Dola Bamgboye

QUINTESSENTIAL DOLA BAMGBOYE (1962-2020)

By, Seye Adetunmbi

The sad news of the transition of Okundola Bamgboye on Saturday October 10, 2020 came as a rude shock to family members, other relations, friends, colleagues, associates and others who came across him in his 58 eventful years on earth. I was not prepared for it to end too soon! Considering the fact that we were born the same year, he celebrated his natal day on January 13th while I mark mine on July 21st; my hope was that we will celebrate many milestone-birthday anniversaries together as he stood by me in 2012 as the co-anchor of my 50th birthday party. Naturally, I broke down (mo baraje) after the phone call came on October 10 and I was informed that my buddy slept but didn't wake up! Consequently, I am not prepared to write posthumous tribute here. My wish is to celebrate him in our old age and say it to his face that I love him and appreciate our friendship right from when we met as teenagers in Ekiti during his vacation to Usi-Ekiti, his home town. Alas, the unexpected happened! Death where is thy sting? What I have been able to do here is to bid him farewell with some selected vintage pictures of him and highlights of some of the things people have said about him after his sudden exit. I call this publication, "Very Fond Memories of Dola in Pictures" - A Pictorial Tribute. We have indeed lost a gem!

Suave, debonair and a good man

The Event and Sponsorship Manager of MTN Nigeria - Okundola Bamgboye (1962-2020)

Olumide, Dola, Mummy and Bola Bamgboye

1) Bola Bamgboye and Dola Bamgboye with their nanny in 1965 (2) Dola, his sister etc part of a bridal train

Dola in the middle row, standing 5th from right in December 1976 at CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Lagos.

Dola, his lovely wife and children                         Mrs Ochee Bamgboye, Seye Adetunmbi & Dola Bamgboye on his 4th birthday

Dola on 13/1/2007, his 45th birthday with  his children and Seye Adetunmbi

Vintage Dola got the attention of the Prince of Wales who couldn't resist the sincere smile and his aide too

Some of the things various people said about Dola are quoted here. One thing remain constant in most of the testimonies, he was not inclined to turn blind eye to the needs of others. In whatever capacity he could, he often tried to assist others. His colleagues said that he went all out to support them with his energy, time and financial resources. He was down to earth and very humble. He generously shared his personality and character to the admiration of many who had encounter with him. He was a unique dude with an enormous heart and great sense of fun. He made people around him happy and long for his friendship and a was wonderful company to keep.

Dola in front of L-R: Wole Sowole, Mr & Mrs Dapo Adelegan, Funso Daramola, Seye Adetunmbi, Mrs Foluso Olaniyan, Segilola Oluwole and Duro Omogbenigun at the 50th birthday celebration of Seye on July 21st 2012 in Lagos Dola meant a lot to his wide range of admirers, friends, relations, school mates, mentees and other integrated associates. Dr Kweku Adedayo Tandoh wrote: "The Dollar $ Man”, that was my way of hailing him and his reply was “much respect bro”. In the last two years we had the opportunity on at least two occasions to have real and deep heart to heart conversations about life and its vanities. One time was May 2019 in France when we spent 3 nights attending a wedding and the 2nd time in March 2020 in Dubai, attending a 90th birthday. Dola, you were a true friend and bro; honest, humble, loyal, forthright and a family man who truly loved God. If one wanted to hear the truth about any matter, you could count on Dola to give you that truth, whether you want to hear it or not. You loved your wife Ochee and was always thanking God for giving you a true devoted “help meet”. You adored your children and was so proud of the great adults they had become; you never could stop talking about them too. There can only be one Dollar $ Man, and my wife Kunbi, my children and myself will never forget you. I pray that the Almighty God will comfort and console your wife, children and entire family in Jesus Name. Good night, the Dollar $ Man, much respect bro....."

Omotayo Tanwa Arewa wrote: "Egbon was truly larger than life. His gait and personality stood out wherever he went. His humility and keen sense of humour were such a gift that stood him in good stead. He was unmoved by “arranging” because he knew that he was enough. Egbon Dola ($) embraced my friends as his and would correct you in love and humour. He was a unique and lovely human in good and bad times."  Also Manny Osifo wrote: Dola was a fantastic guy who touched many generations. He was full of life and there was never a dull moment with him. Our paths crossed nearly 50 years ago in primary school and we remained family friends and eventually brothers till he passed on. Growing up back in the good old days in Lagos, he was a great social influencer, mentor and pacesetter to many in my generation and others that followed. He was so loved by all. Dola was indeed larger than life. Dola's social prowess and charisma warmed him into the hearts of so many cutting across gender, age and social class. This made him so popular in the Nigerian social circle at home and abroad, and one of the most popular happening guys of my growing up days in Lagos." 

The social media among his circle of associates, colleagues, relations, friends, school mates and other constituencies globally stood-still for him when the news of his death broke. Expectedly, the first Zoom Night of Tribute held for him on October 17th had 669 participants. Within nine minutes at the start of the zoom, the Zoom had 330 people. Yes, Dola was popular in life and in his transition. How could anyone forget a rare gem who made everyone around him felt special and loved? Yes, Dolapo was indeed amiable, kind, unpretentious, easy-going and jovial.

Dola was born on January 13, 1962 to the family Chief & Mrs Claudius Agboola Bamgboye of Usi-Ekiti. His father was the Federal Minister of State for Education in 1979. He attended CMS Grammar School, Bariga (1974-79 set) and was a product of University of Middlesex, University of Lagos and Brunel University in London. Until his transition, he was the Event and Sponsorship Manager of MTN Nigeria Limited.

The real McCoy and a jolly good fellow!
Well rounded Okundola
Suave and debonair Dola.
A good man and an outstanding jolly nice fellow has gone home!
I am short of words!
Just like that, our very dear brother and worthy friend left us!
We surrender all to God....
So sad

O digba, ore mi, omoluabi
Fare thee well, buddy.

