“Mayfair, London –“ In the refined elegance of Hakkasan, nestled in the heart of London’s Mayfair, Amofin Adeoye honored his wife, Ifeoma Adeoye, in a private birthday celebration that seamlessly reflected the woman herself—graceful, intelligent, powerful in presence, and quietly transformational. It was not simply a birthday dinner, but a moment of reflection, gratitude, and awe, as a husband paid tribute to the woman he calls his guiding light.

“I do not merely celebrate your birth today,” Amofin said, raising his glass in quiet reverence. “I celebrate your purpose, your journey, your integrity—and the life you’ve built not just beside me, but for so many others. You are my Miss World. In every real and enduring way.”

Ifeoma Adeoye’s life reads as both a love story and a story of legacy. Born with a keen intellect and a deep empathy for others, she graduated with First Class Honours in Economics from the University of Manchester and earned her Master’s degree with Distinction from the University of Warwick. Her academic brilliance transitioned seamlessly into a stellar professional path that began at the Royal Bank of Scotland, then moved through the strategic corridors of McKinsey & Company, followed by tenures at KPMG and FBN Merchant Bank—where her blend of sharp analysis and deep ethical grounding quickly marked her out as a leader to watch.

But it was her entrepreneurial spirit and mission-driven leadership that set her on a singular path. She went on to found *Business Nest Investments*, a dynamic firm focused on empowering individuals and enterprises through accessible microfinance, insurance, and advisory services. She further expanded her impact by launching “IMSE Energy Resources Limited”, which she founded and she serves as CEO, pioneering cutting-edge EPCI services and innovations in crude evacuation technologies. Her leadership helped position IMSE as a key player in Africa’s evolving energy sector.

Ifeoma leads “Tiddix”, a forward-facing FinTech company based in London, the world’s financial Centre, revolutionizing financial inclusion and digital access across emerging markets. Tiddix reflects the intersection of her vision and values—technology with purpose, finance with empathy.

But perhaps her most quietly revolutionary impact lies in her work with women and communities in Oyo State, Nigeria, where she spent formative years. With a passion for uplifting underserved populations, she founded “Pace Microfinance” and its sister platform “Pace Ibadan”, which together have empowered over 20,000 women with access to credit, training, and economic independence. For many of these women, Pace is more than a financial service—it is a bridge to dignity, resilience, and opportunity. It is, like its founder, a testament to what happens when intellect meets heart.

In recognition of her influence across energy and finance, she was named one of the “25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars” at the Africa Energy Week in Cape Town, South Africa. The accolade captured what so many in her orbit already knew—that Ifeoma Adeoye is not just a leader, but a trailblazer shaping Africa’s future at every level.

Yet what resonated most in that candlelit room at Hakkasan was not the litany of achievements, but the reverence with which her husband spoke of her essence. “You lead without needing to be seen, and still, the world cannot help but notice. You lift people not with grand gestures, but with presence, clarity, and compassion. You are a mother, a partner, and a force of nature wrapped in elegance.”

Though the setting was deliberately quiet—just close family, gentle music, and the ambience of Mayfair—the love in the room was undeniable. Not for what she has accumulated, but for what she has given. For the homes she’s built. The minds she’s shaped. The futures she’s unlocked. In a world that often celebrates noise, Ifeoma Adeoye’s life is a study in substance. In legacy.

“To share life with you,” Amofin said, closing the night with a final toast, “is the deepest privilege I know. You are not just the woman I love. You are the story I am proud to be written into. You are my joy, my mirror, my forever. You are, without question, my world.”

And so, on this evening in Mayfair, surrounded by love and admiration, the world turned quietly toward one woman—celebrated not just for the life she leads, but for the lives she transforms. Ifeoma Adeoye: brilliant, bold, beloved.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye, president Beulah Adeoye Foundation rejoiced with Nigerian workers on the occasion of this year’s Worker’s Day celebration.

The legal icon called for more investment in human capital to drive the growth of the economy and create harmonious working environment for the workers.

Amofin Adeoye said Worker’s Day is not just a celebration but a genuine call to action to create safe working conditions and equal opportunities for workers in order to bring out the best in them.

“On this Worker’s Day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to every man and woman who rises each day with the courage to work, create values, serve and sacrifice for the good of their families, communities and our collective future in Oyo State and beyond”.

