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Oloyede @ 70, Abike Dabiri-Erewa @ 62: Celebration of two quintessential mentors, pace-setters

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Oloyede @ 70, Abike Dabiri-Erewa @ 62: Celebration of two quintessential mentors, pace-setters

by Abdur-Rahman Balogun

The 10th month of the year, October, is as important to me as the month of  August, in many respects. From August 1 to August 31, at least, I know eight people daily whose birthdays coincide with each day. 

Similarly, the 10th month of the year is so special to me in particular because of landmark days in history which it coincides with. From October 1 Independence day of Nigeria, to the Teachers Day of October 4, to October 11, International Day of Girl Child among others. 

But of all these days, two days stand out to me as the days marking the birth of my mentors and pace-setters in all respect.

Professor Is-haq Olarenwaju Oloyede, the Registrar, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and Secretary-General Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and former Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin clocked 70 years on the surface of the earth on October 10, 2024. He is my spiritual and administrative mentor while Hon. (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) is my professional mentor and my boss whose 62nd birthday is on October 11. 

Both Oloyede and Dabiri-Erewa, shared so many things in common, which I learnt from the duo in the over 30 years of my relationship with  them.

Both of them are so humane, intelligent, simplistic and humble to a fault. I recollect sometimes in 2003, the driver of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa got hooked up in a traffic jam and she was heading to an urgent caucus meeting of her party in Apo legislative quarters, she asked:  “Balogun, where is your car?, come and drop me off!, I was ashamed of myself because of my “jalopy” 505 Peugeot salon car then without air conditioner and not befitting of someone of her status, she never mind as she sat comfortably till I dropped her off. 

In the same vein, Prof. Oloyede as the Co- Secretary of National Political Reform Conference of 2005 to 2006, boarded my rickety 505 Peugeot car from International Conference Centre,  venue of the conference to Nicon-Hilton for an urgent meeting with some sub-committee members when his official car and driver had gone on another errand for him.

People of their calibre and status will not venture into such “risky and unfit kind of transportation. Till date, both of them still do that even in their private and official vehicles as they give a lift to their subordinates sitting side by side with them in the car.

Of course, the world can testify to  their integrity,  administrative and pace-setting  acumen of both Oloyede and Dabiri-Erewa. It is exceptional and unique. 

During the regime of President Goodluck Jonathan (2009-2013), he gave  money for Prayers to both the Muslims and Christians Communities. Oloyede administered that of the Muslim Community as the Secretary-General of NSCIA and surprising ly, after distributing the money appropriately to the Islamic scholars and Imams, he returned the balance to the Presidency. This singular act earned him some unprintable names from the Imams and some of his friends, saying only ” a mad man does that”.  

It was this uncommon service delivery, transparency,  accountability and commitment to excellence as demonstrated by him as the eighth Vice Chancellor of University of Ilorin between 2007 and 2012. He is performing the same task in JAMB due to various on-going pro-active reforms..

All these achievements prompted family, friends, colleagues and his alma mata, the University of Ilorin to celebrate his retirement from the University community with two- day loaded programmes which included a valedictory University lecture entitled: “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanities” he delivered on October 9, 2024, while another public lecture put together by consortium of eight Universities in Kwara and presentation of a special book (Festschrift) entitled: Islamics, Scholarship and Service to Society. 

The two events were well attended in Ilorin, Kwara state with who- is- who in the society which included His Eminence, Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, who graced the ocassions and showered encomiums on this first class Professor of Islamic Jurisprudence. 

Professor Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede was born on October 10, 1954 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, he graduated in 1981 with a First Class Honours from the University of Ilorin where he also bagged his Master and Ph.D degrees in 1985 and 1991, respectively. He became a Professor of Islamic Jurisprudence in 1995. He was the first alumnus of the University of Ilorin to become its Vice Chancellor.

 In a tribute to this exemplary personality, entitled: UNCOMMON SCHOLAR, EXCEPTIONAL ADMINISTRATOR,  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 
described him “as an  astute administrator, educator, author, and scholar. 

“As the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Oloyede’s invaluable contributions to the nation through academia and public-sector administration have significantly impacted the academic community.
 
“Prof. Oloyede imparted knowledge and character to thousands of students who underwent his teaching during his glorious and impactful academic career.
 
“Indeed, the bedrock of development lies in education. Developing nations, including Nigeria, are in dire need of more scholars like Prof. Oloyede. His selfless sacrifices and innovative approaches to learning and leadership give hope for a brighter future.”