Till we meet to part no more.
1
Seye

Lagbaja

LAGBAJA 

First written by Seye Adetunmbi on 30-12-10 

    When I heard the radio jingle of Lagbaja just before Christmas, I said Eegun was up to something again on the note of a ground-breaking. Eegun is the name a mutual friend and I call the producer of Lagbaja, Bisade Ologunde when in our elements with him as a friend. Eegun is the Yoruba name for a masked man, masquerade, it is pronounced and written as egigun in Ekiti dialect. Naturally I knew I was not going to miss the show all other things being equal because apart from me, Lagbaja has my boy, Madiba as his fan right from around age of two years when he had been able to recognize the music of one of the most ingenious musicians in Africa who also stands out among the best artists and innovative performers in the contemporary world. The special event which I classified as “family Christmas jam” held as scheduled at Motherlan’ on the eve of Christmas, 24th December 2010. The show was still in the mold of Lagbaja’s regular jam sessions with comedians and upcoming artists and performers providing interludes. The only difference was the special attention given to children during the show which was structured to start at 6 pm and it ended before midnight, a departure from the routine monthly till-dawn jams. 

Lagbaja with Bukunmi Adetunmbi and other fans

    His arrival accompanied with trumpet and dance to the stage through the aisle in the midst of the audience to express his traditional camaraderie to his ever excited fans must have thrilled to no bounds the children who were seeing Lagbaja live, for the first time. To say the children that couldn’t hide their excitement were in one of their happiest moments would amount to understating it. My little angel, four years old Semilore said she was going to hug him in admiration of the unique entertaining procession of Lagbaja to the stage. Lagbaja in his elements as a choirmaster conducted an impromptu children orchestra that sang few popular Christmas carols with the support of his female singers as lead vocalists. Eegun made the cute kids from about age two to eleven plus to entertain parents and other aficionados of Motherlan’ jam sessions. It was creativity at its best and the innocence of the children was a beauty to behold seeing them singing as convenient for each child without rehearsals and yet to the delight of the excited mixed audience of Nigerians and foreigners. 

Dara Adetunmbi (holding microphone at the special Lagbaja Show for children at Motherlan in December 2010 

The climax of the children segment of the show was a dancing competition. Seeing is believing when the batch of the very young ones had their dance. Lagbaja identified some dancers among the older children to prune the competitors to five. The dancing competition finalists were tasked to sing a favorite song which they were used to in their respective homes and my 7 years old daughter, Dara took the first shot and sang ope lo ye o, Baba olore…. and the band gave her solemn back-up with talking drum and other musical departments, the audience joined her in the rendition to the applause of all. The other competitors followed suit with one praise worship song or the other to the admiration of the surprised gathering of mixed music enthusiasts that were expecting konko below or ori mi wu o, e lagi mo etc! Who said Jesus has not conquered the world? He is the everlasting King. 

    Dancing competition for children at the first special family jam session at Motherlan’ on 24/12/10 was creative and entertaining. The prize was flat for the first three winners while the 4th and 5th went home with musical CD. Democratic Father Christmas Lagbaja used audience to decide the first three best dancers in the manner of children party setting for those in support to say yes. Dara who had always wanted to have her own telephone line won one of the Nokia phones as one of the first three winners. Thanks to Santa Claus Lagbaja 2010! Lagbaja has got another title from me for having some instincts of Father Christmas in him. 

    Looking back to the pre-mask days of the producer of Lagbaja, discerning ones who knew him as an undergraduate instrumentalist and those of us who had been seeing the entertainer in Bread & Butter days by Allen Avenue roundabout in the early 1990s may not be too surprised the success he has recorded as a masked performing artist. Like eleniyan, abami eda, the only one of its kind, Fela Anikulapo Kuti; his background as a son of a priest must have had early influence on his interest in Music. Bisade’s distinctive Baptist background of devout parents must have exposed him to musical instruments and best of choral songs in his growing up days. As a son of a distinguished organist, I can attest to the power of influence of such strong good music background in anyone’s deep seated interest in well harmonized music. 

    Some people wonder why he opted to continue his musical career with mask and took-up Lagbaja as the stage name. Though I have never engaged him on this issue, yet I would rather give it novelty inspired by the inherent characteristic modest nature of Bisade the great artist. Thus, I’m of the view that here is an artist who must have perceived stardom awaiting him and genuinely would wish to separate stage performance from the real person behind the mask. Unlike other stars, he can conveniently go wherever he wants to go like any other person without attracting undue attention to himself. Except you knew him at Government College, Ibadan or at University of Ife and those who knew him in the pre-mask performing days, he would conveniently go about his affairs unnoticed. 

    For some time in the late 1990s, he was part of us at the UNILAG Senior Staff Squash Club to keep fit. He rode his bicycle to Akoka and back to Ikeja quietly. Of course golden fish has no hiding place, and perhaps when fans got to know and the identity became tough to conceal he must have quietly reviewed his schedule. There was a time he had a show at Motherlan that featured two “Lagbajas” which accentuated the originality of the producer. That’s the vintage him for you. 

Madiba, Dara, Seye and Semilore at Lagbaja’s Show in 2010 

The mask concept is damn too innovative. It is not like the traditional masquerade which some people may have issue with, because the real masquerade doesn’t speak like human beings. Novel Lagbaja in his ago (costume/mask) speaks like you and I, and sings his songs to the positive reception of his teaming devotees. As a matter of fact, the original man behind the ago can travel abroad while Lagbaja performs here in Nigeria or vice-versa. It is the same principle behind those traditional masquerades in Yoruba nation that are over 100 years old and new performers will wear the costume to perform as a going concern. Creativity indeed is the mother of invention and kudos to the grand producer and the inimitable performing artist, one and only Bisade Ologunde. This has earned Lagbaja the classification of an institution in the contemporary world of music and institutions don’t die. In our old age we can conveniently watch Lagbaja perform to entertain us with my friend eegun himself in the audience holding a walking stick and so shall it be for the generations unborn as a going concern, ceteris paribus!

