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Ambode : The coconut philosopher at 54, set to score more goals

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By IDOWU AJANAKU

 

The intriguing fact that Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is celebrating his 54th birthday today, the 14th of June, 2017 as the 14th governor of the famed Centre of Excellence, Lagos is no mere coincidence. It is divinely ordained; piloted by the hand of God! That indeed, underscores the significance of the noble role one’s personal relationship with God plays in shaping his destiny. This raises the salient questions: Could he have fathomed that he would clinch the elusive status of becoming a chartered accountant at the tender age of 24? Of course, not. Could he also have dreamt about the feat of clinching the number citizenship  of the commercial nerve centre of Nigeria, back in his teenage days? Not in his wildest imagination.

Here was a young man who was written off by his concerned uncle, at early  age of .That was when he expressed his desire to becoming an accountant, in response to the question  about his dream profession .” No, Akin, you are too playful, too un-ambitious to become one. You better think of something else”, the man had laughed him to the point of scorn.

But by a twist of immanent fate and more like Sir Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein and Charles Darwin, who were similarly written off in their youth,  Ambode has gone ahead  and broken the jinx!  Newton was derided by his class teacher that he, “would never amount to someone of substance”. Einstein was  described  by his Chemistry teacher as a nonentity. Darwin was told off by his own father that he would be better off as hunter of rats and rabbits! But none of them gave up.

While Newton, now regarded as the Father of Physics defied his teacher to discover the gravitational force and Einstein gave the world the Theory of Relativity and was unanimously voted TIME Magazine’s  Man of the 20th Century, Darwin broke the rules with the ground-breaking Evolution phenomenon. In a similar vein, Ambode has today become not just the governor of Lagos State, the 5th largest economy in Africa but is widely acclaimed as one standing tall, head and shoulders above his peers. As Bruce Lee(of blessed memory) , had once admonished, “great people turn their stumbling blocks into stepping stones”. From it they climb to higher heights, just like our ever amiable, humble, focused and highly determined governor has done. That is life for you and a lesson for all.

Indeed, the hand of God guiding Ambode’s life has been most instructive and inspiring. For instance, when the Ibrahim Babangida regime liberalized the banking sector, the young Ambode, then fully qualified as a Chartered Accountant saw that policy as a golden opportunity to make his mark in the private sector. He was enthusiastic about it. He was thrilled and passionate as he junketed from one bank to the other. But surprisingly, not one of them employed him? Did he fail their interviews? Not at all. So, what was really happening? Unknown to him the all-knowing God had a different career path well cut out for him.

He too had a change of heart. If the private sector was not the one for him, so be it. Ambode  focused  on his  civil service. He took off from  Lagos Waste Management Board( LAWMA) to Badagry LGA as an auditor. The chequered journey spanning 27 years took him from there to Kosofe, Alimosho, Ojo  Mushin , shomolu ,and some others, numbering 13 out of 20 LGAs. He was either an auditor or accountant, eventually rising to the enviable post of the Accountant-General of the state. What was unique about this was the fact that he became that below the age of 50. Again, like most great achievers it seems Ambode is one born to break the rules. The rest, as they say is history and an interesting one at that.

Or, how do we explain the situation that Ambode was just four years old when the state was created? What about being in the saddle as the governor when it recently celebrated 50, seen as a celebration of freedom and jubilee? This follows the Biblical dictum that: “Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings. They will not serve before officials of low rank”.( Prov. 22:29).

The hand of God is therefore, evident in all the remarkable achievements made so far in the sub-sectors of the economy such as higher inflow of the Internally Generated Revenue(IGR), unprecedented in the history of Lagos state, massive infrastructural development, transportation, education, and healthcare delivery. What about food security, employment generation and internal security? Despite the challenges he is squaring up to them with a lion heart, all because God is with him. “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Rom 8: 28).

Another significant factor that has seen to the governor’s success is being blessed with a sound, strong and solid family of his own. Both he and Bolanle, his loving wife have their lives firmly rooted in God.  Both of them seem to be made for themselves by God as they both born at EPE General hospital.She is there as a pillar of support and as one who has stood by him through thick and thin. Unkown to  many ,she is   an epitome of humility, as manifested in how effectively she treated Ambode’s support team before, during and after the campaigns for the governorship in 2015. Even as the First Lady of the state , she has carried herself with dignity.

When translated to the public service, such exemplary passion for wife and children, unqualified humility, dedication to God and duty, courage, candour and loyalty will continue to see the state rising to heights of more laudable achievements. As he rightly noted in his speech at the birthday of the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he too has become a blossoming symbolic coconut, imbued with tremendous  attributes of all the parts, useful to mankind as food and a unique plant with healing powers. He is a God-sent  leader for now and the future. For a man who has no iota of betrayal in his DNA whose youthful  energy is fully focused on fulfilling his party’s vision for the state,  Ambode is set to score more goals.

