Segun Agbetuyi: The Venerable Archdeacon

CELEBRATING VENERABLE SEGUN AGBETUYI AT 70

By, Seye Adetunmbi 30/6/23

In various professions and vocations, we have people who standout by virtue of being brilliant and good on the job. Also, the values which they stand for in their calling always make such profession admirable or desirable for the aspiring professionals in the sector. One of the distinguished influencers in the history of banking in Nigeria who falls into this category of successful bankers is Venerable Segun Agbetuyi. His rise through the ranks to the pinnacle of his professional banking career, complemented by the speed at which he qualified as a chartered banker attests to the fact that he is naturally brilliant, focused and hardworking. His success as a career banker and a venerable archdeacon in the Church of Nigeria, Anglican communion are manifestations of dedication, devotion and diligence.

    Archdeacon Segun Agbetuyi was born into the Christian family of Mr. Agboola and Mrs Eunice Agbetuyi in Usi-Ekiti on the 30th of June, 1953. He is a product of Ekiti Parapo College, Ido-Ekiti; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Manchester Business School; Harvard University Business School and Lagos Business School. He started his banking career in the 1970s as a trainee in Arab Bank (later Nigeria-Arab Bank) and worked with the Bank of America (later Savannah Bank). Subsequent to being qualified as a professional banker, he worked as the Credit and Marketing Manager and as the Area Credit Manager for the northern region of IBWA (later Afribank PLC). He was among the pioneer senior executives of the Nigerian-American Merchant Bank in 1980. He worked as the Vice-President Bank of Boston between 1984 and1986; the Country Risk Manager, the General Manager, Credit and Business Strategy for the Nigerian-American Merchant Bank, Lagos from 1987 to 1989 and was the Deputy Managing Director between 1989 and 1993. 

    A gold fish has no hiding place. When Ondo-State needed a crack professional who would be result oriented for the then state owned Owena Bank PLC, he was headhunted and was appointed the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer in 1993. He nurtured the bank through the transformation to profitability and change of name to Omega Bank PLC. His Christian upbringing and personal disposition later led him to attend a seminary college and he was ordained a priest in the Anglican Communion in June 2001. His excellence in the banking earned him the recognition of a noteworthy banker by Marquis Who is Who.

My first close meeting with Venerable Agbetuyi was when he visited my brother's steel fabrication company in Lagos in the year 2001 as the CEO of our banker, to check how the bank's customer was doing and he prayed for us. When there was an opportunity for me to explore working in the banking sector, Omega Bank gave me the opportunity. I was charged with the responsibility of establishing Niche Securities Limited as a dealing member of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and I pioneered the take-off and consolidation of the subsidiary of the bank. He was a very disciplined boss and a courageous banker who was committed to best practices. I must mention the remarkable manner he responded to an attempt to malign me in a soft-sell tabloid sponsored by an inveterate ignoble Ekiti fellow at the peak of the friction between the then state governor and the bank. As an intuitive person and an upright senior colleague/boss, he saw the intrigue at play by the ill-bred who lied against me and could imagine the mission of the lowlife elements behind the deceptive publication. When I got to his office to inform him about the irresponsible publication, he said that I should go and be doing my work and ignore those who wanted to cause problem for me with my employer. I am using this opportunity to formally say thank you to him. His honourable action remains indelible in my mind. He has always been supportive of  my modest various endeavours. Virtually all the books I  have written are in his library. He joined his fellow indigenes of repute in Ekitipanupo Forum which I convened in 2005. One other thing I like about him is his writing skills. I was so delighted that he wrote a preface to my book on Christianity and Anglicanism in 2020.

    Considering his wealth of experience in his working career, he was called to serve in various capacities. He served in the Governing Council of the Financial Institutions Training Centre in 1990 to 1992, in Ekiti State Economic Advisory Council and as the Chairman of Springbank PLC in 2006. He is a member of the Institute of Directors, England and Nigeria; a member of American Management Association; a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers, London and Nigeria; a member of the Institute of Management Specialists, England; a member of the Institute of Management Consultants, Nigeria. He was the President of Rotary Club Victoria Island in 1989 to 1990 and Patron of Jaycees International, Ikoyi Chapter. In 2001, he bagged the Doctor of Science in Economics (Honoris Causa) form the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti. Also, holds the Merit Award of Ondo-State in October 1995 and that of Ekiti-State in 1997.

He is happily married to his beloved wife, Mrs Titilayo Adeyemi Agbetuyi and the union is blessed with fruitful children. Oga has dedicated part of his time to bring those who worked with him in Omega bank together as one big family in an interactive online platform and he continues to encourage us to support one another. My prayer is that God will grant him more years in good health and bless his ministry in Jesus Christ's name, amen. Happy 70th birthday to you sir. 

Plausible Purpose Driven Governance and Premium Leadership

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION THEN AND NOW

By, Seye Adetunmbi 

The debate on the "arguments against financial autonomy of local governments" prompted me to comment under the above caption. I won't be saying anything new but just rejigging our consciousness to enable those interested to put the issues in proper perspective. Local government autonomy under the current prevailing political structure is bound or prone to fail, just as most of the state governments have failed the governed in the recent past years till date.

The present local government administration setting is kind of skewed to suit manipulation in the politics of federal and state government dichotomy. Also, it is more of a platform to pilfer the commonwealth by local government officials and for the state governments to fraudulently access more money than to facilitate bringing development to the grassroots. The progressive African political leaders of old like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nkrumah and Nyerere were more committed, visionary and sincere unlike what we have this days.

