It was a gathering of who is who in Nigeria on Saturday 11th of January 2020 when Pan African Industrialist and Philanthropist, Alhaji Rasak Akanni Okoya joined the league of the octogenarians in style. The event, without a doubt, passed for the very first grand event of 2020, with top businessmen, governors, ministers, royal fathers and ministers in attendance.
Glamorous in their various outfits, the distinguished guests were basking in the euphoria of the warm reception and hospitality as the event commenced in the late hours of Saturday, January 11th into the early hours of the business mogul’s birthday, January 12th, 2019. City People crew led by the Publisher, DR. SEYE KEHINDE, ABIOLA ORISILE, SEUN JOSEPH, JIMMY ABDULRASHEED and NURU AKOREDE were at the event to serve you exclusive gist. Enjoy it.
ABOUT THE GREEN-THEMED DÉCOR
Most people who are familiar with the Okoyas will accept that the family does not compromise on quality. They are not only in the business of chairs and coolers but are creative thinkers. All thanks to the brain behind the green-themed event ground, Dr Shade Okoya.
This time the guests were stunned at the sight of what they used to know as the Praying ground in the Okoya Villa, as it was totally transformed into a world-class Caribbean outlook.
The lights were tangled around all the palm trees and every sitting point has a dedicated cooling fan and a waiter who is ready to take orders for food and drinks at any time while the event is underway.
The green carpet for photo-session was equally decorated to taste with the picture of the celebrant, Alhaji Rasak Okoya, hanging in various vantage position.
EARLY COMERS
Top on the list of early comers includes Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Pedro and his beautiful wife, Olgunsoye Oyinlola, Emeka Anyaoku, Prince Subomi Balogun, Justice Oguntade, and wife, Dr. Samuel Adedoyin, and many society women who glowed in various exotic attires and fabrics.
1 EVENT, 2 ANCHORS
Big fish in the big sea, they say. Events such as Alhaji Rasaki’s 80th birthday couldn’t have been better anchored by no other stage Mcs other than the two big forces in the industry; Gbenga Adeyinka and Tee A. Both anchors complement each other and were able to keep guests awake throughout the evening.
THE GRAND ARRIVAL OF THE CELEBRANT @ 9.30 PM
It was a royal arrival for Aare Rasak Akanni Okoya as he walked into the venue looking so glamorous and stylish. There is no doubt that Aare is not just blessed in business, he is also blessed with good health. Looking so ageless, he was walked into the venue by Vice President, Yemi Osibanjo, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Justice Olusola Oguntade and host of others. He beamed with a smiles as he walked in to take his seat at the high table.
HERE COMES THE HOST, DR FOLASHADE OKOYA
Just like the Queen of the Okoya’s dynasty that she is, Dr Folasade Noimat Okoya walked in amidst pomp into the venue before her husband. Clad in custard yellow ball dress, she walked from table to table to welcome all the guests at the high table. In her respectful manner, she knelt down to greet many of the guests who couldn’t help but admire her calm and coordinated nature. Her diamond jewelry was carefully selected to complement her shoes and bags even when she stepped out in her second attire for the day.
She spent all night making sure the event went as planned and was never found wanting when her husband needed her. She was seen at intervals adjusting her husband’s cap making sure he strikes a good pose for the camera. There is no doubt that Aare Rasak Akanni Okoya also loves his wife dearly. He kept looking out for her at intervals too. Many of Aare Rasak Akanni Okoyas’ children were also seen chatting and smiling with Dr. Folasade Okoya. It is no gainsaying that Dr Folashade Okoya has been able to manage the Okoya’s businesses and the home very well. Aare of Lagos was later joined by his 2 wives, Alhaja Kuburat Okoya and Dr. Folasade Okoya during the cutting of cake.
THE BOUNDLESS LOVE IN THE OKOYA DYNASTY IS GLARING
The boundless love between Dr. Folasade Okoyas and all her stepchildren became obvious on Saturday as they all made a great team making sure Aare of Lagos had the best birthday in town. At the interval, Moji Tejuoso nee Okoya, Abiola Okoya, and host of others were seen chatting with Dr Folasade as they all beamed with smiles seeing the huge success of the night. They all surrounded his table too when it was time for them to cut the cake. Mr Tunde Okoya, Taofeek Okoya, Olarenwaju Okoya were also seen moving from one corner of the event to the other seeing that all went as planned.
