Lagos, Nigeria — History has been made as Fresh Flowers by Olive, a floral brand owned by ALHAJA SAMIAT TOSIN OLUDERU- BADMUS, an Ondo State Woman with deep roots in Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area, has been officially crowned the Florist Company of the Year at the 2026 Event Industry Awards held in Lagos.
This landmark victory marks the first time a florist from Ondo State has attained such high-level national acclaim with widespread celebration by friends and family. The win follows an intense and unified campaign that saw residents, family, friends, and associates rally across social media platforms to support the brand.
In an exclusive interview with Starnews NG on Friday, the founder shared her joy and gratitude, reflecting on the journey that led to this national triumph.
“It feels incredibly rewarding,” the founder noted. “For us at Fresh Flowers by Olive, this recognition represents years of hard work, passion, creativity, and dedication to our customers.
“To have that journey recognised at a national level as Florist Company of the Year is truly special. It reminds us that every bouquet we create and every moment we help make beautiful really does matter. We are deeply grateful, especially to our amazing family, customers, and friends who believed in us and voted for us.”
Reflecting on the broader impact of the award, Starnews NG reports that she expressed hope that her success would serve as a blueprint for young entrepreneurs in Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo and across Nigeria. “I hope this award inspires young entrepreneurs to believe that where you come from does not have to determine how far you can go. You can start with an idea, even with very little, build it with discipline and passion, and create something that earns national recognition,” she said.
“I want young people to understand that entrepreneurship is not always an overnight success story. It takes patience, learning, resilience, and the courage to keep going when things are difficult. If our journey with Fresh Flowers by Olive can inspire even one young person to take their dream seriously and believe that it is possible, then this award means even more to us.”
A Message of Gratitude to Ondo State
The founder was particularly moved by the overwhelming support received from her home state during the voting process. “My message to the people of Ondo State is simply: thank you, from the bottom of my heart,” she shared. “The love and support we received during the voting process was overwhelming. Every person who voted, shared our story, encouraged someone else to vote, or simply believed in Fresh Flowers by Olive played a part in this achievement.
“As someone with roots in Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo, having the people of Ondo State rally behind us makes this recognition even more meaningful. You didn’t just support a business; you supported a dream and a journey that started many years ago. Thank you for standing with us, believing in us, and showing us so much love. This award may carry the name Fresh Flowers by Olive, but a part of it belongs to the people of Ondo State”, she added.
Looking toward the future, the team at Fresh Flowers by Olive is not resting on its laurels. According to the CEO, “this award is a milestone, not the destination. Our next goal is to take Fresh Flowers by Olive to an even bigger stage, expanding our reach across Nigeria and eventually internationally, while continuing to raise the standard of luxury floristry and gifting.
“We also want to use technology and innovation to serve our customers better and create opportunities for the next generation of entrepreneurs. Our dream is to build a globally recognised African luxury floral and gifting brand, and we’re just getting started”, she stated.
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