If the dead could look back, Ibidun Ituah-Ighodalo , would be grinning in her grave now.
She bade the world farewell last Sunday June 14, at the young age of 39 and was buried today, amidst a blaze of glory. In life and in death, she was celebrated because she came, saw and conquered!
She never wished to part, forever, with her loved ones when she did last Sunday.
Indeed, Ibidunni, a former beauty queen and owner of Elizabeth R, a leading event management company, wanted to live longer to see her dreams come true. And she had them aplenty, including marking her 40th birthday next month, July 19. She had wished to feed 1000 homes during the birthday.
But for fate, the late co-pastor of Trinity House Church in Lagos and founder of Ibidunni Ighodalo Foundation would have, in her wonted style, used the occasion of her 40th birthday to touch lives in her humanly best possible way.
This much was revealed by her close friend, TY Bello, a celebrated photographer, when she shared a WhatsApp a message, where the late Ighodalo stated that “. .. And I want to help 40 couples to have their babies. That’s all I want. No party. No surprise. Nothing. I just want to make 40 homes happy.”
This shouldn’t come as a surprise to those who know her very well. In many ways, and at different times, she had engraved her memory in the minds of many whose path crossed hers with her profound acts of humanness.
It is also instructive that her mission to PortHarcourt was also in fulfillment of her passion to help humanity, which she treasured far more than any business gain. How? In Lagos and some other states, she had helped to set up benefitting isolation centres for victims of the deadly COVID 19.
So, when she was contracted to replicate same in PortHarcourt by the River State government, she felt so obliged.
To her, a convenient and dignifying atmosphere can aid speedy recovery of patients who are still clicking unto life like straw.
She lived her life for humanity. Yet, she had her own challenges. Even when she chose to open up about her struggles with infertility in an interview with Arise TV, it was not to gain empathy from anyone, but for her listeners and fans, home and abroad, to know that life is no more but a mystery.
Since she passed on, there has been an outpouring of heartfelt tributes on her from across the country.
But no one has captured the loss more than her loving husband, who said, while officiating at a funeral hours after her death , that he received “the call that shattered my life.”
The Group Chief Executive of Oando Group Jubril Adewale Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to billionaire businessman and oil tycoon Tunde Folawiyo on the occasion of his 66th birthday, describing him as a distinguished figure whose influence continues to resonate across Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
In a warm and reflective message, Tinubu celebrated Folawiyo not only as a respected elder but as a man whose enduring legacy cuts across business, culture, sports, and the arts. His words captured the deep admiration Folawiyo commands within elite circles and beyond.
“Happy birthday to a great Egbon, Tunde Folawiyo,” Tinubu wrote. “Your impact has touched many corners of our national story—from business to culture, sport, and the arts. As you mark another year, I celebrate all you have accomplished, and the grace and consistency with which you have done it.”
The Oando boss further offered prayers for continued strength and fulfilment, expressing hope that the years ahead would bring even greater accomplishments and sustained good health for the celebrated industrialist.
Folawiyo, a scion of one of Nigeria’s most prominent business families, has long maintained a commanding presence in the corporate world, while also nurturing interests that extend into philanthropy and the preservation of cultural heritage. His measured approach to leadership and quiet philanthropy have earned him widespread respect as a man of substance and refinement.
As he marks this significant milestone, tributes have continued to pour in from across the country’s business and social circles, affirming his status as one of Nigeria’s most influential and admired figures.
In the glittering world of high society and corporate influence, moments of genuine pride and admiration rarely go unnoticed. Such was the case when oil magnate and business leader Jubril Adewale Tinubu stepped into the spotlight to celebrate a milestone achievement by his wife, Bola Tinubu who was recently honoured at the prestigious ARISE 100 Women of Impact in Africa Awards.
The award ceremony, organised by the media powerhouse ARISE News, brought together some of Africa’s most accomplished and influential women—leaders whose contributions have left a remarkable imprint across business, governance, philanthropy, and social development. Among this distinguished league stood Mrs. Tinubu, whose recognition reflects years of quiet excellence, commitment, and purposeful impact.
For the energy tycoon, the moment was deeply personal. Known across the continent as the driving force behind the energy giant Oando Plc, the businessman is often celebrated for his boardroom brilliance and strategic leadership. Yet, beyond the corporate boardrooms and global energy deals, he was simply a proud husband applauding the achievements of the woman who stands beside him.
Taking to social media shortly after the ceremony, Tinubu shared a touching tribute that resonated with many who admire the couple. His message was simple but heartfelt, capturing the essence of admiration and partnership. Referring to the moment as a “proud husband moment,” he congratulated his wife on the prestigious honour and praised the significance of the recognition.
The ARISE Women of Impact Awards have increasingly become one of the continent’s most respected platforms for celebrating female excellence. The initiative highlights women whose work continues to shape industries, inspire communities, and redefine leadership across Africa. For the woman , being counted among this elite group places her firmly within a circle of changemakers whose influence transcends titles and accolades.
Observers at the event noted that her recognition was not merely ceremonial but well deserved. Over the years, she has cultivated a reputation for grace, professionalism, and dedication to meaningful causes—qualities that have earned her admiration within Nigeria’s social and professional circles.
For those who know the Tinubus, the public celebration was hardly surprising. The couple has long embodied a partnership built on mutual respect, shared ambition, and unwavering support for each other’s pursuits. While Tinubu continues to command attention in the energy sector, his wife has quietly carved out her own path of distinction.
The quiet, steady influence of a woman who commands respect without seeking the spotlight shone brightly on that memorable evening reminding many that true influence often speaks in the calmest of voices.
Beyond her professional accomplishments and social standing, the intelligent lawyer nine years ago, translated her deep concern for child protection into action with the launch of the Cece Yara Foundation, an organisation dedicated to protecting children from abuse and giving young victims a safe platform to speak out against injustice.
Over the years, the foundation has become a powerful voice in the fight against child abuse in Nigeria, offering support, counselling and advocacy for vulnerable children. Through its initiatives, many young victims have found both protection and hope.
Through these initiatives, she has continued to demonstrate that her influence goes far beyond society circles. Her commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society has made her not only a respected figure in elite circles but also a beacon of hope for countless children and families across the country.
In a society where achievements are often measured in grand gestures and headlines, moments like this serve as a reminder that recognition carries deeper meaning when it is celebrated by those closest to us.
For the GCEO of Oando Group, the award was not just another accolade on the social calendar—it was a powerful reminder that behind every remarkable woman is a story of dedication, resilience, and a partner proud enough to celebrate her success before the world.