Reported By The Qoheleth
Nigerian Books of Record (NBR) inducted some distinguished Nigerians into her Hall of Fame. The ceremony, which took place on December 12, 2024 at Adire Hall, Aafin Ake, Abeokuta, celebrated the remarkable contributions of such distinguished leaders. They include Oba (Dr) Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR; the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Otunba (Dr) Adebola Ismail Akindele; the CEO of Courteville Business Solutions PLC, Alhaji Adewale Sonaike; the Group Deputy Managing Director of Courteville Business Solutions PLC, and Dr. Muiz Adeyemi Banire, SAN, a renowned lawyer, lecturer, and former Lagos State Commissioner.
This prestigious honor celebrates the remarkable achievements of individuals who have significantly contributed to nation-building and societal development.
The Nigerian Books of Record (Who’s Who in Nigeria) is the first Nigerian encyclopedia that showcases outstanding achievements and records set by Nigerians in various fields. Established in 2011, it aims to promote excellence, innovation, and patriotism among Nigerians, while also projecting the country’s positive image globally.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Nigerian Books of Record Research Centre, Abuja, Prof. David David, highlighted the organization’s mission to document and honor notable Nigerian achievements. He noted that the NBR recognizes individuals who have made significant impacts in fields such as literature, education, business, and sports, among others.
“The Nigerian Books of Record is not just about celebrating achievements; it is about inspiring future generations. By showcasing extraordinary accomplishments, we instill a sense of ambition, possibility, and national pride among young Nigerians,” Prof David emphasized.
He further stated that the induction of the distinguished Nigerians into the Nigerian Books of Record reinforces the organization’s commitment to promoting excellence, innovation, and patriotism among Nigerians. Their recognition serves as an inspiration to Nigerians and the global community, promoting excellence, innovation, and patriotism.
Prof. David reiterated the importance of the NBR in promoting a unified national identity, showcasing Nigeria’s diverse heritage, and countering negative stereotypes about Nigerians on the global stage. He also highlighted the NBR’s role in preserving historical accounts and motivating individuals to strive for excellence.
The ceremony also included the presentation of the Nigerian Books of Record Fellowship Award to the inductees in recognition of their exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s cultural, economic, and intellectual development. Here are the profiles of the inductees.
Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, Okukenu IV, was born at Ake, Abeokuta on 14th September, 1943 to late Omo’ba Adesanya Osolake Gbadebo, one of the sons of Oba Gbadebo 1, the 6th Alake who reigned from 1898 to 1920 in Abeokuta. The Gbadebo family is a branch of Okukenu family Laarun Ruling House.
As a young boy, Omo’ba Adedotun Gbadebo was enrolled as a pupil at St. Augustine’s Roman Catholic Mission (RCM) School, Itesi, Abeokuta and had his Secondary Education at the famous Baptist Boys’ High School (BBHS), Oke-Egunya, Abeokuta and his Higher School Certificate course at the Ibadan Grammar School.
The Alake proceeded to the Premier University in Nigeria, University of Ibadan in 1965 where he successfully graduated and bagged Bachelor of Arts (B.A. Hons.) degree in 1969. He was commissioned a full Lieutenant in the Nigerian Army on 15th December, 1969. To further satisfy his educational thirst, he successfully underwent a full time Post-Graduate Diploma in Education at the University of Ibadan, from September 1974 to June 1975 an Army sponsorship. He attended the Command and Staff College, Jaji, Nigeria from September 1978 to August 1979 and passed out in flying colours obtaining the Psc. He was retained in the Staff College as a Directing Staff for the next 2 years. During his brilliant military career, he paid study tours to the United Kingdom Staff Colleges in 1979.
He won various medals including the National Service Medal (NSM), Defence Service Medal (DSM) and Forces Service Star (FSS), among others. The military service of sixteen years ended on a very challenging stint as Principal Staff Officer to the Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Dodan Barracks Major General Tunde ldiagbon from January 1984 to September 1985.
On 12th April, 1971, he got married to Tokunbo Odunjo, now Olori Dr. (Mrs.) T. Gbadebo, daughter of late Pa .E. Odunjo, a renowned Yoruba Literature author and Asiwaju of Egbaland and late Mrs. Emmanuela Olabosipo Odunjo, lyalode of lbarapa. The marriage is blessed with four sons and many grandchildren.
Otunba (Dr) Adebola Ismail Akindele FCA, DBA is a visionary business leader, renowned for his exceptional leadership skills, innovative thinking, and commitment to excellence. With over 35 years of experience in various roles, he has established himself as a leading authority in business strategy, process re-engineering, and financial control.
As the founder and CEO of Courteville Business Solutions Plc (CBS), Dr. Akindele has led the company to achieve remarkable success, including a 50% year-on-year balance sheet and revenue growth. Under his leadership, CBS has become a world-class organization, listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and focused on process re-engineering in both the public and private sectors.
Dr. Akindele’s impressive track record is marked by numerous achievements, including the development of innovative business models, establishment of strategic partnerships, and creation of new revenue streams. His expertise in auditing, accounting, compliance, and control has been instrumental in driving business growth and improvement.
