Feature/OPED
CJN: All You Need To Know About Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun

Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun is a serving Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. She is the 5th and youngest female to be appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. This article examines the early life, education, and notable achievements of Justice K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun.
Justice Kekere-Ekun was born in London, the United Kingdom on May 7, 1958. Her parents were both indigenes of Lagos State, Nigeria. She is the eldest of 11 siblings from both parents. Her father, Senator H.A.B. Fasinro, OFR, LL.D, was a fervent Muslim and a very dedicated family man of noble lineage. He belonged to at least three royal families in Lagos. He was a legal practitioner and very active in politics. Throughout his career, he worked for many years as a Crown Counsel in the old Western Region of Nigeria. He also became the Town Clerk of Lagos City Council (similar to being the Mayor of Lagos).
In 1975, at the age of 56 years, he retired voluntarily from the civil service. He subsequently became a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1983. His tenure was, however, brought to an abrupt end with the overthrow of the Alhaji Shehu Shagari-led civilian government in a military coup in December 1983 by Mr Muhammadu Buhari. He was also an author. He died at the age of 99 on March 31, 2019.
Her mother, Mrs Winifred Layiwola Ogundimu (née Savage), is a devout Christian. She studied nursing in the UK, where she qualified as a Public Health Nurse before returning to Nigeria in December 1965.
Upon her return to Nigeria, she built her career in the civil service of Lagos State and retired years later, at the age of 60. Mrs Ogundimu is currently the head of a large and prominent Lagos family, the Savage Family.
Senator Fasinro and Mrs Ogundimu both remarried when K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun was still young. K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun grew up in a polygamous home with her father, stepmothers, siblings, and other relations. One of her stepmothers, who greatly influenced her life, was a teacher. She was brought up in an extremely strict and disciplined environment at home, where she was taught lasting values such as hard work, integrity, contentment, and the ability to get on with most people and to cope with most situations. It was always a full house with extended family and other school children spending their holidays, to earn extra tutoring and a disciplined upbringing.
K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun was privileged with quality education. She attended private primary schools before proceeding in 1970 to Queen’s College, Lagos, which was the best Federal Government College for girls in the country at the time. She studied Law at the University of Lagos, Nigeria, from 1977 to 1980 and obtained her LL.B in 1980.
Following this, she attended the Nigerian Law School from 1980 to 1981 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in July 1981. From 1981 to 1982, she was engaged in the compulsory National Youth Service at the Ministry of Justice, Benin City, Bendel State (now Edo State).
Afterwards, she proceeded to the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) where she obtained a master’s degree in law in 1983.
After qualifying as a lawyer and obtaining a master’s degree in law from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), she worked in private law practice for a few years. As a result of the toll of the demands of private practice on her domestic responsibilities, she decided to join the bench to be able to enjoy more predictable work hours. She applied and was appointed by the Lagos State Judiciary as a Senior Magistrate Grade II in December 1989. This marked the beginning of her career on the bench. She was subsequently appointed a Judge of the High Court of Lagos State on July 19, 1996.
In September 2004, she was elevated to the Court of Appeal. As a Justice of the Court of Appeal, she served in five different Divisions across the country. She was the pioneer Presiding Justice of the Makurdi Division of the Court of Appeal, and also served as the Presiding Justice of the Akure Division of the Court of Appeal before her elevation to the Supreme Court on July 8, 2013. She is currently a member of the Supreme Court Rules Committee and Chairman of the Supervisory Committee of the Litigation Department of the Court.
K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun served as Chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal, Zone II, Ikeja, Lagos, from November 1996 till May 1999, when the Tribunals were abolished. The constitution of the Tribunal included one police officer and one military officer. In the process, the Police officer gained significant insight into the requirements for conducting effective criminal investigations and prosecutions. He was subsequently posted to the Police College (where recruits are trained) as a lecturer and was able to share a lot of what he had learned from his participation in the tribunal hearings.
In recognition of her reputation for integrity and hard work, she was one of 3 Judges of the Lagos State High Court first selected to try offenses relating to financial crimes and money laundering under the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Establishment Act, 2004 and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
Furthermore, in 2003, K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun served as a member of the Ethics Curriculum Planning Committee of the National Centre for State Courts (NCSC), in collaboration with the Department for International Development (DFID) and UNODC. This committee produced the Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees. She also chaired the Public Complaints and Training Committee that was part of the UNODC pilot project on strengthening judicial integrity and capacity in Lagos State. This was from February 2003 till July 2004.