VP OSINBAJO REPRESENTED THE PRESIDENT
Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, was fully on the ground at the 80th birthday of Alhaji Okoya, in his own capacity and as the representative of President Mohammadu Buhari. He was seen exchanging pleasantries with other important guests at the high table. He sat close to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
SO, OBJ AND AARE OF LAGOS ARE THIS CLOSE?
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo did not only show up at the 80th birthday of Alhaji Okoya, he was also active and at the forefront to ensure that all went well. One could see how both elderly men interact with each other all through the event. He was seen at the front seat from the beginning to the end of the event.
LAGOS SPEAKER OBASA LED LAGOS LAWMAKERS
Vibrant and articulate two-term speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudasiru Obasa also showed up in the company of other lawmakers. He took the front row with other top politicians to celebrate Alhaji Rasak Okoya. The Speaker who was all-smiles congratulated the business mogul and his delectable wife, Dr. Shade Okoya.
EBENEZER OBEY, K1, AND KSA SHARE ONE STAGE
The stage was launched by the legendary Juju maestro, Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey. He took the stage majestically and rendered classics of his archive of evergreen music from the 70s, 80s and 90s. He took time to recognize and appreciate important guests; Chief Adebutu, Oba Otudeko, Olu Okeowo and other important guests.
King of Fuji, K1 joined Ebenezer Obey on stage and lavished wads of new currency on him, while he (Obey) prayed for him. It was an emotional moment as K1 prostrated for him and danced to the classics of the legend.
K1 later took the stage and set everywhere on fire. The stage was suddenly filled with society women and men who came to celebrate with Alhaji Okoya. K1 later left the stage to meet Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to specially render dedicated numbers in his honour.
KSA was the last of the legend, who took to the stage some minutes after K1 left. This time, Alhaji Okoya and his friends joined King Sunny Ade on the stage and danced for close to an hour, with KSA singing his favourite music which he dedicated to Alhaji Rasak 37 years ago. Although it was an all-night event, these three singers kept everywhere alive. Musiliu Ishola would later storm the stage to entertain the Apala-loving class of guests.
SO APC CHIEFTAIN, BOLA TINUBU CAN DANCE THIS MUCH
Do you know that Aare Rasak Akanni Okoya and Apc chieftain, Bola Ahmed Tinubu are very close? This became obvious on his birthday when they both walked in together. Asiwaju was one of the early callers who spent over 6 hours at the birthday bash. He chatted freely with the celebrant enjoying the night and its ambiance. He took many by surprise when he stood up dancing to the lyrics of king Wasiu Ayinde as he sang many of Tinubu’s praise. One particular lyrics which made Tinubu dance his heart out was “Tinubu wo ero leyin e”, “Tinubu Iwolamo“, Olofo lobinu Ologo”. He danced and sprayed crispy naira notes in bundles to the admiration of all. There is no doubt that he loves K1 and his music. He was the only musician he danced to throughout the night.
MEET OKOYA’S FRIENDS OF OVER 40 YEARS
Have you ever been told that Aare of Lagos, Alhaji Rasak Akanni Okoya, Prince Sam Adedoyin, Justice Olusola Oguntade, Sir Adebukunola Adebutu have been close for over 4 decades?. These Lagos rich men have been close right from when they were young men in their late 30s and 40s. Ask Aare of Lagos about Prince Sam Adedoyin, he will tell you that their friendship is dated right from when they were much younger on the Island when they were both young traders. So also is Justice Oguntade whose friendship is dated over 30 years. Sir Adebukunola also revealed sometimes back that he has been close to Aare for over 30 years. They were all at the 80th birthday with their beautiful wives.
MEET AARE OF LAGOS 2 SIBLINGS AND HOW HE HAS BEEN THEIR FATHER SINCE AGE 4 AND 12 RESPECTIVELY
Aare of Lagos is a businessman and a family man who shares a strong bond with all his children and families most especially his 2 siblings, Dr Tajudeen Okoya and Mrs Wosilat Okoya. He has been playing the role of a father to them right from when they were in their teens. They were at the event with their better halves and children. Don’t forget that Prince Demola Seriki is Otun Aare of Lagos and he is the husband of Alhaja Wosilat Okoya. So also is Dr Tajudeen Okoya, the husband of Alhaja Rasheedat Okoya.