 I do share this encomiums and others showered on this transformative leader, a pioneer, a reformer and an outstanding global scholar.

On this occasion of his 70th birthday and retirement from University Community, I join his numerous admirers and well-wishers in celebrating this scholar who, in words and deeds, has also done a lot to humanity. I pray Allah
to bestow on him sound health, wisdom and strength to serve the nation for many more years to come.

As for my boss,  Hon. (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa,  she is a household name in Nigeria. Through her profession, Journalism, she has been able to mentor many young Nigerians into the rudiments of broadcasting. 

With her entry in politics and three-time elected parliamentarian represented her good people in Ikorodu Federal Constituency 2003 to 2015, she pioneered many things as the first Chairman Media and Publicity Committee in the House of Representatives and later Chairman Committee on Diaspora Affairs.

 Her wonderful performance in the House and her tenacity and consistency earned her Senior Special Assistant to the former President on Diaspora and International Relations before the creation and passage of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission bill which she was appointed as the pioneer Chairman/CEO of the Commission.

Since her appointment and confirmation in 2016 and 2019 respectively,  it has been a wonderful experience for the five years old Commission in terms of achievements and impactful activities courtesy of dynamic leadership of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa,  who is not only projecting the Commission well but to the global community.

What more can one say of this unique workaholic personality, who is using her goodwill, without looking at the paucity of funds to affect the performance of the Commission.

 Because of her exceptional performance, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa has bagged over 450 awards, honours and recognitions both within and outside the country to her credit. 

In his birthday greeting to Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa,  President Bola Tinubu lauded her decades of service to the nation, noting her deep passion for building a better Nigeria.

Reflecting on Dabiri-Erewa’s distinguished career, President Tinubu highlighted her rise to national prominence as a broadcaster with  flair, empathy, and credibility which endeared her as a  trusted figure for millions of Nigerians. 

The President further praised her for extending her public service beyond the newsroom and into the political arena where she solidified her reputation as a staunch advocate for the Nigerian diaspora. 

“Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s commitment to excellence, her optimism, and her courage have not only inspired many Nigerians but have also made her a role model for women in politics,” President Tinubu said.

 He praised her tireless work in ensuring that Nigerians living abroad are connected to their homeland, while also facilitating business and investment ties that contribute to national development.

My prayers always for her is contained in Qur’an 93 verse 4 :  “And verily the Hereafter will be better for thee than the present”

May Allah preserve Hon. Kafayat Abike Dabiri-Erewa and Prof. Is-haq Olarenwaju Oloyede upon goodness. The country needs more of the duo to benefit mankind.

Abdur-Rahman Balogun (mnipr) is the Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, NiDCOM, Abuja and President, Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN).

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Mr. Magic: Dotun Oladipo @ 55

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Mr. Magic: Dotun Oladipo @ 55

By: Ajagbe Adeyemi Teslim

The true quality of a leader reflects on the standard they set for themselves and their followers – Ray Kroc

“An Adage from my village says ”Asesile nla bowaba” meaning “good deeds begot favour” and probably that is what we are all enjoying today in the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) family and The Eagle Online, where Mr. Dotun Oladipo is the Publisher; having shown and exhibited quality leadership both in season and out of season.

It will be recalled that Maureen Chigbo, Publisher of Realnews Magazine Online who is the president of GOCOP took over the office from Mr. Oladipupo of the EagleOnline who led the Guild successfully from 2018 till 2021.

I recalled that Dotun took over from Musikilu Mojeed of the Premium Times who is the current President of the International Press Institute (IPI), while Mojeed took the mantle from the pioneer GOCOP President, Dr. Malachi Agbo of The Citizen News who is serving presently as the Honourable Commissioner for Human Development and Poverty Eradication under Governor Emeka Mbah of Enugu State.

As at the time of filing-in this report, GOCOP has over 119 online professional publishers who have excelled in their past field as journalists and editors before establishing their own online platforms.

The key purpose of establishing the Guild is to ensure that members uphold the tenets of online journalism.

History has it that the much talked, anticipated, reliable and respected GOCOP of today started directly inside Oladipo office in Ogba Lagos which was situated on 27, Joseph Odunlami Street, off Thomas Salako Street, which eventually became the registered address of GOCOP.

Another great selfless service Oladipo rendered the Guild, include the building of GOCOP official website, among others.

Not only that, Oladipo as a team builder, a successful career counsellor and foremost touch bearer of digital journalism in Nigeria.