I ,therefore, wish  my boss, my mentor , my leader and our beacon bearer 54 hearty cheers and more glorious years in the service of  Lagos, God and Mankind.

 

Ajanaku, is the Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State governor
on Media & Strategy

 

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Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos

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Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos

In the pulsating heart of Lagos, the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos

stands as a beacon of unity and empowerment for female artists. This dynamic association, renowned for its diversity in musical genres, prides itself on bringing together talented women from all walks of musical life. Today, we celebrate its esteemed members, who number twenty-nine strong, each contributing uniquely to the vibrant tapestry of the Club.

 

Leading The Charge :

At the forefront of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos Club is Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola PQ1st (Omo Opeki), the President. Her leadership is a source of inspiration for many, guiding the Club with a vision of inclusivity and excellence. Supporting her is Alhaja Queen Halimot Ayinla Omowura, the Vice President, whose dedication ensures the smooth operation and growth of the association.

 

Alhaja Badirat Adunni Olaniyan (Just Like That) serves as the Treasurer, managing the financial health of the Club with precision. The Social Secretary, Alhaja Aminat Babalola Balogun (Omotayebi, Iya Kekere Eko), brings vibrancy and connectivity, fostering a sense of community among the members. Asiwaju Yeye Tosin Eniba (Fuji Queen), the Secretary, ensures that the administrative duties are handled efficiently, supporting the organizational backbone of the Club.

Valued Members :

The Club’s strength lies in its diverse membership, each woman a luminary in her own right. The following are the distinguished members of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos :

– Afonja Gbajoba

– Bisi Ewa Ogo Jesu

– Alhaja Jelilat Dupytie

– Ejire Akewi Oba

– Alhaja Aminat Itojuobi

– Alh. Fatimo Oseni Salawa Onigbongbo

– Alh. Tawakalitu Alagbada Tokotaya to nko Fuji

– Aishat Irepo Obi

– Olaleye Rahemot Arike (Akomolesin Agbaye)

– Alh. Dasola Abeke

– Ewebiyi Iya Oriki

– Ameerat Oninure

– Alh. Azeezat Otibiya

– Alh. Rukayat Bashirimi

– Alh. Mujidat Damilola

– Alh. Fatima Aljafaria, an Elder whose wisdom and experience enrich the Club.

– Alh. Taibat Omo Tayenfe

– Queen Muheenat Ijaodola

– Sakirat Yeye Oge

– Alh. Mariam Akiki Akanbi

– Queen Abebi Ayala

– Aweni Adepeju (Aweni Fuji)

– Fatimo Ajoke Cinderella

– Alh. Hafsat Sideeq, another Elder whose guidance is deeply valued.

 

A Legacy of Excellence :

The Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos is more than just an association; it is a legacy of excellence, a network of powerful voices that harmonize to uplift and inspire. Each member, from the executives to the distinguished members, plays a crucial role in shaping the cultural and musical landscape of Lagos and beyond. Their combined efforts create a symphony of collaboration and mutual support, ensuring that the future of female musicians in Nigeria remains bright and promising.

 

As we celebrate these remarkable women, we also look forward to the new heights the Club will achieve under their leadership and unity. Their commitment to their craft and each other stands as a testament to the incredible power of music and the unwavering strength of women.

Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos

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Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu

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Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu
… As Apapa Command Honours Outstanding Stakeholders

By Ifeoma Ikem

Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR has commended the Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi for the command’s outstanding revenue collection of over N2.2tr and urged him to sustain the tempo.

CGC said this in Apapa on Friday at the command’s end of the year party and award ceremony also harped on the need for compliance and synergies as necessary strategies to greater productivity at the port. According to him, compliance is a competitive advantage.

He was represented by Deputy Comptroller General Caroline Niagwan, DCG Tariff and Trade, Adeniyi congratulated the Customs Area Controller and all the officers and men of Apapa Area Command for the milestone achieved in revenue collection to the tune of N2.2tr and still counting which has earned the command multiple accolades

“It is with immense pleasure that I stand before you today to celebrate a shared commitment to compliance and excellence in trade. This award ceremony is a testament to your dedication to ethical business practices, adherence to regulations, and unwavering support for the principles that drive Nigeria’s economic growth.

“Compliance is not merely a requirement; it is a competitive advantage. It fosters transparency, reduces operational risks, and strengthens the trust between businesses and regulatory authorities. It also positions compliant stakeholders to enjoy streamlined processes, faster clearance times, and access to the numerous benefits that come with being recognized as trusted trade partners.

“As a Service, we understand that sustaining compliance can sometimes require capacity building, especially as global trade evolves.

To this end, the Service is committed to providing the necessary training, technical assistance, and partnerships that will empower you with the knowledge and tools to maintain this high standard.

“Our goal is to ensure that every stakeholder remains competitive,vinnovative, and aligned with global best practices.
By working together, we can unlock even greater opportunities for growth. Compliant stakeholders not only contribute to national revenue but also drive economic development, attract foreign investments, and enhance Nigeria’s position in international trade” Adeniyi said

In his welcome speech, Comptroller Olomu expressed appreciation to the CGC and the customs management team for always providing the direction and inspiration to the command in it’s drive to meet government’s expectations .

