By Milton Tella – Guests from far and near gathered at the Hilton Hotel Canary Wharf London, on Saturday 8th July 2023, to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of two prominent chiefs of Ilisan, Ogun State, Nigeria, Chief Davies Idowu Oshitola, Mayegun of Ilishan Remo & Chief (Mrs) Dorcas Oshitola, Yeye Mesho of llishan Remo.
The couple, who came to settle in the UK in the early seventies became, not just successful members of the diaspora community but also very well blessed with many children and grandchildren.
To celebrate the 70th birthday celebration, the children of the celebrants hosted an exclusive list of invited guests to a sumptuous dinner and dance party. Talented lady DJ Rume, provided music for the occasion and the Master of Ceremony, Gloria Ade, made it an interactive fun-filled, unforgettable evening.
One of the special guests, Prince Mike Abiola publisher, African Voice Newspaper UK in his tribute, described Chief Davies Idowu Oshitola as a quintessential gentleman, unique friend and an energetic entrepreneur par excellence.
He said, Chief Oshitola was one of those who pioneered the distribution of many Nigerian products that has today gained international recognition. Chief Davies handled the international distribution of a top leading Nigerian home video film produced by Dudu Hundeyin of Dudu Productions.
Prince Abiola said, Chief Oshitola qualifies to be described as one of the founding fathers of the Nigerian film industry now popularly referred to as Nollywood. He masterminded the distribution of the film Iyawo Alhaji in 1996.
Prince Mike Abiola described both Chief & Chief Mrs Davies Oshitola as highly sought after socialites, very well connected and influential in the UK and in Nigeria. In his younger days, Chief Oshitola popularly called Idro Exotic dictated fashion trends. He belonged to leading social clubs in Nigeria and in the UK. He is a founding member of the Zenith Club UK.
Michael Oshitola, the first son of the celebrants, speaking on behalf of his sister, Bukky Oshitola Fadumila and brothers Toby and Dayo Oshitola, he appreciated their parents. He described them as, being the pillars of the family and community, providing love, guidance, and support to each and every one.
“As we celebrate their 70th birthday, I am reminded of the many sacrifices they have made for our family. They have worked hard to provide for us, and they have always put our needs before their own, on countless occasions. They have taught us the importance of faith, respect, and tradition, values, which we try to also instill in our children.
We are proud to call you both our parents, as you’ve both been great role models in our lives, and gave us the best upbringing possible, full of love and happiness – in which we hope to replicate with our own families. You have guided and supported us throughout our journey in life and are always there when we need you for anything.
You are great grandparents to our children, who adore you both and always love being in your presence.
And so, on this special day, I want to express my gratitude to my parents. Thank you for being the best parents we could ever ask for. Thank you for instilling in us the values that have made us who we are today. And thank you for being the shining examples of love and devotion that we all aspire to be.
Michael Oshitola concluded as he proposed a toast by inviting all guests to join in raising a glass to his parents, Chief & Chief (Mrs) Davies Oshitola, he prayed for God to bless them with many more years of good health, happiness, and love, on behalf of the children, son & daughter in laws, wives and grandchildren.
Happy 70th birthday, Mom and Dad!.”