The Public Complaints Committee investigated complaints against magistrates in the performance of their official duties and became pivotal for the reform of the justice delivery system in the magistrate courts. Moreover, she served as a supervisory judge in charge of the Apapa Magisterial District in Lagos State from October 2002 till July 2004. She also served as a member of the committee that drafted the High Court of Lagos State (Civil Procedure) Rules 2004 from April 2002 till December 2002.
The new Civil Procedure Rules introduced innovations in case management such as the front-loading concept, pre-trial conference, and the application of ADR mechanisms for the speedy dispensation of justice. The innovations have also been adopted by most states of the Federation and have proved particularly helpful in the speedy dispensation of electoral disputes.
From December 2001 till December 2004, she served as a member of the Steering Committee of the Lagos State Multi-Door Court House, the first court-connected Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre in Africa. At the Court of Appeal, she served on the Information Technology Committee, which was to facilitate the computerization of the Court.
Justice K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun is a recipient of prestigious awards. She was a recipient of the Merit Awards of the Lagos State Judiciary, in December 2003 and in September 2013. Again, she was twice awarded the Distinguished Trailblazers Awards by the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (August 2012 and 2014). She belongs to several professional associations and groups, including the National Association of Women Judges; International Association of Women Judges; Body of Benchers – Life Bencher W.E.F. February 8, 2018; Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (Fellow); and International Dispute Resolution Institute (Fellow). She is also a member of the Ikoyi Club 1938.
Justice K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun has been married to Mr Akin Kekere-Ekun, OFR, since December 1983. His work ethic and integrity have been a great motivating factor for her. Their union is blessed with three children who are all graduates and excelling in their chosen fields.
K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun is passionate about self-examination, being the change that one wants to see in the world and setting your standards early, starting every endeavour in the same manner as one means to carry on. These have been her guiding principles in her personal and professional life.
Feature/OPED
Valentine’s Day Made Easy: Perfect Gift Ideas for That Special Person

It’s that time of the year again! Love is in the air, vendors are rolling out extravagant Valentine’s packages, and let’s be honest, some people are preparing to oppress singles with their grand gestures. Flowers, chocolates, fancy dinner dates… all nice, but a bit predictable, right?
This year, why not switch things up? Whether it’s a partner, best friend, or even a sibling who deserves some extra love, there are so many creative ways to make them feel special beyond the usual. So here are fun and thoughtful gift ideas that will definitely keep a lasting smile on their faces.
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Thoughtful, Budget-Friendly Gifts
Not everyone wants to spend a fortune on Valentine’s Day, and guess what? You don’t have to! If you’re thinking budget-friendly but meaningful, consider handwritten love letters, a scrapbook of your favorite memories together, or a personalized playlist of songs that remind you of them. Even a simple breakfast in bed can be a winner! It’s truly the thought that counts.
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The Gift of Entertainment
Now, let’s talk about the ultimate Valentine’s Day package. You know how some people aren’t really into flowers, chocolates, or even date nights? Well, have you considered giving them the package of all packages, the GOtv Supa Plus bouquet? Think about it, unlimited access to all their favorite channels, from romantic movies to action-packed series, sports, and entertainment. Whether your special person loves telenovelas, football, or Nollywood dramas, GOtv Supa Plus has something for everyone.
Imagine gifting them a month of uninterrupted premium entertainment. That means they get to enjoy all their favorite shows while thinking of you every time they press play. And let’s be honest, nothing beats the joy of knowing your gift keeps on giving even after Valentine’s Day has passed!
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The Romantic Stay-In Date Night
Who says you have to step out to have a memorable Valentine’s Day? Sometimes, privacy is the real luxury. Picture this, you tell your special person to pack a bag and come over for a cozy, romantic night in. Light some candles, sprinkle petals on the floor, and set up the perfect ambiance. Then, grab your softest blanket, order (or cook) your favorite meals, and tune into a romantic show or a thrilling movie. Whether you’re watching a classic rom-com, an action flick, or a telenovela that makes you both emotional, it’s about creating a shared experience. Plus, you don’t have to worry about crowded restaurants or long queues, just pure quality time.
