Why I'm Passionate About Promoting Yoruba Cultural Heritage

Ogun Popular Broadcaster, Iyalode Pedepede Speaks

Hers is one of the house-hold names in the Ogun State broadcasting industry. Eniola Anike  Shodiya who is better known as Iyalode Pedepede is a thoroughbred broadcaster who has remained committed to her choice of career since she found her way into the media terrain sometime in 2007. After going through the crucible of training from the bosses her path crossed theirs while making efforts to hone her broadcasting skills, Iyalode Pedepede refused to rest on her oars as she made sure she improved on previous efforts whenever she had rare opportunities to go on air with her bosses, at different points in time, as either a co-presenter or fully standing in for them when they were not available to present their programmes. And all the experiences she garnered along the line are what have made her tick as an independent presenter of note today. Meanwhile, the dark and beautiful on-air-personality has also chosing promoting the Yoruba cultural heritage as part of her professional calling with her Adayeba Cultural Foundation with an annual event/project in Abeokuta. As she is about to hold another edition of her event this week, she told SAHEED OJUBANIRE in Abeokuta why she is passionate about promoting the Yoruba cultural heritage and the details of the upcoming event on Thursday, 5th July, 2018, at Adayeba Cultural Foundation Centre, NATA Village, Beside Adonai Filling Station, Kobape Road, Abeokuta, by 11 in the morning. Excerpts:

How did the journey into the broadcasting profession start for you?

Well, I started the journey in 2007 under the tutelage of my bosses who were already making waves in the broadcasting industry then. And in this regard, I'm talking about the man that gave me the first rare privilege of cutting my teeth in presentation, Aderoju Adejare who is popularly known as Osila Production. I was with him between the years of 2007 and 2011 here in Abeokuta with programmes on different radio stations. And to further broaden my horizon in the nitty-gritty of the profession, I had to proceed to the fountain of knowledge of another boss, Olusoji Omotayo, Baaroyin Apede Ara,  under the banner of his Soji Omotayo Productions. He was having (and still having) programmes on radio stations both in Lagos and Abeokuta, so under him, I had the opportunity of taking my training beyond the ambit of Abeokuta. I was with Baaroyin Apede Ara from 2011 till 2013 when I decided to stand on my own.

What are some of the programmes you presented with your bosses back then?

Some of the programmes were: Adun Ife, Ise Logun Ise, Oyato on OGBC 2 and Faaji Repete on Faaji 106.5 F.M. Lagos.

Now as an independent broadcaster, what are some of the programmes you are involved in, in Abeokuta here where you are based?

Some of the programmes I am currently involved in their presentation are: Akakatan Iroyin, Gbangbalawa, Ile Ewa, Ikorita Ife, and Adayeba on Rockcity 101.9FM Abeokuta.

Who is or are your role models in the broadcasting profession?

Well, I have 3 personalities that I admire so deeply and look up to in the broadcasting profession and they are: Chief (Mrs.) Anike Agbaje Williams, Olusesan Ekisola and Dr. Ambrose Olutayo Somide.

Now let's talk about your passion for promoting the Yoruba cultural heritage. Where is the inspiration for that coming from?

Well, it is no longer news that the incursion of civilisation into our tradition has negatively impacted on pratically every aspect of our way of life that is dressing, religious, language and so on. So, it is indeed unfortunate that all what Yorubas  were known for have been relegated to the background while foreign culture took the front burner. I find that quite appalling, and that is why I came up with the idea of Adayeba Cultural Foundation to promote and tackle the continued errossion of the cultural heritage of the Yoruba race.

And how has the journey been for Adayeba Cultural Foundation?

Well, I give glory to God because He has been their for me. Our first edition of annual event/project came up in the year 2016 with 80 participants. And we left 2017 to plan and better strategize as we wanted to go to greater height. So, this year we thank God because our expected participants are now almost 200.

Who are some of the personalities that have been part of the event?

There are lots of people. And that include:  Alayeluwa Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, (the Alaafin of Oyo), Oloye Afolasade Tinubu Ojo (the Iyaloja General), Alhaji Ayo Ogunsolu (the G.M. of Parks & Garrages in Ogun State), Prince Samsideen Apelogun (the Chairman of Accomoran in Ogun State), Alhaja Fatimah Ejide, Basorun Muyiwa Oladipo (the Commissioner for Culture in Ogun State), and by extension, the Ogun State Government.