Chief Obafemi Awolowo 

Come with me in this recall. The local government administration system was a creation of the colonial masters. They put the structure in place to make the job of their colonial administration easier down the hierarchy. That was the era of the DO (Divisional Officers) who were trained oyinbo technocrats. When the colonial masters were winding down, indigenes who understudied them and trained over the years took over. That was how Baba, Chief Arokaodare of Ijero-Ekiti was the one who succeeded the white man in Ekiti and the likes of Chief Augustus Adebayo of Igbara-Oke served as a DO in some parts of the old western region at some points before rising to the prestigious position of Head of Service in the old western state. Hope I got the history right.

Until the era of pedestrian partisan politics crept in, which had now relegated the noble and efficient local government administration system of the past to the background, competent and responsible tested technocrats were in charge of the local government administration in Nigeria. Most of them will do better jobs than the calibre of governors that the Nigerian democracy has produced in the recent past to date. What obtains predominantly today is kakistocracy, whereby the government at all tiers are being administered by the least suitable or competent citizens of the state. The more scandalous and terrifying trend is the incursion of the people of questionable characters having a field day in the political arena.

For an example, the legendary principal of the Methodist Boys High School, Lagos in the 1960s and 1970s was a councilor in his Ifaki Ward and my beloved father who was a national leader of NUT in the early 1970s served as a councilor in his Ifaki Ward too in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These were career teachers gainfully employed. It was the time when communities put their best feet forward. When political job took them out of their career duty, they came back to the classroom after they were done.

What do we have today? Partisan politics is now a "profession" in Nigeria. Communities hardly choose their representatives anymore. The political political system has incapacitated them by limiting the options opened to them. It is the person that the godfather and political chieftains throw at them that they settle for because the general election is also unreliable. 

Compare the profile of the present set of councillors to the Awolowo era. Put the resume of Adeyemi Lawson when he was the Mayor of the City Hall - Lagos Island Council and that of High Chief Alex Olu Ajayi as the Chairman of Ado LGA beside any of the LCDA boss of today and you expect the same level of performance, quality administration and good leadership!

In the first instance, election to all tiers of government to various offices in Nigeria is no longer a call to service. It is no more considered an honour but a jackpot! It is not about a ward putting their best foot forward. The majority of the contestants are unemployed and desperate for where they can make a living and have their own bite out of the appropriated national cake. 

Tell me, when someone who lacks integrity or conscience knows that there are better and more qualified hands to represent the community and the godfather gave him or her the slot. Who is the fellow going to be loyal to? The masses that didn't elect him/her or the benefactor and self-serving caucus that put the beneficiary there?

The qualification for local government appointments or most political positions these days is now a reward for inclination to do the bidding of the clique in control of the political structure. Many of the beneficiaries don't have a second veritable vocational address or contented means of survival when the political employment contract is over. Accountability is near zero in most of the local government offices. If you give those calibre of people an autonomy over local government affairs, then forget about progressive development completely. "Won kan gbe eran din-din ti ologbo ni". 

Before autonomy can be ceded to the local government, the bar of quality representation from the councillor to the chairman must be raised. Capacity building is essential for all cadres of the rustic current LGA kleptocratic civil servants. Good quality governance at all tiers is a serious business. In all, the quality of governance at the state level will determine the quality of staffing at the local government levels, too. When you have a very corrupt and incompetent person as the governor or head of the government, then forget about best practices at the local government level. If the head is rotten, what do you expect of the lower parts of the body. 

The bigger the pie, the better for the governor who is interested in who is in charge of the local government funds. With the hugely monetised electoral process, cornering funds for the next election starts immediately when a new governor comes on board. They can't allow anyone who will not play ball to get positions at the local government level. In essence and in the final analysis, there would be no autonomy in the real sense of it at the local government administration level. The harmless poor masses shall continue yo be shortchanged. "Malu ti ko ni iru ni won."

Restructuring of Nigeria, the fundamental political and governing structures, becomes inevitable if we really want to get things right as a progressive nation. Anything short of this amounts to motion without any movement. The country will just continue to roll like the person sitting on the spinned chair of a barber. May God help Nigeria🙏🏾

Chief Wole Olanipekun - An Inimitable Philanthropist

THE UNRELENTING PHILANTHROPIST: CHIEF WOLE OLANIPEKUN

By

Seye Adetunmbi

When you have a humble background and God blesses you outstandingly in your community or among your contemporaries, and you deploy your affluence and use your influence for the benefit of people around you and the needy, it says a lot about the character and general disposition of the person. In most cases, this type of inclination is not by accident; it is often a manifestation of someone who responded well to good upbringing and appreciates the place of God in his or her life accomplishments, and in turn blesses others with his God given substance and means. Chief Oluwole Oladapo Olanipekun SAN, OFR fits this description. His beloved father, Pa Isaac

Olanipekun who passed-on in 1999 was very rich in character and a God-fearing man, who dedicated over a decade of his life taking good care in gratis, the premises and building of St. Peter’s Church, Ikere-Ekiti. Apparently, the patriarch inculcated discipline in his children; to fear God, respect humanity, and love their neighbours and serve the larger society. To the glory of God, his son replicated the good work of his father by building an architectural masterpiece church auditorium for the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion in Ikere-Ekiti. The 1,500 sitting capacity multi-million-naira cathedral, that has the state-of-the-art facilities which include fully marbled pulpits, audio visual gadgets and new complete set of musical instruments, was dedicated on the 28th of February in 2020 to the glory God.

Prior to the donated church building, Isaac Olanipekun Memorial Vicarage was built by him and his wife in 2012. His philanthropy is beyond the Christian community, it is extended to the education sector, government facilities and his professional constituency. His alma mater, Amoye Grammar School, Ikere-Ekiti is a beneficiary of a computer hub, fully equipped with laptop and desktop computers. It was first commissioned in 2007 and refurbished in 2019. In March 2014, he donated to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikere Branch, a 350-sitting capacity Bar Centre. This was later followed with a donation of a brand new 16-seater bus for the Branch in August 2019. Iyaafin Abosede Amenity Ward with modern facilities, was built by him and donated to Ekiti State Government at the State Specialist Hospital, Ikere-Ekiti in 2015. He established an FM Radio Station that was commissioned on the 28th of February, 2020 in Ikere-Ekiti.

