The Ewes is a peer group of women who share a deep bond, having lived and grown up together with similar orientations and approaches to life. The group thrives on mutual support, rallying around one another in times of need and actively celebrating each member’s joyous moments.
Recently, the Ewes came together in Lagos to celebrate the retirement of one of their own, Hajia Fauziya Abiodun Ajeigbe. A devoted staff member of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for 34 years, Hajia Ajeigbe was honored with a grand celebration at the upscale Victoria Gardens Event Centre in Ikeja.
The Ewes made a statement with their vibrant lace aso-ebi, which symbolized their unity and elegance. Their presence elevated the event, making it a memorable occasion for everyone in attendance.
During the festivities, City People reporter Jamie Abubakar had an exclusive interview with the group’s leader, Alhaja Rizkat Ayola Okunlola. She shared insights into the origins of the Ewes, their values, and the role they play in uplifting and supporting one another.
Exclusive Interview with Alhaja Rizkat Ayola Okunlola
Today, we are celebrating one of your members who is bowing out of active service. How do you feel?
I feel so elated and thankful to Almighty Allah for her successful retirement and for the love and accolades showered on her. It is heartwarming to see people rally around her and acknowledge her dedication and diligence during her years of service to our great nation, Nigeria. Just last Wednesday, a department held a ceremony in her honor, and now FAAN is celebrating her on a larger scale. This shows her exceptional qualities and the positive impact she made during her service. We are grateful to Almighty Allah for granting her good health and happiness in this new chapter.
I observed that you and the celebrant attended the same secondary school. How close are you both?
Yes, we both attended Offa Grammar School in Kwara State, but I am her senior. She belongs to the 1984 set, and her classmates also came to celebrate with her. Beyond being schoolmates, we share a familial bond. I am her elder sister from our maternal side, and as the head of the Ewes, we share an even deeper bond.
Can you tell us a bit about the Ewes and why it was formed?
The Ewes was born out of shared experiences and a desire to maintain our lifelong bond. Many of us grew up together, and we decided to create a group to strengthen our connection and support one another. We rally around each other in times of need and celebrate each other’s achievements and joyous occasions. This has created a strong sense of unity and love among us.
Our matron, Hajia Moji Awa Ibrahim (Hajia Cool Money), earned the title of Iya-Ewe due to her exceptional kindness and support. Whether at home or abroad, she goes above and beyond to unite us and celebrate our milestones.
How long has the group been in existence?
The group was officially launched six years ago during an event to honor Hajia Cool Money’s daughter’s wedding. It was then we crowned her as our matron. Since then, the Ewes have flourished in love, success, and unity.
What are the criteria for joining the group?
Members must share similar values, be responsible, and have a strong sense of community. We prioritize integrity and ensure that every member is committed to fostering unity. We avoid individuals who may disrupt our harmony or shared goals.
Is the group exclusive to Offa indigenes?
Not at all. While most of us are from Offa, we have members who are not, including a Christian. We are open to like-minded women, regardless of origin or religion, as long as they align with our values. However, we’ve limited membership to 24 to maintain our unity.
Why is membership limited to 24?
Women naturally have unique dynamics, and keeping our group small allows us to manage relationships effectively. Expanding might introduce complexities, which could disrupt our bond.
Does the group engage in charity or give back to society?
Yes, we do. For example, during Ramadan, we organize programs to support the less privileged, elderly, and vulnerable individuals in our communities. Giving back is a core part of our values.
As a leader, how do you coordinate the group’s affairs?
God has been faithful in granting me wisdom to lead. I am blessed with cooperative sisters who trust my guidance. We have a group chat where we discuss and decide on issues collectively. If any member needs advice, they consult me directly. This mutual respect and trust have kept us strong and united. Alhamdulillah, I have not faced any significant challenges, and I am grateful for the love we share.
About Alhaja Risikat Ayola Okunlola
Alhaja Risikat Ayola Okunlola is an accomplished entrepreneur, caterer, and wife of retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Kamaldeen Kola Okunlola. With an HND in Catering and Hotel Management, she worked at esteemed establishments like Doba Hotel in Kaduna and Kwara Hotels in Ilorin.
As her husband’s career advanced, Alhaja Risikat transitioned to entrepreneurship, excelling as a distributor for major confectionery companies in Nigeria. She balanced her business success with her responsibilities as a supportive wife and devoted mother.
Today, Alhaja Risikat is a proud mother of accomplished children, including those based abroad. Despite her family’s growth, she remains a pillar of support in her community, embodying resilience, love, and service.
Her leadership as the Olori Egbe of the Ewes exemplifies her commitment to fostering unity and celebrating the achievements of others. Alhaja Risikat Ayola Okunlola is truly a woman of substance.
The Iya Egbe Ewe, Hajia Moji Awa Ibrahim Words of Admiration
At the same ceremony, I had a chat with the Iya Ewe (matron) of the group, the highly distinguished Hajia Moji Awa Ibrahim, fondly known as Hajia Cool Money. A successful businesswoman and CEO of Occasion Fabric Limited, located in the heart of Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos State, Hajia Ibrahim is renowned for her vibrant personality and influence within the Ewes group.
From the earlier interview with the Olori Egbe, it became evident how instrumental Hajia Ibrahim has been as the rallying point for the group, with her contributions and unwavering support being deeply cherished by every member of this noble circle of women.
While speaking to City People, Hajia Ibrahim expressed her admiration and love for the Ewe group, highlighting the bond and mutual respect that exist among them.
“I can literarilly say I give birth 24 of them. I thank God. I am happy that I have them. I have never seen such sisters like them—very compassionate, very humble. And you know, there is love between them, and they understand each other.
“What I like most is the way they show love to each other. None of them will ever lack in their life. The way they put me, I will always pray for them—that they will supersede me in everything I have. I will continue to back them by Allah’s grace.”
Hajia Ibrahim’s heartfelt words and prayers for the group reflect the deep connection and appreciation she has for the Ewes, cementing her role as not just their matron but also their guiding light.
