CELEBRITY JOURNALISM S U P R E M O CHIEF DELE MOMODU’S 60TH BIRTHDAY S P E C I A L by Ovation Magazine Re-Up

SINCE 1996

CELEBRITY JOURNALISM

SUPREMO

CHIEF DELE MOMODU ’ S 60 TH BIRTHDAY

ISSN 1362−7309 07 9 771362 730973 © OVATION 2020

SPECIAL FABULOUS PICTURES AMAZING INTERVIEWS WIFE, SONS, FRIENDS, MENTORS AND MORE SPEAK PLUS: HIS BEST KEPT SECRETS

ANGELS IN HIS LIFE

EDITOR'S NOTE

Chief Dele

ISSN-1362-7309 Issue 189

Momodu:

CREW PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dele Momodu momodudele@yahoo.co.uk

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Mobolaji Momodu

This Is Your Life At 60

EDITOR Michael Effiong

mikeffiong2009@yahoo.com mikeffiong@ovationinternational.com

PHOTO EDITOR Adekoya Adegbite

PRODUCTION MANAGER/ART DIRECTOR Isaac Edoh-Philip DESIGNER Kwaku Yeboah Darteh

ASSISTANT DESIGNER Adekoya Abiodun Afeez CORRESPONDENT Eric Elezuo

PHOTO JOURNALISTS Colin Ramsay… Ade James (USA)… Dayo Adedayo Isaac Adegbite… Dragan Mikki… Bodise Wilson Soji Adekunle… Vera Odjugo… Tope Brown Funmi Adeyemi… Segun Lawal… Ken Ehimen Sunmisola Olorunnisola Guy L’ Avenir (Benin Republic) Ben Dzakah (Ghana) MARKETING/ADVERTS Zed Dominic Okolue (Benin Republic)

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In this “ package,

we have assembled a rich pot pourri of stories for your enjoyment. Some you have read, others you would be reading for the first time but many are retold in more captivating styles

hat you have in front you is a wondrous culmination of days of team work and hard work. Special editions are not new for us at Ovation International, in fact, it has been the real deal and our main stay in the last couple of years because we have published so many since our inception. But this one is extra special, because we had to package a special edition on our publisher, an extraordinary newshound without him having the faintest idea. That was the challenge we had from the get go. I am glad that we made it happen and the package you are reading is a true testimony of the qualities that the celebrator, THE BOSS himself, has exhibited and epitomized for decades which we have now imbibed: Tenacity, back-breaking hard work, a never say-die-spirit and achieving results against all odds! In this package, we have assembled a rich pot pourri of stories for your enjoyment. Some you have read, others you would be reading for the first time but many are retold in more captivating styles. Family members, friends, business associates and clients, have all joined hands to give a LOUD ovation to Mr OVATION. Kindly sit back, relax and enjoy this special edition that aptly encapsulates the words: CHIEF DELE MOMODU AT 60: THIS IS YOUR LIFE

Michael Effiong

” Visit us @ www.ovationinternational.com

PROLOGUE

Bashorun Dele Momodu: BY BAMIDELE SALAKO

Celebrating A Media Titan @60

was thrilled beyond measure when I was contacted by the editor of OVATION International Magazine and The Boss Newspapers, Mr. Michael Effiong, to send in my birthday tribute for my boss, the Chairman/CEO of Ovation Media Group, Basorun Ayobamidele Abayomi Ojutelegan Ajani Momodu, as he turns 60. I had resigned from the role of deputy editor at Ovation two years ago to move to Canada with my family. But such is the prevailing spirit of familia that typifies the Ovation organisational culture in which out of sight is never out of mind-an expression of the ethos of open arms espoused by the inimitable Dele Momodu.

However, when Mr. Effiong proceeded to instruct that I write the foreword for this commemorative edition dedicated to celebrating the life and achievements of the celebrant, my excitement dithered as I grappled with the question, “How does one write about his hero well enough to do justice to his hero’s awe-inspiring persona?”

Dele Momodu is the ultimate Renaissance man—a writer’s writer and a journalist’s journalist.

Easily Nigeria’s most recognisable media personality, his name is a household word that inspires admiration and commands respect across Africa and beyond; a name eternally etched in gold in Nigeria’s media and political histories. 6

@TY Bello

8 @TY Bello

s an editor at the defunct Concord Newspapers and as the founder of one of Africa’s foremost celebrity journals, OVATION International Magazine, he played a pioneering role in elevating and establishing what has now become the thriving celebrity journalism segment of Nigeria’s media industry. The synchronicity of being born in 1960-the same year that Nigeria attained independence from imperial rule-perhaps offers insights into why he would go on to embody some of the nationalistic fervour that characterized the years preceding and immediately following the year of his birth.