For instance, during one of the lecture he delivered at the GOCOP 6th Annual conference in Sheraton Hotel, Lagos, he shared insights with members on how to spread their ‘site wings.’

No doubt, Oladipo is one of the few GOCOP members who have a verified Google adsense website and another 2 Google accredited YouTube Channel, which are EagleOnline TV and Pop News with its trending regular ‘Erotic Monday night with Tiwa.’

Oladipo did not just find himself at the top of affairs of the Guild, he has really paid his dues and that is why many would attest that he also served as the chief scribe of the Guild during Musikilu Mojeed tenure. His excellent performance then made all members of the Guild to vote him in to continued to steer the wheel of the association.

Many will be asking where I came up with the name Dotun (Mr. Magic) Mr. Magic was not fabricated by the writer but was given to him publicly on the GOCOP Loop when Mr. Olumide Iyanda of QEDNG commended him for the great role he played during the successful outcome of the Kogi Conference.

Oladipo, a handsome, ebony, huge, clean shave father of three is no doubt a silent achiever, an orator with clear and loud voice is a leader, with open door policy to his media colleagues and any body that comes his way.

Recently, Oladipo was elected as the President of Innovative Media Partners Cooperative Multipurpose Society (IMPCMS), which beckons on him to bring his wealth of experience to bear on the group.

Permit me to state my personal experience with Oladipo, starting with the popular saying that behind every successful man there must be a woman and the woman beside Oladipo’s success story is Ayanba to those who know him very well .

Some of his close associates who can testify to Ayaaba humility and humanitarian services are Mallam Sakibu Olokojobi of Frontpage Online and our own legal luminary, Ayo Odeyemi of YouNews will quickly grab that name, the woman is truly a woman of substance, a caring and highly supportive wife.

My experience started the day we were asked to converge at Oladipo’s office for the just concluded Kogi conference, I got to the venue as a visitor getting to the area for the first time, the respect and accolades the woman was earning from both young and old on that building and street was what prompted my curiosity to ask the security man who is this beautiful woman? and he quickly told me joyfully, “habaa, walai that naa oga wife oo, her name na Ayabaoo” adding that her humility is second to none, I started given her close marking so as to truly know her very well but she was busy looking after us, her husband’s GOCOP guests because our then Coordinator who was Sakibu Olokojobi of Frontpage Online came late from his Ijoko Ogun State resident due to traffic and the poor stage of roads.

So when Sakibu arrived, he quickly put a call straight to Ayaba and she drove down immediately from Oladipo house and took us home, during the ride home the fun and comic between Sakibu and Ayaba was overwhelmed as the woman inculcated us into the discussion, but that is a story for another day.

On getting home, Immediately, we were served chill table water, she called out all her 3 beauty queen to come and honor the visitors which they all did politely, the air condition was switch on to reduce the stress we had gone through ,she also switched on the plasma TV for our relaxation asking what channel we would like to watch either sport or News due to our profession.

As that was going on, a delicious meal full of chicken and wine was served. in spite of her three grown up girls Ayaba still took it up upon her self to serve us in a proper way of a well culture Yoruba woman setting and manner, asking if we still care for more, after the dinner, she went into the visitors room to bring out mattress to the parlour for us to sleep and some souvenir of her hubby’s 50th birthday stressing it was kept for us since we did not show up during the celebration, she now engage us in a well constructive discussion before we all departed to bed, the most surprising thing was that at around 11:45 pm another GOCOP member, Mr. Felix Douglas of Energy Focus called to be at the gate when Ayaba had Already slept off.

hmmmmm, The ever energetic Ayaaba still stood up with enthusiasm to go down and received her husband guest simply because he is a GOCOP member, at around 5.am the following day as we were set for the trip Ayaaba had woke up and still drove us to the office where the Luxurious bus that would pick us to the kogi conference. (kudos to you Ayaaba).

Oladipo, is just a man full of blessings and unique styles, let us also look at the good character, simplicity, honesty, Love and Respect he Portrait during the mixed up of luggages between his humble self and Our 2006 Award winning CNN Journalist who is the publisher of Crestng.com Mr. Shola Oshunkeye after our return from the kogi conference, Honestly Oladipo worth celebrating.

Dotun Oladipo is an enigma that whenever he talks everybody cares to listen, he is a cynosure of all eyes on every occasion, he is truly a prince of hope many would want to associate with due to his humility and ability to serve humanity.

