I’ve just received the heart warming news that my sister Hon. Mojisola Meranda has been sworn-in as the first female speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
I am thrilled & excited that providence has provided her a bigger platform to serve the good people of Lagos State.
I pray to Almighty Allah, to give her wisdom, strength and courage to discharge her duties without fear or favour.
naptu2: Can you believe that it is 31 years (going on 32) since the wedding of the century??
It feels like it was just yesterday.
The battle between Prime People and Vintage People for scoops about the wedding. (The battle began months before the wedding. Every week brought new news about what was being spent on the wedding, what was going to happen, etc).
Then came the day of the wedding and the stories that followed (house and car gifts, who was at the wedding, who was not at the wedding, who performed at the all-night party, etc).
I remember stumbling on a heated debate between some people the very next day. Their relative (who had only recently arrived Lagos from their home town) said that the couple would make back all they spent from the presents that were given to them (he was shocked that they were given several W124 V-Boot Mercedes Benz cars). His relatives, who were based in Lagos, said that it was impossible for the couple to make the money back ( "Do you know how much it costs to have both Sunny and Obey performing at your all-night party?" )
And just like that, they've been married for 31 years. 31 years!
naptu2: Prince Adedapo Tejuosho (as he then was) and Chief Razak Okoya (founder of Eleganza Industries) were 2 very prominent members of the donation circuit in the 1980s and early 1990s. So you can imagine how big a wedding between their kids would be.
The wedding of Lanre Tejuosho and Moji Okoya in 1987 was one of the biggest and most celebrated weddings in Nigeria's history and the marriage is still going strong 31 years later.
The donation circuit was not a formal organisation, but it’s the way that I refer to a phenomenon that occurred in the late 1980s and early 1990s (the Babangida era).
Some of Nigeria’s wealthiest men were often invited to specific events in which they donated large sums of money. These events included fund raising in churches and mosques, university convocations, book launching and fund raising activities by universities, secondary schools, community development associations and charities.
It was usually the same set of people that were invited to these events. The president was usually the special guest of honour (when he was invited), the governor was usually the chief host, the head of the institution was usually the host, Chief Abiola was usually the chief launcher and other members of the donation circuit were usually special guests.
There was a day that I watched the 9 o’clock news and there was an advert for one of these events and the invited guests were listed. There was another advert immediately after and the list of invited guests was almost exactly the same as the list in the previous advert.
The members of the donation circuit included Chief MKO Abiola, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, Chief Sunny Odogwu, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas, Chief Razak Okoya, Prince Adedapo Tejuosho, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Alhaji Ibrahim Dasuki, Prince Adekunle Ojora, Chief Onwuka Kalu (Onwuka Inter-Biz), Alhaji Ahmed Mai Deribe, Chief Michael Ibru, Dr Alex Ibru, Chief Sunny Okogwu, Chief Wahab Iyanda Folawiyo, Alhaji Grema Mohammed, Chief Francis Arthur Nzeribe, Alhaji Isyaku Rabiu, Dr Olusola Saraki, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, etc.
Members of the original committee that was set up by President Babangida to build a new national stadium in Abuja were drawn from members of the donation circuit. Chief MKO Abiola was the chairman and chiefs Sunny Odogwu, Gabriel Igbinedion, etc. were members of the committee (I can still remember the news item about the inauguration of the committee on the Network News). The committee was charged with raising funds for the stadium, selecting a location for the stadium, etc.
The president, who was the visitor to the federal universities, often attended convocations and fund raising events at these universities and he usually donated some money (usually millions of naira) on behalf of the Federal Government and he usually made a second donation (usually thousands of naira) on behalf of himself and his family. The president also sometimes donated money to groups like PMAN and the Nigerian Bar Association.
Chief Gani Fawehinmi sued President Babangida because of these donations. He said that the other members of the donation circuit were private people who were donating their own money, but the president was donating government money. “Were the funds that were donated in the budget? What gave the president the right to spend money that was not in the budget?”
Sometimes, when the event was a book launch, one of the members of the donation circuit would buy a large number of the books and donate them to the libraries of all universities in Nigeria (or the libraries of all secondary schools in Nigeria).