What are some of the activities we are going to be witnessing at the event?

To start with, our chairman of the day is High Chief Gani Ige Abiodun Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Alhaji Alabi Pasuma is our main artiste and we have other guest artistes including Sir Shina Akanni, Alhaji Bukola Alayande  Ere Asalatu, the Innovator 1 and many more. White colour with teal grean would be the colours of the day and we are going to be eating local food served in Awo Sobi (local plates and utensils) and the foods would include Eba Inu Ewe, Iyan, Amala, Ofada, Asaro, Akara and Eko, Gbure Oloboro, Ewedu, Gbegiri, Efo Riro and so on with fresh palmeine (Ogidi Emu). No jollof rice or any English food.

Apart from those you've mentioned already, can you name some other personalities being expected at this year's event?

That is good. The Mother of the Day is the First Lady of Ogun State, Dr. Olufunso Amosun, The Father of the Day is Alhaji A. Abidoye Amosun(Alhaji Agba), and the Launchers are Oloye Ayinde Koiku(Jaguna Akiode),  Alhaji Abdul-Ganiyu Ajibade Akewusola,  Alhaji Abdul-Rasaq Ayinde Adeleke( Agba Awo Akeweje of Iseyin Land), 

and Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun. We also expecting the likes of Dr. Seye Kehinde, the Publisher of City People Magazine and Dr. Ambrose Olutayo Somide, the Managing Director, Radio Services, DAAR Group, to mention a few.

What is the idea of foundation stone laying at the event all about?

The idea is to build our own ADAYEBA CULTURAL FOUNDATION Vocational & Museum Center in order to be teaching people on how to be making our local product such as Adire, Aso Oke, Irun Didi, Igba Fin Fin, Ikoko etc.

And what is next after the foundation stone laying?

Like the Yorubas would say, Ibere o kii se onise (the ones who deserves the glory are those who are able to finish what they started), May the Almighty God  bless us to finish the project.

Finally, what is your message for the teeming fans of your programmes on air?

Well, I have nothing much to say other than to be thanking them and I promise not to disappoint them in any way.

Why Murphy’s Place Is Hosting Seye Kehinde This Friday

Murphy’s Place Boss, MC Murphy Reveals

Come Friday, May 4^th, 2018, popular fun spot in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Murphy’s Place, Beside Bayak Petrol Station, Ita-Oshin, would be hosting the publisher of City People Magazine, Dr. Seye Kehinde, to a night of undiluted fun where he would also be presented with a Special Recognition Award for his Time-Tested Humility. In this interview with SAHEED OJUBANIRE shortly after his radio programme at Faaji 106.5 F.M., Alagbado, Lagos, recently, the CEO of Murphy’s Place, Alhaji Moruf Wole Sorunke popularly known as MC Murphy gave details of what the event is all about. Read on please:

Q: For the purpose of this interview, can you tell us your name?

R: My name is Moruf Olawole Sorunke MC Murphy, now King G.

Q: You are the CEO of a major fun spot in Abeokuta called Murphy’s Place, can you tell us what Murphy’s Place is all about?

R: Yeah, by the time we finish works on Murphy’s Place, it is going to be the best place meant for total entertainments. You know, this is going to be the first entertainer that has such in Ogun State. We’ve had a lot of entertainers that have come up but for MC Murphy and Murphy’s Place, my purpose is to have somewhere where when they come, they would see that an entertainer owns the place and they are going to get entertained.

Q: We are aware that Murphy’s Place has a club, so apart from clubbing, what other things is the place into?

R: Murphy’s Place is a tourists’ centre and that is more than just a club thing. At the moment, we are working on our swimming pool, a hotel, an event centre and we are lucky that our topography there is endowed with a lake where people can also commune with nature is they want to. There is a car wash at the front, the club is in the middle and other things are behind. So, it is a total package for pleasure and fun seekers from within and outside Ogun State.

Q: Come Friday, May 4^th, Murphy’s Place would be hosting one of the big guns in the media industry in Nigeria; that is Dr. Seye Kehinde, the publisher of City People Magazine. Can you tell us the idea behind that?