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A Subscription to Their Favorite Hobby
Valentine’s Day gifts should be personal, and nothing says “I know you” better than a gift that aligns with their interests. For those who love to cook, a GOtv subscription unlocks access to food and lifestyle channels like Food Network, where they can discover new recipes, cooking tips, and even the latest food trends. Get a GOtv Max subscription for as low as ₦7,200 and keep your special person hooked on their favourite cooking shows. For the sports lover, keep them in the game with GOtv Supa Plus package available for ₦15,700 and for the fashion lover, at ₦9,600, the GOtv Supa offers a lineup of fashion shows and trend-spotting channels, making it easy to stay inspired.
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Go All Out with a Grand Gesture
On the flip side, if you want to make a big splash this Valentine’s Day, then go all out! Plan a surprise getaway, book a spa day, or even throw a private dinner with a chef making your favorite dishes. If your person loves grand romantic gestures, this is your time to shine. Just make sure it’s something they’ll genuinely enjoy, not just what looks good for Instagram.
So, whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that speaks to their heart and their interests. Whether it’s a thoughtful DIY gift, a romantic date night, or a subscription that fits their hobby, it’s the thought that truly counts.
When it comes to the ultimate gift, GOtv is the icing on the cake. With just a few clicks, you can subscribe, upgrade, or reconnect by simply downloading the MyGOtv app, or dial *288# to get started. Plus, with the GOtv Stream App, they can enjoy their favorite shows anytime, anywhere. Trust GOtv to keep the entertainment flowing long after valentines is over!
Feature/OPED
Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025: A Tribute to Legacy, A Celebration of Resilience

As Lagos gears up for the highly anticipated Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, February 15, 2025, excitement and emotion run high. This year’s edition is much more than a race, it is a moving tribute to legacy and a celebration of resilience. Under the evocative theme “Miles to Memories,” every stride taken by the runners transforms physical distance into lasting recollections, blending athletic endurance with heartfelt remembrance of a visionary leader.
A Race that Transcends the Finish Line
Since its inaugural run in 2016, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon has evolved from a local initiative into a global phenomenon. Originally established by Access Bank in collaboration with the Lagos State Government to promote healthier lifestyles, the event has grown into a symbol of unity, progress, and economic vitality for both Lagos and Nigeria. Today, the marathon not only places Lagos on the global sporting map but also showcases how major sporting events can drive tourism and stimulate business growth. As a Gold Label Marathon certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), it stands as a testament to the powerful synergy between sport, community, and commerce.
Local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to vendors and transport providers, thrive during the marathon weekend, benefiting from increased patronage as communities come together to support and celebrate the event. This collective participation reinforces the idea that when people unite around a common purpose, the rewards are shared by all.
Honoring a Visionary: Remembering Herbert Wigwe
This year, the marathon carries added emotional significance. It marks the first anniversary of the passing of Herbert Wigwe, the late Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings PLC, who was a transformative force behind the event. On the morning of February 10, 2024, a tragic helicopter crash claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, his wife, his son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group PLC. The loss sent shockwaves throughout the nation, leaving an indelible void in the hearts of many Nigerians.
Despite the deep sense of loss, Herbert Wigwe’s legacy continues to inspire. In the wake of the tragedy, concerns arose that Access Bank might reconsider its sponsorship of the marathon. Instead, in a poignant gesture of remembrance and commitment, Access Bank, together with the Lagos State Government, has reaffirmed its support for the marathon. This enduring dedication ensures that Wigwe’s dreams and aspirations remain an integral part of every step taken by the runners.
“Miles to Memories”: A Journey of Emotion and Endurance
The theme “Miles to Memories” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this year’s marathon. It suggests that every mile covered is imbued with personal and collective memories, reminders of challenges overcome, of unity celebrated, and of hope nurtured for a better future. For many participants, the race is a chance to commemorate Herbert Wigwe, whose visionary leadership not only transformed Access Bank but also reshaped the sporting landscape of Lagos. His enduring commitment to community development, healthy living, and economic empowerment continues to serve as a beacon for all who aspire to make a positive impact.
Each runner’s journey on the race day acts as a bridge between past and future, where the physical act of running becomes a metaphor for overcoming adversity and building a hopeful tomorrow. The event stands as a tribute not only to athletic excellence but also to the unyielding human spirit that continues to rise in the face of loss.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Prominence
When Access Bank and the Lagos State Government first partnered in 2016 to host the marathon, their goal was simple: to encourage a healthier lifestyle among Lagosians. Under Herbert Wigwe’s visionary leadership, the event quickly grew in stature. Today, it has attracted over 600,000 registered athletes from 14 countries, establishing itself as one of Africa’s most prestigious road races. This remarkable evolution is a testament to the power of visionary leadership, community engagement, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
The marathon’s growth from a local initiative to a globally recognised event highlights how passion and determination can transform a modest idea into an internationally celebrated movement. Lagos has firmly established itself as a marathon city renowned for its energy, hospitality, and unwavering commitment to progress.