“From the civil servant in the office, to the teacher in classroom, the farmer in the field, the artisan in the workshop, and trader in the market — each of you plays a vital role in shaping our society. Your labour is the engine of our development in the State, and your resilience, even in the face of hardship, is the foundation of our hope”.

“As a legal icon and financial expert, I envision a state that values its people across geo-political zones and where labour is not exploited but empowered.

“On this Worker’s Day, I salute your strength, your service and your sacrifice. May this day be a reminder that your labour matters, your voice counts and your future is worth fighting for”.

Happy Worker’s Day.

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that his administration will continue to give youths in the state the platforms and opportunities to unlock their potentials.

The governor said having realised that for any nation to prosper economically it must create entrepreneurs, be committed to education of its young people and must take production seriously, his government has been pursuing these objectives.

Governor Makinde stated these on Wednesday, at the grand finale of the Oyo State Youth Summit 2025, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, adding that youths must be educated, well-informed and also lean towards entrepreneurship.

He said: “Sometimes, when I attend a programme like this, I ask myself: these people in front of me, are they stretching their hands out for us to give them handouts or are they the potentials that we need to unlock to create prosperity for this country?
“Well, I believe that you folks that I am seeing here today are the potentials that we must unlock to create economic prosperity for this country.

“At 29, I started paying people’s salaries and I have not stopped. Yesterday, at the commissioning of the ICT Centre donated by the Renewed Hope Initiative, I mentioned something very significant, which I believe is central in my message. People will say that the average age in Nigeria is less than 30. So, what is the usefulness of our youths who are not productive? After leaving the university, there is no job for them.

“Some people would talk about a conspiracy theory; that Nigeria is being held down by advanced countries. But we were in Finland together with some people here and we asked them over there how they became one of the richest countries.
“We asked if they have oil, but they said education led them to where they are currently as a nation. Nigeria’s illiteracy rate right now is quite high. So, my message is that nobody will hold Nigeria down once we get our structure and leadership right, and we will unlock these potentials.

“Economic prosperity would come when we have entrepreneurs. Some of you are planning for jobs and looking at opportunities to be created by others. But I only worked for an organisation once in my entire life. I did one year of Youth Service in 1990-1991. I later worked for Shell and after that, I started working for myself. In the beginning, I could not even call myself a Managing Director, because I was too young.
“So, we must create entrepreneurs and you must always have that in mind. Get exposure if you have the opportunity. If you don’t, read up. We must be serious with education; we must educate our people to reduce illiteracy. If you are well-informed you will be able to make decisions that are logical.
“Finally, we must have intensive production. We have to be productive. I was here for a debate for the 2023 election and somebody asked if I was going to support local government autonomy and I said I would support productivity at the local government level.

“If autonomy is about what you share with local government areas in Abuja, that is not going to take us anywhere, because our population is growing and the handouts from Abuja have remained stagnant.
“These really are my messages to you this morning. Think about the three things that I already mentioned; economic prosperity would not come except we have entrepreneurs, except we have our people educated and except we back it up with intensive production.
“I give you the assurance that Oyo State would always lead the charge as we would give you the opportunities to unlock your potential.”

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke, lauded the Governor Makinde administration for implementing policies and initiatives that have impacted positively on youths in the state.
She maintained that the administration has continued to prioritise youth development, knowing that the future of the state lies in the hands of its teeming young people.

Adegoke charged youths to take ownership of their lives, unlock their potentials by being proactive, innovative and ready to impact their communities.
She said: “Under the leadership of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, our state has witnessed a standard perspective in youth empowerment with initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of our youths in the state.

“This administration has prioritised youth development, recognising that the future of our state lies in the hands of our young people. His policies and programmes have been designed to unlock the potentials of the youth, providing them with the necessary tools, skills and support to succeed.

“Our government has implemented various initiatives aimed at empowering the youths, including youth entrepreneurship programmes to foster innovation and job creation.
“These initiatives are yielding positive results and we are committed to continuing our efforts to ensure that every person in Oyo State has access to opportunities that would enable them to reach their full potential.

“As we gather here today, I urge you to take ownership of your potential. Be proactive, be innovative and be determined to make a positive impact in your communities. Seize this opportunity to take calculated risks, develop your skills and build strong networks and mentorship. Stay focused on the face of challenges.