R: Yes, thank you. The idea behind it is to celebrate whom honour is due to. Dr. Seye Kehinde has really supported a lot of people who have become big factors in the country today. And I feel someone should have come up with this kind of idea long before now. The reason being that despite all Dr. Seye Kehinde has done with his craft to support other people, he still extremely humble with it. In fact, he is humble to a fault, so to speak. The humility is exemplary. That is one virtue that is missing in a lot of our successful people. By all standards, Dr. Seye Kehinde is one of the most successful journalists this country has seen and at his status, if he wants to be arrogant or unapproachable; he has all the rights to that. But the Dr. Seye Kehinde I know has never been arrogant for a second. He is quiet, easy going, accessible and helpful. So, what more can you ask for in a successful man. So, he deserves what Murphy’s Place it planning to do to celebrate him. So, Murphy’s Place would be hosting Dr. Seye Kehinde to a night of undiluted fun where he would be presented with a Special Recognition Award for his Time-Tested Humility and the event is surely going to be the first of its kind.

Q: Let’s go a little down memory lane. Can you remember your first encounter with Dr. Seye Kehinde?

R: Well, let me start by saying that the first time I met Dr. Seye Kehinde, he told me that MC Murphy, you are the only one I listen to on radio and that was over ten years ago in Lagos. And he was extremely humble on that day which really caught my attention. It was at an event and he was not even sitting down even when he was offered a seats, he let other people sat instead. Dr. Seye Kehinde is just too much with his humility.

Q: Have you ever met any other person more humble than him?

R: No. Dr. Seye Kehinde is the only person that I know who always pipe low. Most others fluctuate. They may seem humble this time and the next time they are obscenely arrogant. I know a lot of magazine publishers who are not even as successful but think they are tin gods. I don’t want to mention names. We are setting a standard by giving Dr. Seye Kehinde Humility Award. And I know a lot still celebrate him afterwards on the same virtue. But it would be on record that MC Murphy did it first.

Q: Can you give us an idea of how the day is going to be like?

R: Well, it is going to be a lot of fun because there would be lots of artistes performing back to back. The thing is, when you are doing an event like this, there would be lots of artistes who you can reel out all their names at once but as I speak, we have Chelsea Bobo, Beulah, Olumide, Boye Best, Wale Thompson, a number of hip hop artistes, DJ Tommy, and there is going to be a special appearance by MC Murphy himself, just to spice up the whole thing. And a lot of artistes are still joining the list. For instance, Lords Kenge just called me and said he is going to be part of it. And we have a lot of comedians coming in too.

Q: We have gathered that lots of people dominating the political, the corporate and business land scape in the city are also showing interest in coming. Is that true?

R: They have to. I chatted with the Hon. Commissioner for Information, Otunba Dayo Adeneye (D1) not long ago and he said I should drop his IV and a lot of other people have been calling for the invites too. All the happenings guys and babes in town are also not exempted.

Q: Are you saying people who might not have the invitation cards can still come?

R: Yes, it is a public gathering. The doors would be thrown open for everyone who wants to enjoy themselves to the fullest. Drinks and other stuffs would surely be on sale like our regular club days.

Q: Finally, what is your advice for fun-seekers in Abeokuta come next Friday, May 4^th?

R: Well, I want to tell my friends, and my enemies as well, in Abeokuta, forget about the enmity of MC Murphy is doing well. Just come and let us enjoy ourselves. The truth is that since the inception of Murphy’s Place, some of my friends are not visiting me again. This is for every fun-seeker in town; all the G’s and the hot babes, you are all welcome. And the media is also going to be well represented there too.

CITY PEOPLE ENTERTAINMENT SET TO CELEBRATE SEFIU ALAO IN ABEOKUTA

EVENT MAY WITNESS LAUNCH OF HIS BIOGRAPHY

As you read this, plans are already being made by the soar away entertainment platform in Nigeria, City People Entertainment, to celebrate one of the highly talented and very successful Fuji artistes Nigeria has seen, Alhaji (Dr.) Sefiu Alao Adekunle. The celebration which is billed to be held in February, 2018, would be taking place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the home base of the artiste who is also referred to as Baba Oko.

According to plans, the event which promises to shake the Rock City of Abeokuta to its foundation would be taking place at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta. And apart from the event billed to bring all Fuji music stars in Nigeria to Abeokuta to celebrate one of their own who has remained a major unifying factor within the industry over the years, the event may also be witnessing the Launching of his biography titled: “Sefiu Alao: The Rough Road To Stardom,” if things work out according to plans.

