Personality in Focus
Seyi Tinubu: Successful Entrepreneur, Quiet Humanitarian, Sports Enthusiast
By Peter Ikechukwu
The culture of birthday celebration has evolved over the centuries, from the Egyptians, to the Greeks, Romans, and the modern times. Birthday ceremonies have endured dramatic changes. But the purpose has remained the same: celebration of the most memorable day in the life of an individual, the born day.
For Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, who turned 38 today, it is a day to reminisce the philanthropic focus of an entrepreneur who has in the last few years busied himself with the issues that bother the masses most.
The Seyi I know is a textbook example of how a man can successfully pursue an onerous career and yet manage to serve society in ways that bring relief to those that need it most.
The CEO of Loatsad Promomedia, a digital outdoor advertising company in Lagos, is a leader in innovative marketing strategies. His works have had a tremendous impact on the concept of goods and services promotion.
Seyi also founded Noella Foundation, a non-profit organisation, named after his daughter, dedicated to supporting girl-child education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and poverty alleviation initiatives throughout Nigeria.
Noella Foundation is the umbrella body of the Seyi Tinubu Empowerment Project (STEP) aimed at employment creation and technological skill acquisition for Nigerians through the support of tech start-ups with skills development and seed funding.
STEP also provides business mentorship and networking opportunities for tech start-ups and gives them access to a community of pioneers in the tech space. The foundation aims to contribute to nation-building through human capital development.
With a combination of his business and philanthropic initiatives, Seyi has touched many lives far and near.
He says touching lives brings him a tremendous sense of fulfilment.
“I believe every human being is created for others, that is for God to use in fulfilling His purpose on earth,” he says. “Thus, for me, the most fulfilling activity is helping people to find their feet, contributing to the happiness of others, and contributing to the good of society, generally.”
Seyi is an executive member and co-founder of TELD NGO, launched in 2005 with the aim of improving the standard of living for underprivileged youths in Nigeria through sponsorship and mentoring programmes.
He has been committed to fostering a culture of excellence in his organisations through investment in talent development, extensive training programmes, and mentorship opportunities to employees.
Through the various ventures, he has demonstrated versatility and rare ability to thrive in a range of industries.
A trained lawyer with a Bachelor’s degree in law and a Master’s degree in corporate and commercial law from the University of Buckingham. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2013.
A lover of sports, Seyi is married to Layal Jade, a Nigerian-Lebanese entrepreneur and Political Scientist, who is the founder of Tot Toys. Tot Toys is a children’s educational toyshop and learning space providing an array of education-based items, such as toys, books, and activities to help children unlock their potential.
We don’t choose what family we are born into but we get to choose what to do with what we have. In my experience of Seyi, despite being from an influential background with a powerful surname, his rise to prominence has been largely merit-based.
Seyi enjoys polo and is, reportedly, building a horse stable outside Falomo. He is also Patron of the STL Polo Team in Lagos. He believes in the power of sports as a uniting factor.
His work has also been widely recognised in Nigeria and beyond, with awards, such as The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the Leadership Excellence Awards in 2017; Business Person of The Year at the Entrepreneur Africa Award (2019); Special Recognition Award by JustU Magazine at the Justival Award night (2019); Patron of Man O’ War Lagos (2019); Europe Business Assembly (EBA) Award for Best Enterprise and Manager of the Year (2019); Honouree of the Most Influential People of African Descent under 40 (2019); and the Excellence Award in Media Enterprise by the Sapio Club (2019).
In 2020, he was inducted into the Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics, Ghana. In 2019, he was crowned the ECOWAS Youth Ambassador for Entrepreneurship and Youth Development.
However, in the midst of his noble pursuits, Seyi has sometimes faced controversies that tend to thrust him into opposition with sections of society. There were occasions his actions were misunderstood or his intentions misinterpreted. One of such was the recent controversy over his trip to Kano on invitation to attend the Kano polo tourney, being a polo player and patron of a polo club.
The photo of Seyi arriving the Northwest state of Kano in a presidential jet had given the opposition the needed missile to launch ferocious attacks on the Presidency, by whipping up sentiments on social media. Sadly, many innocently fell for the orchestrated narratives of the opposition.
But his critics missed the fact that all over the world, children of heads of state and government are high value targets of enemies of state, and are given special protection, which covers their movements both within and outside the boundaries of their respective nations. The protection could extend to the type of means of transportation, locations they could visit, secrecy around their movements and even where they could dine. Such are determined by the security and intelligence agencies.
Also missed by the opposition, was the fact that Seyi’s invitation and presence at the tournament actually brought this beautiful game of polo to the front burner of national discourse. The spotlight his presence and those of other dignitaries beamed on the sport he loved so much was enough consolation for the barrage of attacks he received.