Kako (the author) in his elements mimicking Lagbaja with an improvised costume in 2005 (l) and the real McCoy on the right  

Lagbaja, ijogbon ko se n'ikan fa, omo baba muko-muko, the Eegun himself

CHRISTIANITY AND ANGLICANISM

“Train a child in the way he should go, when he is old he will not depart from it” Proverb 22:6 

By, Seye Adetunmbi

PROLOGUE

Sometime in 1980, during vacation in my Higher School Course days at Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, my venerable father, Chief D. O. Adetunmbi said that the Most Reverend Joseph Abiodun Adetiloye, the second Bishop of Ekiti Anglican Diocese wanted to see me. I asked my beloved father (Baba), what the Lord Bishop wanted to see me for? Baba said that he did not know. “When you see him he will tell you” my father said. I was a bit scared because I wouldn’t know if I have done anything wrong again. Because the last time I went to see him at the Bishop’s residence on top of Agidimo Hill in Christ’s School premises, and requested for his signature on my JAMB form, he seized the neck chain I was wearing and admonished me before responding to my request. I felt so ashamed of myself that he caught me, meanwhile I thought the tiny chain was hidden under my white school shirt. As instructed by my father, I went twice to see him at Ado-Ekiti from Ifaki-Ekiti but my visit fell within when he was busy with episcopal duties and was unable to see him. Ironically, I was happy because I was not sure what was awaiting me and was deliberately avoiding the bishop.

Many years after, out of curiosity I asked Baba again if he had any idea of why the Lord Bishop wanted to see me. He then said that the Most Reverend Adetiloye once said to him that considering his outstanding devotion to God’s work particularly in the Anglican Communion and since he won’t be able to take up fulltime clergy work, he wanted to have one of his children so inclined to become a priest. I have been one of my father’s choristers under the age of ten. Being a connoisseur of harmonized church music himself, he discovered that I was already experimenting vamping on his 1916 model French Christophone organ at the age of 7 years. I accompanied him to several church related functions in various parishes and to diocesan functions. At some point in time, I was his driver to all these places. Apparently, Baba had noticed my interest in everything he was involved with. He then told the Lord Bishop that he would send me to him. I must state that it was quite relieving for me that it was not a case of my doing anything wrong that the bishop wanted to see me. At the same time, I was happy that I didn’t see the bishop because becoming a priest was not on my radar then. 

    I went through this background of my remarkable experience to underscore the fact that God works in mysterious ways. Also that whatever He has destined for us will manifest no matter how long it takes. Today, if there is anything I wish to come to pass, it is to become an ordained priest in the Church of Nigeria (CON), Anglican Communion. This also reminds me of my teenage years when I was rebelling the cutting of my hair, I felt so amused in the recent past when I was visiting the barber’s shop fortnightly because I was feeling uncomfortable with the hair on my head after two weeks. 

    Apart from being a chorister as a little boy in the choir of my father the virtuoso church organist, over the years, without the prompting of anyone, I joined the choir of Anglican Church of the Ascension, Omodara Street, Opebi. I served in the parish council of the church for about 10 years after being elected as a two-term synod delegate and as a parish councillor. On the 1st of December 1996, I was among the pioneer set of trained altar servers in the parish, an initiative of Venerable Phillip Bolude Oyebolu. On August 7th 2014, I graduated with Diploma from the Lagos Anglican Bible College (LABICO) and on December 9th 2016, I was commissioned as a Licensed Lay Reader of the Lagos West Anglican Diocese at St John’s Anglican Church, Iju-Ishaga by the Right Reverend James Olusola Odedeji. Man proposes, God disposes, I am gradually getting close to wearing collar which I ran away from, 30 years ago! 

    I have been privileged to interact with a wide range of people and some of them have been a great source of inspiration for me in the Lord’s vineyard. Baba, Venerable B. P. Oyebolu, one of my mentors who gave me the chance to preach my first sermon on Good Friday in 1997 (28/3/97). After listening to my homily, Mama Victoria Onafowokan said that I should go to LABICO and consider seminary thereafter. Also a friend of mine, Pastor Yomi Oguntuase of a new generation church sect, recently remarked that I have written a number of books on my professional calling and on a wide range of subjects, and that it is imperative for me to write a book dedicated to God who gave me the intellect and vision. Initially, I thought that I should wait until I become an ordained priest before I write any Christian book. Through the grace of God, the inspiration came that I should first publish this one and as the spirit directs and the Lord Almighty permits, subsequent ones may follow. 

    This book is titled Christianity and Anglicanism, primarily because I want a timeless one-stop devotional pictorial-handbook that will first and foremost appeal to the sensibilities of Christian faith believers of all races while the major part of it will serve as a spiritual and seminary companion for fellow communicants and members of the Anglican Communion. In addition, those who are yet to grasp the doctrines of Christianity very well or appreciate the religion better will be able to relate with the book that will attempt to answer most of the probing questions of what, why and how. 

    Based on my modest knowledge as a growing theologian and moderate experience on how to attain the desired intimate spiritual relationship with God, this book is structured into six sections. The Christian book is historical with vintage pictures. It contains brief research on the history of Christianity, the prophets, the early apostles and the early church with a concise expose on the old and the new testament. It is important to have a clear knowledge of the Christian religion, therefore the “Articles of Religion” in its original form constitute the second chapter in the first section of this book. It should guide those who are yet to become Christians to know how to go about it while it should refresh the believers to become better Christians. The second section is about Anglican Communion, its doctrines and practices in the Church of Nigeria. A chapter is dedicated to Catechism while there are highlights on the structure of the church with relation to the various departments that complement the work of the vicar such as the choir, lay readers, altar servers, stewards, vergers, sextons etc. 

    The contents of the third section are mostly my LABICO notes and submitted assignments, while the fourth section is devotional. It is dedicated to holy communion, its efficacy and the principle of acquiring spirit filled power through being a communicant. It can guide daily growth in spirituality and how to share the power of the Holy Spirit for personal victorious daily living in Christ. This section is meant to enlighten believers of the worthiness of taking communion in order to have full benefit of the supernatural power therein. The fifth section is devotional too, it contains my few sermon notes as a Lay Reader and published articles on the essence of Christianity. The last section is a collection of integrated spiritual commentaries quoted from various published sources. It contains some selected words of God, applied bible passages that can be deployed for functional prayer points tips that could help in living a spirit filled Christian life. The annex of the book contains definitions of some biblical and theological words that could enhance further understanding of Christian religion and a directory on CON. 

