The ancient city of Ibadan came alive on Sunday December 15, 2013, when one of its illustrious sons, industrialist and chairman of Kakanfo Group of Companies, Dr.Lekan Are, celebrated four score years.
That day, the area surrounding Kakanfo Inn and conference centre took on additional colour and beauty. The 25-year-old edifice wore a new look as it welcomed dignitaries who poured in from far and wide to celebrate with the eminent octogenarian.
Among the guests were the Oyo State governor, Abiola Ajimobi and his wife Florence; former governors, Rasheed Ladoja and Omololu Olunloyo. The Punch family, consisting of the Chairman, Mr. Wale Aboderin; Managing Director/ Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Ademola Osinubi among others were present.
Former class mates from Government College, Ibadan, as well as childhood friends of Are travelled from within and outside the country to attend the ceremony.
The highpoint of the event, which featured drama, music and dances, was the moment friends, family members and associates took trips down memory lane to pay tributes. Recalling his sporting and academic days at Government College Ibadan, Are was lauded as a principled, honest and straightforward man.
There was no dull moment for Are, who was in the best of spirits throughout the entire proceedings. Surrounded by loved ones, he moved about with the agility and energy that belied his age.
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