Photos: Esama of Benin kicks off 80th birthday celebration

Esama of Benin, Sir Gabriel Igbinedion will turn 80
on September 11th and a month long celebration
which will stretch around three continents has
kicked off in Benin. Colourful activities to mark
his birthday started in Benin last week and today
he went to University of Ibadan for the launch of
his biography written by four professors from
University's department of History. It's said to be
the first honour of its kind by UI. From Ibadan,
the party will move to South Africa, then there's a
party in London and the US.
The Esama is said to have ordered a new wonder
ride to celebrate this milestone. See pics from
some activities that has already taken place after
the cut..
He's known for his many pioneering
achievements and vast business empire. Amongst
his pioneering achievements are:
1) First to set up an auto assembly plant in
Nigeria with the company he founded, Mid Motors
2) First to set up a private Airline in Nigeria,
Okada Air which at its height had over 40 aircraft
including the world's largest passenger plane at
the time, the Boeing 747. Okada was also the
largest private airline in Africa at the time.
3) First to set up a private university in Nigeria,
Igbinedion University, Okada Town.
He's also known for his many philanthropic
contributions and organizations set up by him.
In recognition of his Numerous achievements he
was twice honoured with high national awards by
the President, namely Commander order of the
Niger, and Commander of the Federal Republic.
(CON & CFR)