    Most of my published books are fundamentally pictorial because I record most events I witnessed in photographs and at every opportunity I share them for posterity. Therefore, this spiritual book is not an exception, it has its own share of vintage memorable pictures. The culture, tradition and practices in the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion were recorded in pictures; some of the photographs I took personally and were published in this book. Apart from capturing church events such as consecration of a bishop, collation of an Archdeacon, church dedication, some vintage pictures of early missionaries in Nigeria were included. I was also able to tell my humble story as a keen church man with pictures as a chorister, altar server, lay reader, synod delegate and Bishop’s nominee to Ekiti-Oke Diocesan Synod. 

    This book to reasonable extent is a response to the need to bridge the yawning gap between the way the older generation was brought into Christianity and the way the new generation understands what Christianity is all about. A sect of the new generation is not very clear about Christianity, especially what the core gospel of Christ is all about and how believers are expected to live a fruitful Christian life and be happy, comfortable and contented. The lifestyle of Christians is expected to positively encourage people around them. In essence, Christian ethics should impact positively, all aspects of the social and societal life as individuals and the nation. Not very many people grew up in a family set up where Christian doctrines were inculcated from childhood. This book may help feel some gaps. I remember how my day started with family devotion very early in the morning with my father on his 1916-model French Christophone organ, while all family members sang from the Yoruba Hymn Book, followed by short exhortation and prayers. It was also repeated by 8pm before we went to bed in Ifaki-Ekiti. The catechism thought me right from primary one at St Michael’s Anglican Primary School, Ifaki-Ekiti in 1968 still resonates in my memory. Reverend Ogunjana, my teacher would ask us in Yoruba language in the class: “Ta ni Abrahamu (Who was Abraham)? We would respond with excitement on top of our voices in the class: Abraham ni apere igbagbo oun si ni Baba gbogbo wa. (Abraham was an example of a believer and the father of all). 

    In order to be a dedicated believer, it is imperative to understand what Christianity is all about and to be clear about Christian theology or grasp basic doctrines upon which the life, the teaching and the example of Christ are based. Otherwise, it would be difficult to differentiate or discern the fundamentals of Christianity from other religions. Consequently, Christians should be able to present their faith in its practical applications within the doctrines that are in consonance with the correct interpretation of the scriptures. This can be achieved if they allow the true traditions of the early church to guide them in discerning the formularies which will enable them to derive the spiritual benefits of sharing the power of resurrection and be filled with fruits of Holy Spirit for personal development to uplift their environment to the glory of God. 

    This is an uncommon Christian literature because it does not only have spiritual underpinnings, it tells the story of how Christianity spread to Nigeria through the West African coast. This makes the book to be historical, instructional and a devotional companion for Christians. In all, this book should encourage the readers to relate with their Holy Bible more. Nothing can replace the place of the Bible in the Christendom. I am therefore humbly pleased to present this spiritual handbook to interested people and Christians generally. May God’s grace be sufficient for everyone who reads the book.

EXTRACTS FROM THE FOREWORD AND PREFACE OF THE BOOK 

The Rt Rev J. O. Odedeji, Bishop of Lagos West Diocese wrote:

Quote 

“I cannot but express my delight in having the singular privilege of writing the foreword to this justifiable literary effort by my brother, friend and co-laborer, Bro. Seye Adetunmbi, in defense of the Christian faith and our own cherished Anglican heritage.

His display of interest and knowledge of the foundation of the Christian faith vis-a-vis the historic formulary of the Church is quite spirit lifting and commendable, especially for a laity that is yet to be exposed to core seminary curriculum.

The author in this six-section book addresses a plethora of issues bothering on the Christian faith, Anglicanism, Theology, Doctrines, Holy Communion, Christian Service and Spirituality, and lace them with glossary of Christian terminologies and extracts of useful information about the Anglican Church structure and history.

For all purpose and intent, this book promises to be more than just a Christian literature or prose; reading through it tempts one to want to pass it for a Christian’s Handbook. It is in the light of our appreciation of the factual content and spiritual import of this literary work that we commend it to you for reading and appropriation of its associated blessings.”

Unquote 

The Rt. Rev’d Isaac Olatunde Olubowale, Bishop, Diocese of Ekiti Oke wrote:

Quote 

For Seye Adetunmbi this is grace for actualizing his passion for fulfilling his mission and ministry. The handbook for believers in Christian faith epitomizes a unique learning experience, shaped in six sections, with annexes, index and what you need to know about the author.

The book is a product of a background of remarkable experiences to underscore the fact that God works in a mysterious way.  The author sees it as a fulfilment of destiny upon him with reminiscences of cumulative events from age 10.  Thanks be to God for his visionary Venerable Father, Chief D. O. Adetunmbi and other mentors on his path to growth and development. Certainly, the Bible is true in saying: Proverb 6:22 “Train a child in the way that he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it”.

The book is written to foster a deeper understanding of Biblical truth, History, Doctrine, Christianity, and the Church, etc. in a world where Christianity is misunderstood – and often dented-by people, powers, and forces that shape modern-day society. 

The book and the author do not claim to have all the answers; to the subjects treated therein; it offers you introductory thoughts to start you on your way to a more thorough understanding of its content and all that tend to godly manliness.

 Those who will benefit from the book include: persons willing to live the lifestyle of Christians to positively encourage People around them. Impact positively, all aspects of the social and societal life as individuals and the nation, even to the uttermost part of the earth. 

Those contemplating response to call to the ordained ministry, will gain a taste of what lies ahead. Those in ministry who have had neither time nor opportunity for a formal program will surely deepen their biblical, ecclesiastical, doctrinal, and theological knowledge. For laypersons who serve in the Church as ancillary to the ordained ministers, they will derive joy in serving the Lord when they go through this book. The fact remains that what you put into the study of these chapters will have a direct bearing on what you take out.

 This book is for the equipping of the Saints Militant.........We thank Seye Adetunmbi for yielding himself to God for this timely, unique, great, and godly work of the moment. May you increase in anointing in Jesus’ name. 

To the numerous readers,

may what you read, mark, experience, and inwardly digest in this volume, inspire your mind, open your heart, and enrich your soul. Make you fruitful in godly Christian services to humanity to the glory of God. Amen. 

