Spotlight
Dr Obadare Adewale, Emerges Forbes Best of Africa Outstanding Digital Trust Leader 2023
BY: SANDRA ANI


A Nigerian, Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale, Co-founder/Chief Visionary Officer (CVO), Digital Encode Limited, has emerged as Forbes Best of Africa Outstanding Digital Trust Leader of the Year 2023.
The award is another testament to Dr. Obadare, a well-recognized subject matter expert with numerous successful engagements to his credit in Africa.
A letter of notification of his nomination, signed by Mark Furlong, President, Custom Solutions Media, for Forbes Media, reads: “Through its awards, Forbes acknowledges and celebrates Dr. Obadare as among exemplary leaders, top businessmen, political leaders and dynamic personalities with records for far-reaching impacts and positive contributions to the development of their respective countries, sectors and industries”.


“Forbes wishes to commend your work as the co-founder and chief visionary officer (CVO), Digital Encode Ltd, a reputable company with successes around the globe”, Furlong wrote.
Dr. Obadare was honoured with the prestigious award at the Waldorf Hilton Hotel, London, United Kingdom on the 18th of July, 2023, during the FIN/Forbes Best of Africa Awards Reception.
The ceremony was graced by dozens of the business community leaders, policy makers, entrepreneurs, politicians, opinion leaders, the media, Forbes’ partners and international investors.
Speaking shortly after receiving the Forbes Best of Africa Outstanding Digital Trust Leader of the Year 2023, Dr. Obadare commented that, it was one of the best experiences of his professional career.
In his words: “I am truly honored and exhilarated to receive this award. It is truly one of the best experiences in my professional career.
“It is a great privilege that Forbes nominated me for this honour. My utmost respect goes to my family, whose encouragement has enabled me to go all the way.”
“The most profound recognition goes to the entire Digital Encode team for their collaboration over the years.
“I am delighted to have received such recognition. I believe this award will further boost Digital Encode vision of becoming the next Cybersecurity Unicorn”.
Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale is a seasoned Multi-Award Cybersecurity & GRC expert with over 56 (Fifty-Six) international professional certifications to his credit, Master of Science in Cybersecurity, Liverpool Unversity, UK, and was awarded Honorarary Doctorate Degree in Cybersecurity from Trinity International University of Ambassadors Atlanta Georgia, United State of America.
He is arguably the most “Credentialed” PAN-African Digital Trust Leader, CyberSecurity Strategist, GRC Thought Leader & Global Technopreneur. A Fellow British Computer Society (FBCS), Fellow Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), Fellow Institute of Information Management (FIIM), Fellow Enterprise Security Risk Management (FESRM), Fellow Institute of Brand Management (FIBM), Chartered Information Technology Professional (CITP -UK), the First PECB Certified Data Protection Officer (CDPO) in Nigeria, the First PECB Lead Pentest Professional in Nigeria, First Global PECB Certified Digital Transformation Officer (CDTO), the First Ec-Council Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT) in Africa , First Ec-Council Certified Blockchain Professional in Africa, Second COBIT 5 Certified Assessor in Africa, Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard Qualified Security Assessor (PCI DSS QSA), Forbes Technology Council Official Member.
Peter is a well recognized subject matter expert with numerous successful engagements to his credit in Africa. His skills and experience spans Data Privacy, Data Protection, CyberSecurity, Information Security, Vulnerability Management, Penetration Testing, Computer Forensics, Business Continuity, I T Governance, Risk Management and Compliance.
He is a Platinum Team Member of Open-Source Security Testing Methodology Manual (OSSTMM), as well a Senior Member Of Risk Managers Association of Nigeria (RIMAN).
He is an alumnus of FATE Foundation and US Department of State Exchange program.
He is also a distinguished alumnus of executive education at Harvard Business School, Harvard School of Government, MIT Sloan School of Management, MIT Professional Education and Oxford University – Said Business School, amongst other laurels.
Spotlight
From Humble Roots To Heroic Heights: A Celebration Of Chief Richard Ikpe’s Life Of Purpose
Writer: ROMMY IMAH


