20/11/2023
CULINARY LION - AN ODE TO TOPE MAGGIE!
Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́ Ajilete, the homing ground of great warriors, where the song of victory comes before any war. Ajilete, the name that sends shockwaves into the heart of invaders, open thy glory for a son of thee I want to plant my tongue in the soil of tonight, because there may never be a second night. A son, that has proven to be as brave as his forefathers, a son that has demonstrated the valiancy that he's made of. At the mention of Ogbomoso in the days of fulani invasion, what comes to Alimi's and his soldiers' mind is the name TÓYÈJẸ ÀKÀNÍ, the one who was of an indomitable courage and spirit. While also in the days of western region, the name Aare Samuel Ladoke Akintola GCON collects hoes from farmers, guns from hunters, just like it stops fisherman from fishing. The duo is the two generalissimo the Yorubas' and the people of Ogbomosoland in particular won't ever forget.
Meanwhile, just lately another industrious son of the valiant city has proven to be a generalissimo in the kitchen, as he has brought upon the town a global attention with his just concluded 200 hours cook-a-thon.
Tope Adebayo, well known as Tope Maggie dedicated and persistent, his spirit of resilience burned through the long hours, fuelled by pure persistence. Not deterred by sleep, his passion unending to cook for the longest time, a new record pending. A test of his mettle, a trial of true grit. He forged on through hours, never once did he quit. His commitment unwavering, his resolve so bold. Not giving up until his goal was finally told.
Tope Maggie as fondly called, has proven to be a chef of great talent, a kind and compassionate soul,
A man who brought people together to reach a common goal. His passion for cooking brought joy to so many; from the privileged to the needy, his meals made them merry. Tope, a culinary hero, whose impact was far-reaching, helping others to connect and bridges were teaching. A man who embodied love, kindness and care, whose legacy will live on for others to share.
A true inspiration, a model for all.
We are excited and proud that Tope Maggie brought us joy and pride to call him our Julia Child who took French cuisine to the table, teaching Americans to cook with passion and gable. With the just concluded 200 hours cook-a-thon, Tope has just done the same with African food as he shared flavours and history, not just a name. Tope Maggie has made a difference, to be sure, he changed how we think about what's on the stove.
Meanwhile, how people trooped out in mass to support Tope Maggie is mind blowing.
One of the most interesting things is that everyone from Ogbomoso, home and abroad, Muslims, Christians irrespective of our cultural affiliation are all out to support him. Tope's ground breaking record has just shown it that we're one big family in Ogbomoso and that we are a very supportive people. May his life and his business never remain the same again.
If you are not already thinking you should start thinking about what you can do to accelerate your brand's growth. I’m not saying you should go and start another marathon challenge, although that wouldn’t be bad too. But just think about how to fuel your growth.
Dear Tope, we love you and this win is for all of us!!!
Adedamola Atewogbare Ajé