It would be recalled that the last time City People Entertainment celebrated the Fuji music star also referred to as Agbara Orin was in December, 2009. And the event was unique not because it shut down the entire city of Abeokuta for Sefiu Alao at that time, but because it also afforded the artiste who many did not know is a good family man, to showcase his lovely family for the world to see for the first time in his long career.

Though, a lot of water has passed under the bridge since that time but Agbara Orin has kept waxing stronger against all odds. As a case in point, he lost his darling wife, Nimotallahi, who was also showcased to all his teeming fans at that time to the cold hands of death, four years ago (7^th October, 2013), and he himself survived a gunshot incident that could have claimed his life on 10^th December, 2016! So he has got every reason to celebrate and be celebrated at the upcoming event.

This blog will keep you posted as the build up to the event unfolds.

Top Artistes, Mega 99, Wale Tekoma, Segun Blessing, Others Perform As Faaji F.M. Marks 5th Anniversary

For the management, staff and independent broadcasters on Faaji 106.5 F.M., Lagos, Friday, December 1st, 2017, was more than just the public holiday declared in Nigeria for Maolud Nabiyy to celebrate the birthday of Holy Prophet Muhammed (S.A.W.). The day was coincidentally, the 5th anniversary of the soar away radio station. And to mark the day modestly, the management of the station, led by Dr. Ambrose Olutayo Somide, the Director, Radio Services, Daar Communicatuon PLC, organized an exclusive party for themselves and a few members of the public.

The celebration started few minutes past 2 P.M. with a special broadcast anchored by top On-Air-Personalities on the Yoruba and Pidgin English based station; Banjo Ojedeji who kick-started the broadcast in Yoruba, and Omo Jesu who spoke in Pidgin English to carry the two denomination of audience along. Shortly after the two presenters of note introduced the special broadcast as one meant for the 5th anniversary celebration, Dr. Somide came on the microphone to speak to their teeming audience.

The very articulate broadcaster in both English and Yoruba languages, said the journey so far for the radio station, as smooth as it seemed to the members of the public, had its own ups and downs, but their fighting spirit surmounted all the challenges that reared their ugly heads. He added that what makes Faaji F.M. tick is because the radio station is an avenue where talents meet opportunities. In other words, he revealed that the many talented broadcasters who present programmes on the station are given ample opportunity to showcase themselves through the platform of the station with varieties of interesting programmes. And that is what, according to him, does the magic of Faaji F.M.'s front line position amidst radio stations in the country.

After the brief broadcast, there was cutting of anniversary cake and photo sessions in the studio before the party moved to an alfresco level within the premises of the station where a marquee had been set up and tables and chairs underneath it arranged in banquet form. There was also a stage in the distance for musical performances, and as was in the studio, Banjo Ojedeji and Omo Jesu in their very jocular and witty characters navigated the proceedings.

There was a table for top management staff of the station at the fore front of the marquee. And those who sat there together with Dr. Somide included: Madam Jire Kuforiji, Madam Ibiyemi Olufowobi, Madam Yewande Iwuoha, Madam Abiola Aberuagba and Mr. Johnson Onime. For the event to take off effectively, there was an opening prayer in Muslim way by Imam Mustapha Daud, and in a Christian way by Madam Yewande Iwuoha. And shortly after, Dr. Somide took his opening remarks on the stage.

Apart from briefly tracing the history of independent radio broadcasting in Nigeria which was flagged off in 1993 by Raypower F.M., a sister station to Faaji F.M. and how its success story set off a domino effect of independent radio stations opening in the country, one after the other, he reiterated what he said earlier in the studio about the reason behind the headway of the highflying Faaji F.M. within the last five years. There was general cake cutting exercise and photo session of all the presenters on the station who were in attendance, before a toast to Faaji F.M. at 5 was taken by Madam Ibiyemi Olufowobi.

Without further ado, musical performance began on the stage while eating and drinking went on under the marquee. Some of the artistes that graced the stage with electrifying performances included: Dare Majemu, Yomi Apase Emi, Yetty Swift, Wale Tekoma, Aladesanmi Ibile, Jerryman, Shakirat Wahab Ogo Tuntun, Mega 99, Segun Blessing and Bunmi Akinnanu Adeoye. But Little Angel, an 8 year old girl stole the show with her unbelievably exciting performance, and Ademuyiwa Wikipedia dazzled with his uncanny ability to reel out current affairs off hand, like a human computer.

