Last weekend, Michael Owolabi Afolaranmi feted the creme of high society to an unforgettable night of music, laughter, dance, good food, canapes and e
Last weekend, Michael Owolabi Afolaranmi feted the creme of high society to an unforgettable night of music, laughter, dance, good food, canapes and exotic wines and spirits.
It was in celebration of attaining the milestone age of 50.
Although the party which took place at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Ikeja, kicked off to a late start due to circumstances beyond his control, guests who came from far and near, most of who adhered to the black and gold colour code, were more than willing to stick around to ensure that it was a memorable evening for the celebrant.
Steering proceedings at the party was comedian cum master of ceremony, Ajele Adeyemi more popularly known as MC Ajele. With him, there was no dull moment as he kept guests entertained, reeling out just the right jokes and innuendos from his repertoire. He was ably supported by his senior colleague, Gbenga Adeyinka who despite being a guest, was gracious enough to lend his professional touch to the party while lighting up the atmosphere in the hall with his rib cracking jokes and nuances.
One of the highlights of the party was the best dressed competition amongst the male and female guests. While the joint winners of the best dressed male went home with N300,000, the winner of the best dressed female, a voluptuous and beautiful businesswoman named Kofoworola Awoyera went home with N1 million.
Another highlight of the party were the speeches by friends and family, which were a testament to Michael’s inspiring journey and enduring legacy.
Besides the dance performances at various stages of the party, Sharp Band was the music band of choice to complement the efforts of the deejay, offering a seamless blend of gospel, trending beats, oldies music and traditional songs which got guests dancing to their hearts’ delight.
The celebrant moved by the outpouring of love from his guests, expressed profound gratitude to all present including his family, friends, and supporters for walking the journey with him, while reaffirming his commitment to youth empowerment, cultural promotion, and national development.
Michael whose fame came from running 12 baskets foods, a finger food business which he started at the turn of the millennium, 2002 to be precise, long before small chops became a staple at Nigerian parties, can be rightly described as a man whose journey from modest beginnings, rising to the pinnacle of African entrepreneurship, achieving the Nigerian dream, is worth emulating.
Michael has indeed done well for himself, starting out from a very small outlet and expanding with various outlets across Lagos and Abuja while co ordinating the affairs of his empire from a befitting headquarters in Lekki, Lagos.
In addition to just the finger foods, his brand has expanded its offerings to include cocktail drinks, indoor and outdoor grills, provision of ushers to wait on guests and even a dee jay too.
With over 100 gainfully employed staff, he has not only empowered countless youths who now make a living from small chops, he has redefined the business in Africa and has grown to become a respected voice in it.
Michael’s 50th birthday celebration was not just a gathering, it was a national spectacle, a gathering of greatness, and a testament to a legacy that continues to grow.
His family
