celebrity radar - gossips
Celebrating Excellence: Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the Olu of Warri, African Royalty and Change-Makers Honoured Among 100 Most Reputable Africans
Celebrating Excellence: Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the Olu of Warri, African Royalty and Change-Makers Honoured Among 100 Most Reputable Africans
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
In an inspiring convergence of tradition, leadership and excellence, the May 15th 2025 edition of the 100 Most Reputable Africans was held in South Africa, gathering visionary individuals from across the continent. Hosted by Reputation Poll International (RPI) and the Global Reputation Forum (GRF), the prestigious event recognized Africans who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity and service across governance, business, culture, philanthropy and academia.
Among the celebrated personalities was His Imperial Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the revered Olu of Warri, who was honoured both as a special guest of honour and as one of the award recipients. His presence brought regal dignity and spiritual gravitas to the occasion, as he represented not only the Warri Kingdom but also the long-standing cultural institutions that continue to shape Africa’s identity.
He was joined by high-profile guests and honourees such as Her Excellency Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Deputy President of South Africa and former Executive Director of UN Women; Maryam Bukar Hassan, a renowned Nigerian poet and social activist; Thebe Ikalafeng, the branding guru behind Brand Africa; and a long list of distinguished professionals, including William Wilson, Vumile Msweli, Shilongo Shilongo, Byaruhanga James, Bala M. Wunti, Dr. Sindiswa Mzamo, Clariza Botha, Kenneth Raydon Sharpe, Karen Matsiko, Robert Muchinta, Chawinga, Dr. Tuma Adama Gento Kamara and Dr. Tonye Rex Idaminabo.
Representing traditional leadership across the continent, Nkosi Zuzifa Buthelezi stood in for the Zulu King and served as Chairman of the Kings in Council, underscoring the growing influence of royal institutions in the broader African renaissance.
A Majestic Keynote from the Olu of Warri
Taking centre stage as the keynote speaker, Ogiame Atuwatse III delivered a speech that captivated the audience and firmly placed culture, history and indigenous wisdom at the heart of Africa’s developmental discourse.
“Africa’s renaissance will not come from mimicking foreign models. It must be forged from within and rooted in our culture, driven by our values and led by men and women of vision and integrity,” His Majesty declared.
Ogiame Atuwatse III, who has been widely praised for his transformative reign since ascending the throne in 2021, challenged leaders to tap into Africa’s untapped social capital and indigenous institutions. He emphasized that African monarchs are not relics of a bygone era, but living custodians of wisdom, cohesion and leadership.
“Traditional institutions are not ornamental. They are foundational. The future of governance in Africa must be Afrocentric, blending modern governance with the resilience of our ancient systems,” he said to thunderous applause.
An Enlightening Fireside Chat
Following the keynote, a riveting fireside chat was held between Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Busie Matsiko, the President of the New York Africa Chamber of Commerce. The discussion focused on women’s leadership, economic empowerment and transforming Africa’s image globally.
Dr. Mlambo-Ngcuka, known globally for her relentless advocacy for gender justice, remarked:
“When we empower women, we do not just change homes; we change economies. Africa’s future must be gender-inclusive if we are serious about prosperity.”
Their conversation highlighted the need for inclusive policymaking and the importance of mentorship for the next generation of African female leaders.
Goodwill Messages from Pan-African Leaders
Several notable figures shared goodwill messages, each reinforcing the necessity of collaboration, ethical leadership and visionary governance:
Ambassador Benjamin Quashie, an ECOWAS diplomat and advocate for regional integration, urged Africans to transcend nationalistic divisions:
“The unity of Africa is not a political option, it is a survival imperative.”
Dr. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun, Namibian business magnate and philanthropist, emphasized integrity in leadership:
“You cannot build a continent on corruption and expect prosperity. Ethics must be the new oil of Africa.”
Mrs. Tuma Adama Gento Kamara, Sierra Leone’s trailblazing political leader, called for increased investment in education, particularly for rural girls.
Dr. Sindiswa Mzamo, a leading public health expert from South Africa, reminded participants of the importance of equitable healthcare systems in ensuring social justice.
Theme and Purpose: Articulated by Sarah Goroh
Sarah Goroh, ambassador of JetAge Nation Builders and an accomplished public affairs professional, opened the event with a stirring address on the theme and purpose of the awards.
“Africa is not lacking in excellence; it is often just uncelebrated. This event is a clarion call to recognize those who embody the Africa we aspire to create ethical, competent, resilient and transformative.”
She explained that the aim of the gala is not just celebration but also affirmation; an affirmation that Africans can define success on their own terms and build legacies of impact that resonate globally.
