The MTN Project Fame 7 1st runner-up, Ruky Olotu, and one of the show’s finalist and her cousin, Debbie Olotu, were welcomed back home by family and friends in a well-attended reception dinner which took place at Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotels and Towers, over the weekend in Abuja.

The event was graced by former senator Jonathan Zwingina who was chairman of the occasion; director-general, National Women Development Centre, Onyeka Onwenu; governor of PMAN, FCT chapter, Collins Adeyemi, PMAN FCT Deputy Governor Solomon Nda-Isaiah and several other artistes.

Sen. Zwingina told our reporter that parents were the most essential part of developing, discovering and nurturing any talent in their children.

He urged parents to encourage their wards in developing their talents, noting that it was important to assist the wards to discover and grow their natural potential.

Zwingina said: “There were times in the past when parents determined children choice of career. If it were then, Debbie and Ruky may not have this opportunity. Those times are gone. This is a time that parents should encourage their wards.”

The senator commended the duo for quickly discovering of their talents and their parents for giving their support.

He noted that some individuals sojourn in life without discovering their purpose.

“It’s a wonderful discovery for the girls. It is a great display of exceptional inborn talent. Discovery of talent is one thing that human beings can achieve in life. When you can’t discover your talent, you only sojourn for a long time without any meaningful result.”

Rebecca lauded her friends for their support and attributed her success to God.

Her parents, Engr. Jude and Gloria Olotu, said the girls had basic foundation to excel in life and urged them to use the platform to influence their generation.

He said many young people develop their artistic careers in protest.

The senator called for a good manager in order to develop their talents and point their careers in the right direction.

“I would like to encourage and congratulate Mr and Mrs Jude Olotu for helping their daughters discover their talents,” he said.

He also acknowledged the 1st runner-up, Idol West Africa, as having been one of the most prominent participants of the reality show even though she did not win.