“The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” – Bob Marley
Sunday, July 20, 2025, was not just another birthday, it was a grand testimony to a life well-lived, a journey of impact, and a legacy still unfolding. The occasion marked the birthday of a distinguished son of Umukparo Mbala Isuochi, a man whose name evokes admiration and reverence: Chief (Sir) Richard Ikpe, KJW, Nwazuoro Oha 1 of Isuochi.
In an era where selflessness is scarce and true leadership is defined by service, Chief Ikpe stands tall as an embodiment of philanthropy, excellence, humility, and tireless community spirit.
From modest beginnings, he has risen through the ranks to become a business magnate, a committed mentor, and a pillar of his community. Yet, through it all, he has worn his achievements with a humility that only true greatness can afford.
Like Muhammad Ali would say, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”
Chief Ikpe’s life is a shining reflection of this eternal truth. Known far and wide as Nwazuoro Oha 1, a chieftaincy title conferred upon him at a relatively young age in recognition of his extraordinary kindness and service to humanity, he has indeed lived up to that name, the one who gives freely to the multitude. It is not just a title; it is his very essence. Whether in times of joy or distress, he is the first to show up, to give, to support, to build, to counsel.
An uncommon philanthropist, Chief Ikpe does not give for applause or prestige; he gives because it is in his nature to uplift others. Scores of men and women, once struggling to find their feet, are today standing tall in their various vocations because Chief Ikpe believed in them, invested in them, and mentored them, quietly, deliberately, and effectively. They are entrepreneurs, professionals, and contributors to society today because one man decided their destiny must not be tied to poverty.
Tom Peters, a famous researcher, consultant, writer and management guru in the area of successful business management practices once said, “True leaders don’t create followers. They create more leaders.”
Indeed, leadership for Chief Richard Ikpe is not about position or pomp, it is about purpose. It is this same drive that compels him to remain deeply invested in the affairs and development of his beloved Mbala Isuochi.
From youth empowerment to infrastructure initiatives, from community health drives to educational support schemes, Chief Ikpe is ever at the forefront, mobilizing resources and galvanizing people towards a better tomorrow for Mbala and Isuochi. His love for the land of his birth is not a mere sentiment; it is an active mission.
As a Knight of John Wesley in the Methodist Church, Chief Ikpe brings his faith to bear not only in the church pews but in the marketplace, in boardrooms, and on the dusty roads of Mbala. His Christianity is not loud, but it is loud enough to be felt by the widows he has helped, the church he has helped to build, and the lives he has transformed through silent generosity. This is further corroborated by Prophet Muhammad’s statement that “A man’s true wealth is the good he does in this world.”
Nwazuoro Oha’s birthday celebration on July 20, 2025, was more than an occasion of joy. It was a festival of gratitude, a gallery of glowing tributes from family, friends, protégés, and admirers. Testimonies poured in, of school fees paid without asking, of businesses funded without conditions, of advice given in humility, of open doors and shoulders offered in times of sorrow.
What strikes everyone who encounters Chief Ikpe is his gentle strength. He is humble but firm, approachable but principled, generous but disciplined. There is a serenity about him that commands respect, and a warmth that invites you in. Even in circles of influence and affluence, he remains down-to-earth, unassuming, and always relatable.
His life story is a profound inspiration to the younger generation: that one can rise from the depths of struggle to the heights of influence, not by cutting corners, but by hard work, integrity, and compassion. He stands today as a reminder that background does not determine destiny, and that success without service is empty.
As the candles were lit and the songs were sung on his birthday, one thing became clear: Chief (Sir) Richard Ikpe is not just growing in age; he is growing in legacy. His is a life that calls others to service, to excellence, and to the higher ideals of humanity.
May his days be long, his strength be renewed, and his impact multiplied. And like someone once charged, “Let us not seek to be great, but to do great things.”
Chief Ikpe, Nwazuoro Oha 1 of Isuochi, is doing great things—and the world is better for it.
Spotlight
Glo Foundation holds “Rest and Relaxation Day” for Sanitation Workers
… to train them in skills acquisition, reports SANDRA ANI