He responded to the call of Ekiti-State government to indigenes of means to reach out to the government during the incursion of Covid-19. He donated to the state government a Ventilator worth over N14 million plus the cost of transportion, installation and other logistics. Also contributed N10m to the Covid-19 Fund in addition to the palliatives of 25 bags of rice.

    Having excelled as a legal practitioner and various state and federal governments have benefited from his integrated professional expertise, he was the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of University of Ibadan in 2004 to 2006. During his tenure in office, he used his influence to open up Ajibode, the second phase of the institution. He donated N10 million in 2011 to the university when the flood ravaged the university in 2011 towards the restoration project. He also donated a 350-sitting capacity Wole Olanipekun Law Lecture Theatre to the Faculty of Law. Ajayi Crowther University also benefited from the donation of Wole and Lara Olanipekun Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge from him and his wife, during his appointment as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council.

The latest addition to his integrated awe-inspiring generous donations is the new Ekiti-State Judiciary High Court of Justice Building in Ikere-Ekiti, commissioned on January 19th in 2023. In the pipeline, is the construction of the Senate Building for the newly established Bamidele Olonilua University of Education Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti.

    Apart from his ongoing reach-out to corporate entities and institutions generally, he instituted the Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme in 1996. Over 650 indigent students from various secondary schools and universities in Nigeria have benefited from the scheme. In 2020, he paid for the JAMB fees of 94 students of St. Louis Grammar School of Ikere-Ekiti. Those are some of his numerous philanthropical exploits in the public domain without capturing too many numerous gifts and assistance he gave wide range of people as a cheerful giver. Chief Wole Olanipekun was born on the 18th of November in 1951. He is a product of Amoye Grammar School in Ikere-Ekiti, Ilesa Grammar School, and University of Lagos, where he obtained a bachelor's degree in Law. He was called to bar in July 1976 after graduating from the Nigerian Law School. Wole Olanipekun and Co, his practicing outfit is a leading law firm of repute in Nigeria. His brilliance as a dedicated smart lawyer earned him the Senior Advocate of Nigeria in July 1991. He was appointed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State. He was elected as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association in 2002 and was appointed the vice President of the Pan African Lawyers Union in 2003. He was appointed by the Nigerian Body of Benchers as a Life Bencher in January 2007. In October 2022, a Nigerian national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) was conferred on him by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Chief Olanipekun is happily married to Erelu Omolara Olanipekun and the matrimony is blessed with successful four children. He is held in high esteem in Ikere-Ekiti. This was underscored by the honour the Ogoga of Ikere did him with the honorary title of the Asiwaju of Ikere-Ekiti on 10/11/2016. The act of giving is in his DNA, that is why he is not relenting his inimitable philanthropy. May God continue to bless oga Wole and uphold him in his inclination to support worthy causes, tirelessly. In mo s’oro un o, eee!

Chief Wole Olanipekun with Aare Afe Babalola, Seye Adetunmbi and Prof Laofe Ogundipe at an Ekitipanupo event in 2015

Chief Wole Olanipekun flanked by Seye Adetunmbi, Mr & Mrs Femi Falana and other dignitaries at the wedding ceremony of his daughter on July 14 in 2016 in Lagos.

Chief Wole Olanipekun and Seye Adetunmbi at a function in Lagos on 15/10/2016

Vice-President of Nigeria, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, Governor of Ondo-State, Arakunrin Rotimi Akerdolu and Dr Kayode Fayemi, onetime Governor of Ekiti-State graced the dedication of the Cathedral Church he built in 2020.

Remembering Cyril Showers 1964-2022

QUNITESSENTIAL VENERABLE GENTLEMAN: REVEREND CYRIL SHOWERS

By, Seye Adetunmbi, 2/12/2022

In this journey of life, we meet various kinds of people which leaves one with lingering sweet memories. Also, we met a few half way or far in the journey and yet it would be like you started the journey together from the onset. Especially, when the encounters brought so much joy like a beautiful song that one would have loved to sing endlessly because it brought forth pleasant tidings to be desired. Such was my experience with a venerable gentleman of God, Reverend Cyril Rotimi Sigismond Showers who was the Priest-in-Charge of St Botolph's Church, Northfleet, Gravesend, Kent in England, 2019 to 2022. He was a diligent man of God whose dedication to duty and remarkable disposition to his parishioners endeared him to all. He was popularly called by Father Cyril by members of the congregation which attested to his carriage as a devoted priest in the vineyard.

    Reverend Cyril Showers was born in 1964 to the family of Mr. Samuel Dandeson Showers and Mrs Taiwo Showers in Sierra Leone. His father was a civil servant and a printer while his mother was a teacher and a seamstress. Father (Fr) Cyril didn't just take to priesthood, serving in the vineyard runs in the family. His imitable father was a Lay Reader while his grandfather was a Canon of the Cathedral in the Anglican Communion.

Fr Cyril, 1st left with two of his siblings, David and Henry

Showers Dynasty

In Freetown, he had his primary education at Christ Church Primary School and secondary education at Sierra Leone Grammar School, and St Edwards Secondary School for his Higher Secondary Course. He was a product of the famous Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Diploma in Adult Education. He came to the United Kingdom in 1989 where his heartthrob, Miss Dennishia Lewis was based. To the glory of God, Cyril and Dennishia got married in 1991 and God blessed the holy matrimony with a daughter, Delia.