Herbert Wigwe’s Vision: A Marathon for Unity & Progress
Herbert Wigwe’s influence on the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon remains as palpable today as ever. During the 2021 edition, he stated:
“As one of the leading banks in Nigeria and indeed Africa, it is imperative for us to support the economic and social development of the communities in which we operate. Hence, we have sponsored the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon to make Lagos more attractive to tourists and investors alike. We have also used this platform to create jobs and opportunities for thousands in the state.”
These words, imbued with hope and ambition, continue to guide the event. More than merely a race, the marathon has become a living legacy of Wigwe’s unwavering commitment to community development and the transformative power of sport. His visionary approach has paved the way for countless initiatives that enrich lives, create employment opportunities, and foster pride and unity among Nigerians.
Herbert Wigwe’s legacy is not confined to history, it lives on in the hearts of those he touched and in the strides of every runner who participates in the marathon. His vision for a healthier, more prosperous Lagos inspires all, ensuring that his contributions will never be forgotten. Every cheer from the crowd, every drop of sweat on the pavement, and every moment of reflection during the race stands as a tribute to a man dedicated to progress, unity, and excellence.
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025 is more than a sporting event—it is a movement that transforms challenges into triumphs and distances into memories. It celebrates life, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of a community marching forward, one determined step at a time.
Sponsors: The Pillars Behind the Marathon
Central to the success of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon are its dedicated sponsors. Access Bank, the major sponsor, has remained steadfast in its commitment to community development, ensuring that the marathon continues to be a platform for positive change. In partnership with the Lagos State Government, the event has grown into a major contributor to the local economy and an enduring source of inspiration for athletes and citizens alike.
Their unwavering support has been crucial in maintaining the high standards of the marathon, including its prestigious Gold Label status from AIMS. This commitment not only honours Herbert Wigwe’s legacy but also ensures that the marathon continues to inspire future generations to embrace a healthy, active lifestyle while cherishing the memories forged along the way.
Community, Commerce, and the Spirit of Resilience
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is a celebration of more than athletic prowess, it is a testament to the power of community and the resilience of Lagosians. The event has consistently demonstrated that when communities unite, remarkable achievements are possible. By boosting local tourism and generating business opportunities, the marathon has had a transformative impact on the city’s economy.
During marathon weekend, local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets experience a surge in activity as visitors from around the globe flock to Lagos. At the same time, the event showcases the city’s vibrant culture on an international stage, reinforcing the idea that sport and commerce can work hand in hand to drive progress.
The Journey Ahead: Legacy, Resilience, and Unity
As runners prepare to take to the streets of Lagos on February 15, 2025, the atmosphere is charged with a profound sense of purpose. The marathon is not just a competition; it is a journey of remembrance and unity, where every stride honors the memory of Herbert Wigwe and every mile becomes a cherished memory. The theme “Miles to Memories” reminds participants that the race is as much about personal triumph as it is about collective resilience and hope.
In the face of past tragedies and challenges, the marathon stands as a beacon of hope. It is a day when the nation comes together to celebrate life, honor legacy, and build a future founded on unity and progress. Each runner carries with them the spirit of determination and the memory of a leader who believed in the power of community and the strength of collective ambition.
In celebrating “Miles to Memories,” the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025 encapsulates the journey from loss to legacy, from grief to hope, and from memories to future milestones. With the steadfast support of sponsors like Access Bank and the Lagos State Government, this marathon not only delivers an exhilarating athletic challenge but also forges enduring memories that will inspire generations to come.
As the starting gun fires and runners take their first steps on the vibrant streets of Lagos, they are not merely participating in a race, they are becoming part of a legacy. Every mile traversed is a reminder of the resilience, unity, and indomitable spirit that define this great city. And in every memory made, the legacy of Herbert Wigwe lives on, guiding each runner toward a brighter, more hopeful future.
Herbert Wigwe may be gone, but his vision continues to run through the veins of every Lagosian and every athlete crossing the finish line. In Lagos, every mile is a memory, and every memory is a step toward a better tomorrow.