Glo Foundation, Globacom’s CSR arm, on Saturday celebrated more than 1,000 sanitation workers in Lagos State at a special event tagged, Rest and Relaxation Day, held at the headquarters of the Lagos Waste Management Authority, (LAWMA), Ijora, Olopa, Lagos.
Apart from treating the sweepers to great fun, music, games, food, and bonding activities, aimed at reducing stress and promoting the health and wellness of the workers, the Foundation also promised a four-week skills acquisition training for the workers or their dependents in bead making, barbing, fashion design, digital skills and more, to equip them with permanent vocations.
Head of Glo Foundation, Mrs. Jumobi Mofe-Damijo, explained that the Foundation decided to honour the cleaners with a Rest and Relaxation event to express gratitude to them for the important work they do daily, event at great danger to their lives on roads across the state. She noted that the effort of Glo Foundation in this regard would also extend to other states across the country so as to renew a sense of belonging among those who are doing critical jobs across the country.
“We recognize the important and thankless jobs that you do all over the state in ensuring that our roads and streets are clean every day. We recognize the hazards you face from drivers who don’t appreciate you and are at times impatient while you are by the roadside sweeping. It is the reason why we are here today to let you know how much we value you and your huge contributions to keeping Lagos clean on a continuous basis,” she added.
She also disclosed that there were empowerment and skills acquisition programmes planned for the sweepers which will be held in the following months. They include Fashion Skills (Fashion Design, jewelry making, Fabric Embellishment & Beading); Baking skills: (Basic cake and decoration, Fried and baked pastry, Bread making, soft skills and Entrepreneurship class); Digital Skills (Digital marketing, social media management, and e-commerce).
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, lauded the initiative as a well thought-out idea, to shield the workers from health risks and boost their wellness status.
According to him: “This gesture falls squarely within the frame of the THEMES+ agenda of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Administration, which prioritizes health and wellness of the people. No doubt that we are used to the culture of working round the clock, and hardly finding the time for intentional rest, during which to recuperate and rejuvenate our tired minds and bodies, to reduce stress and prevent health risks. This much needed occasional relief is at the heart of today’s event. And we thank the Glo Foundation for the kind gesture and encouragement”.
The LAWMA boss thanked the foundation for its planned skill acquisition programme for some sanitation workers, aimed at equipping them for financial stability. “As the saying goes, when you teach a man to fish, you have succeeded in feeding him for the rest of his life. That is exactly what Glo Foundation is set to achieve with that programme, and we are eternally grateful for the kind gesture”, he noted.
Some sanitation workers expressed heartfelt gratitude to Glo Foundation for organizing the event, promising to continue their diligent work to keep Lagos State clean.
“It’s been a while since I have had this much fun, I am truly grateful to LAWMA and the Glo Foundation for organizing this amazing event. I am looking forward to enjoying every moment of it,” said Iyabo Joseph.
Another sweeper, Lateefat Alabi said: “I am very happy today. I appreciate our Glo Foundation and LAWMA for this event. This will motivate me to keep doing my job diligently always”.
Other highlights of the event included dance competition, raffle draw, and gift presentation, where two sweepers won a microwave and a grinding machine, bringing joy to the winners.
In attendance were LAWMA management staff, the Bobakeye of Ijora, Iganmu & Apapa kingdom, Prince Adekemi Ojora, and several Glo Foundation officials, who engaged directly with the workers and freely shared in the fun and pageantry.
As the sun slowly set and the music wound down, there was a lingering sense of fun and humour, suggesting that the event was actually more than just a corporate gesture — it was a statement that every worker matters. It was a good opportunity for the sweepers to be celebrated and be seen beyond the orange uniforms and daily street sweeping schedules.
Spotlight
“Jesus + Nothing Worship” Leaves Lasting Impact, Amplifying the Message of Christ’s Sacrifice and Resurrection
Reporter: SANDRA ANI


The Love of God in Christ (LOGIC) Church successfully hosted its inaugural “Jesus + Nothing Worship” on Easter Friday, leaving attendees deeply moved and spiritually uplifted.
The powerful evening of gospel music served as a profound reminder of the sacrifice and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasising the core message that through a sober Friday came a Good Friday for all.




The LOGIC Church headquarters in Lekki, Lagos, was filled with an atmosphere of heartfelt worship as a phenomenal lineup of Nigeria’s leading gospel artists and emerging talents took to the stage. Award-winning ministers such as Timi Dakolo and Greatman Takit, alongside Neon Adejo, SMJ, Noble G, Steve Hills, Lily Perez, Joxie, Anderson Qozan, Pastor Victor Paul, EmekaSongz, Flo, Dorcas Moore, Magpsalms, Mera Owili, Gerald Bishung, spoken word poetry from Phebe Lion, comedy from Larry J and the wonderful Evolution Children’s Choir, delivered soul-stirring performances that resonated with the central theme of redemption through Jesus Christ.
Apostle Dr. Flourish Peters, Lead Pastor and Apostolic Head of The LOGIC Churches Global, declared the “Jesus + Nothing Worship” an impactful success and announced that it would become an annual program.
He emphasised that this worship session is intentionally focused on Jesus Christ, the message of salvation, and providing a vital platform to unveil the gospel talents within The LOGIC Church.


“‘Jesus + Nothing Worship’ has been a truly unifying experience, allowing us to collectively focus on the profound significance of Jesus’ death and the abundant life we have in His resurrection,” stated Apostle Dr. Flourish Peters. “It is our vision to create a consistent platform where the power of music can amplify the core message of the Gospel and provide an opportunity for the incredible music ministers within our church to impact lives .”
Building on the momentum of the successful 2024 “Jesus + Nothing Conference,”the ‘Jesus + Nothing Worship’ further solidified The LOGIC Church’s mission to cultivate a family centered on grace and faith, where the transformative Love of God in Christ is tangibly felt.
The impactful “Jesus + Nothing Worship” event powerfully reiterates that the resurrection stands as the very essence of the Christian faith. As Apostle Dr. Flourish Peters eloquently stated, “Without an empty grave, there is no Christian faith. Our faith is fundamentally premised on this singular, undeniable truth – the empty grave. This is what distinguishes our faith; while over 4000 religions exist, only one points to a vacated tomb. Ours is the unique faith where the very person we worship lives within us. We are truly elated that through the resounding success of ‘Jesus + Nothing Worship,’ we were able to bring christocentric worship to the masses.”