 We therefore send out CHRISTIANITY AND ANGLICANISM – A Handbook for Believers in Christian Faith in the name of God, the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.”

Unquote 

The Venerable Segun Agbetuyi wrote:

Quote 

“Mr Adetunmbi is becoming a rather consistent writer. And he writes with a versatility of themes and topics. Right on the heels of his book on the Nigerian Capital Market still basking in its recent launch, he is now adding this refreshing book on religion to his growing intellectual stable. 

This book, broadly titled Christianity and Anglicanism is both evidence based and anecdotal. It profiles the history, character and nomenclatures in the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) in a wide aperture literature mixed with throw backs to the author’s father and family’s commitment as dedicated Churchmen, and of course the author’s personal , spiritual and career growth. Son of a Scion and dedicated Church Organist, Seye himself has self consciously developed into a well rounded personality, adroitly blending a career in the Nigerian finance sector with deepening spirituality and active service as a niche Churchman. 

There is a flow of the spirit which leads one to expect that the author will naturally progress into full priesthood. Fortuitously, this journey, long began as a child chorister and later an Altar Server has been given wings by his licensing as a trained Apostulate by an astute Church Administrator and keen developer of men, The Rt Reverend James Odedeji, Lord Bishop of Lagos West. Seye’s ordination into the priesthood will certainly represent a deserving, crowning glory to the dedicated labour in the vineyard of the Adetunmbi family of the St Michael’s Anglican Church, Ifaki –Ekiti.

Even though this book, Christianity and Anglicanism may appear esoteric at first, it is certainly going to be a treasured companion to not only Anglicans and Christians but to all who may seek to understand us in the faith that we profess and practice. There are about 2.5 billion adherents to the Christian faith Worldwide out of a world population of over 7.5 billion. Of these, there are over 110 million Anglicans. The Church of Nigeria, with over 20 million adherents in Nigeria alone is certainly a force to reckon with in matters of faith & religion. 

Mr Adetunmbi’s book opens a window unto further interrogation that Christians worldwide and Anglicans in Nigeria and elsewhere must advert their focus upon. His  work as encapsulated in this book offers a rich distillation of factual history and anecdotes beautifully embedded with a classic photoscope. It stands gallantly upon the shoulders of time and opens the window for more intellectual, spiritual and policy discourse on the pathway that Christianity & Anglicanism must thread for survival and viability. 

The book is highly recommended to not only Christians but to all discerning minds as a tool towards understanding how the faith of our Fathers is practiced under Anglicanism.”

Financial Market

Endorsement of a Functional Handbook for Financial Market Operators by the Stakeholders 

By, Seye Adetunmbi 

The relevance of a standard functional guidebook for operators and practitioners in the financial market cannot be over emphasized. In effect, facts, information and knowledge which are key to market development and growth. Information, no doubt, it is a significant ingredient of a perfect market. This is why one of the characteristic features of the stock market is that it is one of the examples of a typical perfect market. Fundamentally, information drives the market, it engenders efficiency and a competitive market. Knowledge also aids efficiency and facilitates professionalism. For instance, when an issuer or a client is adequately informed about the workings of the market, it makes service delivery timely and mutually beneficial to all parties concerned. It will surely impact on the timeline for the issuing process from mandate date to completion of the capital market issue and necessary returns are done accordingly. This is why technocrats, market players and all ranks of financial market practitioners hailed the initiative behind the publication of the book titled Financial Intermediation: Operations and Practice, authored by this writer. The book was proficiently packaged as a textbook and a practical guidebook for financial market operators and practitioners.

    At the public presentation of the guidebook to the public on July 21st 2020, the Chairman of the book presentation, Dr. Alimi Abdul-Razaq, Chairman, Forte Upstream praised the author’s brilliant service to humanity in his opening remarks. He said: “The collage of pictures in the book brought back the memory of the capital market which I used to be part of and still a part of; the book shows how the market has grown and tries to establish pathways to the future. He remarked further: “The zoom presentation of the book was unique as the first online book presentation in our clime though the author is not a first-time publisher.” 

    The book reviewer, Bola Ajomale, Managing Director of National Association of Securities Dealers PLC described the book as a fantastic work on operational works in financial intermediation. “It is an excellently punctuated book, a great work in academic exercise and would be a wonderful addition to anyone’s library.” Also in the earlier review done by Tayo Shenbanjo, a licensed financial advisor and a compliance practitioner based in the United States, he wrote: “The book is a useful compendium for financial market operators, capital market professionals, and university students. It will also serve investors, portfolio managers, college professors, and government functionaries in the pursuit of financial knowledge and understanding.” 

    The investment banking guru and Chairman of ANAP Foundation, Atedo Peterside, wrote the foreword of the book. He was a Chief Guest of Honour at the book presentation and commented thus: “Seye comes across to me as a perfect gentleman. I am glad I wrote the foreword to the book which I read in-to-to. It is a combination of theory, practice and history of the capital market. I commend him for having the courage and commitment to doing this. I am proud to be associated with the book”. 

    The Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Alhaji Lamido Yuguda said: “I am really impressed with what I have read in the book, it is major contribution to the capital market Nigeria. I particularly like the section on securitisation because we have a lot of huge assets that can be securitized. This will address the dearth of securities which our pension funds and other portfolio mangers can invest in. We need to do a lot more in terms of bringing investors back to the market and create more awareness. I urge other professionals to share their experience too by writing books.” 

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Stock Exchange, Oscar Onyema, said the book will fill a lot of vacuums that exist when we talk of the capital market in Nigeria. “Very apt that such experiences are documented in a book that many generations yet unborn will yet meet and find useful”. 