He described the end of year party as many things rolled up in one as it strengthens the stakeholders bond as a community of government and private sector collaborators working together for the betterment of Nigeria;

it’s also to celebrate together as the year 2024 ends and honour those whose outstanding performances contributed in shaping the command’s achievements in 2024.

Comptroller Olomu said despite the challenges of low trade volume, the command is able to achieve it’s target which is a reflection of officers commitment and dedication to duty

He added that in line with the policy thrust of the CGC, the command utilised it’s relationship with stakeholders to achieve it’s goal this year.

According to him improving on stakeholder engagement has become an operational template the Comptroller General of Customs has impressed on the officers and expressed joy to announce that it has proven to be a masterstroke towards enhanced compliance.

Comptroller Olomu said “Compliance is no doubt the bedrock of all customs achievements in areas of revenue collection, anti smuggling and legitimate trade facilitation. Our approach to regurlarly engage our sister government agencies has raised our degree of intelligence sharing towards a common national interest.

“Let me use this period to thank the NPA, DSS, NDLEA, NAQS,Port Health, Police, Immigration and other sister government agencies for their consistent collaboration in 2024. They are indeed an integral part of the command’s success story in 2024. I urge them to stay on board let’s do it again in 2025.

“With our port users, we maintained regularly enlightenment meetings, faster trade dispute resolution mechanism and consistent appraisal of feedbacks to keep improving on our responsibilities.

“There have been positive fallouts of our regular interface with our stakeholders. This is evident in our collection of N2..2tr revenue and still counting, zeroing in on the minority that attempt smuggling by curbing their activities with seizures. We are fostering inclusivity and this will continue in 2025

“We have ensured no container , import or export consignment goes through our control without due diligence of proper examination. This has been the foundation of our impeccable enforcement drive.

“We are honouring some of our officers and stakeholders for their outstanding performances in the year 2024 . I want to urge the awardees to see this as a call for more commitment to surpass their best outputs. There is no end to improvement

“This should also be a challenge to those who didn’t make the award list this time, I urge them to keep improving with a promise that their inputs shall not go unnoticed for due recognition” he concluded

Among those recognised with various awards are APM Terminals, Sifax Group, ENL Consortium, Dangote, Talod Ocean Airfreight and Princess Chi Ezeh the CEO of Munah Sylva Nigeria Limited

The command also recognised serving and retired officers for their contributions to it’s overall successes in 2024.

Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu
... As Apapa Command Honours Outstanding Stakeholders

By Ifeoma Ikem

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Bullion Records; GyC Release Debut EP Album, A Billion Things

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Bullion Records; GyC Release Debut EP Album, A Billion Things By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Bullion Records; GyC Release Debut EP Album, A Billion Things

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

 

Bullion Records, one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing record labels, has officially released its highly anticipated debut EP album, A Billion Things, sung by its sensational artist, GyC. Born Fortune Kingsley, GyC is making waves in the Nigerian music industry, and this five-track EP marks a significant milestone in his career and the label’s history.

The EP, which dropped today, Wednesday, December 12, 2024, features an eclectic mix of tracks, including Mailo, Shayo, Woman, Kpang Kpang, and Kokan Aye. The standout track, Kokan Aye, features collaborations with Nigerian music icons 9ice and Eedris Abdul Kareem, further solidifying GyC’s place in the music scene.

Speaking about the project, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, Chairman and CEO of Bullion Records, described the album as a blend of inspiration and artistry. “Every track in this album is not only a masterpiece but also delivers profound messages. From love to resilience, and from societal consciousness to celebration, A Billion Things resonates with listeners on different levels,” he said.

The production team behind the album includes some of Nigeria’s most talented producers. YoungSmith worked on the hits Shayo, Woman, and Mailo, while Philkeyz produced the electrifying Kpang Kpang. Shockerbeat added his signature touch to Kokan Aye, ensuring the album delivers a diverse yet cohesive sound.

Mr. Elegbede Ajibola, the entertainment director at Bullion Records, emphasized the label’s strategic timing for the album’s release. “We deliberately chose December to launch this EP because it’s a season when people connect through music. We want fans and good music lovers worldwide to vibe to these amazing tracks during the festive period,” Elegbede noted.

GyC, the star of the moment, expressed his gratitude to the team behind the album’s success. “This project is the result of collective effort and dedication. I want to thank the executive members of Bullion Records for their unwavering support. Special appreciation also goes to the incredible music producers who brought my vision to life,” he said.

The release of A Billion Things marks a bold statement from Bullion Records as it cements its position in the Nigerian music industry. With a lineup of motivational, soulful, and dance-worthy tracks, the EP is expected to become a favorite among music lovers globally.

Fans can now stream or purchase the album on all major music platforms.

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