The Group Managing Director, Sahara Group, Dr Kola Adesina definitely pulled all the stops as he clocked 60 years on August 12, 2024.
The venue of the event, Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, was a beehive of activities as A-list Nigerians were in attendance.
Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan were some of his guests including former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo. Also in attendance were Ogun and Lagos States governors, and the African Development Bank President, Mr Akinwumi Adesina including the Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Mr Yemi Cardoso.
It was a gathering of the crème-de-la-crème of society.
According to media personality, Adebola Williams, in a write titled, ‘Kola Adesina at 60: Celebrating the subtle but effective leader’, the 60th birthday party was not meant to be a big event.
Adebola Williams wrote, “When we began planning his 60th birthday, he made it clear, he wanted a small and solemn celebration. It was unexpected, especially for a Nigerian man of his standing. Here, it is expected that at 60, a man should receive tributes and praises that massage his ego and exaggerate his achievements. But not Sir K.
He said: “I just want people to celebrate with friends and family, I just want them and also I to have fun. I want it to be a fun night. It’s not about me or my ego. It’s just a night to thank God who has made it all possible by feasting with friends.” Well, he isn’t winning that battle but that’s his desire and it shows the kind of man he is.”
Meanwhile, over six top Nigerian artistes thrilled guests at the auspicious occasion. Taking the lead was King Sunny Ade; then, Davido; Patoranking; Adewale Ayuba; Moses Bliss; Teni Entertainer; popular gospel band, Ayewa and a host of others.
A former Chairman of Egbin Power Plc and board Chairman, Ikeja Electric, Adesina must be a colossus in his trade.
To Adebola, who fondly calls him Sir K, the birthday boy is a “trusted advisor to many global leaders and captains of industry because he has earned their trust, proven his capacity and shown discretion.”
Eulogising him, Adebola opined, “I know this will upset Sir K, but I feel the occasion demands that I break the strict policy of silence he has about his philanthropy and talk about some of the many ways he has given back to his community. Sir K is a quiet doer, not concerned with optics, only impact. I will respect his embargo but I feel compelled to mention that his philanthropy encompasses infrastructural development, humanitarian work, education, access to healthcare, innovation and mentorship. There are thousands of us who are grateful beneficiaries of his limitless potential for charity.”
Not done with his revelation of Adesina, which many don’t know, Debola unveiled an aspect of Sir K that would interest you.
“Sir K is a present father to his children Oluwatimilehn, Oluwagbemisoke and Oluwafamimora, and an exemplary husband to Mosunmola, his wife. His devotion to his family and faith is only rivalled by his commitment to corporate excellence. Sir K would always say, “be nothing and God everything.’
He never jokes with his prayers at dusk nor his vigils at dawn and plays an active role in his church. Unlike many, he also worships at a local church and supports all their projects. He believes that God is everywhere, but like Elijah, he hears God best where there is less noise. With national honours to his name and global recognition, I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor.”
In the same vein, Dr Adesina’s eagle eyes for details located a bespoke stylist/clothier, Mrs Funmi Sam-Epelle who runs TrunkboxbyFunmi.
An outfit that caters for A-list clientele, her forte is sourcing luxury bespoke fabrics and also exclusive timeless pieces. Her store, located in Lagos features a large percentage of handcrafted textiles.
She recalled her meeting with Adesina while planning for the 60th birthday was ongoing.
He called and said to me, “My sister, I want you to style me and my family— immediate and extended— for my 60th.”
For me, this is a privilege to be of service to him and family members. I do not take it for granted. We did exactly what the name stands for—premium and exclusive fabrics. All glory to God,” she said.
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