    In her distinct commentary during the book presentation, Ms Arunmah Oteh, of Oxford University and former Director-General of SEC in Nigeria, used the opportunity to bare out her thoughts on the Nigerian economy and the market. She said: “I am delighted to join you from Oxford today, thanks to technology. I must say that it is a timely book, coming out post the unprecedented global crisis. The crisis has turned back the hand of the clock on the global economy, on the African economy and on the Nigerian economy. With the extreme level of poverty in Nigeria and steep decline in 2020 in oil prices, it is no longer tenable for Nigeria to depend on fossil fuel for export revenue and its well-being. Especially because, our greatest resource is our people and the unique enterprise experience, and of course it is the capital market that unleashes this. Therefore, effort to diversify the economy has to be accelerated with a sense of urgency. The book will enable regulators, market participants, issuers, investors - retail and institutional to understand better the jewels and gems of the market. I believe that a vibrant domestic capital market will be at the epicenter for any nation that wants to build forward together. Nigeria must look for more innovative ways to generate resources for building forward together. The domestic capital market provides patient capital so that we can expand businesses, create new businesses and create jobs. It is also good for good governance, for meritocracy and appropriate capital allocation. I am absolutely excited by what this book will do for us and financial intermediation, because it can help to truly unleash the potential of our market. It is a book written by a veteran investment banker and stockbroker who understands the Nigerian economy from his wealth of experience garnered in the several positions he has held. I like the fact that he is a candid commentator on the Nigerian economy. He is the convener of the Capital Market Roundtable in Nigeria. In his humble's way, he talked about learning from others, but he has actually thought a lot of people over the years. I appreciate the author for talking about about democratisation of the Nigerian economy for the participation of an average Nigerian. The book will help retail investors to know what to look for in financial intermediaries, how to invest in the market and know their rights. As I have always said, the first line of defense for any investor is the investor’s knowledge; this is the most important risk management tool. The book also gives international investors a primer on Nigerian capital market and offers wise nuggets that will enable them to identify great opportunities that Nigeria has to offer. The author, Chief Seye Adetunmbi is a role model worthy of emulation for his humility, sense of community and his involvement in the church as evidenced in the way he has been honoured. I must appreciate his wife, Mrs Olabowale Adetunmbi, a distinguished lawyer and other family members for allowing the Nigerian capital to share him with you. Let me thank you for your service to the nation through the capital market, also through your writings that extend beyond the capital market; it covers culture, Nigerian economy, history and politics; you illuminate Nigeria for people within and outside world to appreciate. I look forward to a nation and society that will continue to benefit from your intellect and commitment to showcasing Nigerian capital market in Nigeria and Africa.”.

    Chief Oladele Fajemirokun, a distinguished entrepreneur and the Chief Presenter of the book to the public said: “The book displays arrays of historical and empirical knowledge about the Nigeria securities markets. A number of activities I participated in and I still participate. I congratulate ‘Seye and urge him to commence work on the sequel. I am delighted to present and recommend this book to practitioners, investors and students”. 

    In his remarks, Senator Ibikunle Amosun the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market and one of the lead presenters for book said: “There is a problem in a nation where politicians are richer than the investors. If Nigeria is going to get it right as a nation, our capital market must be robust. This is why this kind of a unique book is the way to go and that the senate will always encourage initiatives like this.”

Dr. U. J. Itsueli, Chairman of Dubril Oil Limited and President of the Old Students Association of Christ School, Ado-Ekiti said: "I find the book very appropriate, it is a useful guide for navigating the market as a non-operator. The collage of pictures in it brings a lot of nostalgia. I congratulate Seye and I must say that I expect no less from him being an alumnus of Christ’s School". 

    Charles Iyore is quoted thus: “Congratulations Seye for demonstrating again the more important component of a stockbroker. A stockbroker is licensed to deal in securities on third party platforms or exchanges. The most important attribute of the broker, however, is his advisory role, his capacity to advise the investor, individual or corporate, on how to buys and sell securities in other sectors he is unfamiliar with…. If the economy is serious about growth, it must go back to appropriately engaging the broker/advisers, or forever remain in a vortex. While in an advisory role with the Nigerian Stock Exchange, we tried to build the brokers into names, (Seye Adetunmbi Inc. James John Inc.) through road shows and aggressive issuer programmes. That programme of individual incorporation would have been concluded, with our designated broker programme as a continuing in-plant programme for listed companies. There were diversions at the end and those errors have now come home to roost, with a capital market unable to drive economic growth. Seye, you have always demonstrated the ability to think outside the box, and this book is a testimony to your continuous and independent market analysis.” 

    Other comments on the book captured include: “Brilliant expository dissertation” - Ven L. L. Eso; “Another excellent and detailed book by Seye Adetunmbi. The book is good as a practitioner's guide and also as reference manual. A well-researched book to satisfy other professionals in the capital market. Well done” - Otunba Akin Osiyemi; “This is very good. It's like a reference manual text book personal account rolled into one. It may easily pass as a guide to investment banking in Nigeria. Kudos." – Bolade Oyebolu; “It is indeed a book on the theory and practice of financial intermediation with special reference to Nigeria. Full of practical examples and relevant historical details, it will be a useful handbook for students and experienced operators in the financial market.” – Banji Ogungbemi. 

    In all, Tayo Shenbanjo wrote to conclude his review of the book: “This is a beautiful exercise in trying to mesh a lot of topics together in one book. As a prolific author of other subject matters, one can only hope that he will do a follow-up with another good book in not too distant future. Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, while giving the vote of thanks during the book presentation to the public commended the publication as a milestone book which is well received by captains of the market particularly that the book was launched on the author’s birthday. To round-off the memorable event, the President of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Tunde Amolegbe led the family song of stockbrokers after saying: "Seye has demonstrated again has shown his multi-talented part, from being a floor-based stockbroker to an excellent capital market practitioner and now an author and a publisher.  The accolades will keep coming and we your fans will be there to for you; we know the best is yet to come. Congratulations, it is a book we will like to recommend to our CIS students"

    Let me state here that when I realised the need for a guidebook for the financial market operators after I joined the capital market in 1990, I started taking notes. It is a thing of joy that the book is now available on Amazon through this link https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BNFHWN1/ref=nodl_ and some strategic sale outlets in Nigeria. An applied book like this one is unequivocally very good and strategic to the market. It complements the awareness scheme of the regulatory body, makes it easier for the investment bankers and stockbrokers to do their jobs while keeping the clients adequately informed on the workings of the market. In essence, it is a win-win situation for the tripartite market stakeholders – Clients, Operators and Regulators. 