That zeal would eventually evolve into daring political adventures especially as an incidental revolutionary compelled into the fight for the recovery of his mentor, the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola’s stolen political mandate-an audacious stance that imperiled his life, turned him into a political detainee, and eventually led to years of exile in England. His life’s trajectory in overcoming the privations of early life and the travails of adulthood continues to represent a lofty beacon of hope and an inspiring story of possibilities for the millions of Nigerian youths who look up to him as model of aspiration.

One of Dele Momodu’s superpowers is the ability to spot talent in their raw, callow state; to identify their inconspicuous potential and freely offer them the opportunities and platforms to blossom into finished articles.

This rare gift makes him a grandmaster at taking big bets on greenhorns evidenced by his recruitment of a 26-year-old as his campaign manager for his 2010 presidential campaign. That appointment would make Ohimai Godwin Amaize the youngest presidential campaign manager in Nigeria’s political history.

This altruistic disposition that compels him to lavish opportunities on the young and upcoming will see numerous social media handles and dedicated tribute pages of frontline newspapers and magazines overflow with birthday tributes that share a common theme – gratitude! Another superpower that he commands is networking. He is a master networker who excels at making, maintaining, and maximising relationships across a broad spectrum of cultures, religions, professions, and political ideologies-relationships he has leveraged, more for the benefit of others than for self.

The saying goes that it is not who you know but who knows you. Well, Bob Dee does know people and he is known by people that matter in every sphere of human endeavour. You could call him the celebrityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrity and you would not be wrong.Yet, his humility knows no bounds. For a man who has attained the dizzy heights of business and mediapreneurship, you would think a little vanity excusable. Yes, he is highly connected and is a titled chief who holds two honorary doctorate degrees from the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Ghana and Houdegbe North American University, Benin Republic, yet his detachment from the grandeur and prestige of big titles and wealth is one of his most defining characteristics. His unassuming nature does not however undermine his pedigree as an icon of style and aristocracy.

Dele Momodu is a bridge between the old and new worlds. His expertise at building enduring relationships across generational divides is phenomenal. It is not strange to find him in one moment sharing hearty banters online and offline with twenty-somethings, and then to find him holding weighty conversations with sixty-somethings in the next moment. He straddles different generations with artistic ease. And this is reflected in his intuitive mastery of, and popularity on multiple social media platforms. In a space where brands with dedicated marketing teams are striving to achieve an authoritative voice on social media, Dele Momodu has successfully carved out for himself massive acres of online real estate and presents as a case study in new media mastery and social media influencing.

As one of the most important voices in public intellection, his excellent interventions in national affairs through his weekly column, Pendulum, continues to send waves of enlightenment and introspection through the polity.

He has an incredibly big heart. I am often astounded by the number and the degree of infractions he is able to forgive. It was always astonishing to see him extend a helping hand to traducers in distress. It was not uncommon to find friends or employees who had abused his benevolence but those were never strong enough to bar him from being gracious in future to the same people and others.

His passionate commitment to his family is a personal inspiration and a lesson in balance to young and old professionals and entrepreneurs alike. He deserves every accolade that will come his way today. This is the sixtieth chapter in a book that is still being written about this amazing human being, powerful media giant, captivating intellectual, riveting raconteur, stylish socialite, incredible polymath, amazing writer, brilliant journalist, consummate family man and limitless philanthropist. 60 hearty cheers to Bob Dee!!! 10

DELE MOMODU HAS LEFT HIS FOOTPRINTS INDELIBLY IN THE ANNALS OF JOURNALISM -PRESIDENT BUHARI By: Femi Adeshina Special Adviser to the PresidentMedia and Publicity

President Muhammadu Buhari with Bashorun Dele Momodu

President Muhammadu Buhari greets Journalist/Publisher, Ayobamidele Abayomi Ojútelégàn Àjàní Momodu, popularly known as Dele Momodu, on the occasion of his 60th birthday May 16, 2020.The President congratulates Momodu on hitting the milestone in good health and sound mind, wishing him greater contributions to the further emancipation of Nigeria in the years and decades to come.President Buhari rejoices with the family, friends and professional colleagues of the Publisher of Ovation International, saying he has left his footprints indelibly in the annals of journalism in the country.He wishes Momodu greater profundity of thoughts as he engages with readers of his weekly column, PENdulum.

