Personality in Focus
Aare Emmanuelking Celebrates Chief Obasanjo at 88
The Otun-Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Remoland, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, joined other Christian leaders, dignitaries and well-wishers in celebrating Nigeria’s former President and Elder Statesman, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Ph.D, GCFR on his 88th birthday with a special Global Breakfast Prayer session.
The 61st edition of the Prayer Breakfast, which took place on Saturday, March 1st, 2025, was a spiritually uplifting gathering that saw representatives from 29 countries join virtually to celebrate Chief Obasanjo.
The prayer session was facilitated by Bishop T. Akin-Akinsanya, the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria, SouthWest Zone, and moderated by Rev. Engr. A. Ojeshina. Ministers from different nations participated in the prayers, reflecting Chief Obasanjo’s far-reaching influence and the deep respect he commands across the globe. The prayer featured powerful intercessions, scriptural reflections, and worship sessions led by esteemed clerics and the gatekeepers worship team.
Each international minister shared heartfelt goodwill messages, acknowledging Chief Obasanjo’s role in fostering diplomacy, African development, and visionary leadership. Notable among these ministers included; Ven. O. Ogunremi from Kenya, Pastor M. Nwanegbo from Belgium, Bishop F. Wale Oke, Bishop E. Adekunle, Rev. Mother E. Ajayi, Apostle M. Oluwajoba from the United States of America, Dr. Juliet Hammond from the United Kingdom, and Bishop David Bakare
In his goodwill message, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking reflected on his first spiritual encounter with Baba in the 1990s when Chief Obasanjo authored a powerful compendium of prayers, a book that became his source of strength during captivity. Drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Jonah, Baba emerged from adversity, renewed and divinely guided, marking a significant rebirth in his journey.
“Baba’s resilience, strength, commitment to service continue to inspire us all. Even at 88, he remains more energetic than many younger than him. His life teaches us that longevity is sustained by purpose, continuously working, planning, and striving for a better tomorrow. Indeed, when one has a vision for the future, life itself is preserved by divine grace,” Aare Adetola Emmanuelking stated.
Building on the declaration that Chief Obasanjo is destined to live up to 120 years, he tasked Chief Olusegun to gift the world with 32 more editions of his impactful spiritual compendium of prayers. Highlighting Baba’s extraordinary legacy—from being the military Head of State who transitioned power to a civilian government in 1979, to returning as a civilian President in 1999—Aare Emmanuelking praised his unparalleled contributions to nation-building and global diplomacy.
“At 88, Baba continues to make waves, inspiring the nation and serving as a voice for Africa. As a true son of the soil, may God continue to bless him with wisdom, strength, and good health. May he live long to witness the continued growth and prosperity of Nigeria and Africa. To God be all the glory for Baba’s life. May he remain a guiding light for generations to come,” he concluded.
The Prayer Breakfast was a moment of deep spiritual reflection, thanksgiving, and intercession, acknowledging Baba’s transformative leadership and divine grace over his life. The celebration concluded with a special toast and a reaffirmation of prayers for his continued health, wisdom, and guidance as a statesman and global leader.
Pascal Dozie, a renowned Nigerian entrepreneur and business leader has died. He was 86.
According to sources close to the deceased, Dozie died a battle with old age-related illness.
Dozie, was a man of many parts, best known for founding Diamond Bank and serving as chairman of Pan-Atlantic University.
He was born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. Dozie’s educational background includes a degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and a master’s in Administrative Science from City University in London.
Dozie also founded theAfrican Development Consulting Group, which worked with notable clients like Nestle and Pfizer. He served as MTN Group chairman but later resigned and was succeeded by Ernest Ndukwe.
Dozie received the prestigious National Award of the Order of the Niger (OON) for his contributions to Nigeria’s banking industry.
Dozie is survived by his wife Chinyere Dozie, and five children among other relatives.
A former governor of Oyo State, Dr. Victor Olunloyo, is dead.
According to a statement by his family on Sunday, he died a few days before his 90th birthday.
The statement titled ‘Victor Olunloyo goes home’ was signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.
It read, “With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday.
“The Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, Dr. Olunloyo was first Rector, Ibadan polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic among other notable appointments.
“His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates even as we come to grip with this devastating event.
“The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial.
“Even from everlasting to everlasting, He is God.”
About a year ago in April 2024, the rumour of the death of the elder statesman was reported by some news platforms.
But speaking with The PUNCH correspondent who visited his Molete residence in Ibadan, the state capital, he debunked the rumour, saying he was hale and hearty.
“I’m still here, not yet gone,” he declared then.
He also expressed worry over the rumour and asked who would live forever, stressing, “Those breaking death news and the person presumed dead will all die one day.
“I’ve been lucky. My father died at 42, while my mother died at 102. I’m 89. I’ve crossed the expected life age.”
The elder statesman also illustrated how the rumour of his death hit several news platforms on June 7, 2022.
He noted that the rumour mongers claimed that he died at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
A few days later, the family issued a statement, declaring that he was not dead but suffering from old age ailment and asked Nigerians to pray for him to survive the health complications.
The leadership of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), has congratulated Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King as he clocked 50 years.
Speaking on behalf of the Association,
President & Chairman of Council, Prince Akintoye Adeoye, celebrated Emmanuel-King’s passion and dedication, which continues to inspire the real estate sector.
Below is the detailed statement:
It is with great pleasure that I, Prince Akintoye Adeoye, President and Chairman of Council of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), on behalf of the entire Association, extend my warmest birthday wishes to you.
As you celebrate your birthday today, we recognize your outstanding contributions to the real estate industry. Your visionary leadership in making homeownership accessible and building Adron Homes & Properties into a leading brand sets a high standard for excellence. Your passion and dedication continue to inspire many of us in the real estate sector.
Today is not just a birthday; it is a celebration of your remarkable achievements, wisdom, and the abundant grace of God. From a visionary start to shaping the future of affordable housing in Nigeria, your leadership in the real estate sector has been ground-breaking.
REDAN is proud to recognize your invaluable contributions to the real estate sector and our association. As you step into this new age, may you be blessed with continued success and even greater accomplishments in all your endeavors.
Turning 50 is a momentous occasion, offering a time for reflection on the many successes and cherished memories that have shaped your journey. At REDAN, we wish you continued good health, wisdom, and divine grace as you keep contributing to the advancement of the real estate sector and our beloved nation.
May this year and the ones ahead be filled with even greater achievements, joy, and fulfillment.
Once again, happy 50th birthday, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King.
