Personality in Focus
Zenith Sports MD Drums Support for NAOSNP Walk Against Drug Abuse, Cultism, Domestic Violence
The Managing Director of leading sports equipment company, Zenith Sports Limited and its subsidiary, Haggai Sports, Mr. Paul Maduakor, has called on all and sundry, especially men and boys, survivors of drugs abuse and domestic violence to join the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP) Walk Against Drug Abuse, Cultism and Domestic Violence.
The event holds on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, with start off point at Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja GRA by 9am, to terminate at the House of Assembly Complex, Alausa.
The renowned Sport wear merchant also a partner said to end domestic violence, drug abuse and Cultism, ‘men’ and ‘boys’ need to be part of the solution and use their voice for change.
“One of the biggest things that men can do is to educate themselves, look within themselves and change the narrative.
“Visual presence of men during the walk will be an inspiration to other men as 90% of abusers and perpetrators of gender-based violence are men, though most men are not abusive or violent,” he said.
Speaking with the General Secretary of the association, Theresa Moses, about the availability of the shirts for the walk, he advised the youths to stay away from drugs and focus on hardwork, determination and perseverance to make a headway despite the myriad of problems in the society.
“The truth is, hard drugs are also linked to cultism. Parents need to be vigilant, close to their kids, check their phones always and monitor their activities strictly to ensure they are not into drugs or in a cult.
“Zenith Sports Limited is committed to advancing the cause of women, initiatives that impact women wellbeing and their overall confidence, hence the support for the cause against domestic violence”. Maduakor added.
Responding, Moses appreciated his unwavering support to the association, promising that the walk organized by veteran journalists and publishers of online media will definitely get the needed attention and the full weight of the law must be slammed on perpetrators of such crimes.
Zenith Sports is a renowned dealer in sport wears, fitness equipment, skateboard, jersey, customised sport wears and shoes.
A subsidiary of Zenith Sports, Haggai, also boasts of the first automated high-speed sportswear factory in Nigeria, a new dimension in indigenous sportswear manufacturing.
The family of Bolaji Olarewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji has confirmed the passing of the singer following a brief illness.
According to a statement signed by the Family on Saturday, Bolaji died on Easter Saturday.
The statement said, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bolaji Olarewaju, affectionately known as “Big B,” a cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church community, an ordained Pastor in the RCCG and a giant in the music industry and our community. Bolaji left us on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, after a brief illness.
“His departure leaves a void in our hearts that can not be filled.
“Bolaji’s life was a testament to his passion for music, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to uplifting those around him. His legacy is not only in the melodies he created but in the lives he touched and the unquantifiable joy he spread.
“We take solace in knowing that his absence with us is his presence with the Lord, and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him will not be erased.
“As we navigate through this time of loss, we kindly request privacy to mourn as a family. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers.
“Details regarding the obsequies will be shared in due course as we come together to celebrate Bolaji’s remarkable life and legacy.
“Thank you for respecting our wishes during this incredibly difficult time. With gratitude, The Family of Bolaji Olarewaju.”
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.