YOU HAVE BEEN AN OUTSTANDING INNOVATOR IN NIGERIAN JOURNALISMM -Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo

Bob Dee! It really is a special pleasure for me to join so many other friends and compatriots across the nation and internationally to celebrate your 60th birthday. You have by any measure been an outstanding innovator in Nigerian journalism. Some would remember how as News Editor of the Weekend Concord, you literally transformed the concept and content of the weekend newspaper in Nigeria. Also, way ahead of the amazing developments that we now see in social media. And with great vision, you

deployed Ovation International to celebrate the glitz, the glamour and the exuberance of the Nigerian and African social scene. This dramatically enlivened the depiction of our social life, entertainment and lifestyles, and blazed the trail in this genre of journalism. I also remember how sometime in 2009, Bob Dee again, way ahead of your time, and you told me you were going to run for President and that you were going to rely on the social media to reach young people. Despite the huge odds, you took on the challenge anyway.

Today, I think all would agree that Dele Momodu continues to be an important voice in public affairs and a true Nigerian patriot. I wish you many more creative and productive years of service in your engagements in public affairs and to the Nigeria people. So, Bob Dee, now that you are 60, no more trouble making; just take it easy. I pray that as your days, so shall your strengths, so shall your wisdom and so shall your favour with God, in Jesus name (Amen).Happy Birthday!

Tribute to The Love of My Life ! !! !!! “

Dele is simply a blessed man. God’s grace and favour upon him is so strong and so undeserving.No one,(not even me) had expected him to have a stable family, a happy home, a good wife (Yeah! Me!) and the best children that anyone would pray for.

”

Â© TY B e llo

Life is not about finding the right person, but creating the right relationship. It is not how we care in the beginning but how much we care till the very end. The journey to becoming Mrs. Dele Momodu wasn’t particularly a ‘smooth’ one.Dele was (and still is) a very good looking, charming, silver-tongued and bubbly

young man then but wasn’t my ‘type’ of man (or so I thought) as I had my spec. that he didn’t quite meet. This made all his efforts (including flaunting his celeb friends) at dating me, futile. He spent over 13 months chasing me all around the University of Ife campus and even employed the services

of my close friends( Buki Ayoola in particular )to achieve his mission but he also failed. He became very close to my siblings at a point in time in order to win their hearts and ultimately, mine. He succeeded in winning theirs but not mine. He did everything, gave up for a few months only to re-surface but I still had

man speak so passionately about and highly of his friend like Kabiyesi did on that day. ‘’Blajo, my friend is a very good man and he wants you as his wife. He is madly in love with you. Pls give him a chance for two weeks and if you still don’t like him, you can end the relationship’’, Kabiyesi had said. I felt the sincerity in his words and I decided

“

immediately to give it a go. The rest, like they say, is now history. Kabiyesi was very right. I found a very good and responsible man in Dele. His love for me is genuine (and I don’t joke with my words).He will unarguably be one of the very few good husbands and Fathers around. Dele has a very unique and unusual personality, imitate his actions at your own peril. I © TY B e llo

my reservations.Then, on this fateful afternoon in March 1990, a visitor came knocking at my door. It was Sir Dogzy (as we fondly call Kabiyesi Aroyinkeye, Oba Adedokun Abolarin). He had come to speak to and convince me about his dear friend, Dele Momodu. He did a damn good job. I had never before then, seen a

Dele was (and still is) a very good looking, charming, silver-tongued and bubbly young man then but wasn’t my ‘type’ of man (or so I thought) as I had my spec. that he didn’t quite meet. This made all his efforts (including flaunting his celeb friends) at dating me, futile. He spent over 13 months chasing me all around the University of Ife campus