GOVERNOR OF LAGOS, OGUN, AND EKITI MADE IT
It was an array of South-West Governors, who were not just early callers; they spent all night at the Okoya’s mansion. One of the Governors who was an early caller was Governor of Lagos State, Governor Sanwo-Olu. He was one of those who was part of the grand entry of the celebrant. He was later joined by Governor of Ogun state, Governor Dapo Biodun while Governor of Ekiti, Governor Kayode Fayemi was ably represented by his pretty wife, Mrs Bisi Fayemi.
FORMER GOVERNOR AMBODE’S WIFE, MRS BOLANLE BACK ON LAGOS SOCIAL SCENE
At few minutes past 10 pm, the guests witnessed the grand arrival of Mrs Bolanle Ambode, the wife of former Governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode. She looked prettier as her flawless skin glowed on as she was welcomed into the hall by Mrs Modupe Oguntade, the wife of Nigerian High Commissioner to Britain. She was there in the capacity to represent her darling husband, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode.
AN ARRAY OF CELEBRITIES
It was an array of prominent Lagos society women of class who came to honour the Okoyas. Among those sighted were Otunba Folasade Adesoye, Senator Ita Giwa, Mrs Yewande Onilere, Sisi Abah Folawiyo, Mrs Dupe Saego, Mrs Ireti Asemota, Mrs Mufuti Savage, Alhaja Basirat, Alhaja Kuburat Shitta-bey, Mrs Joko Oni, Alhaja Bisi Abiola, Alhaja Tinuke Saaro, Mrs Maami Adeyemi, Mrs Adejoke Okeowo, CSP Dolapo Badmus, Dame Emmanulla Fashola, Mrs Adejoke Orelope, Mrs Kemi Nelson, Mrs Folake Atere, Olori Sekinat Elegushi, Mrs Jokotade Adeusi, Mrs Bimbo Benjamin and many others
OONIRISA STORMS LAGOS FOR AARE OF LAGOS
The traditional Oonirisa town crier announced the arrival of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi at few minutes past 12am with his royal entourage. Clad in his signature attire, he walked straight to the high table where a seat was kept for him. He sat with the celebrant and his guests admiring the serenity of the night. He was spotted with Princess Toyin Kolade among others.
OBA AKIOLU SENT REPRESENTATIVES
Though Oba of Lagos couldn’t make the event he sent his white caps chiefs and his 4 Olooris who came in a few minutes past 9 pm. They spent many hours at the event before they left.
CELEBRITY COUPLES WHO PARTIED TOGETHER @ AARE OF LAGOS
It was an array of celebrity couples at Aare of Lagos 80th birthday. One of those whose presence was felt was Oba Adedapo Tejuoso and his Oloris, Senator Lanre Tejuoso and Moji Okoya Tejuoso, Prince Lanre Tejuoso and Hon Funmi Tejuoso, Prince Kunle Ojora and his wife, Ojuolape, Emeka Anyakwu and wife, Sir Olu Okeowo and wife, Adejoke, Mr and Mrs Bosun Oredola, Mr Femi Pedro and his wife, Jumoke, Mr Bisi Onanuaga and wife, Sir Kesington Adebutu and Yeye Kofoworola, Justice Oguntade and wife Adesola, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru and wife, Mr Seni and Janet Adetu, Oba Dosumu and wife, Segun Awolowo and wife, Mike Inegbese and Mary, Prince Fadairo and Princess Foladade Ogunwusi, GNI and wife,
DAVIDO THRILLS YOUNGER GENERATION!
The DMW boss came on stage and held nothing back. He took his anticipating fans back in the days of Damiduro, through to the time of Aye and that legendary collabo with Kiss Daniel, “One Ticket”. He also performed his new hit song “Risky” and the crowd went “gaga”. This was supposed to be his last rendition as the two able anchors came on stage, but the guests seemed to want him to go on. He later nailed the show with ‘If’, ‘’, and ‘Mind’, finally leaving the stage while the crowd was high in the euphoria of good music.