Reputation, Recognition and Responsibility
The “100 Most Reputable Africans” is more than just a list; it is a moral compass. Every individual honored carries a responsibility to use their platform, voice and influence to shape narratives, dismantle stereotypes and build institutions that serve the people.
As Dr. Tonye Rex Idaminabo, founder of Reputation Poll International, once said:
“Reputation is the currency of trust. In a continent often misrepresented, we must honour those whose lives inspire trust, unity and progress.”
The Legacy of Ogiame Atuwatse III
In many ways, the inclusion of Ogiame Atuwatse III among the honorees serves as a reminder that African royalty when anchored in vision, humility and service remains a powerful force for good.
Since his coronation, Ogiame has redefined kingship, blending spiritual authority with a modern understanding of diplomacy, economic development and human rights. His advocacy for education, women’s inclusion in leadership and diaspora engagement places him among Africa’s most progressive traditional rulers.
“To rule is to serve,” the Olu of Warri noted during the ceremony. “A title is meaningless unless it uplifts those beneath it.”
Final note: An Africa Worth Reputing
This 2025 gathering in South Africa was not merely a celebration, it was a clarion call to Africans everywhere: to lead with integrity, to remember their roots and to rise with purpose.
The event closed with a unifying reminder: Africa does not lack heroes, it lacks recognition of its homegrown legends. Through platforms like this, the continent begins to right that wrong.
As Ogiame Atuwatse III aptly summarized in his keynote:
“We are not just building nations; we are restoring a civilization. And that restoration begins with reputation, honour and the courage to be distinctly African.”
Oba Ara Releases Emotional Tribute to Late Taiwo Adegbodu
Taofik Afolabi
The gospel music community continues to grieve the painful loss of Taiwo Adegbodu, a beloved figure whose sudden departure left a deep void among fans, colleagues, and loved ones. In response to this loss, renowned gospel minister Rotimi Onimole, popularly known as Oba Ara, has released a moving tribute song that captures both the sorrow of the moment and the enduring legacy of the late singer.
Oba Ara, a proud son of Isale Eko, channels raw emotion throughout the song, using heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melodies to reflect on his personal connection with Taiwo Adegbodu. In the tribute, he openly expresses how deeply the news of Adegbodu’s passing shook him, describing it as a painful and unexpected loss that is difficult to come to terms with.
The song goes beyond mourning, it celebrates the life, ministry, and impact of Taiwo Adegbodu. Oba Ara highlights the late artist’s dedication to spreading the gospel through music, his inspiring voice, and the spiritual influence he had on many within and beyond Nigeria. Through powerful verses, he paints a picture of a man who lived for God and touched countless lives through his ministry.
Listeners have described the tribute as both comforting and deeply emotional, as it resonates with the collective grief of the gospel music community. It serves as a reminder that although Taiwo Adegbodu is no longer physically present, his music, message, and legacy will continue to live on.
In honoring his late colleague, Oba Ara not only pays his respects but also offers a source of healing for fans and fellow ministers, using music as a tool to process grief and celebrate a life well lived.
celebrity radar - gossips
Buratai, Fagbemi , Shagaya, Olofa, Others Eulogise Olowu Kuta’s Olori On 60th Birthday, Foundation Launch
Buratai, Fagbemi , Shagaya, Olofa, Others Eulogise Olowu Kuta’s Olori On 60th Birthday, Foundation Launch
Eminent personalities across the Nigeria stormed the TFK Event Centre, Bala Mohammed Way, Guzape, Abuja, to celebrate the 60th birthday of Olowu Kuta’s Olori, Queen Jumai Amoke and her Foundation Launch on Saturday 28, March 2026.
From former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TY Buratai rtd, to the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi; Olofa of Offa, HRM Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi. Even top businesswoman and socialite, Chief (Mrs) Bola Shagaya, was in attendance.
Other dignitaries were newly promoted Deputy Inspector-General of Police and former AIG Zone 2 , Lagos , Adegoke Fayoade, Major General Abdumalik, Major General Samuel Adebayo rtd (Fmr CDI);
Major General Anthony Omozoje rtd (Fmr Copp);
Alhaji Tajudeen Owoyemi (Asiwaju of Offa and CEO Radisson Hotel Nigeria;
Dr Waheed Olagunju, former managing director of Bank of Industry, Oniba of Iba, Lagos State, HRM Oba Dr Suleiman Raji ;
Justice Falola, Olu of Ile-Ogbo , Oba Adetoyese amongst many traditional rulers and captains of industry too numerous to mention.
Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Host, Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Adekunle Oyelude Makama, CON , Tegbosun iii, who is also the husband of the celebrant commended Queen Jumai for ‘ her slender arms full of kindness’ to establish such humanitarian Foundation, ‘Amoke Children and mother in Need Foundation’ at a time Nigerians are going through economic crisis occassioned by the global meltdown.
Olowu also commended her steadfastness and love for the less privileged and downtrodden.
The monarch refrenced the task before his wife’s humanitarian gesture said her best is yet to come.
” Olori Amoke Jumai, I celebrate you. You will celebrate 70, 80, 90 and continue to shine as you continue to put a smile on people’s faces. I love you, “Olowu Kuta added.
To Lt Gen Buratai, a former army chief and former Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, the reward of hard work is more work.
Buratai, who also doubles as Balogun Agba of Owu Kuta, a chieftaincy title reserved for a generalismo congratulated Queen Jumai for attaining the age of 60 in good health.
The retired army General said he’s not surprised by the turn out of eminent personalities across the country to celebrate the Olowu Kuta’s Olori because she merited it through her hospitality to all, adding that Allah the most merciful, most beneficial would accept all her act of ibadah.
The minister of Justice, Prince Fagbemi, was full of praises for Queen Jumai for deeming it fit to have a place in her heart to accommodate the needy and less privileged in ‘our society.’
Prince Fagbemi urged the guests to contribute generously to support the Foundation in order to continue to alleviate poverty and put a smile on the faces of the people.
” I congratulate you on your 60th birthday and Foundation Launch. I wish you many happy returns of the day and many more fruitful services to the country and motherland”, Prince Fagbemi added.
The celebrant, Queen Jumai who was grining from ear to ear thankfully said she was excited by the turn out and the response of the people to her foundation.
Queen Jumai, however, promised to continue to use her resources and donations received for the good of the needy and less privileged in the society.
” I want to appreciate my own Kabiesi Olofa of Offa , for his presence and im I’m using him as a point of contact to all other Kabiesis present here, the minister of justice and Attorney-General, you’re welcome, sir; Mrs Bola Shagaya, I salute your enterprise, Lt Gen Buratai, I’m grateful, sir; DIG Fayoade, Justice Falola and other dignitaries too numerous to mention, I thank you, all. To my darling husband, Kabiesi Olowu , I thank you immensely for your support. And to my family and friends, I thank you , all. E se pupo!”, she said.
celebrity radar - gossips
Adron Homes Elevates Cultural Pride as Dignitaries Grace 39th Lisabi Festival in Abeokuta
Adron Homes Elevates Cultural Pride as Dignitaries Grace 39th Lisabi Festival in Abeokuta
The ancient city of Abeokuta came alive in a grand display of culture, history, and unity as dignitaries from across Nigeria converged at the iconic Ake Palace Ground for the 39th edition of the Lisabi Festival, an annual celebration deeply rooted in the Egba people’s heritage.
The event, proudly supported by Adron Homes and Properties Limited, witnessed an impressive parade of distinguished personalities, traditional rulers, government officials, business leaders, and cultural enthusiasts, all captured in vibrant pictures that tell the story of a people united by history and pride.
From richly adorned monarchs in regal attire to elegantly dressed guests reflecting the depth of Yoruba tradition, the images from the festival encapsulate moments of honour, reverence, and celebration. Each photograph portrays not just faces, but influence, leaders, and stakeholders who continue to shape cultural preservation and community development.
At the heart of the celebration was the revered Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, whose presence underscored the festival’s significance as a symbol of Egba resilience and identity. Surrounding him were eminent dignitaries whose attendance further amplified the prestige of the event.
Adron Homes and Properties Limited stood out prominently, not only as a sponsor but as a key driver of cultural sustainability. Through its strategic support, the company reinforced its commitment to preserving indigenous heritage while fostering community engagement. The brand’s visibility across the venue and within the pictorial highlights reflects a deliberate alignment with culture, tradition, and people-centered development.
Beyond real estate, Adron Homes has continued to position itself as a cultural partner, investing in platforms that celebrate history and strengthen communal bonds. Its involvement in the Lisabi Festival is a testament to its broader vision of building not just homes, but legacies rooted in identity and pride.
The 39th Lisabi Festival, as captured through the lens of dignitaries in attendance, is more than an event, it is a narrative of continuity. And through its unwavering support, Adron Homes has once again set the pace, demonstrating that corporate institutions can play a vital role in sustaining the cultural heartbeat of a people.
As the echoes of drums fade and the colours of the festival linger in memory, one thing remains clear: the story told through these images is one of unity, heritage, and the enduring partnership between tradition and progress.
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