” 17

consider myself extra ordinary to have been able to live with him successfully for almost 30 years. He does his things his own ways, most times not conforming to the norm. Dele also views life as an adventure and lives it as such. He believes that great things are possible and lives an abundant and happy life. He enjoys what he does and looks forward to what is to come. He is a true testament to what living a passionate and satisfying life is all about. He never dwells on the past (and hates it when you do so) neither does he begrudge anyone, little wonder he sleeps effortlessly and like a baby. I recently concluded that one or more of his ancestors must have done something in the past to impress the Almighty God so much so that God, in return has decided to bless their descendants. Or how else can one explain this love of God for Dele. Dele is simply a blessed man. God’s grace and favour upon him is so strong and so undeserving.No one, (not even me) had 18

expected him to have a stable family, a happy home, a good wife (Yeah! Me!) and the best children that anyone would pray for. He is hardly at home and yet, it never felt like it. God really loves him. I know this and he knows it too. Dele was about 30 years old or so when I met him and now at 60 (sounds so huge), I can only marvel at how Great God’s mercy towards us is. I look back to the day I first met this man and I know that there must have been an angel by my side that fateful day, something heavenly must have led me to him and built a bridge straight to his heart. I can’t but be grateful to God for the gift in Dele. God has been good to us as a family. He believes he chose the right partner for himself and believe I made the right decision marrying him. People search a lifetime to find what we have. God has been faithful all the way. His unending love is overwhelming. I am eternally grateful to Him.Ajani temi ni kan, Ajanaku ti n mi igbo Bolaji kijikiji, Olori owo mi, Okunrin ogun, omo aroti we

bi ojo, thank you for all that you do to and for me. I know you put in a lot of efforts (even more than I do) into making sure our marriage is successful. Thank you for being a good father to the boys. Wa a kuku je’re won. You are a good man indeed. You go way beyond the boundaries of duty to make sure your children and I are happy. You have reduced your lifestyle by over 95% just to accommodate the boys’ gargantuan school fees. You give us your best always. Thank you! Thank you! On this day that you are celebrating your 60th birthday, I pray that the good Lord will grant you dozens more fruitful and glorious years, prosperity, good health and sound mind. May you spend the next phase following God more nearly, knowing Him more deeply, seeing Him more clearly, loving Him more dearly and above all, serving Him with all your hearts. Yes! I am looking forward to spending the rest of my lifetime with you. Happy Happy Birthday Ajani mi! !! !!!

DELE MOMODU IS A GREAT NIGERIAN ORIGINAL

PRINCE NDUKA OBAIGBENA

e are here to celebrate the great life of evergreen life of Dele Momodu. and times of Dele Momodu on the occasion of his first 60 years. I can see that Bolaji is right by his side. We must all realise that Dele Momodu is a Nigerian Original and we have to celebrate his life. If we are to pay a tribute, we can write very many pages. But one of the more important ones is his time with MKO Abiola, the man who could have been Nigerian President, or the best President of Nigeria. Dele Momodu is a great Nigerian Original and today we will celebrate his great health, tenacity, never say die spirit, his mastery of the literay art, his mastery of politics, hos mastery of the African continent and in making sure that as a nation, the best of us is ahead of us. Therefore, I urge that we should all pray for the life of Dele Momodu wherever you are for the

Chief Ezekiel Fatoye

“

”

You will not be put to shame in this life

I give thanks to God for making you you. You have not gotten to your

witness 60 years on earth, the God that destination in life yet, may God take has kept you to date will forever keep you to the peak of all He has for your

Also, I will give kudos to your wife,

Bolaji, for the care and love she has

life. I pray God will give you many

showed you over the years. Both of you

your labour. Dele, I want you to know children in multiple fold. You will not

continually be with you and your

you.

I pray that you will eat the fruits of more years. You will see your children’s

that all you have been doing is visible be put to shame in this life, sickness will

coming shall be protected by Him.

before God, and he will surely reward not come near you, and your going and

will live long on earth, and may God family.

Happy birthday!

I Admire His Consistency And Loyalty -Chief Olusegun Osoba By: Michael Effiong

Veteran journalist and one-time Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba is one of the mentors of the Ovation Publisher, Chief Dele Momodu In this interview conducted at 12midnight, Chief Osoba spoke glowingly about the track record of consistency and loyalty that epitomizes the celebrator. Can you remember how you first met Chief Dele Momodu? That would be a bit difficult because we have been together for decades now. I met him a long time ago and took to him. Definitely, not every young man whom you have met, has had such an impression on you, what did you see in him sir? First of all, I admire his tenacity, courage, consistency, and

above all his loyalty to friends. His one track mind in any cause he believes in is unmatchable, He is always loyal to such a cause. These have been the attributes that I have seen in him over the years as a young man and he has sustained. And that is reason, that I have so much respect for him as a person. You are over 20 years older than him, what are the tips you can give him about staying very young, agile, and active like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been? First, he has to be close to his God and believe in Him. Then, you must be contented. Contentment in life is very vital, when you are contented and not envious of anyone; at any level, for any reason, in any circumstance, you will reduce the pain one suffers and you would have little stress. Also, engage your mind by working very hard;