CHANGING THE STORY OF DEVALUATION IN NIGERIA

By 

Seye Adetunmbi 

The action of the CBN to devalue naira becomes inevitable due to the reality of the pressure on the national reserve towards meeting the federal balance of trade obligations. Many factors are responsible for the situation we find ourselves as a nation today. In the first instance Nigeria was far more productive in the 1980s when a dollar exchanged for less than 70 kobo than the prevailing situation in the present setting. Nigeria is no longer the net exporter of refined petroleum products as it used to be in the 1980s. As a matter of fact, the country has been importing all refined petroleum products we consume for years till now. At what point did we get it wrong and national fortune nosedived? Just imagine, Kwalipipe in Kano produced pipes for local use, toilets were fitted with WC produced in Kano and Abeokuta, the cylinders for the cooking LPG gas were produced at the NGC factory in Ibadan, the electricity generated used cables produced by the Nigerian Wire and Cable, Ibadan and Kablemetal in Lagos and Port Harcourt. What did the government or we as a nation do to increase capacity to meet increasing demand locally and not resort to importation?

    The era of assembled cars, buses and trucks locally had gone with the winds. What happened to Peugeot cars in Kaduna, Volkswagen cars in Lagos, Leyland bus in Ibadan, ANAMCO bus in Enugu, and Steyr in Bauchi that was producing agricultural tractors for Nigerians?

The value chain of a vibrant vehicle assembly sector extended to the production of accessories and components of the automobile vehicles and tractors. For instance, Vono was producing the seats in Lagos, Exide produced the batteries in Ibadan and was serving the West Africa belt. Likewise, Isoglass and TSG produced the windshields in Ibadan; Ferodo produced the brake pads and discs in Ibadan; Tyres were produced by Dunlop in Lagos and Mitchelin in Port harcourt. These were tyres produced from indigenous rubber plantations within the country.

    For many years, radio and television sets were assembled in Ibadan by Sanyo; refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners were produced by Thermocool. Nigerians were putting on clothes produced by UNTL textile mills in Kaduna and Chellarams in Lagos with cotton grown by Nigerian farmers. As little children and young adults, we used shoes and sandals produced by Bata and Lennards with locally tanned leather from Kano and Kaduna. I remember flying Nigerian Airways as a student from Ilorin to Kaduna with N15 or something. The airline flew to most places in the world and it was about the biggest in Africa at its peak. 

Where did Nigeria miss the road? Virtually all kinds of foods are being imported to Nigeria until recently. The period we had a stable exchange rate, most of the food Nigerians ate were grown and produced locally.

The solution to the foreign exchange challenges in Nigeria today is a collective responsibility. The country needs a progressive and positive-purpose driven leadership to pilot the structured solution coupled with a strong political will.

The country needs to rejig the national policy on productivity drive. What are we producing now and what are we set or planning to produce that will be backed with measurable action.

The government must be fiscally disciplined. It becomes imperative to set out clear incentives for local resource-based manufacturing companies. This will be implemented with a combination of example setting and trade instruments. There is need for a deliberate national orientation structured to change the consumption culture of Nigerians. This is not just going to be about food but in all things, by consuming what Nigerians produce and shunning what we do not produce. 

Of course, we must deploy our technocrats effectively and return to planning the Nigerian economy. The government needs not to control the commanding heights of the economy but provide incentives for activities in a well-structured manner to ensure rational input-output congruence. 

If Nigeria determinedly can implement those things, and by extension invest more in technical education at all levels, encourage faster domestic capital formation, supplemented with foreign direct investments, things will look up and all other things being equal, the economy should be radically transformed within fifteen years.

We are talking about true transformation that will create more distinguished entrepreneurs of international standing. The story of Nigeria will change to looking for people to employ and the speculation in international circles will be when Nigeria will revalue its currency. This recurring devaluation will be historical footnotes. It is doable with persistent determination. The history of South Korea, China and India is a reference point. With sincere leadership committed to a vision that all well meaning Nigerians buy into, we will get there. This is the minimum expectation from the current government. I have no doubt in my mind, President Buhari is up to the task for the succeeding administrations to build on.

Adelusi-Adeluyi

CELEBRATING QUINTESSENTIAL PRINCE JULIUS ADEUSI-ADELUYI AT 80

By, Seye Adetunmbi

In the contemporary world, not many people are multi-talented and naturally gifted in various laudable ways. It takes the grace of God and conscious personal development to be brilliant, decent, urbane, impeccable in personal carriage, attain national prominence in one’s calling and yet rich in indigenous culture and tradition. One of the remarkable Nigerians in this category is Prince Julius Adewale Adelusi-Adeluyi OFR, mni. He is an accomplished pharmacist and a legal practitioner. When the prevalent situation was for private company owners to hold tight to the equity shares of their company, he got Juli PLC quoted in the 2nd tier of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). Yes, he beat everyone to it and his company became the first indigenously promoted company to be quoted on the NSE. He became the President of the Indigenous Quoted Group (indigenous companies quoted on the NSE).

His honourable disposition attracted recognition from various professional constituencies, among his Ekiti kinsmen and appointment to the federal executive cabinet as the political head of Federal Ministry of Health and Social Services. At various times, he was the National President of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru in 1999-2003; National President of the Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce in 1989 to 1992; National President of the National Council for Population and Environmental Activities in 1994; and the first District Governor of the Rotary International District 9110 (Nigeria) in 1982 to 1983. The distinguished prince is an acknowledged manager, leader, motivator and a role model to many. His vision is global which extends to serving mankind in every way possible. He typifies an excellent symbol of Ekiti values as man of honour and integrity which earns him the respect of his kinsmen. He was elected president of Ekiti Parapo Lagos and was the pioneer Chairman of Igbimo Ure Ekiti. 

Prince Adelusi-Adeluyi was born into a Christian and royal family in Ado-Ekiti on August 22nd, 1940. He started his primary school education at St. George’s Catholic Primary school, Ado Ekiti in 1946 and attended St. Thomas Aquinas College, Akure from 1953 to 1957. Between 1951 and 1961, he attended Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, Ibadan and University of Ife from 1962 to 1965 where he graduated in flying colours among pioneer set members of pharmacy department. In 1967, he attended Language Institute, Noordvijk, Holland and today he has a distinct ability to speak English, French, Dutch, Spanish. among other languages. His desire to acquire more knowledge led him to study law at University of Lagos in 1984 to 1986 and graduated with the best overall student prize at Nigerian Law School in 1987. 

