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Mrs. Bolanle Ambode: A Profile in Humility

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“Man is never as tall
as when he kneels before God;
never so great, as when
he humbles himself before Him.
And the man who kneels to God
can stand up to anything”
-Louis Evans

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Inspiring. Instructive. Food-for-thought. Those words kept reeling round my mental horizon, as one delved deep into the compelling persona of none other than the current First Lady of the Centre of Excellence, Lagos state, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode. And why not? Like all the biblical virtuous women she must learnt a lot from, such as Sarah, Hannah, Abigail and Esther she has had her fair share of life’s challenges but she never capitulated to their whims and caprices.

Rather, she simply turned her stumbling blocks into stepping stones. She mustered the needed courage at every twist and turn of immanent Fate, with absolute faith in God to weather the storms. Like raw iron she has been purified through the fires of affliction to assume the inner strength of steel. As reflected in the book of Isaiah 48:10 KJV: God stated that: “Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction”

And by scaling over what would ordinarily have constituted the hitches and hurdles along her chequered life, she was drawn closer to God. Those challenges served as the tonic to reinvigorate her faith in Him. Now, by that special grace she stands solidly as the pillar of unflinching support behind her loving husband, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, now widely acclaimed as one of the best performing governors in the country.
The lesson to glean from this is that as Christians there are some miracles that we may not have the capacity to carry, unless we have been adequately prepared to do so. Such preparation would definitely involve having to pass through some trying times. As Henry Ford rightly puts it, “we learn more from our challenges than from our successes”.
What therefore, define her today are catchy phrases such as; “ a prayer warrior”, “an epitome of care and love as the chief host in the State Government House”, “a virtuous woman”, “a lesson in humility” and “mother to all”. For those who are close to her these words do not connote hyperbole. They are apt descriptions of her true character. According to Patricia Ennis, “A virtuous woman isn’t ruled by her passions-she passionately pursues an incomparable God.”

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For instance, she has used the power of prayers to propel her husband in his quest to become the state governor. Throughout the hectic periods of campaigns back in 2014 and early 2015 she never for once stepped foot in the campaign office. She attended only important rallies and seminars but was at the background galvanizing the good women of Lagos to cast their lot for her husband. As she told them and others who offered their support, his ambition was informed by “the will of God”. She would also add that, “this is God’s project and He will see it through”. What a woman of faith!
Indeed, her legendary humility was exhibited during those trying moments when she had to personally cook the delicious meals for various visitors and members of the campaign team. She would welcome each of them with her genial smile, exuding her alluring meekness and modest lifestyle.

It is on record that even at the monthly thanksgiving service at the State House Chapel, she would lie down flat for prayers and stand up to take part in the singing of songs to which she would dance to the admiration of God and man.
It is also worth noting that she has in no small measure inspired her husband’s uncommon passion in the determined drive to rid Lagos of all forms and vestiges of crimes against women from rape to domestic violence. She is an advocate of a happy and peace-loving family being a good example of one herself.

And as part of her pet project, Hope for Women in Nigeria Initiative, (HOFOWEM) she has commenced the distribution of 175,000 educational kits, consisting of school shoes and socks to children across the State public primary schools. The Foundation had in September last year launched “ Project Bright Steps’’ for public school pupils in Lagos State, during which Mrs. Ambode make the promise. Speaking at the Central Primary School, Oba Akinjobi Ikeja, one of the venues slated for the distribution exercise, Mrs. Ambode also renewed her call to parents and well-meaning Lagosians to pay adequate attention to the welfare of school pupils in the State.
In a similar vein, she has flagged-off the State’s mass de-worming exercise for primary school pupils in the State, charging parents in the state to encourage hand-washing among their children, as well as maintain a clean and healthy environment so as to prevent them contracting worm infections..

According to her, “De-worming children helps them to develop well and boost their learning capability. This is a great advantage that cannot be ignored because good academic performance will to a large extent determine the future of a child”.
She has in addition, twice successfully hosted the coming together of all the wives of the top-notch political office holders in the state to carry them along in her dream to make governance more people-friendly.
And as one with a burning desire for one, united and peaceful country, she has
enjoined Nigerians to embrace peace and love. She said this during the past Ramadan Season “For any country to thrive, she needs love and peaceful co-existence to strengthen the social bond, and overcome any challenge confronting it as a nation. It is only when we allow love to grow in our hearts irrespective of religion, language and tribe barrier that we can collectively as a nation surmount any challenge confronting us”.

Little wonder that she has through her humility demystified the exalted office of the First Lady in Nigeria. Not for her are the apparatchiks of office. Not for her is the loudness or frivolities normally linked with such political platform but to be the true soul-mate to her hard working and resourceful husband. She is there assisting in his daily sensitive and critical leadership choices and actions, with powerful prayers.
As Proverbs 31:10 states “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies”. Stretching it further Proverbs 31:11-12 states that: “Her husband trusts her completely. With her, he has everything he needs. She does him good and not harm for as long as she lives”. She was born into the Odukomaiya family in Epe, Lagos, on February 15, 1964. She attended St. Theresa’s College, Ibadan, Oyo, for her secondary school and Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Lagos, where she graduated in Physics/Mathematics for her first degree in 1989 and later Masters degree (MSc) in Public Administration in 1994.

