celebrity radar - gossips

How I made my first million on Instagram — Debbiebarbie

Published

6 years ago

July 31, 2020

Deborah Iwakun Edileola is the CEO Debbiebarbie skincare line. In this interview with ROTIMI IGE, she talks about the industry and how she aims to change perceptions as regards skincare.

How did you get into the beauty business?

I started a few years back when I had issues with my skin. I had tried many things and they weren’t working, so I had to start reading and researching myself. I made some products for myself and it worked like magic. People would come up to compliment my skin and ask what I used. That was when I realised that I liked giving people skin advice. I have been in business for about four years now.

What would you say your success rate has been like?

It has been great. When I started, I was making products at home and selling online. Later, we were able to expand and get a better space. We have built a good customer base both in Nigeria and all around the world.
COVID-19 pandemic affected a lot of businesses. Did it affect your sales too, since people were not going out much?

The fun part is that during the lockdown, I made more sales than ever because I made people see reasons to care for their skin. People had less stress to contend with and I advised them to try out our products. It was the perfect time for the skincare business. Many wanted to look good when they resume work after the lockdown is over. So truly, for my own business, the lockdown was favourable. Now that the economy is opening up though, people are a little more prudent with their spending.

A lot of people are quite sceptical about products in Nigeria, how do you reassure people?

Our products are safe. We sent them to certified laboratories for analysis and all we are expecting now is the NAFDAC number and the process is already on, including NAFDAC inspections. The truth is that if our products are not safe, I won’t want to register it. I know it’s safe, hence my confidence. If a client is scared to buy online, they can simply walk into our store.

Some people don’t use the right products and they conclude that the products aren’t working when they are the ones that aren’t using the right thing for their skin type. The fact that a product worked on one person does not mean it will work on another person. I counsel and ask questions to understand each client’s

Have you ever gotten a skin type you could not handle or bad reactions?

No. The basic thing is knowing how to handle clients. There are situations where a client would try our product and they might break out initially. I let them understand that when you change your skincare product at times, your skin might purge. That doesn’t mean it is bad; it’s just that your skin is trying to cleanse itself and get used to the new product you are introducing to it. Skin purging doesn’t last for more than three to four weeks. So when you explain, they are patient.

Some people still believe they can employ makeup to cover flaws. What’s your take on that?

Makeup should not always be the solution because sometimes your skin just needs to breathe. If it doesn’t breathe, you will break out. In this part of the world, we don’t read the ingredients on our products. There are some products that when you use them on your skin, based on the kind of skin you have and the ingredients, you will break out. By reading labels, you become familiar with these things.

As a young woman in business, what are the lessons you have learnt so far?

Make your mistakes your own way. There’s nothing wrong with starting small with trial and error; just don’t give up. If it is your dream, stay focused. Beginnings are never rosy, but along the line, you see things and learn from your mistakes. Those experiences make you better.

Have you ever been at the receiving end of any stereotype?

Once you are in the skincare business, people believe you are bleaching. People attack me quite a bit on social media, and I used to feel bad. Now, I just reply and block them. You can’t make me feel less than I am anymore. This business has also made me realise that there are demand and supply; whether you supply it or not, someone else will do it, so why don’t you do it. Skincare is not bleaching. However, when you get to a certain point in your life when you start living well, there is no way you won’t glow. You’ll look more beautiful. Everyone wants to brighten up a bit and glow and we have products that are safe, approved all over the world, and natural that would give you that result. It’s just that in Nigeria, people are very judgemental, so you have to stand your ground and understand the place of your business and know that there is demand.

Some people don’t believe in putting their business on social media as a result of backlash and criticism. What’s your take on that?

Are you kidding me? Why would you not put your business on social media, especially Instagram? Trust me, billions of dollars flies on Instagram every day, you just have to know your way around it. I made my first million on Instagram. So, my advice is that people should put their business online, especially with the situation of the world now. Things are changing now and the world is going online. E-commerce is taking over traditional commerce; you just have to maintain a physical store for those who still need to walk in. No one would come from the UK to buy products in Nigeria, but social media changes that. All my international clients got to know me through my social media handles.

How profitable is the business?

I don’t have any other business, this is all I have for now and it pays the bills. We expanded and we now do facials and other skin treatments. We have a spa too. The fun thing about this business is that if you know how to go about it, there is a lot of money on it. Virtually every woman wants to look good. People want to bathe, I sell soap, cream… you can’t run out of business when it comes to beauty.

How affordable are your products though?

In business terms, you need to realise that your target clients must be able to afford you. My target clients are working-class ladies. Still, we are quite affordable.
Was this your dream career?
No. The plan was to be an air hostess. But life puts you in situations where your dreams change. I lost my father at some point. I’m grateful for my mum because after my father passed on, she worked hard to put us through university. I never wanted to work for someone else because I knew I could never get the kind of money I want. My mother didn’t like it when I ventured into this, but I explained to her and reminded her that she was able to care for us because she was also in business and not working for someone.

celebrity radar - gossips

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

Published

1 day ago

April 2, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

The management and staff of Adron Homes and Properties Limited have joined family, friends, associates, and well-wishers across the globe to celebrate their Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, as he marks his 51st birthday.

In a statement released by the company, the milestone was described as a celebration of an exceptional leader whose vision, resilience, and entrepreneurial brilliance have not only transformed Adron Homes into a household name in Nigeria’s real estate sector but have also redefined affordable housing across the country.

Under his dynamic leadership, Adron Homes has continued to expand its footprint, delivering value-driven residential solutions while empowering thousands of Nigerians with opportunities for home ownership. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction has remained the driving force behind the company’s sustained growth and industry leadership.

The statement further highlighted Aare EmmanuelKing’s passion for nation-building and community development, noting his significant contributions to job creation, youth empowerment, and the promotion of socio-economic development through real estate investments.

“As a leader, mentor, and visionary, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing has consistently inspired a culture of excellence, integrity, and dedication within the organization. His ability to turn bold ideas into reality continues to position Adron Homes as a trailblazer in the industry,” the statement read.

The company expressed profound gratitude for his steadfast leadership and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and sound health as he embarks on another year of impactful achievements.

As he celebrates his 51st birthday, the entire Adron Homes family proudly honours a man whose legacy continues to shape the future of real estate in Nigeria.

Happy 51st Birthday, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing!

celebrity radar - gossips

Oba Ara Releases Emotional Tribute to Late Taiwo Adegbodu

Published

4 days ago

March 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

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

Published

4 days ago

March 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

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.