Some of the top presenters on the radio station who were at the well organised celebration included: Yemi Sounde, Sulaiman Adegbenro Consoligbadun, Otunba Yemi Odunodu, Yemi Ajide Olayinka, Ifankehaleluyah, Goke Babalola, Imalian Boy, Abiodun Oropo, Soji Alabi Famous, Kayode Adejumo, Doyin Olatunji, Dayo Amusan, Skin Dudu, Fatai Bantale, Sina Adegbite, Bidemi Olukuewu, Kokoro Alujanna, Abass Adefulu, Kudirat Asani Olayinka and a host of others.

APAPA HOLDS FIRST ECONOMIC SUMMIT

Hitherto Apapa is regarded as gold mine Local Government which has many opportunities and enriched potentials  for both Nigerians and the outside world. But suddenly, the aforementioned Golden pastures have been eluding investors and promising entrepreneurs. This greatly affected the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

It is in consideration of the challenges faced by the Local Government that necessitated the brain storming which brought about *HARNESSING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ECONOMIC AND SUSTAINABLE TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS*

In order to find  lasting solutions to this lingering challenges, the Local Government partnered with Apapa Development Initiative.

The Summit spans two consecutive days 21st - 22nd Nov, 2017 at Rock View Hotel.

Hon. Owolabi Elijah Adele, Executive Chairman of Apapa Local Government said the Summit was a significant milestone because it will create platforms for brain storming and cross fertilize ideas with opportunities for self and community development. He stated that Apapa is regarded as the gateway to the Nation's economy and presently in a state of despondency as a result of scourge of hellish traffic situation affecting every sphere of life in the Government.

He narrated the ordeals of the Local Government as most companies are relocating, residents selling their properties for peanuts, workers go through hectic times getting to and off work. The problem which is caused by bad roads, lack of capacity of ports to manage their cargo throughout.

With this synergy, according to him, all major players, experts and professionals will not only unravel the mysteries surrounding the traffic problem but also examine how economic life can return to Apapa and how thr people can optimize the potentials of having two large ports in Africa within their domain through concrete workable and implementable solutions.

Her Excellency, Mrs Bolanle Ambode, wife of the Governor of Lagos State gave keynote address on *WOMEN AND DEVELOPMENT* She noted that the topic was relevant to the summit because economic development of any society comes faster with the involvement of women. She stated that women dominated the informal sector of most economies. And that in addition to domestic responsibilities at home, women are involved in petty trading that would generate income.

The first Lady submitted that many Nigerian women are now heading the management teams of banks, Major manufacturing companies and other blue chip firms with branches beyond the shores of Nigeria and Africa. Also, many influential Nigerian women, politicians and appointees in positions of authority, daily contribute to major economic decisions at the highest level determining official policy directions.

 Mr Mike Egbayelo, Executive Secretary/CEO Apapa Development Initiative said the summit was a thoughtful constellation of ideas across different sectors how to positively impact on the generation of revenue and overall development of Apapa Local Government. According to him, he is visualising Apapa as indispensable hub of economic Haven.

In recognition of her Her Excellency's role as epitome of general philanthropist and founder of *"HOPE FOR WOMEN IN NIGERIA"*The Apapa Local Government Executive Chairman, Hon. Adele Elijah Owolabi together with Apapa-Iganmu's Chairman Hon. Funmilayo Mohammed and CEO ADI Presented award to her.

Majority Leader, Hon. Muyiwa received award on behalf of Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Mudashiru Obasa.
The following topics were deliberated upon for way forward: EFFECTIVE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MODEL FOR APAPA - CIS PERSPECTIVE,
EFFICIENT TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND TRUCK TRANSIT PARK-THE REGULATORS PERSPECTIVE,
AUTOMOTED TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND CALL-UP SYSTEM - THE INVESTORS, ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF TRAFFIC PROBLEM, REVENUE GENERATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN APAPA, OPTIMISING OPPORTUNITIES IN MARINE INDUSTRY, THE NEW PORTS MASTER-OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNITIES AND STAKE HOLDERS and many more.

There were many important personalities at the summit who equally delivered wonderful speeches.

LAGOS COUNCIL BOSS, OLABISI ADEBAJO CELEBRATES 1ST 100 DAYS IN OFFICE WITH ‘LIVES’ TOUCHING PROJECTS

The Executive Chairman, Mosan-Okunola Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Alimosho, Lagos State, Hon. Princess Olabisi Adebajo popularly called Abisco, has set a pace for others to follow in service delivery as political office holders in the country. The hardworking woman, within a space of just 100 days at the helms of affairs at her fast developing LCDA, has achieved what some would struggle to put in their score cards in terms of dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroots, at the end of their 3 or 4 year tenure.