He worked as a teacher at St. Michael's Catholic Modern School, Yemetu, Ibadan in 1958 to 1960. He was a broadcaster at Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service/WNTV, Ibadan in 1960 to 1962. He was an Assistant General Manager of Pfizer Limited, Ikeja in 1968 to 1970 and Managing Director of Handelschiff Pharmacies, the manufacturer of Vitamalt drinks. In 1972, established Juli Pharmacy Limited. 

As a charming prince and tested professional with a promising future in the horizon, he got married to his pretty heartthrob, Olori Juliana Omosalewa. They are a delightful couple to behold when they step out together for functions, a devoted family man to the core. The matrimony is blessed with productive children that have done the family proud - Julita, Julian, Julienne and Julius. 

His involvement with various professional bodies over the years is not surprising because right from his school days he demonstrated leadership qualities. In his university days he served as the Secretary General of the International Students Conference (COSEC) in 1966 to 1968 in Leiden, Holland; it was the coordinating secretariat for the university students organizations all over the world. He has traveled to 142 countries, carrying out university students, and youth leadership and other programmes. He has over 40 published articles and lectures that cover a wide range of subjects that include health and pharmacy, law, voluntary organisations and university environment and education matters. 

In 1990, he attended the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos. As far back as 2002, he was honoured with the national award of the Officer of the Federal Republic OFR and Member of the Federal Republic, MFR in 1986. He is a Fellow of the following professional bodies: Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria; Nigerian Institute of Management; Institute of Directors, London; and West African Pharmaceutical Post Graduate College. As someone who has done well in his professional calling, in integrated services to the community and in his various constituencies, he received a number of remarkable awards: Centenary Award, Lagos Chamber of Commerce; Leadership Award, Nigerian Industrial Group of NACCIMA; Excellence Award, Nigerian – American Chambers of Commerce in 1909; Rotary Service Above Self Award from Rotary International; and Purposeful Leadership Award, Federal Ministry of Health. 

He served as the Chairman of Parish Pastoral Council at St. Leo’s Catholic Parish, Ikeja in 1989 to 1993; the National President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria in 1989 to 1991; Member of the Governing Council, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in 1984 to 1989; Vice President- Nigerian Institute of Management in 1983 to 1985; Vice Chairman, Pharmacist Board of Nigeria in 1988 to 1991; First Secretary General of West African Pharmaceutical Federation; National Secretary of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria; Member of the Governing Council, Ondo State University, Ado Ekiti (now Ekiti State University); Member National Namibia Solidarity Fund Committee in 1988; Board Member of PPMC/NNPC in 1995 to 1998; Member of the Governing Council of the National Council for Inter-governmental Relations in 1996; Board member of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation; Member of the Board of Governors, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan in 1995 to 1998; Member of the Board of Odua Investment Limited in 2002 to 2003; Member, Board of Trustees of Dideolu Specialist Hospital, Ikenne; Chairman, Public Affairs and Ethics Committee of the Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industries; Member of MTN Foundation Board; Member of the Board of Advisors of American Biographical Institute and the Patron Ekiti Parapo Lagos. 

Prince Adelusi-Adeluyi is member of many clubs and associations that include: Metropolitan Club since 1969: Rotary Club of Ikeja; Ikeja Golf Club, Ikoyi Club, Lagos; White Elephant Club, London; Commonwealth Club, London; Lagos Country Club, Ikeja; Island Club, Lagos; Vista Club International, New York; and Six Continents Club, U.S.A. For fifteen years, he was the Chairman of the Ikeja Chapter of Boy’s Scout of Nigeria; council member of the Federation of West Africa Chamber of Commerce for 3 years; Chairman, International University Exchange Fund for African youths fleeing their countries as refugees; member of the United Nations Association of Nigeria in 1968 to 1974; member of the Nigeria Association for Public Administration and Management; member of the Nigeria Bar Association; and member of International Bar Association. 

No doubt, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi is a well-rounded quintessential statesman. I was privileged to meet him in Lagos in the course of my involvement with socio-political activities geared towards the progress of Ekiti-State. He is one of the best Ekiti elites abroad that always lookout for fellow kinsmen that are doing well and encourage them as much as possible. I admire his sincerity and like him a lot because not many distinguished kinsmen call me to ask after me and family. When Ekitipanupo Forum initiative came, he joined us at the online interactive platform. He was the Chairman of the first Ekitipanupo Public Lecture held in Ado-Ekiti in 2007 and a special guest at the first Ekitipanupo Colloquium held in Lagos in 2016. When the idea of Igbimo Ure Ekiti evolved, he called me and gave me an assignment on the initiative. This afforded me the opportunity to be part of the pioneer efforts on the flotation of the group made up of Ekiti indigenes of repute. 

Whenever he hears, knows or reads about good news concerning me, he would call to commend me. On July 21st 2020, my natal day anniversary, I was too happy to speak with him and madam, his beloved wife. I am always delighted speaking to him because he has a unique voice and distinct way of making one happy. Ekiti ti yun ju l’erun aba Juli – He speaks Ekiti dialect very well and to the delight of his kinsmen. Some of his signature words in Ekiti dialect are “so ri iyan i je? Oya re ayiye ni si ko? The icing of the cake when he is in his elements is when he speaks in the language of our aborigine masquerade: A yan gigun – Oriririririri. It gives me great joy to celebrate him as an octogenarian. 

Odundun, a s’ode d’ero
Omo owa, omo ekun
Ado na ti a j’Ewi

Omo agbe d’ojumose
Agbe gun gbogboro
Ado i yun le oni k’obe osunu mo nu

A ye in k’ale abaluka 
Ajinde ora a a je o
In mo s’oro un aba Juli o, eeeeeee!!!

I wish you more years in your service to the nation, Ekiti and various other constituencies sir, in good health with peace of mind.