prepare you for the Senate?
My career journey is a consequence of international engagements, which have taken me to over 20 countries, where I was fully engaged in financial business investment and infrastructure development in roads, bridges and deep seaport construction. These deepened my leadership and global outlook. Again, studying at the prestigious Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School and Harvard Kennedy School of Government strengthened my expertise in international business and now, in my legislative duties. As you can see, I use them to benefit my constituency and Nigeria at large.

Serving as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Communication, Trade, and Investment, I’ve leveraged my background to support substantial projects in Nigeria including the $3 billion Green Line Rail Project, the $750 million Lekki Port Access Road, the $1.5 billion Lekki Deep Sea Port investment and $1.6 billion Abuja-Keffi-Markudi-9th Mile-Enugu Dualization road project with my core partners in the last 14 years. These initiatives are bringing direct economic benefits and creating thousands of jobs for Nigerians. Each project reflects my commitment to fostering a globally competitive Nigeria through strategic partnerships and foreign investment.
What prompted or inspired your entry into politics, and how has that journey been so far?
My primary inspiration was my father; an educationist, elder stateman, Member of the House of Representatives (MHR) in the 2nd Republic under Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), representing Ila Federal Constituency, who devoted his life to mentoring young minds. His dedication to human capacity and capital development instilled in me the importance of public service.
John Quincy Adams captured it well when he said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” Although it has been a journey marked by challenges, the chance to enact and effect change for my senatorial zone and country is a privilege that makes every effort worth the while.
Your achievements notwithstanding, there will always be challenges. Kindly talk about the challenges you faced on your way to the Senate?
Like you rightly said, as with any journey to leadership, there were obstacles. Leadership isn’t always comfortable, as Martin Luther King Jr. would say: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” The road was far from smooth, with both internal and external hurdles. Yet, these experiences have strengthened my resolve and solidified my commitment to bring positive change for the people who put their trust in me.

Who are the mentors or role models that have influenced your political career?
Again, I would say my father; he is undisputed, undoubtedly a guiding figure, a mentor, a teacher who taught me that leadership is about integrity, resilience, and service. Additionally, I look up to many world leaders whose lives exemplify commitment to public good. Their examples have been instrumental in my journey.
What are your main legislative priorities for Osun Central and Nigeria?
My goal is to foster sustainable development across our communities with total consideration to the words of Franklin D. Roosevelt, who said, “The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little.” My legislative focus is on job creation, educational advancement, and infrastructure development, aiming for a future where every Nigerian has the tools to thrive.
Now, how do you respond to critics, who say the Senate is overpaid and underperforming?
I take this criticism seriously, and understand why it exists. As a senator, I believe in working with dedication, transparency, and accountability. Theodore Roosevelt said it best: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” I work each day to show Nigerians that our commitment to their welfare is genuine.

Transparency is a major concern in the allocation of constituency projects. How do you ensure funds are effectively utilized?
Transparency is essential. I am a firm believer in the saying, “Sunlight is the best disinfectant.” By involving community stakeholders, and keeping an open line with my constituents, I make sure every project is monitored, every fund spent is accounted for, and that our resources truly impact people’s lives.
Many Nigerians feel the Senate does not focus on issues affecting the common person. How do you address this?
Each time we debate in the 10th Senate, we’re representing the people’s voices, raising concerns that reflect their daily challenges. My commitment is to continue advocating policies and projects that directly address the needs of the average Nigerian, ensuring that the Senate’s work resonates with them.
How do you stay connected with the people of Osun Central?
I stay engaged through grassroots efforts and personal visits, town hall meetings, and inclusion of Royal fathers is key. This helps me to address community needs directly. Recently, we rehabilitated critical roads, installed transformers, and set up solar-powered boreholes, among other projects. By listening to, and acting on the people’s needs, I am ensuring that they remain my priority.
Balancing public service with family can be demanding. How do you manage this?
My love for my constituents is profound, but my family is irreplaceable. With their unwavering support, I am able to balance these responsibilities, always aiming to serve both my family and my community with dedication.