“I want to use this opportunity to thank the governor for giving me the opportunity to serve the young people of Oyo State.”
The Oyo State Youth Summit 2025 themed “unlocking youth potential; addressing needs, fulfilling dreams,” began on April 29, 2025 with an awareness walk/sensitisation on drug abuse across the five zones of the state, continuing on April 30, 2025 with plenary sessions, panel discussions and interactive sessions for skill development.

Governor Makinde, who was given an Award of Lifetime Achievement in Governance, also presented different categories of awards to his Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Miss Lolade Ajibola; Managing Director of BOVAS Oil and Gas Limited, Dr (Mrs) Victoria Samson; Mr Mustapha Iskil, popularly known as Arojinle; and Mrs Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, among others.

Some of those on the governor’s entourage included the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni; Commissioners; Special Advisers and other dignitaries.

The Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde has declared that he will never support local government autonomy, insisting that enhancing productivity at the grassroots level should take precedence over administrative independence.

Makinde made this known while speaking at the 2025 edition of the Oyo Youth Summit held at the University of Ibadan Conference Centre, Ibadan.

The summit, themed “Unlocking Youth Potential: Addressing Needs, Fulfilling Dreams,” brought together youths from across the state for discussions on governance, empowerment, and leadership.

In his keynote address, the governor emphasised the need for functional systems that deliver real value to citizens, rather than focusing on constitutional restructuring that may not guarantee performance.

He noted that autonomy without accountability or measurable impact could end up being counterproductive.

“I would rather support productivity than support federal government- local government autonomy.

It would be recalled that the Supreme Court, in a landmark judgment last year, ruled in favour of full constitutional recognition for local governments.

In the wake of the judgment, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) directed all local government councils nationwide to open dedicated accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to ensure financial independence and transparency.

Despite these developments, Governor Makinde reiterated that his administration would continue to focus on efficiency, accountability, and impactful governance rather than what he described as “mere autonomy.”

Copacapana Lounge & Club has announced the renewal of its Multi Million Naira strategic partnership with Martell Nigeria, in collaboration with Pernod Ricard Nigeria. The development reinforces Copacapana’s position as the leading nightlife destination in Ibadan.

The Chairman of Copacapana’s Group of Company, Chief Ahmed Ajibola, made this known in an official statement released via the club’s verified Instagram page.

According to him, the renewed partnership marks the beginning of a new era in luxury entertainment and brand collaboration in the city.

“We set the trends. As the undisputed leaders of luxury nightlife in Ibadan, our reach is unmatched. With over 50% of the city’s elite choosing Copa as their playground, this partnership isn’t just strategic it’s guaranteed to electrify Martell’s legacy like never before,” the statement read.

He further described the partnership as a complete takeover, assuring that residents of Ibadan should expect a fresh wave of collaboration and innovation.

The lounge stated that it would continue to serve as the largest and most influential Pernod Ricard partner in Ibadan, while also intensifying efforts to dominate the nightlife scene in the region.

Copacapana Lounge was recently recognised as the Most Protected and Security Friendly Lounge/Bar in Ibadan, a development that further solidifies its place as a leader in the hospitality industry.

The Oyo state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has disclosed its readiness to work for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 stating that the decision was informed by the “efficacy of the Renewed Hope Agenda and the promises which his leadership holds for Nigeria, Nigerians and the African continent”.

The declaration was the highpoint of the Party’s stakeholder meeting held on Tuesday at the Oke-Ado, Ibadan state Secretariat of the Party. The stakeholders were made up of the APC State Executive Committee members and the Party Chairmen across the 33 local government councils in the state.

While addressing the press after the meeting; the state chairman, Alhaji Olayide Abas, posited that it was necessary for the stakeholders to acknowledge the milestone reached by the current administration of President Tinubu in less than two years. “Those of us who knew the antecedent of our dear President might not be surprised that he has approached governance with such an enormous degree of courage, determination and patriotism but it is imperative that we make public our satisfaction and optimism if only to encourage him.

“It is on this note that stakeholders of the Party who attended the extended executive committee meeting today decided to announce our readiness to have President Tinubu in the office as the nation’s number one man beyond 2027. He has shown good understanding of the challenges facing the country in addition to the possession of the blueprint to tackle them and as a result of this, Nigerians need to give him enough time to complete the enormous task of repositioning the country.

