Meet Alhaji Ismail Adebayo Yisa, A Visionary Leader Committed to Philanthropy and Empowerment

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

Alhaji Ismail Adebayo Yisa stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the community of Abeokuta, Ogun State. As the Chief Executive Officer of 99 Cristal Lounge and Hotel International, he has transformed the hospitality landscape while simultaneously dedicating himself to uplifting the younger generation through a multitude of philanthropic initiatives.

He is the principal of the Omo-Ade Foundation, a charitable organization rooted in the mission of giving back to the community and fostering positive change. Under his leadership, the foundation has made significant strides in addressing the needs of the less fortunate. Notably, in July 2025, the Omo-Ade Foundation provided essential food and cash empowerment support to over 500 residents of Abeokuta North Local Government Area, illustrating his unwavering commitment to community welfare and development.

Alhaji Yisa is renowned for his warm-hearted nature and deep compassion, often described as having a heart of “gold.” His relentless dedication to philanthropy is a testament to his belief in the power of community and the importance of nurturing the potential of the younger generation.

His exemplary contributions have not gone unnoticed; Alhaji Yisa is a multiple award winner, recognized both in political circles and the educational sector for his outstanding service and commitment to the betterment of society. Through his work, he continues to inspire others to join the cause of social responsibility and community enhancement.

Through his leadership at 99 Cristal Lounge and Hotel International and the impactful initiatives of the Omo-Ade Foundation, Alhaji Ismail Adebayo Yisa is not only building a successful business but also shaping a brighter future for the youth and less privileged in Abeokuta North and beyond. His journey is a powerful reminder of the change one can effect through compassion, dedication, and selfless service.

The Lagos State Government, in its continued effort to promote cultural heritage and deepen tourism footprints, has concluded plans to host the Lagos Cultural Weekend.

A three-day cultural extravaganza, scheduled to take place across multiple strategic locations, including the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Freedom Park, National Theatre, Badagry Heritage Museum, Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, and Tafawa Balewa Square, from November 14th to November 16th, 2025.

This weekend-long celebration will spotlight the richness of Nigeria’s traditions through curated events that blend history, culture, and local artistry.

Speaking on the initiative, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, noted that the event is a key part of a broader framework of the Lagos Cultural Mission.

“We aim to use the Lagos Cultural Weekend as a true reflection of Lagos culture, a herescope for tourists and visitors from across the globe to witness just how rich our culture is.

“The three days will be a cultural baptism, a deep, meaningful introduction to who we are. As a government, we now understand prioritising cultural representation as a driver for economic growth.

”On the initiative’s impact, the Special Adviser explained that it goes beyond showcasing culture, but investing in cultural artisans, talented enthusiasts, and key stakeholders to foster real engagement and growth.“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration values collaboration and inclusiveness, which is why we want to work closely with Lagosians who truly understand our culture to help us achieve these goals.

“From the historians, to creatives, curators, artisans, culinary experts, performers, fashion designers, community leaders, and traditional institutions, we need them to join us in making a lasting impact.“So that, in the end, our guests and friends from many nations will carry home an authentic story of Lagos and enriched cultural literacy,” Mr. Aregbe said.

Attendees will enjoy array of activities, including live music performances, DIY sessions, contemporary art exhibitions, traditional dance showcases, fashion shows, culinary tastings, and craft demonstrations.

Also lined up are symposiums and cultural lectures designed for tourists and enthusiasts who wish to dive deeper into the Lagos cultural identity.

The weekend will be animated by diverse local performance groups representing the rich ethnic landscape of Lagos, with a special emphasis on language, literature, and indigenous storytelling.

Lagos Cultural Weekend 2025 reaffirms the state’s commitment to building a thriving creative economy while celebrating the depth of Nigerian traditions.

Through strategic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and community engagement, this initiative will set a new benchmark for inclusive cultural programming in Lagos and Africa at large.

Lagos Cultural Mission….Preserving Our Heritage, Advancing The Future

Dangote Truck not responsible for Auchi Accident, says Eyewitness.

The Dangote Cement truck did not cause the tragic accident, which occurred on the Auchi-Okpella-Okene road, near Omega Fire Ministry in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, contrary to online reports.

An eyewitness, Audu Omale, who gave a vivid account of the accident, recalled that “a third-party truck loaded with cement was moving in the opposite direction of the Dangote Cement (DCT) CNG truck on a slopy road. The commercial truck driver lost control of his truck due to a suspected brake failure, ran into a moving vehicle, a motorcycle, and eventually crashed into the side of the DCT truck. The DCT CNG truck caught fire in the process.

“Consequently, three persons from the vehicle hit by the third-party truck lost their lives, while two persons sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. The DCT truck driver escaped to avoid a mob attack,” Omale clarified.

In a related development, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed that the accident involved two trucks, one belonging to Dangote Cement, another truck, which has not been identified, and a GLK Mercedes-Benz car.

The Edo PPRO noted that all three occupants in the GLK were confirmed dead in the hospital, while the Dangote truck caught ffirewhich was brought under control.

“I can confirm to you that three vehicles were involved in an accident in Auchi at midday: two trucks and one GLK Benz. The police moved to the scene of the accident and evacuated three occupants of the GLK to the hospital, where they were confirmed dead.

“Two of the vehicles involved were trucks, one belonging to Dangote Cement and another unidentified one. The Dangote truck caught fire and was brought under control,” Yamu stated. He added that the investigation was ongoing.