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First, he has to be close to his God and believe in Him. Then, you must. Contentment in life is very vital, when you are contented and not envious of anyone; at any level, for any reason, in any circumstance, you will reduce the pain one suffers and you would have little stress.

you will have no time for pettiness. Above all, loyalty to friendship is very vital. The friend that you made right from your youth are most likely be the ones that would stay with you forever. I have seen all this in him. And an example is MKO Abiola, in life and death, he has been loyal to Chief MKO Abiola. Even after his death, Dele has not failed to relate with the family of MKO Abiola. A lot of weddings that Abiola’s children have had within and outside Nigeria, I have been surprised at the way he showed his friendship and respect for their father. This is good because the family would not ask for anybody’s money but he has spent his own money to attend all these ceremonies. To the family, it has not been an issue of money or material things, but an expression of love,

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affection and respect for their late father. I am sure the family would appreciate him for this. This is the example of a man that I think young people should emulate. Sir, as he turns 60, what are your wishes for him? My prayer is that he should continue in his ways, and like I said earlier, he should believe in his God and pray in his quiet moments. I will want him to continue this his kind behaviour and not deviate from them, because he is a man with courage. When he was to start his Ovation magazine, he solely went about it with all his might and he has turned it to a major breakthrough in Nigerian journalism. I respect him for that. My prayer is that he should remain focused, constant, and His God will always be with him. He will take him higher and higher beyond where he is today in Jesus name.

â&#x20AC;Ś. IN IFE, THEY USED TO CALL HIM DELE MAD BECAUSE HE WAS AUDACIOUS -OBA ADEDOKUN ABOLARIN

HRM Oba Adedokun Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila Orangun is one of the few friends who have known the celebrator the longest. He spoke candidly about him in this tete a tete. You are one of the few who have known him from way back, how did you both meet? I can't remember specifically the date but I can tell you that at the time we met, Dele like every other young man was trying to sort himself out in life but before then he worked in the University Library in1977 and then eventually got admission into the University of Ife in 1978, so we have been very close since 1978. How did you strike a relationship with him? You know we share so many things in common, we had plans for a bright future, we were intellectuals, we had an environment that was very conducive for learning those days. In Ife, we loved the environment that we lived in as students because of the rural nature of Ife at that time, life concentrated on the campus. Despite the fact that we came from humble backgrounds, we were determined to make a success of our

and we were dear to them, we saw their greatness and we aspired to break their records. So I'm not surprised at all that Dele has been able to achieve success. I'll always say that Dele is a loyal friend, we have so many things in common like I did say earlier and we did so many things together. Dele is a prolific writer, In politics he was there, Dele is so daring. Many people did not know, we were there between 1989 and 1993, Dele Momodu was neck deep in politics. Dele was in the know of the number of registered voters in Modakeke, and it was that high figure that was used to remove Chief Bola Ige in 1983 and Dr Olunloyo became Governor. Socially, so many escapades, it was FAJ that pointed it out in his write up that DELE was something else. In Ife then he was known as Dele Mad because he was audacious. Things that people would be scared of, he would do without blinking an eye. He detested indolence and always found something to do. There was a point he said he has become a Rain Catcher. There was one occasion, he had been paid to stop the rain for a major event on campus. It rained terribly that day. He had to run away. That was in 1982. He always works to ensure he eats. Again after Ife, he came to serve at the Oyo State College of Arts and Science (OSCAS). I was a senior Lecturer then and we became even closer. Dele was committed to the students as I was, I am proud to see very many of our students doing very well. We impacted in so many of those students at OSCAS. He has always been one to work hard, you cannot climb to the highest height by putting your hand in your pocket and just watching. Dele cherishes hard work just like I do and I am sure that is why we are where we are today. You needed to see the beautiful write-ups in the media when we celebrate . We have many of them becoming Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Professors and more. Dele Mmodu is a socialite, when he wants to socialize, he puts together the best of parties, and most importantly he is so kind and proud. We may be proud but we are not arrogant. Dele does not lives. We did not allow our backgrounds to bring us down, know how to spend money, when he has he gives. we were part of the movers and shakers of Ife then. We What do your wish him as he celebrates 60 were friends with the children of the rich, we attended their I pray that any moment from now he has to go back to parties and we organized parties and they attended. give some of his knowdge to the children coming after him. We were not intimidated in any way because we saw May the God Lord continue to bless him and his wonderful ourselves as equals because of the kind of lecturers we had wife, Bolaji. at that time, the likes of Wole Soyinka of this world, I am so happy for both of them. Bolaji did not want to Professor Durotoye of this world, Professor Wande enter the relationship at the initial stage, I convinced her to Abimbola of this world, Professor Ola Lawanson, try him for just two weeks and to the glory of God, I am Professor Ijalaye of this world.These were natural happy that just two weeks has now become almost thirty teachers. They were natural motivators, they believed in us years of friendship.