The professional and ethical disposition of Fr. Cyril manifested in all the places where he worked. In his early years in England, he worked as a stock manager at Dolphins Square in Central London. His passion for teaching led him to teach for 20 years at the Charter School, North Dulwich. Apparently, he was destined to be a priest, and this led him to the seminary. In September 2012, he was ordained a priest in the Anglican Church of England. His first posting as an ordained priest was as a curate at St. Faith's Church, North Dulwich where he served for four years until the God's work took him to St. Saviour's Church in Dulwich. In 2019, he became the vicar of St. Botolph's Church in Northfleet and St Mark in Rosherville in the Diocese of Rochester. In addition to his duties as the Priest in Charge of the two parishes, he joyfully conducted weekly devotion at St Botolph's Primary School and at Rosherville Primary School, occasionally.

Right from before relocating to the United Kingdom, he made his presence felt in the various communities he associated with in Sierra Leone. He was actively involved as a member of Sierra Leone Grammar School Band, Fourah Bay College Excelsior Club, St George's Cathedral Youth Fellowship and the choir of St George's Cathedral. As a dedicated citizen and by his innate inclination, he naturally made himself available to various relevant civic engagements in England over the years. By virtue of his membership of many indigenous organisations, coupled with commitment to good causes and being an inspirational leader, he was a rallying point for Sierra Leone community in London. At some point, he served as the Chairman of the Sierra Leone Grammar School Old Boys Association (UK) Foundation Trust, the Fourah Bay College Alumni Association (UK) Branch, and was a founding member of the LEOA Academic Male Voice Choir. He played active roles as a member of Ministers on Assignment and executive committee member of Sierra Leone Inter Diocesan Association. He gladly officiated at numerous community events. He served as the Chaplain of Sierra Leone Grammar School Old Boys Association (UK) Foundation Trust, the Fourah Bay College Alumni Association (UK) Branch and St George's Cathedral Association (UK Branch). He was always available to lend hand of assistance or help wherever he was needed including taking interest in the wellbeing of the communities in which he lived. He was involved in a regeneration project in Ebbsfleet, Kent.

Loving husband and a dotting father

Fr. Cyril and two of his siblings

Reverend Cyril Showers was indeed an inspiration. It was in the morning of Ash Wednesday on March 2nd in 2022 that I walked to the notice board of St Botolph's Church, Northfleet where I saw the email address of the priest in charge of the parish and did an email to inquire about worship days and time. He replied and I was able to join the service at 7pm on that day. The following Sunday, my family worshipped in the church, we were warmly received and became members of the parish. I gained a brother and friend after we met. He contributed among other reasons to my looking forward to worshipping at St Botolph's Church every Sunday. He had a unique way of delivering his homilies. At a point, I mentioned to him that he should consider compiling his sermon notes for publication to facilitate wider reach. He was happy and said that his sister also mentioned it to him.

    He rekindled my interest to join the priesthood in the Anglican Communion. As a matter of fact, he encouraged and registered me for a Safeguarding Leadership Course and called my attention to register for "It is Your Calling" of the Diocese of Rochester in the Church of England. He also volunteered information that could guide me in the journey. He gladly gave me all the necessary support when he conducted my 60th birthday holy communion and thanksgiving service on July 21, 2022 at St. Botolph Church. I was really worried when he told me on September 24, 2022 that he was seriously ill. It can then be imagined, the extent of how devastated I was, when Lay Minister Marion Fielder-White announced on the last Sunday in September 2022, that my brother and friend, Cyril was terminally ill and hard limited time left to be with us. I cried bitterly. It was a painful and hurting sad news. The moment I dreaded came, on October 27th, 2022, the notice of him being seriously ill, given to us notwithstanding, it was an irreplaceable loss.

Fr Cyril with Dara, Bukunmi, Seye, Bowo and Semilore Adetunmbi

L-R: Marion Fielder-White, Seye Adetunmbi & Reverend Cyril Showers on 21/7/22

My very dear vicar, inspirer, encourager, trusted brother and prized friend had gone home. Yes, "heaven is home", we are all just passing through this world.

God giveth, He taketh!

We have certainly lost a gem. His time came when we still needed him here.

We surrendered all to Jesus. 

It is well....

We will all miss Fr Cyril.

We are left with the fond memories of his devotion to duty, cultured nature, mien as a remarkable priest, sincerity of purpose in his responses to integrated duty calls and of course, his evergreen functional and instructive sermons throughout all the church seasons and on special occasions.

His transition is a personal loss to me because I was looking forward to his mentoring, when I finally commence my journey to ordination in the Church of England, God being my helper. 

No doubt, for a long time, any time I remember him, I am bound to be emotional with a very deep sense of an irreplaceable loss! 

Who are we to query God?

May God continue to be with his beloved wife, precious daughter, very dear siblings (Moses Ayodeji, Violet Iyabo, Henry Adewale, David Ekundayo, Farnell Wilson and Ebun Pratt); and we his other loved ones. God will grant the family, the fortitude to bear the burden and pain of losing such a precious family man and a diligent servant of God.

We loved Fr Cyril. God loves him more and He has taken him from us.

It is well.....

The befitting funeral given to Fr Cyril on December 2nd, in 2022 at St. Botolph's Church, Northfleet was an attestation of a well loved man of God. The tributes of family members, school mates, friends, colleagues and other associates were overwhelmingly spirit lifting and soul inspiring. Cyril lives on in our hearts. 

Fare thee well my beloved vicar, Venerable Fr. Cyril  Showers, till we meet to part no more.

TRIBUTES

Mr Toyin Oloniyo wrote:

I mourn, but also thank GOD for the gift and grace given us to have met his committed Soldier of Christ Fr. Cyril.

21/7/2022 your birthday Seye was an opportunity to meet the impressionable Vicar who celebrated the Holy Communion Service warmly, calmly  and not without apology that the wine was not delivered in compliance with covid 19  restrictions at the time. 