For Abisco whose—like many other council bosses in Lagos State—tenure just clocked 100 days on Monday, 7^th November, 2017, it was a catalogue of achievements for her weeklong celebration. The week started off with graduation of about 200 beneficiaries of what was tagged: Abisco Skills Acquisition Programme (ASAP) where the graduands, after acquiring basic skills for 4 weeks in different crafts including Fashion Designing, Hairdressing, Tailoring, Barbing, Beads Making, Pedicure/Manicure, Soap, Insecticide, Liquid Soap and Hand Sanitizer Making, Shoe and Other Leather Crafts Making, were equipped with the tools and facilities necessary to start off their own businesses immediately.

While the beneficiaries could not hide their joy at the kind gesture from the first female Executive Chairman of the LCDA for a project which was said to be only a 1^st Phase, Abisco who asserted that she believed in teaching people how to fish rather than giving them fishes, further admonished the graduands at the ceremony that: “While I would like to thank the instructors in the various crafts during the just concluded programme for doing diligent jobs, I want to encourage all the participants to nurture a cordial relationship with their different instructors so that they can always go back to them whenever necessary for clarifications on any grey area in what they learnt as the case may be. Knowledge is always continuous, so learning doesn’t end here.”

And like the acronym for her Day 1 project: ASAP connotes, the amiable chairman was apparently a woman willing to succeed As Soon As Possible (ASAP) as the Day 2 of her celebration of 1^st 100 Days in Office witnessed another laudable event. Tuesday, 8^th November, kicked off with the hosting of Widows and Elders from Mosan-Okunola LCDA where the chairman interacted and danced with them before they were all handed cash gifts for their welfare. According to some of the benefiting Widows and Elders, that was the “first time ever,” that they would be remembered by anyone taking charge of the LCDA. Meanwhile, Abisco had earlier told them in her speech that, “…While we may also not be carrying out an exercise like this day in, day out, we would ensure that it happens from time to time because we recognise that this set of people needs to be supported and cared for at this stage of their lives. Life is in phases and everyone’s turn to a stage like this is bound to come at some point in time. And it is whatever we sow today we shall reap tomorrow.” Hence, they all left happily as they looked forward to another round of such gesture.

Day 3 of the celebration was dedicated to what was tagged: Abisco Health Fitness Walk/ Health Talk during which the chairman led a section of people from the LCDA on a fitness walk that took off from Estate Gate, Mosan, and travelled through different areas of the local council as residents and traders who could not take part in it waved approvingly to those doing the exercise. The walk eventually terminated at the Multipurpose Hall of the LCDA where a fitness expert had health talk with the people at which they were told the importance of taking such walk. “…Just 30 minutes every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce our risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. And unlike some other forms of exercise, walking is free and doesn’t require any special equipment or training”, the expert explained as Abisco kept nodding in affirmation which went to show same was her rationale for initiating the exercise and for also taking part as a demonstration to all.

Because her aim was evidently to touch lives of everyone within her domain, and having done something for the youths on Day 1, and something for the old on Day 2, Day 4 of the celebration was then dedicated to children at school. The indefatigable chairman whom many from her LCDA have started referring to as “Abisco Talk and Do” donated 400 Chairs and Desks, 3000 School Bags and 27000 Exercise Books to all the 4 public Primary Schools in Mosan-Okunola. At the event for the donation which took place at Abesan Primary School where the chairman mingled and danced with the obviously appreciative children, she reasoned in her speech that her gesture was to make learning environment conducive for the children. “… If truly, they (the children) are the leaders of tomorrow, we owe them the responsibility of being soundly educated as a foundation. And that is indeed, our driving force in this direction.” She concluded before Student Representatives from Lagos State University (LASU) presented her with a merit award as the Best Performing Chairman of the Year 2017 at the event.