Chief MKO Abiola attended a lot of these events. Quite often in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, the first item on the 9 o’clock news was about President Babangida, while the second item was often about Chief Abiola. I remember a particular day that they showed him attending an event in one city and then the next news item was about another event that he attended in another town on that same day and we were wondering how he went from one event to the other. Well, they showed him getting into a helicopter at the end of the second news item, so he flew by helicopter from one event to the other. Chief Abiola donated to schools, churches, mosques, charities, etc. He donated to causes and institutions across the whole of Nigeria, from Lagos to Maiduguri, from Calabar to Sokoto, from Kano to Port Harcourt and everywhere in between.
These events were not without their controversies and strange incidents.
The protocol back in the day was that the doors were locked whenever either President Babangida or Admiral Aikhomu arrived at the venue of an event and nobody is allowed in or out until either the president or the CGS is ready to leave. There was an event at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) on Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island, a regular venue for these fund raising events back in the day. Both Admiral Aikhomu and President Babangida were already in the hall. Chief MKO Abiola arrived late and the SSS guards at the door refused to allow him into the hall. He identified himself, showed them his invitation card and did everything that he could to get in, but they would not allow anyone in, no matter who the person was. There was commotion at the door. He was eventually able to give a message to someone that was already in the hall and the person got the message to Admiral Aikhomu. The CGS sent his ADC to tell the guards at the door to let Chief Abiola in.
(This is one of two incidents that Chief Abiola had with security agencies c1992. The other was the incident that involved Deji Abiola and an Air Force officer in Ikeja).
There was a funny incident that occurred at one of these events. Alhaji Aminu Dantata was often invited to these events, but he was not a regular member of the donation circuit. He only attended the events occasionally. I remember what happened at an occasion that he attended.
Chief Abiola had already announced his donation before Dantata was invited to make his donation. Alhaji Dantata’s donation was slightly higher than Chief Abiola’s. Sometime later Chief Abiola came back to the microphone and announced that he was going to pledge more money later.
This particular incident is not connected to Chief Abiola in any way, but it was probably the most bizarre incident to happen on the donation circuit.
I was ill and a lot of people came to check up on me. It was a Saturday and the TV was on and the NTA News came on while we were watching it. There was a report about one of these fund raising events. It was a small event, only one of the members of the donation circuit was present and that was Chief Sunny Okogwu (not to be confused with Chief Sunny Odogwu).
They announced the amount of money that he donated and one of the women that came to see me screamed. It was a crazy amount of money. “Where did he get that kind of money?” she shouted.
That incident dominated the headlines the next day and then came an explanation from Chief Okogwu. (I can’t remember the exact amounts, so the figures here are just for illustration purposes). He said that the organisers of the event wanted to raise 50 million naira for a project. The organisers probably did not expect him to actually attend the event. When they saw him at the event, they jacked up the figure to 200 million naira and tried to cajole him to donate a lot of money. This angered him and he decided to punish the organisers. He announced that he was donating 1 billion naira, but, in actual fact, he did not intent to give them a kobo.
Chief Abiola’s donations resulted in the construction of at least 63 secondary schools, 121 mosques and churches, 41 libraries and 24 water projects in states across Nigeria. He was the grand patron of 149 societies and associations and he was conferred with 197 chieftaincy titles from 68 communities across Nigeria. He was also conferred with honorary degrees by many universities around the world.
naptu2: The gossip magazines were agog again in the 1990s with the news that billionaire businessman, Chief Razak Akani Okoya was having an affair with a Unilag student. It was later revealed to be true and Chief Okoya married Sade (the former Unilag student) in 1999.
naptu2: I thought that I created a post with this topic a long time ago, but I can't find it, so I am going to recreate it, but with a lot less detail (I don't have as much time as I did then).
Once upon a time the most popular brands of biros/ball point pens in Nigeria were Bic and Eleganza. They were so popular that they dominated the market and you would be forgiven for thinking that they were the only brands of biros in Nigeria.
People chose between the two based on their personal preference. Eleganza biros released quite a lot of ink at once, so people who preferred to have a lot of ink chose Eleganza biros. Bic biros released a lot less ink and so people who preferred to have less ink chose Bic biros.
Eleganza also made food warmers and drink coolers (many of which were given out as souvenirs during the Wedding of the Century in 1987).
In fact, Eleganza produced all kinds of plastic products, from chairs, picnic tables and bags/boxes to both electric and handheld fans. They had facilities in Ikeja and Apapa where these goods were produced.
