celebrity radar - gossips
Sanwo-olu: The Philosopher Icon of Lagos Leadership By IDOWU AJANAKU:Quote
Sanwo-olu: The Philosopher Icon of Lagos Leadership
By IDOWU AJANAKU:
“Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”
-Winston Churchill
More like a fine artist, life presents before each and every one of us with different canvasses to paint our vast and varied daily experiences, personal principles, philosophies, ambitions, values, dreams and desires on. And of course, we are free to paint them in our chosen colours. At the end of the day, each of us presents a brand-either negative, to be rebuffed and disdained by many, or positive to be an attractive factor facilitating good character, competence, confidence and candour to be admired by all and sundry.
As it is with the image maker and marketing guru, so it plays out in the tricky, murky and effervescent political landscape, more so the intrigue-fuelled Nigerian variant. That brings us to the subject of our interest here, who is none other than the affable, meek, and goal-getting Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state. There the questions arise.
Up until now, many Nigerians still wonder how someone, hitherto not an attention-seeker though a politician suddenly came up to take over the baton of political leadership as the successor to erstwhile Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. That was back in 2018. What marks him out as a person? What defines his persona, out of the hundreds of those, who back then thought they stood a better chance of clinching the much coveted political platform than his humble self?
One does not need rocket science to ponder a while and proffer the answer to this question. All it shows is that you might be the most hardworking, creative, resourceful person, all of which attributes act as steps up the ladder to success but the most dependable facilitating factor of them all is none other than character. Yes, good character! That is what takes you to the pinnacle of your chosen career. That perhaps, explains why John Hammond aptly puts it that: “Character is the real foundation of all worthwhile success”.
A close perspective at the life trajectory of Sanwo-Olu therefore, shows that it is character and a good one at that which assists you to be at the right place and at the right time for your destiny to be fulfilled. Even then, a righteous man and a sinner both located at the wrong place are but the same.
For him, right from the basics he was connected to the former Deputy Governor of the state in the person of Mr. Olufemi Pedro. He was the Destiny Helper who brought him into the political landscape as a Personal Assistant a post from which he rose to become a Special Assistant on Commerce and Industry. But then something drastic happened. That was when Pedro decided to carpet cross away from the Alliance for Democrcay,AD to the Labour Party,LP which was the brain-child of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu
That defection of Pedro became a veritable opportunity for Sanwo-Olu to exhibit the sterling character of a peace maker in him. He acted as a mediator, doing al, he could to broker peace. But when he did not succeed, he decided to stay with Tinubu instead of pitching his tent with Pedro. And he strengthened the bond of affection between him and Tinubu by giving all his support to Barrister Babatunde Raji Fashola.(SAN). That was in 2007 when in 2007 when he emerged as the party’s gubernatorial flag bearer. Subsequently, he became the Commissioner for Training and Establishment during the first tenure of Fashola.
Ever since then Sanwo-Olu became constant catalyst, image maker and always making himself available as a solution-provider to various political challenges, and beaming brightly in the state’s political firmament like the northern star. It was not a surprise therefore, when he rose to become the Managing Director, Lagos State Property Development Corporation, LSPD. Building on his wealth of experience he deployed dynamism, innovation bringing to bear more effectiveness in the area of economic development.
As fate would have it, and in recognition of his support as a party faithful and a dependable shoulder to lean on he eventually became the successor to the then Governor Ambode. And in spite of all the mud-slinging, aspersion casting against his person he remained unfazed as a man of peace and a dependable shoulder to lean on in times of trouble.
Worthy of note is that the exalted office of the state governorship has not changed his person.He remains humble, insightful and accessible to all. That brings to bear the wise saying that: “People are interested by talent. But God is impressed by character” as Rick Warren. He is also the one who advised that: “We should not be impressed by charisma but we should look out for character”. That is one great and profound lesson for us all to glean from.
By his simplistic approach to life and as one who never allowed the paraphernalia and apparatchiks of office to lose the common touch he has brought in a new philosophy to the art of governance. He has keyed into the servant-leadership mantra of late president, Umar’ Yar Ardua of blessed memory and remains therefore, a beacon bearer of selflessness, openness, compassion and altruism all shown in the sphere of governance.
For instance, Sanwo-Olu’s kindness was shown to all civil servants in year 2020 as they worked from home for over five months yet they were paid their full salaries all through the duration of the COVID-19 lockdown. Also, the governor approved the payment of a 30% tax-free End-of-the Year bonus for the state’s workforce, paid with the December salaries to every staff.
It remains remarkable when out of his milk of human kindness he compensated families of six police officers killed in the Lagos state during the EndSARS violence with N10 million each.
The governor presented cheques to the wives and children of the slain officers at the 14th Town Hall meeting on security held at Civic Centre, Victoria Island, describing the slain officers as “heroes”.
Similarly, Sanwo-Olu approved the release of funds from the equity of Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS). It was meant to provide free healthcare for 50,000 orphans, elderly and the vulnerable in the State.
Also, parents of two set of quadruplets, Mrs. Ibeh Maureen Anayo (Nee Anyaegbu) and Mrs. Abosede Akinola, were presented with undisclosed sums of money to assist in giving adequate care to their newborn babies. They disclosed that the governor stood by her and offered assistance from the 6th of August, 2020 when the babies were born at the Federal Medical Centre, Ebute- Metta. On her part, Mrs. Abosede Akinola, mother of the second set of quadruplets appreciated the governor’s gesture of reaching out to them.
Not left out of his generous spirit was his reaching out to a robbery victim by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ogudu Police Station in Lagos, Mrs. Celestina Kalu. She was invited by Sanwo-Olu, who handed her a cheque containing undisclosed sums of money. That reminds us of the minspiring words of Lou Holtz that: “Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it”.
All said, whenever the history of Lagos state governance is written there is little doubt that the uncommon act of giving to the needy will be copiously mentioned, as performed selflessly by Governor Sanwo-Olu, the man who has redefined the science of leading by example, with the golden heart.
AJANAKU, was a former Special Adviser on information and strategy to Lagos State Government
celebrity radar - gossips
Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51
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!
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.
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