Even the Writer of the piece Mr. Ajagbe Adeyemi Teslim of August24news.com got the news about GOCOP during Oladipo tenure as president and eventually got inducted thereafter.

Having said all this, kindly join me to celebrate a senior Colleague, a mentor, a a professional media icon, a strategist, as every 19th day of December remains your day sir, Mr. Dotun Oladipo a.k.a Mr. Magic.

Felicitating with Dotun is his predecessor and Editor of Premium Times, Mr. Musikilu Mojeed “I have always known you to be a loving, hardworking and resilient person who is ever focused on achieving desirable results in everything. As you add another year today, I pray that God in his infinite mercy guides and elevates you to a greater height and makes you someone that successful people will always be eager to associate with.

On the heels of celebrating Dotun 55th Birthday, over 200 publishers across the globe both from GOCOP, NUJ, NGE, IMPCMS and  beyond sent congratulatory greetings to him on different notes which cannot be published on this edition alone.

First on the list is Dotun’s successor, the incumbent president of GOCOP and publisher of of Realnews magazine Online, Ms Maureen Chigbo, who said Oladipo is just a gift to GOCOP and Nigeria media.

Second is the Publisher of Freedom Online, Mr. Gabriel Akindewon describe Dotun as a phenomenon in the journalism world, an achiever, whose footprints in the digital media space and GOCOP cannot be erased. he is a friend, a brother, an ally you can call at midnight over any issue who will reliably and confidently tell you ‘I will fix it’.

He is also a professional in the media confraternity who is, forever, breaking new grounds due to his creativity and boldness, More decades in the land of the living.

Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke, the publisher of ITREALMS said Dotun is a silent achiever, a complete gentleman and one whose open arms have forged friendship across the industry and the nation.

Alhaji Tajudeen Kareem who publishes Credible News, said Dotun is a compassionate fellow who sees GOCOP as a Nigeria Projects that must succeed and its currently succeeding.

Hassan Gimba, the publisher of Neptune online, described Dotun as a cool headed colleague, a great supporter of his platform who helps to publish his Weekly editorial feature since inception.

Speaking from another angle is one of the Oldest Publisher in GOCOP and Publisher of Greenbarge Report, Chief Yussuf Ozi-Usman npri described DOTUN in an acronym, viz “D stands for Dogged, O represents Originality, T for Talent, while U goes for Uplifting and N connotes Navigating.”

Dotun Oladipo showcases a remarkable set of qualities, values, and traits that embody exceptional leadership and character. These are words that align with the qualities of DOTUN says Ozi-Usman

Speaking further, he said Dotun is a Divine Opportunity Topics Under Nigeria and a blessing to any group who have the privilege of his membership.

In his own remarks, Tunde Abatan, the Publisher of Newdawnngr.com described him as a humble, selfless and devoted colleagues always ready to offer his service to all.

Crowning the birthday greetings is the President of the federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, through the Presidential spokesman,  Mr. Bayo Onanuga, in a statement available to August24news.com, said Dotun unwavering contributions to online journalism in the country cannot be forgotten.

On behalf of my self, my loving and dashing wife, my resourceful children and the entire management of August24news.com and it’s sisters YouTube Channel August24news TV, we are all very proud to join other millions of Nigerians to celebrate and to felicitate with your humble personality as you just add another feather to your wing today sir.

hip!
hip!!
hip!!!
hurrayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

kindly, keep the ball rolling sir!!!(Uncle D.O)

Ajagbe is the Publisher of August24news.com, a Senior Special Assistant to Lagos Island East Council Chairman on Media and Digital Communications and a bonafide member of GOCOP writes from Lagos.

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Celebrating Dupe Olusola’s Transformative Leadership as Transcorp Hotels Plc Welcomes New CEO

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Celebrating Dupe Olusola’s Transformative Leadership as Transcorp Hotels Plc Welcomes New CEO

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

As Transcorp Hotels Plc announces the appointment of Mrs Uzo Oshogwe as the new Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2025, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the outstanding legacy of Dupe Olusola, whose tenure has redefined the hospitality landscape in Nigeria and across Africa.

Dupe Olusola’s leadership at Transcorp Hotels Plc over the past four years and nine months has been transformational. From dragging the hospitality brand out of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic having taken over at the onset of the crisis, to driving groundbreaking initiatives, to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence, Dupe Olusola leaves behind a legacy of remarkable achievements that have positioned the company as a leader in Africa’s hospitality industry.