Until her emergence as the Wife of the Governor of the State of Lagos, she worked as staffer of the now defunct People’s Bank of Nigeria before she left to join Instant Finance Nigeria Limited and later Aguagem Consulting. She is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rehoboth Chops and Confectioneries Limited. The Rehoboth bread is said to be very popular among Lagosians.
It would interest Nigerians to know that she and her husband were born at the same General Hospital in Epe! What a coincidence, many would exhale. But the truth of the matter is that their union is God’s own Project that can never fail.
Her life is therefore, most inspiring to the younger generation of Nigerian ladies; instructive to those praying for a brighter future and food-for-thought for all lovers of God, willing to humble themselves at His feet and who He would raise, to stand up to anything!

–Ajanaku Idowu is the S.S.A Media & Strategy to Gov. Ambode.

 

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$87m Theft: Abayomi Remanded in Suleja Until Bail Perfection As Court Adjourns Till 14th (Video)

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$87m Theft: Investors of Afriq Arbitrage System Boos,Jeer At Abayomi, Remanded in Suleja Until Bail Perfection As Court Adjourns Till 14th

$87m Theft: Investors of Afriq Arbitrage System Boos,Jeer At Abayomi, Remanded in Suleja Until Bail Perfection As Court Adjourns Till 14th ( Video)

 

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The arraignment of Abayomi Oluwasesan over the lingering theft saga to the tune of $87m commenced today with the review of his bail conditions.

Abayomi Segun Oluwasesan who allegedly committed the heinous crime of defrauding the leading global crypto space known as Afriq Arbitrage System was arraigned alongside his wife at the FCT High court, Jabi in Abuja.

Earlier, the defendants’ lawyer appealed for leniency on the stringent bail condition on behalf of Abayomi OluwaSesan citing their prolonged detention and promising their availability for trial if granted bail. However, the complainant lawyer, Sidi Abdulrasheed, opposed the bail request, highlighting previous instances where the defendants had allegedly fled after being granted bail.

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Responding to the bail review, the presiding judge, Ms. Idris insisted the earlier bail conditions remain valid with little modification. It would be recalled that the conditions initially given included provision of two sureties each with 500 million Naira, owning property in Maitama, and also two directors in the federal civil service. Additionally, the sureties must deposit the title documents of their properties in court. However, in his ruling today, he said the sureties should be owners of properties anywhere within the FCT and worth 400 million naira and above. He also reiterated that the two directors should be serving directors and the properties be valued by a licensed estate valuer registered with the federal government.

Thereafter, he adjourned the proceedings till 14th ,15th and 16th of May 2024 for speedy trials.

 

Speaking to Jesam Micheal, the CEO of Afriq Arbitrage System (AAS) after the court proceedings, he clarified the wrong narratives about the case. He said the appearance of Abayomi in court has justified the truth that he defrauded the company to the tune of $87m and that he has confessed to his crime. He narrated how Abayomi who was entrusted with the platform while he went for liver transplant tempered with the systems and defrauded the community of the staggering sum of $87m. He stated that all he is after is for him to refund the stolen funds.

Also, the complainant’s counsel, Barrister Obeten revealed that justice will be served at the court as the suspect has allegedly admitted to committing the crime.

 

Meanwhile, there was mild drama in court as thousands of investors stormed the court today, booed and jeered at Abayomi and his wife. Their anger was not unconnected to the fact that his actions gravely affected them and their means of livelihood.

 

 

It would be recalled that Abayomi and his wife were tracked to an estate in Lagos and brought back to Abuja on Sunday, March 24th, 2024 over the lingering financial scam to the tune of 87 million dollar and criminal activities he perpetrated against AAS and the CEO, Jesam Micheal.

 

 

The arraignment of Abayomi by the IG of police at the Federal High Court in Abuja witnessed a significant development on Thursday, March 28th, 2024, as the case involving the alleged theft of 87 million dollar by Abayomi OluwaSesan charged by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, proceeded with significant deliberations.

 

 

The accused individuals were charged for purportedly accessing millions of subscribers’ investments at the Afriq Arbitrage Company’s online trading platform until October 9th, 2023.

 

$87m Theft: Investors of Afriq Arbitrage System Boos,Jeer At Abayomi, Remanded in Suleja Until Bail Perfection As Court Adjourns Till 14th

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Wema Bank Celebrates Remarkable Journey of 79 years

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Wema Bank Celebrates Remarkable Journey of 79 years

 

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In a remarkable celebration of heritage and innov ation, Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT today announced a joint celebration marking Wema Bank’s 79th years and ALAT’s 7 years anniversaries. This significant celebration not only commemorates nearly eight decades of exceptional service and innovation in the Nigerian banking sector but also celebrates the bank’s seven years of digital excellence with ALAT.