The final day of the celebration which was Friday, 10^th November, witnessed commissioning of Steel Link Bridge at Water/Cele Village which was constructed to make the adjoining communities more accessible for the residents. Residents carried placards to appreciate the gesture of the chairman in constructing the bridge for them while the commissioning proceeded. The next project in line for commissioning on the day was school toilet and potable water supply for African Church Primary School, Akinogun, and the two projects were commissioned promptly by Abisco. And to end the week of celebration, the chairman later led her Executive Committee members and some party chieftains to inspect patching of bad portion and overlaying of asphalt on Mr Biggs Junction By 21 Road (Gowon Estate) aimed at easing the stress usually faced by road users on the stretch of road in the LCDA. As at the time of this report, works have since been completed on the said road.

See pictures from the events…

WE HAVE THE CAPACITY TO FETE 20 THOUSAND GUESTS AT A GO

FINGER KING SMALL CHOPS' BOSS, WALE ADEOWO

Cool, calm and collected, Mr. Wale Adeowo is the brain behind the top of the range finger foods brand, Finger King. The top brand which used to be known as Adedaas Small Chops ranks among those located within Sura Shopping Complex, Simpson Street, Lagos Island. Few days ago, SAHEED OJUBANIRE, was at the cozy office of Mr. Adeowo where he fielded questions relating to his small chops business and his other business interests. He revealed the reason that necessitated the change of name of his brands, the number of guests they can take care of at a single event, and responded satisfactorily to other questions posed to him. It was a very interesting interview session. Enjoy it:

Q: For the purpose of this interview, please introduce yourself…

R: My name is Wale Adeowo. The C.E.O., Finger King, the C.E.O., Meridien Paint, the C.E.O., Adedas Interior.

Q: You have one of the big brands in the finger foods industry, Finger King, what spurred your interest into that line of business?

R: Before I ventured into the business, there were two major players in the industry then. So, I saw the vacuum and with my informal training from my mother’s restaurant I felt that I could fill the gap. I saw what those two major players couldn’t see then and I tapped into it. And by the grace of God we were able to leverage on that and we became a name to reckon with in the industry.

Q: What year exactly did you start off?

R: That was 2003. We started 2003 precisely and the first job we did was impromptu. We were ready; we already have our kitchen, our office but we were still sourcing for clients. But Otunba Dayo Adeneye, D1, he is a very good brother, he was being installed as Otunba Gbobaniyi of Odogbolu then, so he now called for our service. That was the first event we handled and it was a success. And from there, we got about ten other jobs. So, that was how we started.

Q: When you started, you had a different brand name, Adedaas; why the change to Finger King now?

R: Yes, because our vision for the industry has changed. We want to become a global name and we don’t want to be synonymous or identified with a region. When you see ‘Ade’, you know Ade comes from Yoruba language, but we want to cover all the regions in Nigeria and outside Nigeria, so we thought of a name that goes with what we do that you don’t have to explain to people, that is what inspired that name. Being a major player in the industry, we sought for different names which were not approved. So, it was only Finger King that was approved by C.A.C. and the name has been so helpful in the industry because before then, we needed to tell people before they could differentiate between the Adidas that does sports and the Adedaas that does small chops. So, with Finger King, you don’t need to explain to anybody that that is what we do. We are into food industry and we have vision of opening different outlets all over the country. We have vision of giving people our franchise to open outlets in other parts of Lagos and the country at large. So, having that name will make it a lot easier for us and that is the reason we felt we had to rebrand so that we could become a house-hold name that identifies with what we do.

Q: As a professional, how important do you think finger foods are for any good event? Are finger foods necessary when you already have real food served?

R:  When you don’t have finger foods at your event, your event is not complete. It gives your event a kind of classic setting because you would agree with me that what people serve, the normal catering people serve at events are the normal rice, Amala, and the rest which we are used to at home. Everybody eats that at home. But finger foods are not what you can just wake up in your house and say you want to prepare. It needs professionals; it is not everybody that can do it. So, when people get to events, a lot of people, the elites, the big men, they don’t like eating the usual foods. They ask for small chops and when you don’t have small chops at your event, they might end up not eating anything at your event. So, that is what finger foods add to events. At least, people can have varieties. Okay, I’m going for this event and I’m not going to have the usual foods but I would take finger foods. So, finger foods make your event complete.

Q: While walking into this place I saw an outlet which is actually an eatery that belongs to Finger King. So, apart from being engaged for events and outdoors, are you also into eateries?

R: Like I said earlier, we are only using that place to test run. Our vision is to have outlets all over Nigeria, all over Lagos. We want to start with Lagos first where people can walk in and book for their small chops and in ten minutes, they get it ready. So, we are test running with the one you saw. We notice that people come in and sit down, take small chops with drinks. So, that has given us an idea of what we can achieve having outlets all over Lagos and eventually, all over Nigeria. So, the one here is just a test run.