How were you able to achieve so much for your constituents in such a short period?
It’s all about having a clear vision, putting together strategy plan with a dedicated team. As Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” Through partnerships and teamwork, we’ve implemented projects quickly, and my commitment to human capital development, including the Ajagunnla Olubiyi Fadeyi Bursary awards has impacted over 1,650 students across disciplines and Training of 20 youths in China in Agriculture development, IT, AI, Digital Economy and CNG Conversion.
On a finally note sir, how would you react to the advocacy for their own state by the Igbomina-speaking people?
In a democracy, everyone deserves a sense of belonging. With their rich resources, from gold to marble and talc, the Igbomina people present a viable case. Our role in the 10th Assembly is to consider these aspirations while balancing national priorities.
It’s been wonderful speaking with you sir. Thank you for your time.
The pleasure is mine, Eric, thank you!
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Glo Celebrates Executive Director, Sade Michael-Adenuga at 31
Published
6 days agoon
July 1, 2026By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
Communications giant, GLOBACOM, has celebrated its Group Executive Director, Madam Sade Michael-Adenuga, as she clocks 31.

In a message via the Group’s X account, Globacom celebrated the go-getting abilities Ms Michael-Adenuga, recognising her dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment, which have continued speak loud in the growth and development of the Gbobacom Group.
The message reads:
“Today, we celebrate Madam Sade Michael-Adenuga, whose dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment continue to make a meaningful difference.
“As you mark another year, we wish you good health, happiness, and many more years of fulfilment and remarkable accomplishments. May the year ahead bring every opportunity to continue making an enduring impact.
“Happy Birthday, Madam Sade Michael-Adenuga.”
Sade Michael-Adenuga is the last daughter of the billionaire businessman, philanthropist and founder of the Glo brand, among many other business concerns.
Beautiful and highly ceregral, Sade is a certified Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. She currently serves as a Group Executive Director of Globacom Group, and is the founder of QuickLaw.
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Adeleke and Momodu: A Classic Tale of ‘Twin’ Brothers
Published
2 months agoon
May 18, 2026By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
The story of the Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Chief Dele Momodu, and the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, is one told from a multiple dimension. It encompasses passion, love, friendship, camaraderie, collaboration, and more importantly, brotherhood.
Here’s a classic tale of two individuals, who started as acquaintances, transmuted into being friends, and today has become inseparable, not just as brothers, but as ‘twin’ brothers. No wonder the Bible says, there’s a friend that sticks closer than a brother; that’s the story of ‘Demola and Dele. A typical example of Double D. A classic tale of friendship made in heaven.
Both have seen measured successes in their various fields of endeavours. Adeleke, besides being an accomplished entrepreneur, has in his own way, conquered the field of politics, having served as a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and presently serving as the Executive Governor of Osun State.

Momodu, on his part, has not in any way lacked behind. Beyond establishing and sustaining Africa’s number one celebrity magazine, Momodu is an iconic journalist, publisher, businessman and a motivational speaker, who has both working and personal relationships with many influential world leaders. He has been one shot away from the highest office in the land, having contested for the Nigerian presidency, first as a candidate in 2011, and as an aspirant in 2023.
Born same year, 1960, same month, May, the brothers have from time in memorial, shared a common bond that has given onlookers the apertite to ask more questions about their originality. But while one is from Edo State, the other is from Osun. However, the state barriers notwithstanding, Adeleke and Momodu has proved to the world what true friendship means.
Over the weekend when Momodu celebrated his 66th birthday, just three days after Adeleke celebrated his at the Government House, in Oshogbo, the Governor gladly referred to Momodu as his ‘twin’ brother, a motion that everyone readily agreed with. It is worthy of note that while Adeleke was born on May 13, 1960, Momodu was born on May 16, 1960. Friends and associates always insist that Adeleke is three days older than Momodu, and that one fact Momodu has come to live with, and joyously celebrates.

In his message at the birthday celebration, held with incisive discussion on the theme, Ignorance and The Danger of Xenophobia, at the Dele Momodu Leadership Centre, Alalubosa, Ibadan, the Governor extolled the qualities of Momodu, fondly referring to him as ‘my twin brother’. He hailed Momodu for always using his birthday to speak to the conscience of Africa, especially in the last three years.
At the event, organized by The Dele Momodu Foundation, with the theme, “Ignorance and the Danger of Xenophobia.” Speakers at the occasion condemned the rising tide of xenophobic attacks, particularly those targeting Nigerian citizens in South Africa, warning that such hostility undermines regional progress, peace, and continental unity.