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Wema Bank Celebrates Remarkable Journey of 79 years

 

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Since its inception in 1945, Wema Bank has been at the forefront of financial innovation, constantly adapting to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Over the decades, the bank has evolved from a regional bank to a national bank, adapting continuously to meet the dynamic needs of its customers and establishing itself as a pillar of trust and reliability for millions of individuals and businesses across Nigeria.

According to the MD/CEO Wema Bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni, the bank’s evolution from being Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank to being at the forefront of innovation, pioneering Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has been a true story of resilience and transformation.

“At 79, Wema Bank stand stronger than ever, and this achievement would not have been possible without the support of our customers and employees. We thank them for believing in the Wema vision, for entrusting their financial security to us, and for allowing us to contribute to their personal and professional aspirations. Their faith in us is deeply cherished, and we are honored to serve them.”

“As we mark our 79th year today, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering lives through innovation, and exceeding our customers expectations with unparalleled banking experiences tailored to their needs. Our pledge is to stand by our customers through every stage of life, offering enabling platforms to accelerate their growth and propel them to extraordinary heights.”

“While the past 79 years have been remarkable, we anticipate that the coming decades will be even more inspiring. With the partnership of our customers and employees, Wema Bank is poised to set new standards in financial services and redefine the future.” He concluded.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, Wema Bank and ALAT are rolling out a series of customer-focused activities designed to reward loyalty and enhance the customer experience. Throughout the anniversary month, customers will enjoy various promotions, including discounts on transactions, cash prizes, special loan offers and much more.

This anniversary is more than a celebration; it’s a reaffirmation of Wema Bank’s resilience and ongoing commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction in a competitive industry. Both Wema Bank and ALAT are poised for further growth, with strategic initiatives designed to enhance customer-centric services and expand the reach yearsw capability of digital banking solutions.

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Federal Housing Authority goes digital …As the MD/CEO flags off Digitalisation drive

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Federal Housing Authority goes digital
…As the MD/CEO flags off Digitalisation drive.

 

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The Managing Director and Chief Executive, Federal Housing Authority, Hon Oyetunde Ojo, May 1st, 2024 flagged off the Authority’s digitization drive.
In a ceremony at FHA’s head office, the MD CEO noted that the digitalisation effort is the first phase of the organisation’s march towards being a fully digitized outfit. This phase he stated covers all the Authority’s internal operations. He stated that the next phase that would take off in the coming weeks would be the real time interface with the public: allottees, prospective customers and Stakeholders.

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Describing the event as a significant milestone in the Authority’s history and corporate existence, Hon Ojo noted that it has become necessary for FHA to embrace digitalisation to stay competitive and relevant.

 

Federal Housing Authority goes digital
...As the MD/CEO flags off Digitalisation drive.

 

In his words, the MD said : ” in today’s rapidly evolving world, where technology continues to reshape industries and redefine how we operate, it has become imperative for us to embrace digitalisation to stay competitive, efficient and relevant.
The FHA Chief Executive noted that when his management resumed duties about two months ago, they found It unacceptable to lead the nation’s premier housing agency operating analogue in the this 21st century. He noted that their resolve and commitment to modernize and streamline the Authority’s operations, enhance service delivery, and ultimately serve the Stakeholders better, was the driving and motivating force behind them.
Hon Oyetunde Ojo also emphasized that the robust programmes of his management towards expanding the operations of the Authority has made it expedient to embrace digitalisation.
Citing FHA’S role in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) on Housing, the commencement of the Authority’s Diaspora City initiative as some of the projects FHA is currently involved in, he pointed out that the enormity of the projects can only be supported by digitalisation.
According to him, “…it has become more pertinent now that FHA is in the fore front of Housing revolution in the country through President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in Housing… the Authority is also getting set fir the take off of the Diaspora City initiative, meant to help our people living outside the country to gave befitting homes back home”
Continuing, he said that the enormous nature of these projects has made digitization of FHA more expedient.
” We are repositioning an FHA where people could stay in the confines of their homes and monitor their investments with us, buy houses, obtain any information the want, just by the click of a button”. He said.
The MD revealed that the coming months and years will witness series of digital initiatives that would be rolled out across the Authority. He declared, ” … from automating manual processes to digitizing records, implementing advanced analytics, and enhancing cybersecurity measures, our digitalisation efforts will touch every aspect of our organization”.
Hon Ojo encouraged the staff to embrace the changes that comes with digitalisation. ” As we embark on this journey, I encourage each and every one of you to embrace change, to be open to new ideas, and actively participate in our digital transformation. Together, we have the opportunity to shape the future of FHA and pave the way for a more innovative, efficient, resilient organization “. He said.

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