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Kiki Okewale At 40, A Rededication To Empowerment [PHOTOS]

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You would expect that for turning the milestone age of 40, Mrs. Kiki will throw a one-of-a-kind party that will linger on the lips of attendees and well-wishers for maybe another 365 days. But that wasn’t the case as the celebrant chose a very special way to celebrate her day by empowering 100 women at the upscale Celebration Garden and Event Centre, GRA, Ikeja. For Kiki, the CEO of Afrocentric fashion brand, Hope by Kiki, her birthday is a perfect time to reflect on all that God has done for her and to give back to the society.

Popularly called the Queen of Blings by her associates and clientele, Kiki has her hands in many pies which include public speaking, mentorship, life coaching and her passion for empowering women has seen her spearheading several initiatives that have been applauded as value add to the growth and development of women.

According to her, her passion for empowerment and giving the womenfolk a platform to excel and contribute to their families and the society is the reason she decided to use the occasion of her 40th birthday to put smiles on the faces of women through the empowerment event which was aptly tagged ‘‘Learn, Connect, Celebrate’.

The 100 women from different backgrounds and localities were selected and trained at no cost on physical hands-on rhinestones and were also feted lavishly by the celebrant. The packed event had volunteer trainers, donors, friends, family and well-wishers in attendance.

When the celebrant was asked why she chose to spend her day doing this, she had this to say; “yes, it is good to throw a party and celebrate but I want to use my 40th birthday to make an impact, to touch lives and to give back to the society. The 100 women we are empowering today, we believe will have a positive spiral effect as we believe that as they are being trained, they in turn will train others, more like a train-the-trainer initiative and they and their families and the society at large will be the better for it”

Hardly is there any venture that Mrs. Kiki Okewale has gone into without accolades and recognition, some of these ventures are even outside the shores of the country.

Some of her enterprises include BK3, a garment factory she started during the covid lockdown, Stitches of Hope, an NGO that is a subsidiary of her women-based community. The fashion mogul and herself a fashionista owns Hope by KIKI, Blingsandblanks Academy where she has trained over 30,000 people. Kiki also doubles as an OAP on radio where she hosts the show, Real Women, Real Talks.

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NSA Ribadu Tells Canada To “Go To Hell” For Denying Military Chiefs Visas

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In a significant diplomatic snub, Canada has refused to grant visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, and several other senior military officers for an official event. Speaking on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the first annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu voiced his dissatisfaction, telling Canada “to go to hell.”

The officials were scheduled to participate in a ceremony in Canada honoring war veterans, but only a part of the delegation was granted visas, sparking strong reactions from Nigerian authorities.

Ribadu and Musa discussed the matter at the inaugural lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS). The event, attended by security experts and government officials, highlighted national security and international collaboration.

Ribadu labeled the visa denial as disrespectful, while Musa stressed that Nigeria needs to assert itself internationally and no longer be taken lightly. Musa reflected on how his team had been invited to the veterans’ event, only to be hit with an unexpected setback when some members of the delegation were denied entry. He viewed the incident as a reminder for Nigeria to bolster its independence and strength.

He stated, “Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honor our veterans… half of us have gone, and half have been denied. It’s very disappointing. It’s a clear reminder that the country must stand on its own, stand strong as a nation, and should no longer be taken for granted.”

Ribadu commended Musa for his leadership in tackling security issues and underscored the importance of national advancement. He remarked, “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell. Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong, and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country.”

The visa rejection raises concerns about Canada’s position on Nigerian military officials and its broader diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. While the exact reasons for the denial remain unclear, the incident has shed light on the bureaucratic and political obstacles Nigerian officials face in international dealings.

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Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st Gears Up For Laffmattazz “About Time World Tour”

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Iconic Nigerian comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st, is set to embark on a global comedy tour, bringing laughter and excitement to fans around the world.

The Laffmattazz tagged “About Time World Tour” promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s unique brand of comedy and other amazing comedians.

The tour will kick off in Nigeria, with shows in Ibadan, Akure, Abeokuta, and Lagos.

From there, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st will take his comedy to the global stage, performing in the UK, Canada, and the USA.

“We are thrilled to announce the Laffmattazz World Tour, which promises to be an epic comedy experience,” said Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st.

When asked what his fans should expect, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st said “We have an amazing lineup of shows planned, and we can’t wait to bring laughter and joy to our fans around the world.”

The Laffmattazz World Tour is set to be a hilarious and entertaining experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s signature comedy style, which blends humor, storytelling, and audience interaction.

For more information on the Laffmattazz World Tour, including tour dates, venues, and ticket information, follow us on social media @gbengaadeyinka1stgcon @Laffmattazz_ga1st

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #LaffmattazzWorldTour.

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Our Matriarch Has Returned To Her Creator

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With a heavy heart and complete submission to the will of Almighty Allah, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mrs Mojisola Norinatu Adebayo Nee Adelakun who departed this world on the evening of Tuesday, February 11, 2025.

Fondly known as Iya Wale, she lived a remarkable 68years filled with love, kindness, and wisdom. She was a pillar of strength who taught us patience, tolerance, and, above all, the true essence of love. Her presence touched many lives, and her legacy of compassion will forever remain in our hearts.

Though my siblings and I deeply mourn her loss, we take solace in the knowledge that she has returned to her Creator. In accordance with Islamic rites, she was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

As we reflect on her impactful life, the family will hold the 8th Day Fidau prayers next week to honor her memory. We kindly ask for your prayers and support during this difficult time.

May Allah grant her eternal rest and admit her into Al-Jannah Firdaus.

 

Dr. Abiola Adebayo

For the Family

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