Chief Razak Akani Okoya, the founder of Eleganza Industries, started out importing goods, but circumstances made him decide to produce the goods in Nigeria. On one occasion, he ordered for shoes from Italy (to sell in Nigeria), but the goods never came. He travelled to Italy to find out what was going on and he discovered that the manufacturer had used the money that Chief Okoya paid to settle his debts and other obligations. In anger Chief Okoya returned to Nigeria, imported the shoe making machines and began producing shoes in Nigeria.
He discovered that his wife liked jewelry and she was always buying expensive jewels. He did not think that the jewels were worth the amount that they were sold for and he believed that they could be made in Nigeria since we have the metals and other materials that they were made with, so he imported the machines and started making more durable jewelry in Nigeria at a much cheaper price.
I went through the Marina/Broad Street area of Lagos every day in the 1980s (it was the main business district at the time) and I noticed when the Eleganza Group began building a very tall building in the area (this was around 1986/1987). I observed the progress that they had made every day as I went past the construction site. The building was eventually completed around 1989 or 1990.
The Eleganza Group of Companies invested heavily in real estate in the early 2000s. They built a massive estate in Lekki. It's called Oluwanishola Estate, but people often call it Eleganza Estate. The estate kind of reminds me of two other estates in the Lekki area.
It reminds me of Oniru Estate, which has a royal estate (for the Royal Family) and a private estate (where properties are sold or rented out). There's a section of Oluwanishola Estate that is for the Okoya Family and there's a section that is rented out.
It also reminds me of Victoria Garden City (VGC). HFP built a residential estate (VGC) and a shopping complex (Ikota Shopping Complex) close to each other and there is an Eleganza Shopping Complex near Oluwanishola Estate.
The company also has the Eleganza Industrial City in the Lekki area.
Chief Okoya gave an interview some years ago in which he talked about how and why they went into the real estate business and the unique reasons why they were successful. I can't remember for certain, but I think he said that any member of the family can invest in properties or suggest a type of real estate that they should invest in, but they manage everything together (RAO Property Investment Company). I thought I posted the interview here, but it's not here and I don't have the time to find it.
. . .It will get to your industry in Lekki by the grace of God. When we start it later in the year, people shouldn't say that we are destroying Lekki o! We want to do the Green Line. What did I say? We want to do the Green Line. We will do it in the middle of the road. It will get to your industry by the grace of God. It will run past this place.
On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I wish Chief Rasaq Akanni Okoya, industrialist and Chairman of the Eleganza Group, a happy 85th birthday.
His significant contributions to the economy and the livelihoods of many Nigerians, especially in Lagos State, where his companies thrive, have impacted our community and inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams.
Chief Okoya's generosity and philanthropic efforts, which have provided hope to the less privileged, including scholarships for young people and financial support for small businesses, are a testament to his commitment to uplifting others.
I wish him the very best on his special day and pray for his continued health and strength so that he can enjoy the fruits of his labour.
PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES CHIEF RASAQ OKOYA AT 85
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates the esteemed industrialist and philanthropist Chief Rasaq Akanni Okoya as he celebrates his remarkable 85th birthday on January 12, 2025.
President Tinubu lauds the Chairman of Eleganza Group for exemplifying the Nigerian spirit of entrepreneurship, hard work, and success.
"For over six decades, your endeavours and achievements have not only inspired countless businesses to succeed but also significantly contributed to the growth of the Nigerian economy. The companies and industries you established have created jobs for thousands of Nigerians.
"I am particularly delighted that your life-long civic engagement has been centred on promoting the education and spiritual life of Nigerians. Your generosity in offering scholarships has transformed the lives of many individuals," the President says.
President Tinubu expresses his fervent hope that the octogenarian will continue to inspire businesspeople nationwide, encouraging them to emulate the skills and qualities that have made him a pioneering figure and a legend in the business world.
The President joins the Okoya family, friends and well-wishers in soliciting Allah's continued blessings and good health for Chief Okoya.
Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) January 12, 2025
ufotunang: .why is there no police day...at least a day to celebrate the police..the police are trying...
The police take part in the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
However, I would like to see, not a Police Day, but a Civilian Services Day.
The Police, Fire Service, ambulance services, medical doctors, Customs, Immigrations, Prisons, FRSC and other services put their lives at risk to serve us and they should also have a day to remember those that died in the line of duty.
kettykin: You still don't get it. Jimmy Carter intervened and it was known to everyone. Gowon claimed he intervened, and even Obasanjo expressed surprise. Am not here to judge, but it is very evidently clear who was the actual people that worked for Obasanjo's release.