Feature/OPED
The Power Trio: How Sales, Finance, and Marketing Rescue PR from the ROI Dilemma

By Philip Odiakose
Over the years, the conversation around PR measurement has evolved, yet one persistent challenge remains — how to prove the financial return on investment (ROI) of public relations efforts. I have shared my thoughts on this topic across multiple LinkedIn posts, and I felt compelled to provide a structured education on the subject.
Measurement education is a core pillar of AMEC Measurement and Evaluation , and as a strong advocate for data-driven PR, I believe it is crucial to guide PR professionals through this recurring challenge.
The reality is simple: If sales are not part of your key performance indicators (KPIs), then Return on Objective (ROO) should be your holy grail, not ROI. However, for PR campaigns where sales are indeed a primary goal, PR professionals cannot work in isolation — they need to engage with the “three wise men”: Sales, Finance, and Marketing.
A fundamental mistake many PR practitioners make is attempting to justify PR’s success using ROI without understanding the financial principles behind it. ROI, in its true form, is a financial metric that calculates the profitability of an investment using the formula: ROI (%) = (Net Profit / Cost of Investment) x 100.
For PR professionals aiming to showcase ROI, collaboration with the Finance team is essential to align media metrics with revenue generation. However, in most cases, PR is not a direct sales function, which means using ROI as a blanket metric leads to misinterpretation and misplaced expectations.
This is why AMEC’s Barcelona Principles (which emphasize outcome-based measurement over outdated methods) encourage PR professionals to focus on measurable objectives rather than vanity metrics like Advertising Value Equivalency (AVE). For those unfamiliar with these principles, I strongly recommend exploring them as a foundation for modern PR measurement.
One of the most misleading approaches in PR measurement is relying on AVE to demonstrate ROI. To put this into perspective, AVE in PR is like measuring the quality of a meal based solely on the price of its ingredients. Just because a dish contains expensive components does not mean it tastes good or satisfies the customer.
Similarly, AVE assigns a monetary value to media coverage based on ad rates but fails to measure the true impact, sentiment, or effectiveness of PR efforts. If a PR professional presents AVE as ROI, they are essentially equating visibility with tangible business outcomes, which is a flawed and outdated perspective. The goal should always be to measure what matters — impact, sentiment, engagement, and business outcomes — rather than placing a fictitious monetary value on earned media.
As a PR measurement specialist with over a decade of experience, I have consistently advocated for the prioritization of ROO over ROI for PR campaigns that do not have direct sales objectives. PR’s role is often about shaping perception, building credibility, and enhancing reputation — elements that do not always have an immediate or direct financial impact.
ROO provides a structured framework for evaluating PR performance based on predefined, measurable objectives. By aligning PR efforts with specific business goals — whether it be increasing brand awareness, driving website traffic, improving customer sentiment, or strengthening stakeholder relationships — PR professionals can provide meaningful insights without force-fitting sales metrics where they do not belong.
For PR to demonstrate true ROI when necessary, it must integrate seamlessly with Sales, Finance, and Marketing. Without correlating PR metrics with their data, PR teams cannot accurately tell the story of their contribution to revenue generation.
Marketing provides valuable insights into lead generation, Sales tracks conversions, and Finance ensures financial accountability. When these three functions work together, PR professionals can move beyond justifying their efforts with media impressions and start proving their impact in terms of business growth. This is why aligning client or executive expectations from the onset is critical.
By setting realistic measurement parameters, PR professionals can avoid the trap of being asked to prove ROI on campaigns that were never designed to drive direct sales in the first place.
The path to effectivePR measurement is rooted in education, collaboration, and the right frameworks. We must continue advocating for methodologies that reflect PR’s strategic value — beyond press clippings, beyond AVEs, and certainly beyond misaligned expectations.
Measurement is not about justifying PR’s existence; it is about demonstrating PR’s impact with the right metrics that align with business goals. As PR professionals, our focus should always be on setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) objectives that align with organizational priorities. This way, measurement becomes a tool for strategy rather than just a reporting mechanism.
As we move forward, I encourage PRprofessionals to embrace continuous learning, engage in industry conversations, and challenge outdated measurement methods. PR measurement is not static — it evolves with trends, technology, and business needs. Let us elevate our practice by ensuring that measurement is not an afterthought but an integral part of our communication strategy from the start.
Would love to hear others’ thoughtson this!
Philip Odiakose is a leader and advocate of PR measurement, evaluation and media monitoring in Nigeria. He is also the Chief Media Analyst at P+ Measurement Services, a member of AMEC, NIPR, AMEC Lab Initiative and AMCRON
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