There is something about Alhaja Apekeola Bamgbola that makes you want to know her better. Maybe it is the smile, the seeming mother-figure personality, or her tendency to always make you feel special. Hajia Ronik’s nature is such that after spending a day with her, one would feel one has known her for centuries. She’s pretty. She is stunning, and she is stylish. That is the best way to describe Alhaja Apekeola Bamgbola, CEO of RONIKS FABRICS. The successful Lagos Fabric Merchant stocks the very best fabrics you can imagine. She is naturally beautiful. She is blessed with a lovely complexion that glows. She loves fabrics that flatter her body. This is the hallmark of her personality, and it has won her many admirers within society.
Her marriage to Hon. Hakeem Bamgbola, a principled politician and Real Estate magnet, the highly respected community leader and entrepreneur, who is one of the leading voices at the All Progressive Congress (APC) Party, Surulere constituency, Lagos State,
Alhaja Bamgbola’s fifty years on Earth were not by power but by the mercy of God. It is on this note that she chose to celebrate her Golden Jubilee on Friday, July 8, 2023. Though the golden age has been pre-celebrated on social media and with some close allies, Below is Alhaja Bamgbola’s Biography, her philosophy about life in general, and her wish for the golden age.
For those who really don’t know you, tell us who Hajia Apekeola Bamgbola is.
I am Alhaja Apekeola Bamgbola, wife of Hon. Hakeem Bamgbola, a mother and businesswoman. I am the CEO of RONIKS FABRICS in Agege, Lagos. I am a blunt person; I am very real, and I don’t like people with pretenses of character.
What was growing up like for you?
My parents are from Ondo Town in Ondo State but I was born and bred in the Bariga area of Lagos State. I had a beautiful experience under the watchful eye of my parents while growing up. Though my beloved father died at my tender age, my mother took charge; she refused to share her children with family members, and with the help of God, I and my siblings were able to sustain the storm. Today, the rest are testimonies of God’s goodness.
You are one of the biggest players in the Lagos fabric market. How did business start for you?
During her youth days, my mother happened to be one of the leading caterers in Lagos. As a matter of fact, she is the official caterer to the late famous businessman and ace politician, Chief MKO Abiola, and his family. So I tap into her spirit of entrepreneurship. Due to my own nature, I cannot venture into catering services like my mom, but I choose to deal in the sale of fabrics. I started my fabric business journey by going to Abeokuta to buy Adire, and later I upgraded to other fabric materials, both local and foreign, with the help of my mentor. Mrs. Adekunbi, CEO of Funk Fabrics. I do travel to the United Kingdom, the United States, China, etc. to get my fabrics, including children’s wear.
How did you come about the brand name “RONIKS FABRIC,” and what does it mean?
It is an acronym from my name, Morenike Kikilomo. While in Secondary School, one of my classmates used to call me Reniks from the word Morenike, so I fell in love with the name. But at the time I went to Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for my company registration, the name RENIKS was not available, so I chose RONIKS. To the glory of God, my company, RONIKS IDEAL NIGERIA LIMITED, is doing fantastic.
Tell us about the products and services you offer at Roniks Fabric.
At RONIKS IDEAL NIGERIA LIMITED, we are not just into the sale of fabric material; we are also into children’s clothing, Event planning, and customization and design of Aso-Ebi for both male and female genders.
Congratulations on your 50th birthday! How do you feel about celebrating this milestone?
At the golden age. Considering the undeserved graces and mercies I received from my God I can say my soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in the Lord, my Savior. For the past eleven months, after my 49th birthday anniversary, I have started celebrating my Golden age. Those who are very close to me can testify. Above all, I am happy that I am growing in the love of my God.
Life at 50: what are your reflections?
I desire to move closer to my God in worship and adoration; I wish to serve humanity; I wish to be more calm; I wish to work smart with big results, not hard like in the past. I will love to take things easy.
If you sum up your achievements in life from a younger age up to this moment, would you say you are fulfilled at 50?
Alhamdulillah … I return all glory to my Good God. So far, so good, despite some ups and downs and some little obstacles. I thank God for his Mercies and pray for more testimonies.
Turning 50, one must have seen different things: the bad, the good, and the ugly. What would you say life has taught you at 50?
So much has been learned, especially in the last twelve years when I experienced a business downturn, but the grace of God saw me through. I don’t drag things out with people; I am a lover of peace. The only lesson I have learned so far is to be myself and abide in the will of God for my life.
You appear stunning and younger than your age; can you tell us the secret of these good looks?
By the grace of God alone, I do free my mind at all times. I don’t harbor grudges or hatred for anyone, and if you offend me, I will tell you straight to your face. I do free my mind from the challenges of life, so nothing bothers me because I trust in God’s ability to take care of me.
Tell us about your beautiful family.
I am lucky to have married a caring, generous, and loving husband, Hon. Hakeem Bamgbola, who loves me for who I am. We are together in love, deeper understanding, and respect for each other. Despite being a politician, he is a man who fears God (Allah) and keeps his family in one strong bond.
Do you have any plans to go into politics in the near future?
Presently, I don’t. I don’t have an urge for political games. But time will tell because only God can direct the affairs of my life. If God says yes, why not?
If the opportunity is given for you to start life fresh, what do you think you will do better?
My Education will be far better than the present stage.
What advice would you give to the youth who are looking up to you and aspiring to be like you?
You don’t need to do more than your abilities allow. You must understand that your work is number one. If you are privileged to be in a good marriage, do your best to play your own role and make sure you find something meaningful you are doing because no man likes liability. But if you are not, Please be a good ambassador for your family, protect your name, and don’t live to impress others. All you need to do is be yourself.