...His Life and Times

ele Momodu was born on May 16, 1960 in Ile-Ife, Osun State to the family of Jacob and Gladys Momodu and was the family's last child. His father hailed from Ihiebve in Owan East Local Government of present day Edo State. His first stint in school was at the Local Authority Primary School, Ile-Ife after which he went to Olurogbo High School and later, St John's Grammar School for his secondary education. He worked briefly at the University Library to augment his family income. He obtained his first degree in Yoruba from the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, in 1982, and earned a Master’s Degree in Literature in English in 1988. During his mandatory, 1982-83 National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) programme in 1982-83, he taught A-Level Yoruba at the Oyo State College of Arts and Science in Ile-Ife. At the age of 23, he became private secretary to the then Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Chief Akin Omoboriowo. In 1986 at the age of 26, Dele Momodu was serving His Royal Majesty the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse II. In 1988, at the age of 28, after completing his Masters Degree in Literature-in-English, Dele Momodu left Ile-Ife for Lagos where he got his first job as Staff Writer with the African Concord

magazine, owned by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. In 1989, Dele Momodu was transferred to Weekend Concord as one of the pioneer staff to start what soon became the largest-circulating weekend paper. He wrote the first cover story for the lifestyle publication in March 1989. In May 1989, he earned a double promotion and became Literary Editor, and another promotion within six months when he became News Editor of Weekend Concord. This made him the third in command after the Editor, Mr Mike Awoyinfa and his Deputy Editor, Mr Dimgba Igwe. At the age of 30, he was appointed the Editor of Classique Magazine and this appointment made him the highest paid Editor in Nigeria. After Classique, Momodu started a Public Relations outfit, Celebrities’ Goodwill Limited, which managed the accounts of Chief Moshood Abiola (Repued at the time to be Africa’s richest man), Dr Mike Adenuga Jnr, Mr Hakeem Belo-Osagie (Chairman, UBA) and other distinguished Nigerians. Dele Momodu married his heart-throb Mobolaji Abiodun Momodu on December 19, 1992 and they have four boys. Momodu was the Founding Editor of Leaders & Company (today known as Thisday Newspapers). He recruited all the editors and core staff who started the newspaper.

Dele Momodu with his sweet mother

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While in London, he started OVATION INTERNATIONAL in 1996. In the 23 years of its glorious existence, OVATION INTERNATIONAL has covered stories and events in over 60 countries and on almost all the continents of the world. The magazine has changed the narrative about Africa and has shown that we have vibrant, hard-working people who are achieving great feats.

”

Dele Momodu and wife, Bolaji with children during one of his visits to mum, Mama Gladys Momodu

Dele Momodu and wife during their traditional wedding in 1992 with his mentor and godfather, Bashorun MKO Abiola

In 1993, Dele joined the Moshood Abiola Presidential Campaign Organisation. He was arrested along with other social crusaders and detained at Alagbon Close, Ikoyi Lagos by the SSS after the annulment of the June 12 Presidential election by General Ibrahim Babangida. In 1995, he got into bigger trouble when he was to be arrested and charged for treason by the Abacha Junta. He was accused of being one of the brains behind the pirate radio station, known as Radio Freedom and later changed to Radio Kudirat. Dele Momodu managed to escape to exile in England through Ghana. For three agonising years, Momodu could not enter Nigeria. While in London, he started OVATION INTERNATIONAL in 1996. In the 23 years of its glorious existence, OVATION INTERNATIONAL has covered stories and events in over 60 countries and on almost all the continents of the world. The magazine has changed the narrative about Africa and has shown that we have vibrant, hard-working people who are achieving great feats. The magazine has consistently promoted the best and the brightest Africans and highlighted the verve, the colour and the splendor of Africa. An avid reader who was inspired by the Great Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and his book, Africa Must Unite, Momodu has used his connections, contacts and Magazine to spread the need for Africans to believe in themselves and develop as one big unifying force. One of the most travelled Africans alive, Momodu has enjoyed worldwide acclaim and has met the High and Mighty, including Her Majesty the Queen of England, African Presidents,