 He served his GOD diligently as His true servant and disciple.........can we, or should we delay him receiving the precious Crown laid up for him? 

Go forth. Well done Fr. Cyril till we meet again at the feet of Jesus.

 

To you Seye take  heart ❤️ GOD will not leave you comfortless.  The pursuit of your quest to be a Priest will be the biggest tribute to this encourager of yours.

GOD bless you and your co-parishioners which must include Fr. Cyril's family. 

IT IS WELL. - Toyin Oloniyo

Reflecting on the Befitting Final Rites for Queen Elizabeth II

REFLECTING ON WORSHIP AND A SOLEMN CHURCH SERVICE

Seye Adetunmbi

Queen Elizabeth II was in a class of her own. I never thought that I would get that emotional when the news was first broken on BBC because I was monitoring the news right from when the statement of her doctors expressing concern on her health was reported in the news. When a distinguished matriarch joins hers ancestors and the young and old cried, also the world mourned her exit, it says a lot about the uncommon great mother of the commonwealth and United Kingdom. May the gentle soul of the unequalled monarch, in the history of United Kingdom, rest in peace, amen. What I saw during the final rites church service held for Queen Elizabeth II was a manifestation of a disciplined and a structured system at its best. It applies to virtually all the facets of the governing model in the United Kingdom and human endeavours, towards making living decently in a well organised manner for their citizens as much as possible. It is a product of proper planning, visionary and responsible leadership. Checkout their public transport system! The timeliness and efficiency of the trains and buses as scheduled.

It is fashionable and an acceptable standard for people to attend occasions on time or as scheduled. It makes it a rule for protocol not to be a "respecter" no one. I saw how President Biden and his wife were politely asked to wait briefly because they missed the procession of the invited head of states who came in a bus together. Apparently, he came in his official car and arrived after the vehicle that convened his colleagues. People were ushered-in in turns, the war veterans were about file in to their seats when the couple arrived and they had to wait before they could go to their seat. Bo se wa ni yen, bo se ye ko ri ni yen.

    What I find nauseating or that constitutes a put off among the shameless "VIP" in Nigeria is that they will deliberately arrive at church functions late and interrupt a solemn worship service. Anytime I arrived in church late, I felt ashamed of myself. This is why I can't imagine anyone feeling comfortable to arrive in church late and instead of finding a way to your seat unnoticed, it is then the president and his crew or the governor and his wife or the "big-man" and his aides will walk through the isle causing unnecessary distraction! This is unacceptable! What amounts to a shameful act is what our ill-bred and uncultured nouveau riche take delight in, to the consternation of decent fellow kinsmen/countrymen.

    In the Anglican setting in Nigeria, a rowdy church service is not allowed. It is our "big men" and few busybodies in some of the parishes that in most cases cause problems for the clergy and the church. When a vicar tries to enforce discipline and orderliness, some of these elements will retort to petitioning to the diocesan to remove the priest when they can't manipulate the shepherd. Most of the people who fall into this category of causing confusion in the parishes are not active in the church for spiritual reasons. To them, what is topmost in their priority is that the church is a social, business, political and economic networking gathering. The unfortunate thing is that, this class of scallywags are often the vocal and visible ones which make them to have their way with mischief and intrigues in some cases. They are everywhere in our polity and they are at the center of the problems of Nigeria.

    Nigerian churches will be better if all ranks of the stakeholders in the congregation and the body of Christ generally, sincerely, truly and practically make God the reason for worship and their main focus. Where conflict or confusion sets-in is when people don't go about worship to glorify God but themselves or by devoting more attention on mere mortals. When people in position of power, influence and authority truly fear God in the real sense of it, our society will be better for it. Life will be more abundant for the majority. May God heal our beloved country, Nigeria.

    Ki Oluwa ko gbogbo wa mo se. May God help us.

Scope of a Resourceful Mind

THE RESOURCEFULNESS OF A PRODUCTIVELY ENGAGED FRUITFUL-MIND

By, Seye Adetunmbi

Mind is a powerful part of human beings, the creatures of God. Mind as defined in the dictionary is "the element of a person that enables them to be aware of the world and their experiences, to think, and to feel; the faculty of consciousness and thought." Mind is so powerful that its capacity to wander is limitless. In essence, every mortal has a mind of his or her own with a wandering scope beyond imagination. What is news and of essence is how our individual and collective minds have been applied in the situation around us and for the good of our respective constituencies, communities and the larger society. Consequently, a tamed wandering resourceful mind is bound to be a blessing to mankind if applied to laudable purpose-driven initiatives.          Over the years and up till now, my humble fruitful mind continues to explore the world around me and integrated issues. Consequently, my God given perspicacious  mind had been processing various thoughts as they came and that at some point, I couldn't resist the urge to  put my inferences, thoughts and views in writing. Amazingly, the writings got voluminous which informed my decision to write my first book. Initially, I thought it was going to be a one-off book and decided to put all my essays on a wide range of subjects in one edition, structured the contents into sections with similar subject matter in each section and gave the book the title of MINDSET. Yes, because the book is a product of a positively wandering productive-mind.            Along the line, something crossed my mind again that there may be a need to write more books in future and people who see my work may want me to help out in publishing the products of their wandering minds too. There and then, I decided to register a business name to develop commerce around my publishing activities. As the thoughts ran through my mind, I came to the conclusion to give the name MINDSCOPE for the company. In order to underscore the power of the scope of mind in the birth of the business initiative. I added Africa to the business name because the mind exploration is about unearthing lasting values in Africa and in the contemporary global world for the benefit of mankind. On the 20th of July in 2012, Mindscope Africa was registered by the Company Affairs Commission in Nigeria.             On the 21st of July in 2012, MINDSET was formally published by Mindscope Africa and it was presented to the public on the same day to mark the 50th birthday anniversary of the author. Ten years later, a revised edition of Mindset is now available in HARDCOVER through Amazon. The second edition of the terrifically pictorial Mindset is 500 pages in 16 by 24 cm size. It is richer in contents covering essentials between 2012 and 2022. Also, with fresh perspectives on how to rescue the Nigerian economy, rehumanized leadership and reflections ahead of the 2023 presidential election.
In the past ten years of "mindscoping", I have written many books which Mindscope Africa has been gracious enough to publish most of them. Checkout the highlights below: 

