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Ife Agog As Ooni, Shina Peters, Obanla Light Up Olapeju Oke 50th Birthday

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Ife Agog As Ooni, Shina Peters, Obanla Light Up Olapeju Oke 50th Birthday

Bolaji Israel

 

Canada-based Nigerian businesswoman, philanthropist, and diplomat, Olapeju Naomi Sigismund Oke, concluded her week-long birthday festivities with a luxurious party at the Ife Grand Resort on Saturday, October 5th.

The event drew an impressive array of dignitaries and elite guests from Nigeria and around the globe, including attendees from the USA, UK, Canada, and beyond. Notable figures included the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II; legendary musician Sir Shina Peters; and US-based Prophetess Bola Obanla, founder of the Devoted Beloved Christ Ambassadors Store House (DEBASH).

As the Republic of Vanuatu’s Trade Commissioner to Ontario, Canada, and founder of the HopeForSure Foundation, Olapeju expressed her fulfillment at reaching the milestone of 50 years. She emphasized her renewed energy to continue serving humanity through her various initiatives in education, health, skill acquisition, and widow empowerment.

PJ as fondly called reiterated her commitment to fostering trade and enterprise connections between Nigerian and Canadian entrepreneurs through her Africa-Canada Investment and Expo Summit (AFRICIES) outreach programmes.

“I feel incredibly happy seeing my loved ones celebrate with me from all over the world, including Canada, USA, and the UK. I’m especially delighted to have my son join me from Canada,” she said.

Reflecting on her journey over the past 50 years, she shared, “It has had its ups and downs. I have been an orphan for about 30 years, but God has been faithful. I am a goal getter, and everything I desired, God has granted. I am grateful for my life, the people around me, and the spirit of humanity that God has bestowed upon me.”

She continued, “I believe in one guiding principle: we come into this life with nothing and will leave with nothing. Life is vanity, and our time here is short. We should help others as much as we can. Serving and supporting people is what completes me, and I believe we should be our brother’s keeper.”

The ambassador expressed her optimism for life after 50, stating, “This is a new chapter, and I look forward to a greater journey of serving and doing good to the best of my abilities.”

The festivities began with a feeding programme for the less privileged, followed by medical outreach initiatives aimed at combating cancer and addressing eye health, named the “Cancel Cancer/Jigi Abebi Olapeju” programme. These included activities at the Palace of His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

An embodiment of grace and charm, the celebrant also launched her book titled “The World Betrayed,” sharing the occasion with secondary school students in attendance. She hosted a diverse group of dignitaries and notable personalities, including traditional rulers, government officials, industry leaders, and icons from the entertainment, fashion, and cultural sectors.

The lavish celebration was marked by luxury, glamour, and an unforgettable ambiance. Renowned Nigerian music maestro Sir Shina Peters provided entertainment, ensuring that the celebrant and her guests were thoroughly entertained.

Naomi Olapeju is the founder of the Hope For Sure Foundation, convener of the Glam African Fashion Festival (GAFF), and project director of African Canada Investment, which organizes AFRICIES—a prestigious business gathering that connects African businesses with Canadian investors, promoting robust trade relations and offering valuable networking and investment opportunities.

Known for her impactful philanthropic efforts, Olapeju has made significant contributions to the lives of the less privileged in critical areas such as education, health, trade, and skills acquisition through her foundation. She is deeply dedicated to enhancing trade between Vanuatu and Canadian enterprises, as well as African businesses, through various enabling platforms, including AFRICIES and more.

 

Ife Agog As Ooni, Shina Peters, Obanla Light Up Olapeju Oke 50th Birthday
Bolaji Israel

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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