former American Presidents, and world scholars. Dele Momodu attributes his success to God and relentless hard work. Today, Ovation Media Group has Ovation International Magazine, Ovation TV (Shown on AIT and Silverbird (Nigeria), GHone (Ghana), Ben TV (UK and Continental Europe) and Afrotainment Network (US and Canada), The Boss Newspapers and Ovation Books & Publishing. He has won over 200 awards as one of Nigeria’s most influential citizens, with a huge social media presence including over 500,000 followers on twitter alone, Momodu is indeed a trendsetter. He holds multiple traditional titles in Nigeria and Liberia. And was honoured with a Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) by Houndegbe North American University, in Benin Republic. In philanthropy, he has endowed an award for Literature in honour of Prof. Kofi Awoonor at the University of Ghana, Legon, he donated an e-Library to the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria and supported the Abolarin Secondary School in OKe-Ila Orangun, Osun State, Nigeria. In addition, he has supported causes in Primary healthcare both in Nigeria and Ghana. He is a Journalist/Publisher, Polemicist, Businessman, Philanthropist, Actor and Motivational Speaker. In 2011 during the Nigerian Presidential Elections, he ran against President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and current President, Muhammadu as the Presidential Candidate of the National Conscience Party (NCP). 41

A Tribute to MY FATHER AT 60 Yole Momodu

He has always been keen to keep us in touch with our rich Nigerian heritage.

I was born in 1996, oblivious to the circumstances I was born into. Without going into long details, all I will say is that my parents have been through a lot. Perhaps the biggest tribute I can give is that I’ve never grown up feeling deprived. Contrary to what many believe, my father does not possess unlimited reserves of money; but he has worked tirelessly, and continues to work do so, in order to provide opportunities to his four children that he was never afforded growing up. Growing up and learning just how dire the situation in Nigeria was in the 90’s only deepens my appreciation for what my father had to go through to get to where we are now. Another thing I will always appreciate is that despite growing up in the UK for the most part, he has always been keen to keep us in touch with our rich Nigerian heritage. His mission when starting Ovation was the same; to celebrate a culture that the rest of the world is constantly depicting in an unflattering manner. Having the experience of both western culture and traditional Nigerian culture deepens my appreciation for the two; both so different yet both possessing strong values that are worth celebrating. After being exiled, one could be forgiven for losing their affection for their fatherland, but not only is that not the case, it has only strengthened the resolve my father has to

relentlessly pursue positive change in Nigeria. Only a fraction of the determination he has would be sufficient if I am to affect the positive change I hope to have on the world one day. Above everything else, the value that I will always cherish the most is my father’s munificence. As I have said, he has never possessed the world, but he makes a point of sharing whatever he can spare, and taught me that what may seem like a little can go a long way for someone else. One of his favourite sayings has always been that ‘The hand of the giver is always on top’. I must admit I didn’t always understand this, but growing up it has come to make perfect sense. There is no value in success if all you can see around you is squalor. As I continue to move through life, the one thing I can assure is that these will be the words that dictate my chosen path. I would say that this adequately sums up what could very easily be an odyssey if I were to expatiate further. Babi mi, I just want to wish you a very happy 60th birthday. It is a shame that we cannot celebrate in person, but I am wishing you many more joyous years; hopefully the most relaxing of your days yet, because Lord knows you deserve it. Love you always. 43

Eniafe Momodu

My dad taught me that success is not to be measured by the awards you've won, the titles you've acquired, or the money in your bank account, but by the people that you uplift, and the lives you change.

