Events

Midoil Executive Chairman, Elizabeth Akintonde, Thanks God @75

Published

8 months ago

July 22, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

It was an atmosphere of bliss, candour, appreciation and attendant networking as the Executive Chairman of Midoil Refining and Petrochemicals Company Limited, Chief (Mrs) Elizabeth Omolara Akintonde (JP), pulled all stops to give herself a treat as she hit seven decades and half age.

The meticulously planned soiree kicked off at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, where a soul inspiring thanksgiving service was held to appreciate the Almighty God for seeing Chief Akintonde through almost eight decades of fruitful existence.

In his homily after a series of soul lifting hymns and songs from the red and white attired members of the choir, the Vicar and Archdeacon of Ikoyi, the Venerable Folurunso Oreoluwa Agbelusi, who led a team of officiating ministers at the thanksgiving, expressed thanks to God for sparing the life of Mama, as Mrs Akintonde is fondly called, for 75 years, in health and wealth, noting that her closeness to God, and love for humanity have contributed to her lively disposition at 75. He further enjoined congregants among whom were Mama’s very close family members, business associates, friends and colleagues, to always strive to live to please God and He will reward with longevity.

“We give thanks to God for the life of Mama Elizabeth Omolara Akintonde. Her life has been a blessing, and worthy of emulation. We pray that God continues to reward with health, more years and means to continue to affect divinity and humanity,” Venerable Agbelusi said.

In his remarks, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, The Rt. Rev’d Ifedola Senasu Gabriel Okupevi, wished Mama well in all her endeavours, thanking her for the ‘big gift’ she gave the church among many other humanitarian efforts attached to her.

The service ended with special prayers for the sustenance of the celebrant, her friends, businesses and everyone, who came to celebrate with her.

Thereafter, an exclusive and sumptuous reception was held at the prestigious The Jewel Aieda Event Centre, located at the highbrow Lekki Phase 1, where local and continental dishes including assorted beverages, served from the kitchen of Malas Foods, made continuous rounds in the brightly lit and well decorated hall.

Anchored by TV personality, Benneth Ogbeiwi, the reception started with the heralded entrance of the celebrant accompanied by a retinue of family members and friends, chiefly among them, the Selfless Christian Ladies, a group which Mama is the leader, and supported by evergreen melodies from the stable of Q-Band, which consistently serenaded the environment with soulful music.

With the celebrant seated after making a round of appreciative visitations to all the tables, exchanging banners and pleasantries with the gold and white spotlessly attired guests, a series of straight from the heart goodwill messages ensued.

Speaker after speaker, everyone agreed that Mama Akintonde has touched lives in more ways than one, and prayed that God rewards her with bountiful accolades, energy and success in all her endeavours, especially her involvement in the modular refinery project.

Leading the charge of goodwill encomiums, was her first daughter, who is the founder and CEO of Woodhall Capital and Woodhall Capital Foundation, Mrs Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu.

Speaking matter-of-factly, Mrs Hunponu-Wusu went down memory lane to reflect on the struggles that culminated into the star that Chief Akintonde is presently, saying that “my mother is a woman, who has braced all odds, and smiled through all of them”.

She recalled that Mama was everything to them while they were growing up as her children, and battled through raising them without baiting an eyelid. She consequently led the audience into a song of eulogy to the mother she adored so much.

Thereafter, the birthday cake was cut by the celebrant, surrounded by her loved ones including the children, grandchildren and a host of well-wishers.

In her vote of thanks, Chief Mrs Elizabeth Omolara Akintonde did not mince words to heap encomiums on every individual, who had in one way or another been a blessing to her all through her journey of life, especially in establishing the ambitious Midoil Refinery.

In her characteristics motherly gesture, she called out some of her staff, and enjoined the guests to help appreciate them for their loyalty.

Mama’s friends and members of the Selfless Christian Ladies were on hand to lend their voices to the enigma they believe Chief Akintonde is in her journey of contributing her generous quota to the betterment of humanity.

In the words of one of the ladies, Mrs Cynthia Toyin Momodu, “Mama is just someone you want to be with at all times. She has no dull moments, and is ever ready to teach, learn and relearn. Knowing her is an achievement,” she said.

Echoing the voices of everyone, who knows Mama, Mrs Momodu added that “My greatest wish for her as she clocks 75, is that God grants her the privilege to complete the Midoil Refinery project, which she has started, and also grant her the grace to enjoy its fruits.”

The occasion wrapped up with classical sounds bellowing from the instruments of Q-Band, and the joyous shuffling of the guests in ecstatic dance.

From all of us at The Boss, we wish Mama the merriest of birthdays, and many more years of impact on planet earth.

Events

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

Published

4 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

5 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.