Under her stewardship, Transcorp Hotels Plc achieved unprecedented growth, breaking records in revenue and profitability, even in the face of global challenges. Her strategic vision ensured the delivery of exceptional guest experiences and the implementation of initiatives that align with international best practices.

A thought leader and advocate for the development of the African hospitality industry, Dupe Olusola has represented the company and the continent on global stages, contributing to vital conversations about the sector’s growth, resilience, and potential. Her participation in high-profile forums, such as the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum, has cemented her reputation as a leading voice shaping the narrative around Africa’s burgeoning hospitality market.

Dupe Olusola’s leadership has also been recognized through numerous personal accolades, including the Seven Stars Woman of the Year, as only the second recipient of this esteemed honour in the 12-year history of the awards.

The recognition celebrates her outstanding leadership and transformative impact on the African hospitality industry. Beyond personal recognition, Transcorp Hotels Plc thrived under her leadership, garnering nearly 40 prestigious awards.

Her emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and empowering the next generation of leaders has left an indelible mark on the industry and set new standards for hospitality excellence. She has built a strong foundation which the company can now build on, to actualise its growth and expansion plans, starting with the launch of the 5,000-capacity event centre which is awaiting commissioning.

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Expatiating On The Intimidating Achievements Of Prince Dr. Adedotun Adeboyejo,

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QODRI OLOWOLAGBA

The First Man That Changed The Scope Of ‘Window Blinds’…His Successful Foray On Business And Philanthropy Prince Adedotun Adeboyejo is a debonair and quintessential business tycoon who knows the rudiments of business in extra-ordinary form.

He is arguably, the first man that started the production, installation and maintenance of Window Blinds, Plantation Shutters and Drapery in Nigeria and this has been on since the last four decades.

Prince Adeboyejo is a committed Nigerian, extremely dedicated to the development of the Nigerian economy and that is why he employed uncommon creativity and hardwork into whatever he lay his hands on.As the Founder and Managing Director of Doshlaps Ventures Limited, Prince Adedotun Adeboyejo ensures that his workers adhere to the strict rudiment of quality production and service delivery to all the company’s clients and business partners. Based in Lekki, Lagos State with another scintillating branch in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, Doshlaps Ventures Limited has successfully handled several high-class and world class projects in window blinds, plantation shutters and drapery to the uttermost satisfaction of its clients.In addition to the intimidating profile of his company, Price Adedotun Adeboyejo is also a man with a golden heart having extended his generousity and kindness to the poor, the needy and the impoverished. On several occasions, he has been involved in various humanitarian activities some of which include organizing a breastfeeding education for Women with Diabetes, Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension and Multiple Gestations.

He has also distributed several poverty alleviation materials and cash grants to support the businesses of the people. A very kind man, Prince Adeboyejo runs a company that has utmost diginity, transparency and integrity which remains the number one window blinds treatment company in Nigeria.

Nder the hundred percent leadership of Prince Adedotun Adeboyejo, Doshlaps Ventures Limites has, for over 20 years, been providing beautiful, custom-made window treatments to help unlock clients’ inner designer and bring style and sophistication to their homes and offices.

Even though the company started humbly, Doshlaps is a company that radiates strategic ideas, hardwork, resilience, impact and solid performance that promotes and guarantees quality service delivery.

The company takes it as a responsibility that choosing window treatments can be a daunting task for any homeowner and therefore, Doshlaps Ventures ensures that all window blinds fit with the decor of rest of the room and how they reflect from the outside.

The company also put into cognizance how the widows are cleaned and maintained as well as ensuring that they are the most energy efficient.Doshlaps Ventures Limited provides a fast and easy way to choose from hundreds of design options that are made to fit any budget. From simple Sub Categories of Blinds, Shades to Smart Home Technology Motorized Blinds and Shades, we’ve got you covered. So, take your time and peruse the various styles and brands, customizing your window coverings down to the smallest detail. Simply browse our convenient Shop By or QuickPick selections, which offer preset combinations in order to make your decision quick and stress-free.

The company offers the most competitive prices and an unforgettable customer experience for any buyer.

The Founder and CEO of Doshlaps Ventures Limited, Prince Dr. Adedotun Adebola Adeboyejo is a proud holder of a doctorate degree in business administration from the Bradley University, U.S.A.

He is also vastly educated in Nigeria before obtaining this noble and highly rated degree. Prince Adedotun Adeboyejo is a unifying Nigerian who is so loyal to the unity of the country coupled with his extraordinary zeal for peace and tranquility.By: Quadri Olowolagba

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