“The recent gale of defections by members of the opposition parties is a pointer to the fact that many discerning Nigerians are ready to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President by shunning primordial sentiments and selfish interests to joining the APC which they see as the only vehicle of national rebirth and holistic development. To this end, Oyo APC cannot afford to be at the back seat”. Abas said.

Others who spoke in tandem with the submission of the state chairman included; Alh. Tajudeen Olanite (State Secretary), Olawale Sadare (Publicity Secretary), Alhaja Tinuade Adigun (State Woman Leader) and Prince John Aremu (State Youth Leader). They all expressed their readiness to work for the success of the Tinubu administration while they also praised the Party’s national chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and his team for “building a stronger and more formidable APC across the country.

In another development; a group of eminent personalities within Oyo APC, The Peace Advocates, has restated its commitment to restoration of harmony and team spirit in the Party in the build up to the 2027 general election even as it lauded the decision of the executive committees at all levels in the state to endorse President Bola Tinubu for second term in office.

The group led by the trio of Dr. Akin Onigbinde (SAN), Chief Wale Ohu and Prince Niran Olayoju, stated this during a courtesy visit to the state Secretariat of the party on Tuesday. The group said that the visit was to intimate the state chairman about its plan to embark on a tour of all the geopolitical zones in the state to preach genuine peace and reconciliation among party faithful.

Others members of the group who were present during the visit included; Prince Gbade Lana, Hon. (Dr ) Adepeju Esan, Engr. Adewale Adeoye, Alh. Rasaq Raji, Hon. Amusat Ogunsola and Alh. Adebayo Aruna.

Security: The Backbone of Oyo’s Industrial Future

When we talk about industrialisation, we often focus on the glamorous side of things: factories, roads, power plants, and bustling trade. However, there’s one factor that underpins all of these – security. Without a stable and safe environment, industries cannot thrive. The fears of theft, violence, and unrest act as a powerful deterrent for both local and international investors. If Singapore and Rwanda, two nations that have experienced remarkable industrialisation, have shown us anything, it’s that industrial growth is inextricably linked to a peaceful, secure, and stable environment.

Now, as Oyo State embarks on its ambitious journey towards industrialisation, ensuring the security of its people, its infrastructure, and its industries is non-negotiable. But how can a state like Oyo, rich in potential but still facing security challenges, ensure that its industrialisation goals are not thwarted by instability?

Security as a Cornerstone of Oyo’s Industrialisation
The industrialisation of any state requires three key components: reliable infrastructure, adequate funding, and a secure environment. While the first two are crucial, the third – security – is the linchpin. A state that is beset by violence, crime, or civil unrest is not only unattractive to investors, but also struggles to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and tourists – all key drivers of economic development.

Singapore, despite its small size, understood that security was foundational to its rise as a global business hub. It created a safe, stable environment where both local and foreign businesses felt secure enough to invest. This commitment to safety allowed Singapore to thrive, offering an atmosphere where industries could focus on growth rather than worry about security.

Similarly, Rwanda, after experiencing the horrors of a civil war and genocide, has become one of Africa’s success stories. The country’s industrialisation is in full swing, but it wouldn’t be possible without a government that prioritises safety and security for all. Rwanda’s remarkable journey to become one of the most peaceful nations in Africa has been underpinned by an unwavering focus on national security, and Oyo can take inspiration from that.

So, how can Oyo, with its growing economy and ambitious industrial goals, ensure a future where businesses, industries, and entrepreneurs feel secure enough to invest?

The Role of Community-Based Security in Oyo State

One of the defining aspects of security in Oyo is the community. Unlike the often top-down approach that many large countries take, Nigeria’s federal structure requires a more grassroots, community-based approach to security. The people who live in each community know it best – its strengths, its weaknesses, and its potential threats.

Oyo State’s unique advantage is its ability to create local security solutions through traditional means combined with modern law enforcement. Communities, religious groups, and local leaders must take the lead in creating community policing initiatives. These initiatives could involve neighbourhood watch programs, where residents keep an eye on each other’s properties and report suspicious activities to the authorities. Traditional institutions, such as the Alaafin of Oyo, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Okere of Saki, Aseyin of Iseyin, and Eleyinpo of Ipapo among others, can play a pivotal role in ensuring peace by rallying their communities around shared goals of safety and prosperity.