DELE MOMODU – MAY 16, 1960
Dele Momodu, without an iota of doubt stands tall among those who have been diligent in businesses, and it is therefore, no surprise that he has stood, and is still standing not just before kings but with kings.
Born Ayòbámidélé Àbáyòmí Ojútelégàn Àjàní Momodu on May 16, 1960, some 63 years ago, Chief Dele Momodu as he is known in the business circle, and Bob Dee, in the social stage, is by every standard a man who is diligent in his business. And it is no wonder that he has not only stood before kings, he had and continues to dine with kings. There is practically no influential person that Dele Momodu does not know across the length and breadth of Nigeria, Africa and on the inter-continental stage. He is that large!
By every standard a rare breed, Momodu is many things in one; journalist/publisher, businessman, philanthropist, actor, politician and motivational speaker. Among all these he considers himself simply as a reporter, and even with a retinue of seasoned staff still ventures into the field to scoop exclusives. Those who have referred to him as a workaholic are not far from the truth. Even he, himself has an oft quoted line thus “those who come from poor background cannot afford to sleep too much”.
A beacon of the Momodu family, Dele, the last of three siblings, was ‘privileged’ to lose his father at the age of 13, and was therefore sentenced to the complete tutelage of his mother, and sometimes relatives. His mother became practically his mentor, teacher and soulmate until she passed away on May 18, 2007, two days after Dele’s 47th birthday. According to him, one of the many morals his mother, who he revered next to God, taught him, is never to despair even when times are tough. Even in her near poverty state, Dele maintained that ‘she didn’t give up on me.’
The accomplished journalist, whose first name was derived from Ayobamidele, meaning “my joy has followed me home”, is a proud 1982 graduate of the University of Ife, (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife) where he obtained a degree in Yoruba Language, and followed it up in 1988 with a master’s degree in English Literature.
He kicked off his professional career as a lecturer at the Oyo State College of Arts and Science in Ile-Ife, between 1982 and 1983 while serving as a corps member. He went on to become the private secretary to the former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Chief Akin Omoboriowo, a position he held from 1983 till 1985. In 1986, he was elevated to serve the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse II, managing his Motel Royal Limited.
Momodu is the proprietor of the no 1 celebrity journal, Ovation International Magazine, The Boss Newspaper and Ovation Television.
The Akinrogun of Gbonganland, who is also the Aare of Iwoland, has also been honoured with the Prestigious Value Leadership award by an organisation, Nigeria, which is a subsidiary of Moonlite Integrated Concept, among an avalanche of awards, honours and tags. Momodu us consistently praised for his admirable efforts, which have not gone unnoticed.
ADEMOLA JACKSON ADELEKE – MAY 13, 1960
Born of the Adeleke family of Ede in Osun State on May 13, 1960, Adeleke commenced his primary education at Methodist Primary School, Surulere Lagos State before he was privileged to relocate to Old Oyo State to continue his education at Nawarudeen Primary School, Ikire.
Adeleke was born Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke to a Muslim father and Nnena Esther Adeleke, an Igbo Christian mother. Like him, Adeleke’s father, Raji Ayoola Adeleke was a Senator and the Balogun of Ede land in Osun State. His father, Raji Ayoola Adeleke was also the leader of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN).
On completion of his primary education, he moved on to The Seventh Day Adventist Secondary School, Ede to begin his post primary schooling. In the later years however, he attended Ede Muslim Grammar School Ede, where he completed his secondary school education and subsequently relocated to the United States of America, joining his two older brothers, who were also studying there.
In the United States, he joined Jacksonville State University, Alabama, and studied Criminal Justice, with minor in Political Science.
To prove doubting Thomases, who wiped up controversies around his educational qualification, wrong, he went back to school and got enrolled at Atlanta Metropolitan State College in the United States, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in 2021.
A businessman and administrator of no mean repute, Adeleke was the humble Group Executive Director at his brother’s company, Pacific Holdings Limited from 2001 to 2016, where his credible performances shot the company to enviable heights; a height it is still enjoying till date.
It is imperative to note that before he joined Pacific Holdings Limited, Senator Adeleke worked with Quicksilver Courier Company in Atlanta, Georgia, US, as a service contractor from 1985 to 1989. His dexterity to work earned him a progression in career, and he berthed as Vice President at Origin International LLC, Atlanta, Georgia, US, a flavours and fragrance manufacturing company. His meritorious stewardship lasted a period of five years, from 1990 to 1994.
Not a few has described Adeleke as the philanthropic capital of Ede, as his influence in aiding the less privileged and downtrodden remains top notch. He is a voracious believer in community development, and has not spared any expense to see that his community receives global influence.
Politically, Adeleke is a beacon of light and hard nut to crack, having remained an albatross to opposing powers and a reference point to ideal administration.
Shortly after he lost his brother, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who died in April 2017, he contested the Osun West 2017 Senatorial by-election, emerging as the winner under the Peoples Democratic Party, where he decamped to from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Having emerged senator, Adeleke’s political influence waxed stronger, an on July 23, 2018, he emerged as the governorship candidate of PDP in Osun State.
Adeleke ran for Osun state governorship election under the PDP against top contenders Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola of APC and Iyiola Omisore of SDP on 22 September 2018. The election was declared inconclusive by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) while Adeleke was leading, and a rerun slated on September 27, 2018. The candidate of the APC Oyetola was declared winner after the run-off. Adeleke protested the result describing the election as a “coup”.
Much as on March 22, 2019, the tribunal sitting in Abuja declared Adeleke the winner of the election, the Supreme Court later affirmed Gboyega Oyetola as the authentic winner of the 2018 Osun State governorship election on Friday, July 5, 2019
Popularly known as the Dancing Senator because of his penchant to joyfully react to the sounds of music, Adeleke is uncle to one of Nigeria’s popular musicians, Davido.
Governor Adeleke is married to two beautiful women. They are blessed with three children who are all entertainers. They are B-Red and Shina Rambo and a daughter, Nike Adeleke. He is the uncle of one Nigeria’s primus inter pares in entertainment, Davido.
As expected, Adeleke is moving Osun State to the greatest of heights as he promised, and many who know him agree that there are still very many more in the offing even as he navigates his political prowess to win again on August 15.
These ‘twin’ brothers have become a toast of reference. They are hardworking, philanthropic in nature, and always happy.
Yes, always happy as the smiles and dance in their gaits at all times are unmistakable.
Cheers to brotherhood!
Cheers to Ademola Adeleke and Dele Momodu!
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Koumagnon Family Pledges Unalloyed Support for Romuald Wadagni As President
Published
3 months agoon
April 9, 2026By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
The Koumagnon Family and Allied Families of Seme-Kpodji, of the Republic of Benin, led by Monsieur Alberto Koumagnon, has declared their unflinching support for the candidacy of Romuald Wadagni as he steps out on Sunday to vie for the presidential seat of the Republic of Benin.
In statement of declaration, the families observed that Wadagni is propelled by a ‘vision embodied in this ambitious, realistic project, resolutely focused on the future of our country’.
The declaration is presented in full:
DECLARATION OF SUPPORT BY THE GREAT KOUMAGNON FAMILY AND ALLIED FAMILIES OF SÈMÈ-KPODJI FOR CANDIDATE ROMUALD WADAGNI