A highly respected thought leader, Dr. Akindele has received numerous awards and recognition for his contributions to business and society. Some of his notable awards include the Nigeria Technology Lifetime Achievement Award, the Prestige Excellence Award, and the Pan-African Outstanding Man of Integrity and Personality of the Year Award.
In addition to his business accomplishments, Dr. Akindele is a committed philanthropist, supporting various initiatives in education, healthcare, and youth development. He has sponsored several community projects, including the Lagos State Grassroot Soccer Association’s Under 15 Boys and Girls Bola Akindele Cup and the Eko Youth Bola Akindele Annual STEM Quiz Contest.
Dr. Akindele’s academic credentials are equally impressive, with a Doctorate of Business Administration from the International School of Management, Paris, a Master’s degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Lagos, and a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the University of Ife.
He is a fellow of several professional bodies.
Alhaji Adewale Sonaike is a distinguished business leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist with over three decades of professional experience. His expertise spans marketing, banking, and business development, with a proven track record of driving growth, innovation, and excellence.
As the Group Deputy Managing Director of Courteville Business Solutions PLC, Alhaji Sonaike has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and driving its growth. His leadership has been instrumental in the development and implementation of the AutoReg business solution, which has revolutionized motor vehicle administration and documentation in Nigeria.
Alhaji Sonaike’s academic credentials are impressive, with a Bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance from Olabisi Onabanjo University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Ambrose Alli University. He has also attended numerous management courses and training programs, including those at the prestigious Lagos Business School and London Business School.
A fellow of several professional bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, the Chartered Management Accountants of Nigeria, and the Institute of Credit Administration, Alhaji Sonaike is a highly respected figure in the business community. He is also a member of the Institute of Directors of Nigeria and the World Business Forum.
Throughout his career, Alhaji Sonaike has demonstrated a strong commitment to philanthropy and community development. He has supported various initiatives in education, healthcare, and youth development, and has served as a mentor to many young professionals.
Alhaji Sonaike’s leadership and entrepreneurial skills have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. He has been a guest speaker at various events and conferences, sharing his insights and expertise on e-commerce, entrepreneurship, leadership, technology, and business strategies.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Alhaji Sonaike is a devoted family man and a respected member of his community. He holds the Islamic title of Asiwaju Musulumi of Odogbolu
Dr Muiz Adeyemi Bamire, SAN, born on the 6th day of October 1966 to the family of late Aliu and Alhaja Sarat Banire, is a lawyer, lecturer and political technocrat. Muiz started out on the journey to building a worthy career in 1970 at the Lousa Soares Nursery School in Mushin. He completed his primary education at St. Jude’s Primary School, Mushin, from where, in 1977, he obtained the first school leaving certificate.
The famed teaching and discipline culture of the Archbishop Aggrey Memorial Secondary School, Mushin, prepared him for the challenges of the future that Providence had in stock for him. Not only did he demonstrate personal traits of intelligence and love for hard work, he also showed promising qualities all of which culminated in a resounding success in his school certificate examination.
After a year sojourn at the Federal School of Arts and Science, Victoria Island, Dr. M. A. Banire proceeded to the University of Ilorin where his career training as a lawyer began in 1984. From the University of Ilorin, he transferred in 1986 to the University of Lagos where he completed his law education at the undergraduate level in 1988 under the tutelage of erudite academicians like the late Professors J. A. Omotola and Adeogun.
After his training at the Nigerian Law School in 1989 in the course of which he did his Chamber’s attachment at Gani Fawehinmi Chambers, he was called to the Nigerian Bar.
After his youth service in the Legal Aid Council, Abeokuta, Muiz, who had always been very comfortable within the alluring walls of the intellectual community, returned to the University of Lagos for a Master’s degree (LLM) between 1990 and 1991 during which time he was simultaneously working as counsel with Seun Akinbiyi and Co. Upon completion of his LL.M programme, he co-founded a firm of solicitors as Principal Partner in the firm of Akinbiyi, Banire & Co.
His teaching career commenced when he joined the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos in November, 1991, where he rose through the rank of Assistant Lecturer in 1992, to a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Private and Property Law, in 1999. He has published many legal articles in local and international journals on a variety of issues and areas of law among which are property law, human rights, arbitration and democratic governance. One of his articles paved the way for the restructuring of the registration process in the Lagos State Lands Registry, and re-ordering of the State’s Certificate of Occupancy.
His book, the Nigerian Law of Trusts, published by Excel Publications in 2002 remains one of the most comprehensive basic texts on the subject in Nigeria. Muiz is also a co-author of other books.
Banire, on a leave of absence from the University of Lagos and his law firm, M. A. Banire & Associates, has served in Lagos State government in varying capacities at different times with portfolios being Special Adviser on Political and Legislative Matters, Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties, the Honourable Commissioner in the Ministry of Transportation, and the Honourable Commissioner for the Environment.