By promoting collaboration between local communities and law enforcement, Oyo can create a more robust and agile security apparatus that is tailored to the local context. With neighbourhood security programs and a greater emphasis on inter-communal cooperation, Oyo can make its communities safer, providing a solid foundation for the industries that will drive its economic future.

Modernizing Security Infrastructure for Industrialisation

While traditional forms of community policing are essential, modernising Oyo’s security infrastructure is equally important. Investing in modern security technologies is no longer optional. The government must build smart cities that use the latest security innovations – CCTV surveillance, automated alarm systems, drones and even surveillance aircraft – to monitor potential threats and ensure the safety of industrial zones, farms, forest reserves, water bodies, mines, border communities, major parks and transport corridors.

Moreover, cybersecurity is becoming increasingly crucial. As Oyo embraces digital technologies, including e-commerce, fintech, and industrial automation, it will need robust cybersecurity frameworks to protect sensitive data and digital infrastructure. Companies won’t want to invest in Oyo if they fear their intellectual property or financial data could be compromised. Just as Singapore has invested heavily in its technological infrastructure, Oyo must prioritize the digital security that will be the backbone of its thriving, modern industries.

Enhancing Collaboration between Government, Private Sector, and Security Agencies

For security to be effective, all stakeholders must work together. The Oyo State government, private sector, and security agencies must collaborate closely to design and implement solutions that meet the needs of industries and communities.

Take, for instance, the idea of creating Special Economic Zones (SEZs) within Oyo State such as Ilu-tuntun in Akinyele Local Government, where businesses can operate in a secure and controlled environment. Not forgetting the Moniya Dry Port and Railway station as a major transport and business gateway to Oyo State. The government could partner with private security firms to create a highly secure area, thus allowing companies to focus on manufacturing, R&D, and other industrial activities without constant concerns over theft, vandalism, or violence. This kind of private-public collaboration has worked wonders in places like Shenzhen, China, and Dubai, where zones of industrial growth have been highly secure, fostering rapid economic growth.

In Oyo, such SEZs could attract both local and international investors by guaranteeing that their investments are well protected. The presence of dedicated security forces such as Amotekun, including trained personnel for industrial security, would offer an additional layer of protection to businesses, ensuring that workers and business owners feel secure in their operations.

Using Technology to Boost Security

Oyo State should explore the use of technology-driven security solutions. Modern-day security challenges require tech-savvy solutions. Smart surveillance systems, aircraft and drones for patrols, AI-powered crime prediction systems, and even the use of blockchain technology for transaction verification are all possibilities for a state looking to ensure that security and industrialisation move in tandem.

Blockchain, for example, can be used to ensure transparency in land transactions, reducing the incidence of fraud and illegal land grabbing – one of the most common problems hindering investment in developing economies.

Furthermore, investing in safe, reliable transportation networks is key. Roads, railways, and logistics hubs should be heavily monitored to prevent attacks or theft of goods in transit. While the federal government is responsible for some of these infrastructures, Oyo State has the opportunity to establish its own independent and secure transportation networks for local industries. This was echoed by the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade when he called for surveillance between Fiditi and Oyo Town, whilst appreciating His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde for the security technology infrastructure already installed up to a point on that same corridor. This would not only encourage investment but also promote domestic trade and the growth of local businesses.

Call to Action: Securing Oyo’s Industrial Future

Security is not just the responsibility of the government or law enforcement; it is everyone’s responsibility. If Oyo is to industrialise and thrive, we must all play our part in making our state safer. As citizens, we must:

– Support community security initiatives by volunteering or participating in neighborhood watch programs.
– Collaborate with law enforcement to report suspicious activities and ensure the security of our neighborhoods, farms, and industries.
– Invest in personal and corporate security measures, such as insurance, cyber protections, and physical security systems.
– Advocate for better security policies that prioritize the safety of businesses, employees, and infrastructure.

It’s time for Oyo State to be a beacon of safety and stability in Nigeria, attracting investors, businesses, and industries. When Oyo is secure, the industries will come, and industrialisation will flourish.

In the next edition, we’ll explore how Oyo can leverage its unique cultural and tourism assets to drive economic growth and attract international attention. Stay tuned!

Amofin Beulah Adeoye