BOOKS BY SEYE ADETUNMBI

Biographies

1.      Abridged Biographies and Integrated Panegyrics -2022

2.      The Apostle of Harmony: Chief D.O. Adetunmbi – 2018

3.      Ayo Ajayi: Multinational Corporate Man of Integrity - 2017

4.      Like He That Serveth: Venerable L. L. Eso - 2015

 

Chronicles and Compendiums

5.      Mindset: A Collection of Essays – Revised Edition 2022

6.      The Premium Schools in Nigeria – 2022

7.      The School: Christ's School, Ado-Ekiti 1933-2023

8.      Christianity and Anglicanism – 2020

9.      In Deed and in Truth: Christ's School at 80 – 2013

 

Politics and Government

10.   Atokeibeirosi: Paradigm Shift Imperatives – May 2021

11.   Ekitipanupo: A Legacy Book – 2015

 

Textbooks

12.   Applied Knowledge and Lateral Thinking - 2021

13.   Financial Intermediation: Operations and Practice –2020

 

Edited Book Series

        i.            Typical Yoruba Community: Ifaki-Ekiti - Chief D. O. Adetunmbi

      ii.            Speeches From The Throne: Oba Adetunla Adeleye II

BLURB 2012-2022
Over the years, I have been encouraged to continue to put my thoughts in writing and publish as many books as possible as a result of the various feedback I got from all ranks of well wishers, especially those who have read my articles and bought my books. I hereby acknowledge all with these excerpts:
On Abridged Biographies and Integrated Panegyrics

“I have read every word of your book. Between all the lines and in every word, I see commitment and perseverance. I cannot help but wonder how much better our country would be if more Nigerians had your inspired vision and patriotism. I have no doubt in my mind that the book will be a great asset to the nation and a source of inspiration to its youth and politicians alike including all that come across it. As for me who has always been guided by the examples of great achievers, reading through the book gave me additional inspiration. May the almighty God continue to keep and bless you for your efforts and contributions” – Chief Olusegun Obasanjo

Nonagenarian High Chief Alex Ajayi wrote:

"It is an encyclopedia bringing the world under one roof! It is a challenge to human industry to write in such minute details and in such elevated diction with the most inevitable words. Seye, this is a legacy for time and eternity. Each biography is told in the three dimensions of the subject. This is unique. As I started reading through the book, I went on nonstop for ten hours! The book encapsulates a world panorama. It is a treasure and a gift to our age."

 

Octogenarian Venerable L. L. Eso wrote:

"Seye, this is awesome. One of its kind…could only have come from Adetunmbi’s stable. Brilliant and Legendary! That is what it will always represent! Congratulations………keep on flying like the eagle…"

 

Mr. Yemi Akeju wrote:

"Oh, dear Seye, That's a great one and quite unique…"

 

Dotun Akinola wrote:

“The book is lovely. Thank you so much for honoring my father. Words cannot express my gratitude. I will be showing this to everyone who visits me now.”

Nonagenarian Chief (Dr.) Francis Adebayo Daramola wrote:

"Congratulations on the publication of the 'Abridged Biographies and Integrated Panegyrics'. I see the work as an Encyclopedia of the 'greats' the 'nobles', men and women role models who have contributed immensely to society and societal life at not only local level, but at national and international levels of human engineering and endeavor. I feel honored and relished to see write-ups on some of my Teachers, (Chief B. A. Ajayi and Chief J.E. Babatola); my old classmates (Jonathan Akinola and Major Robert Adeyinka Adebayo) and my students (Ojogbon Samuel Akinyemi Akeju, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, Prof Niyi Osundare and Prof Akin Oyebode) all of whom are alumni of the prestigious Christ's School, Ado-Ekiti among those featured in the scholarly biographies. There are others I know who have made names in the military, academia, medicine, the world of commerce and industry etc. The pictures that adorn the "Abridged Biographies and Integrated Panegyrics" are of rich and illuminating quality. The book is a "must read" for old and young and should be found in libraries and book shelves, more so now that the study of History is being given priority in our institutions and school curriculum. Well-done Seye, omo Baba. Thank you for the Complimentary copy. May your tribe increase.”

Dr Folorunso Ajayi wrote:

Your book (Biographies) is difficult to put down. I’m fascinated by the spread, the eclectic mix and the depth of research of the volume. I’m seeing Chief D.O. Fagunwa’s photograph for the first time! Well done.

