Amid warm handshakes, shared memories and renewed optimism, the Business Club Ikeja (BCI) marked a defining moment in its history as it celebrated 30 years of existence with a New Year Get-Together that blended celebration with purpose.
Held at the BCI Club House on Hakeem Balogun Street, Alausa, Ikeja, the milestone event brought together business leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders, all united by a shared belief in the power of collaboration, resilience and community-driven growth in Nigeria’s challenging business environment.
Three Decades of Business Fellowship and Impact
The celebration, which doubled as BCI’s 2026 New Year Get-Together, reflected three decades of the club’s commitment to business excellence, social interaction and policy-relevant dialogue.
Established in 1991 and formally registered as a legal entity in 1996, Business Club Ikeja has evolved from modest beginnings when meetings were held in members’ offices, into a structured institution with a permanent clubhouse and a growing influence in Lagos’ business ecosystem.
President Adesola Falaiye Sets the Tone
In her welcome address, Dr. Adesola Falaiye, President of Business Club Ikeja, described the occasion as a moment to pause, reflect and give thanks rather than engage in lengthy speeches.
She noted that the convergence of a new year and a 30-year milestone symbolised both endurance and opportunity.
According to her, the anniversary theme, “New Year, New Heights,” served as both a declaration of resilience and an invitation to aim higher despite economic uncertainty and shifting market realities.
Dr. Falaiye highlighted how BCI has thrived on partnership rather than titles, on trust rather than structures alone, stressing that the club’s strength lies in its people and shared values.
She charged members to commit to taking the club to new heights of .
relevance, advocacy, mentorship and impact, ensuring that the next generation inherits a living, dynamic institution rather than a static legacy.
Resilience as a Defining Value
Responding to questions on the significance of the milestone, Dr. Falaiye described the 30-year journey as a testament to excellence, perseverance, hope and the power of community.
She explained that the fellowship within BCI has sustained members through shared challenges and victories, often providing the encouragement needed to remain standing when businesses face uncertainty.
On the future, she expressed optimism that improved economic stability, including better predictability in foreign exchange, would allow businesses to plan more effectively and pursue growth with renewed confidence.
Board of Trustees Reflects on Rebuilding Momentum
Speaking from the perspective of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Bamidele Makanjuola, noted that while the club survived difficult periods, including the COVID-19 era, renewed efforts are underway to restore it to its original lofty vision.
He recalled that BCI was established to rival elite business clubs such as the Metropolitan Club and noted that the current leadership is taking deliberate steps to revive those founding aspirations.
Dr. Makanjuola also challenged companies within Ikeja, Ilupeju and Papa Ajao business districts to return to the fold, expressing confidence that the club is on the right path toward renewed growth.
Planning Committee Emphasises Member Value
Also speaking, Funmi Olonilua Okougbo, Co-Chairman of the Planning Committee, described the 30-year journey as remarkable within Nigeria’s complex business environment.
She outlined the tangible benefits of BCI membership, including social interaction, business development opportunities, mentorship from experienced members and expanded business networks.
Okougbo acknowledged past communication gaps with old members but noted that deliberate steps are now being taken to reconnect and rebuild those relationships.
Club Secretary Highlights Structure and Continuity
For Lekan Alabi, Honorary Secretary of Business Club Ikeja said the anniversary underscored the importance of structure, leadership and continuity.
Having joined the club in 2017, Alabi described BCI as a platform built on collaboration, bringing businesses together to create a thriving commercial environment.
He acknowledged challenges in sustaining active membership, particularly as individuals change jobs or relocate, but expressed confidence that the club possesses the capacity to overcome these hurdles.
Vice President Reaffirms Founding Objectives
The Honourable Vice President of BCI, Ismail Akintunde, said the club’s ability to reach 30 years reflects resilience in a demanding business climate.
He reaffirmed that the founding objective of creating synergy among member organisations remains intact, noting that the current administration is focused on expanding membership and strengthening capacity-building initiatives.
Akintunde highlighted regular training programmes, monthly lecture series and members’ evenings as key benefits available to both existing and prospective members.
Industry Voices Applaud Collaborative Value
Among award recipients, Pharm. Ade Popoola, Group Managing Director of Reals Pharmaceutical Limited, described BCI as a melting pot for CEOs seeking peer-level engagement and practical problem-solving.
He noted that shared challenges ranging from foreign exchange to customs issues are better addressed collectively, adding that BCI’s emphasis on capacity building has helped businesses sustain leadership and operational resilience.
Popoola received a Consistency Award, recognising his long-standing engagement and contribution to the club.
Ambassador Kola Aderibigbe Charges Members to Aim Higher
Delivering his presentation as one of the speakers, Ambassador Kola Aderibigbe, Managing Director and CEO of KSP Shipping and Logistics Limited and Vice President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), urged BCI members to see the anniversary as a starting point rather than a resting point.
Drawing parallels with LCCI’s 138-year history, he challenged the club to embrace proactivity, capacity development, positive mindset, persistence and personal leadership.
According to him, preparation, positioning and collaboration are critical to unlocking future opportunities, stressing that success emerges when preparation meets opportunity.
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Honouring Legacy and Celebrating the Future
The celebration also featured award recognitions for past presidents, including Late Ambassador (Dr.) Christopher Kolade (CON), Late Chief Fred Okunola, Chief Samuel Bolarinde, Tajudeen Akande, among others, acknowledging their roles in building the foundation upon which the club stands today.
A Symbolic High Point
The high point of the evening was the cutting of the gigantic 30th anniversary cake, led by the President alongside members, trustees and past leaders.
It was a moment filled with pride, reflection and renewed commitment, as members expressed optimism about a stronger, more inclusive and forward-looking future for Business Club Ikeja.
As the club steps into a new year and a new chapter, one message resonated clearly across the hall and that was, that the journey continues, and the climb is far from over.
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