As a polo player and patron on STL Polo Club of Lagos, he knows that the spotlight on the Kano Polo Tournament, in the coming weeks and months, would increase interest in the sport and attract investors.
Seyi believes in service – service to the people, service to the nation and service to God. He also believes it’s human to err and that constructive criticisms could make a man better.
“I’m human and imperfection is all part of being human,” he says. “Only God is perfect. I humbly accept my occasional imperfections. But mistakes don’t define who we are.”
As humans, there’s a Seyi in each of us, which is why we always wish to be judged for what we mean to do – our original intentions – for who we really are, and nothing more.
Happy birthday!!
By Eric Elezuo
Online medium, Trek Africa, is set to celebrate and award 25 influential Nigerian women for their role model initiatives and entrepreneurial prowess.
The event, according to the Publisher, Oki Samson, os billed to take place at the Oriental Hotel, in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Monday.
Speaking to Pointblank.ng, Oki noted that the women were carefully selected by an impeccable panel, who considered their pedigree, humanitarian endeavours, achievements and impact on the larger society.
He also emphasized that the event will be chaired by the Chairman/CEO of Executive Group and Board Member of Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, with the AIG of Zone 2 Police Command, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, as special Guest of honour.
Among a long list of women to be decorated with the Trek Africa Newspaper’s 25 most influential and role model women in Africa award are Mrs. Bella Adenuga-Disu, the Executive Vice Chairman, Globacom Nigeria; Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, CEO, Fidelity Bank; Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan CEO, Executive Trainers Ltd; Pastor (Mrs.) Shade Olukoya, Wife of the General Overseer, Mountain of Fire Miniatries Worldwide; and Mrs. Adekemi Fayoade, Chairperson, Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) Zone 2, Nigeria Police.
Others are Esther Adeola Balogun
CEO, UCEE Microfinance Bank; Yeye Olori Aderonke Emmanuel-king, Group Executive Director, Adron Homes and Properties; Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON
GMD/CEO, Zenith Bank Plc; DCP Chioma Ajunwa (Retd), MON, Nigeria’s first Olympic Gold Medalist, Mrs. Maureen Onigbanjo
CEO, House of Maufechi; Dr. Cynthia Gregg
CEO, Safety Signatures; Hon. Mrs. Funke Egbemode, Immediate Past Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Osun State; Pharm. Josephine Ehimen MD/CEO, Nett Pharmacy; HRM Olori Janet Afolabi
Queen of Apomu Kingdom, Osun State; and Dr. Jayne Onwumere, Group CEO, PWAN Group.
Also to be honoured are Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, President, Women Arise for Change Initiative; Uzo Oshogwe MD, Afriland Properties Ltd; Mrs. Funmi Ogbue
Co-founder, Women in Energy Network, WIEN; Lady Ifyugo Mgbemene,
CEO, Leo Ela International Ltd; Princess Amb. Dr. Toyin Kolade Iyalaje Oodua, Mrs. Joke Sogunro CEO, Soggy’s Couture; Mrs. Yewande Abiose MD, Energy Institution, Nigeria; Dr. Mrs. Adebiyi Abidemi, GMD, Unique Motors; Princess Yeye Lara Fashola, Cultural Ambassador, ECOSOCC, African Union; and Chief (Barr.) Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nnanna Mba, CEO, Diva World Trading Services (Makers of Diva Rice).
Trek Africa has been in the forefront of promoting excellence in diverse socio-economic endeavours.
The Gateway Stadium, Sagamu was aglow yesterday, the 27th of December, 2024, as the maiden edition of Remo Day culminated in a grand rally celebrating the unity, culture, and progress of Remoland.
Hosted by the revered Akarigbo of Remoland, the event brought together dignitaries from across the nation, including the Chief of Staff to the President of Nigeria, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, the esteemed Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun (MFR) and the first lady of the state, The Ewusi of Makun, HRH Oba Timothy Oyesola Akinsanya, ORUNAGBA II, Chairman of Adron Group and Otun Akile of Remoland Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, amongst others.
Aare Adetola Emmanuelking’s presence stood out in class as he brought unparalleled style, sophistication, and charm to the occasion. Dubbed the ” Remo Day Man of Steeze,” Aare Adetola made an unforgettable entrance, draped in an exquisite wine agbada adorned with intricate embroidery, accessorized with traditional coral beads, and crowned with a regal fila. His look, a masterclass in cultural elegance, radiated confidence and pride in Yoruba heritage, instantly earning him admiration from the gathered audience. Known for his charisma and commitment to the development of Remoland, Aare Adetola was the epitome of poise and grandeur as he engaged with other top dignitaries and attendees. From his interactions to his overall demeanor, every aspect of his presence reflected a deep connection to his roots, and an unyielding passion for community growth.