The great KOUMAGNON family and allied3 families of Sèmè-Kpodji, deeply committed to the values of peace, progress, and development, followed with particular interest the presentation, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, of the “Further Together” (Plus loin ensemble) social project by our dear candidate, President Romuald WADAGNI.
Following this important political event, and gathering on this day, 04/04/2026, we wish to express our full support for the vision embodied in this ambitious, realistic project, resolutely focused on the future of our country.
From the outset, we, descendants of the KOUMAGNON family and allied families, commend the enlightened leadership of President Patrice TALON who, faithful to his commitment to building a modern and prosperous Benin, has been able to propose to the presidential majority a competent, credible candidate who brings hope for consolidating achievements.
In this dynamic of continuity and progress, the candidacy of President Romuald WADAGNI is fully in line with the continuation of the structural reforms undertaken over several years in all sectors, particularly in infrastructure.
In this regard, we recognize and commend the many achievements of the government, especially road infrastructure, which has significantly improved mobility and living conditions for the populations of the communes of Sèmè-Kpodji and surrounding areas.
Moreover, these remarkable efforts reflect a constant determination to connect localities, stimulate economic exchanges, and sustainably strengthen the attractiveness of our territories.
Building on these achievements and firmly oriented toward the future, we are convinced of the relevance of the “Further Together” project.
Therefore, the great KOUMAGNON family and allied families of Sèmè-Kpodji give their firm, committed, and unconditional support to candidate Romuald WADAGNI, as well as to his running mate, Mrs. Mariam Chabi Talata Zimé Yérima.
In the same spirit, we call on all daughters and sons of Sèmè-Kpodji, as well as all citizens committed to peace and development in our country, Benin, to mobilize massively in support of this hopeful momentum by turning out in large numbers on April 12.
We also wish to assure our dear candidate of our commitment to mobilize widely to ensure a high voter turnout in the commune of Sèmè-Kpodji.
Together, let us continue the efforts undertaken.
Together, let us consolidate our achievements.
Together, let us go further.
Long live Benin on its path toward progress!
Long live the WADAGNI–TALATA ticket!
Thank you.
Done at Sèmè-Kpodji, on 04/04/2026
The great KOUMAGNON family and allied families
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