 

On Financial Intermediation and Practice

“…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 do this. I am proud to be associated with the book” - Atedo Peterside, Founder of IBTC, 21/7/2020

 

“It is a timely book, coming out post the unprecedented global crisis. The book will enable regulators, market participants, issuers, investors - retail and institutional to understand better the jewels and gems of the market. The book 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...He is a candid commentator on the Nigerian economy. A role model worthy of emulation for his humility, sense of community…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 the Nigerian capital market in Nigeria and Africa.”  Arunma Oteh, former Director-General of SEC in Nigeria, 21/7/2020

 

“I am really impressed with what I have read in the book, it is a 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.” – Lamido Yuguda, Director-General of SEC, 21/7/2020

 

“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” - Oscar Onyema, Group CEO, Nigerian Stock Exchange, 21/7/2020

 

“It is an excellently punctuated book, a great work in academic exercise and would be a wonderful addition to anyone’s library.”- Bola Ajomale, Managing Director of National Association of Securities Dealers PLC, 21/7/20

 

“…I have always admired your bullish peculiarities....” Chief Dele Fajemirokun 27/6/2020

 

“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.” - Tayo Shenbanjo, Licensed Financial Advisor, USA, 3/7/2020

On Christianity And Anglicanism

“I like your interrogative style on the commandments and the beatitudes. A very good way of teaching.” - Rt. Rev. Peter Bryan Price 2022

 

“I cannot but express my delight in having the singular privilege of writing the foreword to this justifiable literary effort by Seye Adetunmbi, in defense of the Christian faith and our own cherished Anglican heritage. Being son of a Church prelate notwithstanding, his display of interest and knowledge of the foundation of the Christian faith vis-a-vis the historic formulary of the Church is quite interesting and commendable….” - Rt. Rev James Olusola Odedeji, The Lord Bishop, Diocese of Lagos West, 9/9/2020

 

“The handbook for believers in Christian faith epitomizes a unique learning experience, shaped in six sections, with annexes, index…The book is a product of a background of remarkable experiences to underscore the fact that God works in a mysterious way. 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. 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.” - Rt. Rev. Isaac Olubowale, The Lord Bishop, Diocese of Ekiti-Oke, 13/9/2020

 

“Seye Adetunmbi is becoming a rather consistent writer; 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 added this refreshing book on religion to his growing intellectual stable. This is both evidence-based and anecdotal. It profiles the history, character and nomenclatures in the Church of Nigeria in a wide aperture literature mixed with throw backs to the author’s father and family’s commitment as dedicated Churchmen, and 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. The book stands gallantly upon the shoulders of time and opens the window for more intellectual, spiritual and policy discourse on the pathway that Christianity and Anglicanism must thread for survival and viability” Ven. Segun Agbetuyi, 14/9/2020

On THE PREMIUM SCHOOLS

Paul Olaleye wrote:

Beautiful. Great piece of work as usual 23/7/22

Mrs Funmi Balogun wrote:

I’m happy I bought one. So proud of you. More grace in Jesus' mighty name, amen. 31/7/22

On Applied Knowledge And Lateral Thinking

“…I don't know how you do these things - work hard, religion, socialise, politics and write. Well done. 6/8/21 I'm amazed at how you deploy your energy at various projects with such ease.... I commend your efforts”. - Chief Dr Biodun Shobanjo, 9/12/2021

 

On The Apostle Of Harmony

“I must commend you for documenting what Chief Adetunmbi stood for and how he impacted the society through his glorious teaching career and his other endeavours. I found the book highly insightful; it reveals his active involvement in unionism, where he rose to become a national leader of Nigerian Union of Teachers and in community service’’ Senator Ibikunle Amosun, 6/10/2021

 

On Mindset

“The compendium has added a unique contribution to the growing literature on the proverbial question of “Whither Nigeria?”…The author succeeded in making his work partly biographical, technical and partly historical, thereby rendering it as one of enduring value and relevance, especially to this and successive generations...Every one of us has a definite mindset, informed and shaped by a weltanschauung or world-view. Seye Adetunmbi has, through this book, exhibited his own window to the world” - Professor Akin Oyebode, 1/7/2012

 

On Ekitipanupo Legacy Book

“Ekitipanupo provides a rich, raucous, and roundly robust forum for the flow of the river of the Ekiti mind. In the perspicacious phrasing of Seye Adetunmbi, this forum is an “indigenous intellectual roundtable strategically structured to be a ‘think-tank’ for the good of Ekiti [people]. . . .”. Ekitipanupo is all this, and by being this, it is something more, something beyond. It is both the site of communion and conflict, consonance and dissonance; a battleground of loose cannons and guided missiles. It has been a planet of restless minds whose clashing ideas have generated fire for our forge, light for the darkness of our thoughts. It is a forum whose courage has transgressed hideous orthodoxy and whose clamour has sabotaged that silence that is the fuel of tyranny and backwardness.” -  Professor Niyi Osundare, 24/4/2015

On THE SCHOOL: A Compendium on Christ's School, Ado-EkitiI must commend Seye Adetunmbi for the initiative, his professionalism and the remarkable effort he has put into compiling this compendium. Congratulations for a job very well done. His vision, infectious enthusiasm, professionalism and unceasing selfless initiatives are commendable. – Segun Aganga, 8/3/2020"Seye’s devotion, resourcefulness, goal-getting spirit and effective coordination of various contributors have, through the grace of God, made this book possible. Thanks for this great effort...." - Yemi Akeju 6/9/13“Seye, your commitment is legendary and worthy of emulation. Your love for The School is astounding. I am proud to be a friend and schoolmate with you. Thank you” – Tokunbo Ibikunle, 3/1/2020“This is a superbly great effort,......" - Prof Bolaji Aluko 8/9/13

"....Thanks for this very commendable work."- Baba-Ijo Segun Ogunkua 7/9/13

"Thanks... Well done" - Engineer Tunji Kolawole, 2013

On TYPICAL YORUBA COMMUNITY: Ifaki-Ekiti - By Chief D.O. Adetunmbi. The book was edited and published posthumously in line with the instruction of my father. Some Ifaki indigenes commented as followings:

Professor Samuel Ade Ojo: With such a researched history of Ifaki as this, we should, with other existing historical documents, be better enlightened to appreciate the essence and reasons of our togetherness as a people and be equipped to better understand how we were linked together and sustained as a communal entity by mutual understanding, love and the expected rewards of unity and peaceful coexistence. We would also be helped more, to easily correct the fallacies that have been infecting the cohesion and unity in our present leadership. We would equally be enabled to see how our original leaders deployed wisdom, patience, expediency mixed with discretion, foresight, mutual understanding, the determination not to fail and the abundance of exemplariness and firmness in character, to live together. As it is generally acknowledged, facts are sacred and knowledge is power. With Baba Adetunmbi's impartial, unbiased and fearless approach to issues, his book shall help us to rely on the authority of history to put our town on the path of truth, righteousness and reasonableness and decry any aberration on the part of any of our leaders to depart from these righteous virtues.