Communities from across Remoland including Epe, Makun, Iperu, Irolu, Emuren, Ogere, Ikenne, Ilara, Ode remo, Isara, Ipara, Ilishan, Soyindo, Ijagba, Ado, Ode lemo, Ibido, Idena, Ogijo, Atayo, Eposo, Idado, Latawa, Oko, Ipoji, Lowa ibu, Igbepa, Ijoku, Iraye, Ilupeju, Iraniken, Okeselu, Simawa, Ilaye, Iraye, Agura, Igode, Sotubo, Ariye , Araromi, Imushin, Imeji, Agbehinsa , and many more, converged at the Gateway Stadium to pay homage to the Akarigbo of Remoland, a revered symbol of unity and cultural pride. This act of respect and solidarity emphasized the deep-rooted connection between the people and their traditional ruler as they celebrated the remarkable growth and development of Remo. Among the many groups, Iyaniwura Base stood out under the distinguished leadership of Aare Adetola Emmanuelking. Following in his illustrious footsteps, the group brought a splash of vibrance to the event, dazzling attendees with their matching cultural attires that reflected the rich traditions of Remoland. Their coordinated elegance and enthusiastic homage added a memorable touch to the grand celebration.
The Remo Day celebration, themed “In Unity & Culture, We Thrive,” was more than a cultural showcase. It was a celebration of the strength and progress of Remoland, featuring colorful displays of traditional dance, drumming, and artwork. Amid the festivity, Aare Adetola’s magnetic personality and gallant appearance was a true highlight of the day. The Grand Rally provided a perfect backdrop for celebrating individuals who embody the spirit of Remo’s advancement. In Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, Remo found a true cultural icon, someone who not only lives the values of the community, but also inspires others to embrace and promote its legacy with pride and dignity.
The Remo Day celebrations may have concluded, but the image of Aare Adetola, standing tall in his resplendent attire, remains etched in the memories of attendees. Aare Adetola Olaonipekun Emmanuelking- a name synonymous with grace, culture, and unshakable pride in Remoland’s illustrious heritage. Indeed, the “Remo Day Man of Steeze” has set a standard that will resonate far beyond Remoland.
Personality in Focus
Christmas: Archbishop Martins Advocates Improved Quality of Lives for Nigerians
Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins, of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, has enjoined all Nigerian leaders to be more sensitive to the yearnings of the people for a better life.
The Archbishop stressed an urgent need for a better enabling environment to allow businesses thrive in a bid to reduce the high rate of unemployment and the grinding poverty in the land. He urged leaders to prioritise the welfare of citizens over personal needs in addressing the widespread hunger, poverty, joblessness, and insecurity ravaging the nation.
The Prelate said: Even in the face of policies that are deemed to have positive results in the long-term, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, floating of the naira and the new tax reforms initiative, governments must ensure that the immediate welfare of people is not neglected but factored into the planning and execution of such policies. This is necessary, if the people for whom the policies are being made are not to die before the positive results begin to manifest. At the same time, government spending must be prudent and compassionate.
In addition, it is necessary to pay more attention to the agricultural sector so that food security can be ensured for overall benefit.
In a 2024 Christmas Message to Nigerians signed by the Director of Social Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu and made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP, the Prelate described as very sad and depressing the recent loss of several lives of innocent Nigerians in Ibadan, Abuja, and Anambra in their quest to access food palliatives owing to pervading hunger across the country.
He said it was worrisome that many Nigerians now find it difficult to purchase necessities of life, especially during this festive season that should be a period of merriment, sharing of love, food, and other essentials, which are the hallmarks of the Christmas season.
To forestall a reoccurrence of such ugly incidents, the prelate urged governments, at both federal and state levels, as well as the legislative assemblies, to identify and quickly fix the loopholes in the polity that are responsible for the massive poverty and hardship which Nigerians are facing.
He advocated the appraisal of the nation’s existing laws and enactment and enforcement of only proactive policies that would open the business environment, attract investors, and create more jobs so that the citizens can afford their basic needs; rather than depend on palliatives that offer only temporary relief.
The prelate urged substantial investments in the agricultural sector of the economy to ensure the availability of basic foodstuffs; thereby reducing the high cost of essential food items like rice, beans, onions and grains. He said: If citizens have food in their homes, people will not endanger their lives while scrambling for palliatives in the way it happened.” While praying for the souls of those who died in the recent stampedes in parts of the country, he also commiserated with those who lost their loved ones, praying that Jesus, the Prince of Peace would bring solace to the afflicted, comfort to the grieving, and hope to the despairing.
“This special season reminds us of the profound love of God, who sent His only Son to redeem humanity. May the light of Christ illuminate our lives, dispel darkness, and fill our hearts with love, compassion, and kindness. As we gather with family and friends, let us not forget those who are less fortunate, the vulnerable and the marginalised. May our celebration be a catalyst for acts of charity, generosity, and solidarity.”
Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu,
Director
