By Saeed Tijjani
The city of Ilorin witnessed a grand gathering of media practitioners, royal fathers, and dignitaries as Prince Abolarin Sharafudeen (DanSharafa) marked 20 remarkable years of excellence in the media industry.
The event also featured the launch of DeConcept Media House, a cutting-edge digital online studio and multimedia company.
The event commenced with prayers from Malam Abdul Waheed Onikaun (Muslim faithful) and Pastor Prophet Sunday Okedare, Christ the Way Gospel Mission (Christian faithful), setting the tone for a spirit-filled celebration.
Personalities who attended the colorful event included Chief Enoch Bamikole, Bale Ijara Isin; Alh Soliu Gidado, TOAN Kwara State Chairman, Olusin of Isanlu Isin represented by Asanlu Femi Awolola, ; HRM Oba Ismailia Gbadamosi Ola of Ajagunlase; HRM Oba Dr Kazeem Orioye Oyediran 2, Onigege of Igege Kingdom, Osun State; Prof Wale Sulaiman CON; Alh Abdulsalam Muroko, Seriki Tailor of Kwara State; Comr Omuiyadun Ahmed, P.A to Sen. Oyelola Ashiru; Chief Olutola Onijala, Elder Statesman; and ILORIN South and Isin Local Government Chairmen.
Mrs Ayobola Ipinlaye presented a citation of the celebrant, Prince Abolarin Sharafudeen (DanSharafa), highlighting his outstanding contributions to the media industry.
Described as a “Shining example of media Excellency” by Chief Enoch Bamikole, Bale Ijara Isin, DanSharafa’s remarkable Journey was hailed by all.
On his part, ALH. DR. ABDULFATΑΙ ADENIYI (DAN KAZEEM) commended DanSharafa on the launch, urging other communicators to be proactive and pray for more achievements for him.
Asanlu Isin praised Dan Sharafa’s credibility and commitment to excellence, while Olusin of Isanlu Isin represented by Asanlu Femi Awolola described him as a Media icon and a true professional.
In his emotional speech, Prince Abolarin Sharafudeen (DanSharafa) saluted Alhaji Abdulfatai Adeniyi (Dan Kazeem) for his contributions to his professional growth. “I started my broadcasting program from Iroyin Kayefi, and was transferred to Radio Kwara. Dan Kazeem has been my pillar since I began my career in the media.”
DanSharafa also extended his appreciation to Prof Wale Sulaiman CON for being his life changer and acknowledged the impacts of Chief Raheem Adedoyin Oloriewe towards his emergence as Kwara South Youth Development Organization (KWAYORG) President.
DanSharafa’s mother was overjoyed, taking to the stage to dance in celebration of her son’s achievement.
Representatives from various organizations attended, including Chief Press Secretary to Kwara State Governor, Mal. Rafiu Ajakaye, ably represented by Mal.Mashood Abdulrafiu Agboola (Deputy CPS to the Governor); Honourable Commissioner for Communication, Hon Bolanle Olukoju, ably represented by Dr. Fatima Amuda; Chief Raheem Adedoyin (the Oloriewe of Oro Kingdom and Board Chairman of Herald Newspaper), ably represented by Mr. Yomi Adeboye (GM Herald Newspaper); and Muhydeen Okunola Kayode (founder of MOK Foundation), ably represented by Mr. Lawal Saheed Temitope, the Executive Director, MOK Foundation.
In a bid to support the DeConcept Media House project, Senator Saliu Mustapha, represented by Hon. Alabi Abdulkareem, donated N5 Million; Prof. Wale Sulaiman CON donated $5,000; and MOK Foundation donated N400,000. Comrade Omuiyadun Ahmed, PA to Sen. Lola Ashiru, also donated 50 slots for Ireti Mekunu.
The gathering also featured presentations of awards to deserving personalities, including ALH. DR. KAMORUNDEEN YUSUF-KAM HOLDINGS LTD. (Best Employer of Labor in Kwara State); PROF. WALE SULEIMEN (CON) – President, RZN FOUNDATION (Top Performing NGO in Kwara State); COMR. AKEEM AYINLA ISHOLA – AKEEM AYINLA FOUNDATION (Top Performing NGO in Kwara State); ALH. MUHYDEEN OKUNLOLA KAYODE MOK FOUNDATION (Top Performing NGO in Kwara State); OLAIYA METAL WORKS.
More pictures from the event;
The event which had in attendance well wishers, family, stakeholders, and friends ended on a high note with Dan Sharafa extending his heartfelt appreciation to all attendees and personalities for their support and recognition.
