Visitors knew they had been about to witness one thing extraordinary after they stepped onto the purple carpet. The visible storytelling was impeccable – beautiful historic preparations that took visitors from ‘Agbonmagbe {Bank}’ (the {bank}’s authentic title) and thru the years to a futuristic Wema Bank. Visitors who didn’t beforehand perceive the {bank}’s historical past had been instantly immersed in it with halls of fame, caricature buildings, and a stage setup that seemed prefer it belonged in an awards present. The spatial design created a way of class and delight, turning Eko Resort’s conference middle right into a canvas that mirrored the very soul of Wema Bank. It was immersive, intentional, and visually breathtaking, a setup that elevates a celebration.
2. Sounds of ALAT Winners Deliver Youthful Vitality
Kareem, King Breezy, and Kesty, the rising stars from Wema’s 2023 Sounds of ALAT competitors, opened the night time with spectacular performances. They sang authentic tracks and their profitable songs from the sounds of ALAT competitors. The finalists later got here collectively for a heartfelt birthday tribute to the {bank}, alongside Cobhams Asuquo who performed on the grand piano. It was a strong reminder of how Wema Bank invests within the subsequent technology of banking, creativity, and tradition.
3. Yinka Davies’ Nationwide Anthem Rendition
With unmatched grace and vocal mastery, Yinka Davies carried out the Nigerian Nationwide Anthem in a means that grounded the occasion in patriotism and delight. Her supply was each ceremonial and soulful. It was a reminder that even in celebration, Wema Bank honors its nationwide roots and identification, particularly because the nation’s first indigenous {bank}.
4. Internet hosting Executed Proper
The occasion’s hosts – veteran actor Chief Femi Department and standard media persona Olive Emodi, struck the proper stability of allure and management. Their chemistry, humor, and professionalism ensured that the night flowed seamlessly, with no boring second or misstep in this system.
5. 8 Million-Naira Shock That Delighted Prospects
What’s a celebration with out giving again? A big excessive level within the occasion got here when eight prospects every received ₦1 million. The hosts additionally introduced that 80 extra prospects would obtain ₦80,000. It wasn’t simply good PR; it was a strong strategy to say thanks and share the highlight with the individuals who made Wema’s journey potential.
6. A Chairman’s Speech Anchored in Legacy
In her welcome handle, Chairman Dr. Oluwayemi Oluwanishola provided greater than pleasantries – she gave perspective. “Wema Bank’s journey to me is an enigma,” she stated. “What gave the founder, Late Chief Okupe, the boldness to ascertain Agbonmagbe {Bank} proper underneath colonial rule?” Her reflections on the founder’s audacity and the {bank}’s deep-rooted mission captured the spirit of the night time in full. She additionally set the tone for why the occasion was important to have a good time the {bank}’s previous 8 a long time.
7. Iconic Performances That Lit Up the Stage
The musical lineup learn like a greatest-hits anthology of Nigerian popular culture. Wande Coal delivered a nostalgic medley. 9ice introduced his road credibility. Ayuba’s stay band lit up the room with high-energy Fuji. And Davido closed the night time along with his signature swagger, bringing the home down. Away from the heavyweight pop-culture stars, we had moments of reflection with spoken phrases from Kehinde Adolo and IBQuake. These had been sonic celebrations of Wema’s multigenerational enchantment.
8. CEO Moruf Oseni’s Visionary Speech
In his handle, Moruf Oseni didn’t simply thank visitors; he projected the long run. His phrases painted a transparent image of a daring, tech-driven Wema Bank that’s anchored in customer-first innovation. The quick mini-documentary that adopted provided glimpses into the {bank}’s transformation, reinforcing the night time’s message: Wema is simply getting began. He thanked each phase of Wema’s stakeholders, from the shoppers, shareholders, companions, regulatory our bodies, governmental companions, and knights (employees).
9. A Symbolic Espresso Desk Ebook Launch and Documentary Sneak Peek That Spotlight Wema’s Historical past From Beginning to Now
One of many night’s strongest moments got here when Wema Bank launched its commemorative espresso desk ebook. Flanked by previous and current MDs, Chairmen, govt and non-executive administrators, and Board members, the revealing was a tribute to historical past, management, and enduring objective. It was a reminder that establishments don’t thrive by likelihood; they achieve this by design, reminiscence, and storytelling.
10. A Masterclass in Stakeholder Engagement
From pop-culture royalty to nationwide figures, Wema Bank drew a crowd that mirrored its wide-reaching relevance. Political dignitaries similar to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Governor Fortunate Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, and the First Girl of Nigeria (represented by Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim) all delivered goodwill messages. Trade titans like Chief Michael Adeojo, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, and Chief Sir Kessington Adebutu joined them. The gang was additionally simply star-studded with visitors like Deyemi Okanlawon, Iyanya, Juliana Oloyede, Morayo Afolabi-Brown, Teddy A, Folagade Banks (Mama Deola), Jay On-Air, Kaffy, and Stan Nze. Wema didn’t simply have a good time with visitors; it bolstered its place as a trusted companion throughout authorities, enterprise, and tradition.
In each means that mattered, Wema Bank’s eightieth celebration was a residing expression of its values: considerate, future-forward, people-centric, and proudly Nigerian. Timeless Class described the feel and appear of the occasion and the legacy. And because the curtains fell to the beat of Davido’s last notes and DJ Sose’s afterparty rhythms, one factor was unquestionable: Wema was not solely trying again in gratitude however marching ahead in energy.