Well done Seye for presenting yourself as the chip off the old block. What is so unique about the Adetunmbis big boys is how each of them is very exemplarily representing an aspect of the multidimensional asset or the great elephant that Baba Adetunmbi is to Ifaki. Long live the Adetunmbis! And long live our greatly cherished lfaki! – Professor Sam Ade Ojo 4/10/15

Taye Obelawo: I have always been so proud to have come from Ifaki, now I see a path lightened before me through knowing my route. Something usually happens when a great man unfurls his petals. Could this be a revolution coming down to Ifaki? Oga Seye, some of us are keenly watching your every action. More grace sir. Taye Obelawo 28/9/10

Ojo Michael Kayode: This is a nice write up egbon, I love this. The version I heard was that people migrated to Ifaki from various towns like we from Ilao came from Awo-Ekiti and Oke-Ejelu came from Ijelu and so forth but when the first settler got to where Ifaki is today they saw “a strong and sizeable bonanza” (ifa-to-ki) and that is where they put up before others now joined them. Kindly put more light to that. Bravo egbon Seye. 28/9/15

Adebayo Jeje Michael: Hmmm, what a great write up. Posterity will bless this uncle Seye for this. Sir I pray for God to give you the grace to complete this book. We would be prepared to champion the launch. 28/9/15

Ajifowowe Olugbenga: Egbon lukaluka, indeed you are an Ifaki pride, I do greatly appreciate your write-up. L’agbara Olodumare, se lua s’eye Ifaki orinkinran k’ale. Please when you are launching the book, invite all the son's and daughter's of Ifaki-Ekiti because it is always extremely good to know one's root. Once again I do say more grease to your elbow. Erinle Ifaki agbein o. L’agbara Oluwa, a ma t’ajo gbe s’ajo; se la k’ere oko de’le, toriwipe ule un-ule hun l’eiye uri me ike l’oko o. Thanks a lot. 1/10/15

Prince Kunle Aladegbami: Well done my brother for the historical piece. It is important to know our history – Prince Adekunle Aladegbami 22/7/16

Bayo Fashola: Thanks for refreshing us – Bayo Fasola 23/7/16

Prince Justice Faloye: Thanks for the enlightenment. 28/9/15

Ajayi Ayodele Olaseinde JP: I am so much interested in this write-up….This is a very good project for this generation 28/9/15

Olushola Harrison Akeredolu Wow! What a brilliant piece! Abare a gbe o 28/9/15

Barr Dayo Akinyemi-Borode Waoh, good one indeed and a welcome development. 28/9/15

Folasade Adebayo Kolawole: Fantastic!! 29/9/15

Dr Olusesi Ajayi-Vincent: Abaloye big kudos to you on this piece. I know it will stream out one day because I had a stint of this from aba 'Detu as we used to call Baba D. O. then, sometimes in 1977 after my WAEC examinations. I know that Ifaki history is well documented and no one can distort it. You are doing a good job brother. Keep it on. Aba re a gbe o. – 1/10/15Kayode Ogunmuko: Aburo I always read your story, continue to educate and remind us of our history.

Ojo Owodunni Femi a.k.a. Omoifaki: When is the book coming out sir? I can't wait to have my own copy sir, Okanlomo

Seye Aladeselu: Sir, you are doing a great job. I like to own a copy when the book is finally out. I pray that your brain will not dwindle/diminish in Jesus' name. Indeed sir, we are proud of you as a son of orinkinran. Kudos sir!!!

Still on the Consistent Writer and a Prolific Author

Professor Akin Oyebode wrote:

“Every one of us has a definite mindset, informed and shaped by a weltanschauung or world-view. Seye Adetunmbi has, through this book, exhibited his own window to the world” - 2012
Professor Sam Ade Ojo wrote:
“You are irresistible and  irrepressible. You are indeed a rare asset to Ifaki and no doubt to Ekiti…... You are, apart from your professional expertise, too many things rolled into one: an essayist, an historian, a literary artist, an activist, a journalist, a critic, an organizer, a mobilizer etc” - 4/1/12 “Our dear Okan, you are such an impressario” - 2/2/12 
Professor Niyi Osundare wrote:
“I value the adventurous energy of Seye Adetunmbi who, from now on, I will be calling the People-Gatherer'' -  20/1/12 “Seye Adetunmbi, Ekitipanupo’s tirelessly energetic moderator and diligent, cerebral catalyst.” – April 2015
Professor Funso Olorunfemi wrote:
“You are deep in upbringing and you have in addition, given yourself a rebirth. No doubt you have created a niche for yourself”. - 16/1/12
Dr Femi Orebe wrote:
An amazing effort. Congratulations my dear Okan; you are obviously the linchpin - the 'non pareil'. More grease to your elbows.
Lt Col Remi Balogun (Rtd) wrote after reading  an article written by the author, captioned “And the Heathens Raged”:
“…You are indeed a Bishop. You will soon stand on the pulpit, that's where you belong. You are an apostle not a crusader that you think you are. Pray for more revelation of God's will for you… You actually have a message for the nations of the world...Please let your light-so-shine.”
Bisi Sanda wrote:       “Seye is so prolific” - 22/1/12
 Gbenga Ogunsakin wrote:    “Eletolua..Master-festo-craft” - 22/1/12