🤣 Oh, now I get you! You are here to judge Gowon and insinuate that he did not intervene, even though you were not there.
DaddyCoool: Wow Who is the guy in the last photo? That's not OBJ
Shut up! He was a decent president
That's General Muhammadu Magoro (he was a colonel when that photo was taken).
He was the minister of transport at the time and he was showing Jimmy Carter around Tin Can Island Port.
The Apapa Port was blocked after the Civil War because the Nigerian Government was importing too much cement to rebuild the country. There were very many ships waiting outside Apapa Port and the port couldn't handle the traffic.
The government decided to build Tin Can Island Port to relieve the pressure on Apapa Port and the Americans provided assistance.
Major General Muhammadu Magoro became minister for internal affairs in the Muhammadu Buhari administration. He was retired from the army after the 1985 coup (there were many rumours that he was loyal to Buhari and that's why Babangida retired him).
General Magoro was chairman of Oando in the 1990s and 2000s.
Akpabio Calls On Nigerians To Honour Fallen Heroes’ Sacrifices
Written by Elijah Samson and Leadership News 7 hours ago.
The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has called on Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the nation’s Armed Forces by fostering unity, advancing peace, and committing to nation-building.
Akpabio, who spoke through the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, made the remarks during the interdenominational church service commemorating the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the National Christian Centre on Sunday in Abuja.
Addressing a congregation of national leaders, religious figures, and citizens, the Senate President paid tribute to the courageous men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces, past and present.
He reflected on his late father’s service in World War II, a legacy that shaped his values of service, unity, and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
“The sacrifices of our Armed Forces are not myths or fables—they are deeply personal to many of us,” Akpabio said. “Their dedication to service inspires us all. We owe it to them to build a nation worthy of their courage.”
Akpabio emphasised the need to honour thes sacrifices by ensuring the welfare of the families of fallen heroes and strengthening support for veterans.
He pledged the administration’s commitment to implementing welfare programmes and policies that address the challenges faced by the families.
The Senate President highlighted Nigeria’s diversity as a strength, calling on citizens to rise above divisions and work together to tackle the nation’s pressing challenges, including insecurity, economic hardships, and climate change.
“Nigeria is a tapestry woven with over 500 languages, diverse traditions, and various faiths. Our strength lies in our unity despite our diversity,” he said. “We can build a Nigeria that will never surrender to insecurity, avarice, tribalism, and corruption.”
He urged religious institutions to lead the charge in spreading messages of love, tolerance, and unity.
Akpabio also called for decisive action on national issues to create a better Nigeria for future generations, drawing inspiration from the resilience of past heroes.
“The blood of our heroes is the seed of our unity and progress,” he said. “Let us not only dream of a better Nigeria but work tirelessly to make it a reality.”
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, members of the Armed Forces, and families of fallen soldiers. It marked a solemn moment of reflection, unity, and renewed commitment to the nation’s greatness.
As Nigeria moves into 2025, Akpabio called on all citizens to approach the year with hope, determination, and a shared vision for a stronger, more united Nigeria.
“May the memories of our fallen heroes remind us of the responsibility we bear. May their courage strengthen our resolve. And may we keep striving for a better, stronger, and united Nigeria,” he added.
Earlier today, I joined other dignitaries at the interdenominational church service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of the activities marking the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. I was also honoured to deliver goodwill remarks on behalf of the Senate President, Dist.Sen. Godswill Akpabio, at this all-important gathering.
As we honor the sacrifices of our fallen heroes who gave their lives to protect our freedom, unity, and sovereignty, we also express our deep appreciation to the members of the Armed Forces who continue to make tremendous sacrifices to safeguard the peace and prosperity of our beloved nation, Nigeria.
May the Almighty continue to strengthen them, and may the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.
Photo 1) Cross section of special guests at the event including the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu? Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Okuyede and the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.
Photo 2) Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Photo 3) Rt Hon. Ben Kalu delivering his speech.
Photo 4) Rt Hon. Ben Kalu and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa.
Politics › Re: Oniru Of Iru Celebrates Election Of Sister As Speaker Of LSHA by naptu2(op): 4:02pm On Jan 13, 2025