BUHARI, OSINBAJO, GBAJABIAMILA, OTHERS PAY GLOWING TRIBUTES TO ALHAJI OKOYA AT 80
The avalanche of tributes received by the celebrant shows that the Aare of Lagos has impacted so many lives, especially the ones who are now at the forefront of many industries today. The compendium disbursed in his honour tells of a man who has lived for others, making sacrifices and changing lives. An example is a tribute to Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila who wrote:
“It gives me great pleasure to write you this letter on the occasion of your 80th birthday celebration. You are an industrialist per excellence and through dint of hard work and commitment to the service of humanity, you have touched so many lives across the country and the world.”
Others include President Mohammadu Buhari, Vice President Osinbajo, Gov, Babajide Sanwoolu, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Femi Hamzat, Olusegun Obasanjo, Ernest Shonekan, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,Mudashiru Obasa, Hon, Justice Oguntade, Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, Ooni of Ife, Oba Tejuoso,Oba. T.A AKintoye, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Hakeem Muri Okunola,, Babatunde Raji Fashola, Akin & Bola Ambode, Gbenga Daniel, Ibikunle Amosun, Sarah Sosan, Adejoke Orelope, Otunba Adekunle Ojora, Subomi Balogun, Samuel Adedoyin, Adebutu Kessington, Umar Ayinla Saro, Sunny Omoregie, Aliko Dangote, Femi Otedola, Tony Elumelu, Sir Olu Okeowo, Tunde Folawiyo, Segun Awolowo, Oyin Jolayemi, Adebayo Adejumo, Femi Adeniyi Williams, Gwen Nwachukwu, Jubril Martins, Kuye, Philip Kola Abumere, Funsho Lawal, Oluwole Olatunbosun Erin Jogun Ola, Abike Dabiri, Adisa Sebanjo, Nike Akande, Titi Atiku Abubakar, Alex Ibru, Bintu Fatimah Tinubu, Modupe Solanke, Dele Momodu, Joe Odumakin, Florence Ita Giwa, Hajia Abba Folawiyo, Segun Awolowo, Bimbo and Funke Ashiru, Prince Gbolahan Lawal, Philip Abumere, Daisy Danjuma, Chief Jokotade Akin-George, Bola Shagaya, Gbene Joi Nunieh, Ayodele Subair, Animashaun Jeleel, Oba Otudeko, Fatai Owoseni, Chief Sena Anthony,
WITH LOVE FROM OKOYA’S CHILDREN
First daughter Moji Tejuosho and first son Tunde Okoya led the Okoya’s children from across the world to celebrate their father, Aare of Lagos. The young children were also led by Olamide Olamide Okoya and they all came to make merry with their octogenarian father. Other children include Abiola Okoya, Taofick Okoya, Mobolaji Okoya, Wonuola Okoya, Ajibola Okoya, Yosola Okoya, Olanrewaju Okoya, Sophia Okoya, Omobola Okoya, Afolakemi Aina Okoya, Idris Okoya, Abimbola Okoya, Tokunbo Usman Okoya, Simisola Okoya, Hadiza Okoya Alao Akala, Bunmi Okoya, Jenifa Okoya Kufuor, Ibidun Okoya, Yetnde Okoya, Olalekan Okoya, Layiwola Okoya, Toyin Okoya, Bisola Dejonwo-Tokan, Olamide Okoya, Subomi Okoya, Oyinlola Okoya, Wahab Okoya, Jubril Okoya, Amina Okoya.
ROLL CALL
Cecilia Ibru, Alex Duduyemi, Emeka Anyaoku, Oba Otudeko, Ooni of Ife, Alao Akala, Erelu Abiola Dosumu, Idiyat Onabule, Ibironke Sokesun, Gboyega Nasir Isiaka and wife, Lai Mohammed, Kemi Nelson, Mrs Jakande, Olugbo of OnileIgbo, Alara of Alara, Prince Subomi Balogun, Justice Oguntade and wife, Dr. Samuel Adedoyin.
WHO DID WHAT
It was a classy event planned by the best hands in the industry. The event was planned by Finesse Event and coordinated by Subtle Elegance. The best Nigerian celebrity food vendors were also handsomely paid to cater to the large guests. Bonix was in charge of the drinks while Laredo and Boladel served small chops. Food was served by Malas, Astoria, Tuwo Pama to mention few.