Muiz is a member of Chartered Institute of Arbitrators London; Fellow, Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria; Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Management; Member, Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators; Member, Nigerian Universities Network Management Committee; Member, Editorial Committee of Nigerian Journal of Contemporary Law; Member, Editorial Committee of International and Comparative Journal of Peace and Environment; Member, Nigeria Bar Association and the International Bar Association etc. He is also a Registered Foreign Lawyer with the Law Society of England.
He has more than 30 awards to his credit including the prestigious title MAN OF THE YEAR-2004 conferred on him by the Governing Board of Editors of the American Biographical Institute, Inc.
Dr. Muiz Banire, in his capacity as the Honorable Commissioner for Transportation bore the responsibility of ensuring smooth transportation of goods and commuters in Lagos State, the economic nerve centre of the nation – Nigeria, which has an estimated population of about 15 million people. Both admirers and critics of the administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu are unanimous that this young man discharged his official responsibilities with absolute commitment and single-minded devotion.
As the Commissioner for Transportation, he oversaw the re-organization and development of all modes of transportation including rail, road and water transportation. He was party to the emergence of the much-appreciated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), a mode of mass transit system designed to cope with the ever-dynamic population of Lagos State.
On road transportation, Banire introduced a lot of reforms, policies and programmes geared towards restoring sanity to the chaotic road transportation inherited by the erstwhile Administration of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. Among them is the enforcement of rules on driving against the flow of traffic, re–introduction of the Bus – Routing system to check the use of commercial vehicles for criminal activities, instilling road discipline among all categories of road users, decongestion of traffic situation in Lagos and ensuring even distribution of commercial vehicles in all parts of the state. Majorly, the creation of LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Authority) was his brainchild.
Furthermore, he has to his credit the provision and reactivation of transport infrastructures, which substantially improved traffic flow and principally checked indiscipline on the part of motorists. Some of these infrastructures include the provision of Traffic Signal Lights at various intersections in the metropolis, lane marking of major roads, construction of lay-bys, construction of median barriers, modification of roundabouts, rehabilitation of bus shelters, construction of crash prevention guidance signs, construction of pedestrian barriers, solar safety lights and bus lanes amongst others in different locations in the state. He also succeeded in bringing private sector participants into the commuter bus operations in the State in order to sanitize the trade.
In addition, the Lagos State Ferry Services, which was lying prostrate at the inception of the former administration, received a new breath of life. It is to the credit of Dr. Muiz Banire that eight ferry boats were rehabilitated and operated to complement road transportation. The involvement of the private sector in running ferry services, which was facilitated by him, brought healthy rivalry and competition to the sector.
This amiable young man recognized the importance of public enlightenment and education in governance in a largely illiterate society like ours. Campaign for attitudinal change he believed would yield more result than force, hence both the print and electronic media were used effectively in his crusade for better traffic and transportation in Lagos State and later in his herculean task of sanitizing Lagos and making it more conducive for human existence.
This young man is definitely an enigma!
At the twilight of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, many Lagosians were uncomfortable and apprehensive that a person like Banire might not be available for public service upon the advent of a new administration. It was, therefore, to a very big relief of many when the administration of Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) appointed him the Commissioner for the Environment. Lagos had a fresh breath and was the better for it.
Heaps of refuse in many places disappeared. Blocked canals flowed freely. Lagos roads and environment wore new looks as Banire introduced new and civilized means of preserving the environment on a daily basis. The first term of Fashola’s administration represented a continuation of good governance as towering figures like Banire displayed brilliant score cards while Banire became the nemesis of many whose lives represented dirt and filth in different proportions!
On Banire’s scorecard were recorded the following: substantial elimination of flooding, beautification of Lagos, creation of green economy, unprecedented crusade against climate change, abatement of indiscriminate dumping of refuse, re-fleeting of old waste dispersal trucks, reduction of noise pollution in the environment, resuscitation of waste treatment plants, empowerment of people/job creation through rehabilitation of many area boys and social miscreants who were meaningfully engaged. And there was huge reduction in crime.
Due to his active legal practice and his contribution to the legal profession, he was conferred with the Rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2015. He became a member of the Body of Benchers in 2017 and he became a life bencher shortly afterwards. He became a member of the National Judicial Council in 2017. He was a former Chairman of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria. He was a member of the Constitutional Review Committee in 2017.
In 2022, he was given a National Award of the Officer of the Order of Niger (OON).
He is currently the Pro-chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Fountain University, Osogbo, Osun State.
Muiz is married to Alhaja ‘Funmi Banire with the marriage blessed with four children, namely, Muiz (Jnr), Mardyat, Malik and Maryam.
The Nigeria Book of Records induction ceremony, hosted in collaboration with The Sixth Sense Initiative, brought together dignitaries, stakeholders, and cultural enthusiasts. The Nigerian Books of Record, a publication showcasing Nigeria’s outstanding achievements, profiles the inductees’ careers and legacies in its encyclopedia. This initiative serves as a research resource for embassies, foreign missions, and international institutions.