Q: What makes Finger King different from others in the industry?

R: Yes, first of all, it’s the taste. We have unique taste. You don’t have to see our name; if the pack or foils are not branded, if you taste the foods you would know this is from Finger King. We have that distinct taste which stands us out. And our service delivery—we are prompt—we have prompt delivery practice. If we say we are going to deliver in 5 minutes, you can rest assured we will deliver in 5 minutes. And if we say it is one hour, you will get it in 1 hour. We work every day, we make delivery to offices, to homes, everyday. When orders come in, we give priorities to orders according to the time of request. So, we are prompt in delivery. And talking about events, we have well trained staff, well dedicated waiters who are there to attend to you at your beck and call. They are well behaved, well trained, well dressed. So, in terms of taste, prompt delivery and service delivery, we are number one. We take our customers as kings, we give them priority, because without customers there can never be us. We give them priority and value for money. And when I say value for money, I mean we don’t cut corners. If you pay for five thousand guests, you’ll get the five thousand guests and extra. We don’t give you less than what you book for. If you have any return, if we come to your event and there is return, we will tell you this is what we reserved. If you want the money, we will refund the money for the return and if you want the return to be served at another event, we would do that for you.

Q: Is there a maximum number of guests that Finger King can cater for at a single event?

R: One of our outlets can handle five thousand guests, maximum. But when we put all our outlets together where each outlet can do maximum of five thousand guests, putting all our four outlets together, we can do maximum of twenty thousand guests at a single event.

Q: As the CEO of Finger King, what is your relationship like with other players in the industry?

R: They are all my friends. I see them as my driving force because without competition, you cannot go anywhere. They are the ones that make you focused and they drive you. If you don’t have competitors you will feel that you are the champion, you are there. But when you see people behind you or people ahead of you, you’ll want to catch up with the people ahead of you and you don’t want the people coming behind to catch up with you. So, they are all my friends, we have very cordial relationship. Aside from the work we are doing that we are trying to say I’m the best in the industry, outside that, we have very good relationship.

Q: Let’s talk about other lines of businesses you are into and how you manage all of them together…

R: After ten years in business, we thought of diversifying after finding our roots in finger foods, so we thought of going into furniture and interior decoration. And we set up Adedaas Interior. And we have also gone into paint manufacturing in collaboration with my Lebanese friend. And in that too, we are doing very fine. And very soon, our bottle water line will come out. What makes me happy is getting people employed. It is not really the money to be made that drives me but getting people off the street and looking at them that these people are feeding their family and themselves through what we are doing. That gives me joy that they don’t have to go to anybody to beg for food. They work and get paid for their services. So, that is my driving force; when I see people looking for job and I say I’m going to employ you and they are okay. So, the number of people I employ, the happier I am. That my vision; create businesses and get people employed.

Q: How easy as it been combining and managing all the businesses together?

R: I competent work force, my wife is very competent and I have managers who are very dedicated. So, I can rely on them. And I am up and doing as well. It is 100 percent monitoring and when they know the employer knows what he is doing, they would sit up and won’t want to mess up. And we don’t compromise on standard and what we want. So, once they know all of that, they too will give you what you want.

Q: Tell us a little about your family…

R: Well, I’m happily married to a lovely woman and we have wonderful kids.

Q: Can you tell us a little about your educational background?

R: Yes, I am a degree holder in Business Administration. And as Associate Member of Nigeria Institute of Management, and I hold a Certificate from Nigeria Institute of Purchasing, Management and Supply. I’m a Chattered Marketer in view and that is all.

Q: Where did you have your first degree?

R: Federal University of Technology, Akure.

Q: Finally, what is your message for the potential clients of Finger King out there?

R: My message is, Finger King is the only place, I repeat, the only place they can get value for money. They will not regret patronizing us. And when they taste our finger foods, they are hooked because that is a taste they cannot get anywhere else. And my philosophy of life is I don’t give people what I cannot eat. I eat small chops almost every day, so I’m sure of the ingredients we use, the oil we use, everything we use are world class standard. So, Finger King is the only place they can get value for their money. They will not regret coming to us or choosing us as their finger foods providers. We always appreciate our customers, we know it is not easy to come by money these days, so we go extra mile to give them satisfaction.