It is a spectacular store with aesthetic pieces of jewellery on display. Recently, Mrs Eyakenoabasi Bob-Hassan (a.k.a. Eyak), daughter of Senator Effiong Bob, lured many eminent personalities, including Akwa Ibom governor, Pastor Umo Eno to the Lekki area of Lagos for the launch of her gemstone store, Eno-Bassé Diamonds.
It was pure glamour and class on display, as guests treated their eyes to awe-inspiring and shimmering diamonds and gemstones that could be used to produce assorted luxury chains, bracelets, rings, among others. Many of the guests could hardly hide their excitement that the store has berthed in Nigeria. They enthused that Eyak had brought a perfect mix of finesse, glamour, beauty and uncommon creativity to the doorsteps of Nigerians with the launch of the store.
Many could not take their eyes off the gemstones – glittering crystals that are mined, cut and polished to be used in jewellery-making. The magnificent store was declared opened by the guest of honour and Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno. Speaking at the event, he pledged his commitment to encouraging young entrepreneurs to drive wealth creation and tackle unemployment among the youth. He spoke during a private cocktail event to celebrate the founder of the outfit. Governor Eno said he was delighted seeing such a vision by a young woman coming to fruition.
While pledging support for the business, Governor Eno said he would invite Mrs. Eyakenoabasi Bob-Hassan to Akwa Ibom State to train other young girls, an effort which, he said, would reduce unemployment in the state.
Even as he promised to support the creative jewellery industry, the governor said he would partner with the store to ensure that such initiative was spread among the youths.
Also speaking, President, Akwa Ibom State Association of Nigeria (AKISAN), USA, Bobby Onofiok, an engineer, said it was a good concept for the youth to venture into a creative business. While applauding Eyak’s choice of business, which he said was clearly cut out of passion, he wished her luck in her chosen endeavour.
Similarly, Eyak’s brother, Hon. Otobong Bob, expressed confidence in his sister. He asserted that the lady would be a role model to other youth who aspire to break the record in what they are passionate about in life.
Also speaking, Eyak’s husband, Mr. Femi Hassan said he is in partnership with his wife to grow the business to a greater height.
Eyak’s parents, Senator Effiong Bob and wife, Comfort, who were clearly proud of their daughter’s achievements, expressed appreciation to God for taking their daughter thus far in her passion of producing unique jewellery. They also thanked the governor and other invited guests for making out time to share in the joy with Eno Bassé Diamonds as it flagged off in Lagos.
The founder and Chief Executive Officer of the outfit, Eyak, spoke of her interests in jewellery and how it all started.
“I have always loved jewellery,” she stated. “I used to sell gold. So that is where it started.
“In the university, I studied Civil Engineering and eventually got my masters in Project Management. I came back to Nigeria to work in a multinational for a while and then I decided to venture into this full-time.
“Even when I was in graduate school, I think that was where the selling started. I used to do it as a part-time ‘hustle’ just to have extra cash. I was just a trader doing buying and selling and that is where I got to harness and understand the different metals’ list for jewellery, silver, gold, and stainless steel. I got a full understanding from trying bits and pieces here and there.
“There are not so many jewellers in Nigeria. It is a niche aspect of fashion but it is very interesting. It takes a lot of creativity to come up with designs and come up with pieces that people would like.
“And this is what the Eno-Bassé brand stands for. Beyond profit making, we are committed to putting a smile on our customers’ faces. We make this happen by providing them with varieties of rare-to-find gemstones whose beauty matches and compliments their personality and carriage.”
Speaking on her unique designs, she informed: “Each of our designs is a piece of true work of art made with the world’s finest and most precious gems crafted by the world’s best goldsmith. It has access to over 1.5 million GIA-certified diamonds, which are embodied in its stunning creations.
“We prioritise beauty and luxury. We offer consultation services relating to gemstones and allied services. We deal with the trading and export of gemstones to various countries. Eno Bassé Diamond is allied with the mining and marketing of natural rough gemstones.
“We are unique. We design pieces. We design all sorts of jewellery, ranging from earrings, wristwatches, and bracelets, all sorts that have to do with jewellery and are custom-made.
“We also authenticate gemstones, all types of gemstones. For example, if you do not know what type of stone you are carrying, if you want to authenticate your diamonds, we could help.
“So, our aim is to have an international standard manufacturing house here in Nigeria so that all our pieces from beginning to end will be done in Nigeria. Some of our pieces are done here; some are done with our European partners and organisations.
“We are proud to say we are also Made in Nigeria. As we move on in this new phase, we are going to collaborate with the Akwa Ibom government on youth training.”
Besides Governor Eno, other bigwigs at the event include the Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, top government officials, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, and Hon & Mrs Rotimi Kashimawu.
Others present were popular comedian, Ime Bishop Umoh (a.k.a. Okon Lagos), immediate past Minister of State, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Mrs Fifi Eyindu, Senator Grace Bent, and many others.