What can I say about my father that hasn't already been said? Happy birthday to an incredible, incredible man. He is a father, a brother, a husband and a mentor to so many people. My dad taught me that success is not to be measured by the awards you've won, the titles you've acquired, or the money in your bank account, but by the people that you uplift, and the lives you change. I meet people all the time - musicians, actors, comedians, writers, activists, makeup artists-people in every industry that you could imagine, who all tell me stories about how my dad has supported them in some way or another, whether it was giving them a platform, featuring them in his magazine, giving them money to start their business, or just giving them some lifechanging advice that changed the trajectories of their careers. I've

been fortunate enough to witness from up-close, and from afar his passion and his drive for uplifting others, especially his fellow Africans, and I hope to one day impact even a fraction of the number of lives that he has. You do so much, for your family, for your friends, and even strangers to whom you owe nothing, and from whom demand nothing in return, and I'm so glad that today, on your 60th birthday, we have the opportunity to show our gratitude and appreciation for everything that you've done and continue to do. So to my best friend, my biggest fan, my number 1 investor, my twin, my teacher, my father, I hope you have a wonderful birthday, and I look forward to celebrating many, many more. Happy birthday.

Korewa Momodu “

”

You are one of the most kind, hard-working people I’ve ever met even at 60 years old. You have been too kind to me and hardly say no whenever I ask you for anything so much so that I boast that you do not know how to say no to me

Happy Birthday Daddy. I thank you for being the most amazing father to me for 15 years of my life. You continue to support and believe in me in whatever I do whether it’s school or my future career. You always encourage me to be the best in whatever I do. You are one of the most kind, hard-working people I’ve ever met even at 60 years old. You have been too kind to me and hardly say no whenever I ask you for anything so much so that I boast that you do not know how to say no to me. I remember that in my primary school days, my teacher had asked my class

whose father could come in for a day and teach the class about some issues of life. I was quick to raise my hand volunteering my father. My teacher immediately said, "Koko, it isn't the type of your dad I am talking about. Your dad would not have the time for such". I disagreed with her and told her that she should just tell me the date and time and what she would like my dad to teach the class and that it would happen. She did that. I got home that evening called you straight away in Ghana and you said it was ok. You flew in on the day and the whole

school was surprised when they saw you. It was the best day of my life, we laughed so much and my friends still speak about that experience till this day. I volunteered you the following year and you came again. That was amazing and so kind of you. You are also very down to earth despite being famous. I hope you live for many more years. Thank you for loving me unconditionally. I love you dearly too. I hope you will have an amazing day and pray that God grant you many more years. God Bless you. Yours Koko

Dele Momodu:

An Illustrious Patriot At 60 -Hajia Bola Shagaya, MON.

It is an honour for me to join your well wishers around the world to celebrate the great grace of God which has facilitated your arrival at the age of 60. I recall my association with you over very many years with great pleasure, which has afforded me a ring-side experience of your noble heart, Illustrous hands, high intellect and patriotic zeal. Worthy of mention is your dependability, a trait everyone privileged to be your associate will gladly attest to. I wish to congratulate you particularly on your most successful career in the media, where you have been a pace setter, both in terms of depth and candor. So also have you

been a role model to many, while the quality of your work and conduct have redefined the standards, integrity and significance of the industry. Your attainment of age 60 is certainly God’s acknowledgement of what you have done, and a deep expression of His pleasure in you. I therefore welcome you, joyfully to the prestigious “class of 60”.Take a deep bow, worthy husband and father! May God continue to preserve you and take you forward, grant you long life in excellent health and prosperity.

Segun Ezekiel

My first sight of you was in a photo album of my Dad’s Chieftaincy ceremony in 1981, where you indeed looked like one of the local champions in Gbongan. I noticed the determination on your face that one day I will be honoured as a Chief too, this indeed has come to past even beyond the shores of Nigeria. Well Done Bros! Bob Dee!!! Omo Arotiwe bi ojo, Omo eyin pon l’oje. I rejoice with you on this milestone you have attained. I can testify to God’s matchless love and mercy for you. This scripture in Romans 9:16 comes to mind when I think about the story of your life as I see it. From your humble beginnings in Ile-Ife to become a global phenomenon can only be an act of God. Considering, you were not the smartest in school as you’ve often told the story of how you failed your School certificate exams a number of times and my ever-caring Aunt (Your Mum) took you to one of our uncles (Professor Adegboye) to seek guidance on the way forward with your future pursuit in education. Prof in his characteristic bluntness advised Mama to better enrol you for apprenticeship as a tailor or was it a mechanic….? You were determined not to give up and with the prayer support and encouragement of your Mum you eventually 48

passed and gained admission to the then University of Ife to study Yoruba, which again demonstrated your determination to obtain a University degree even if in an uncommon discipline. As we heard you were popular around campus and you had your strange yet unique way of gaining popularity as a Babalawo. My first sight of you was in a photo album of my Dad’s Chieftaincy ceremony in 1981, where you indeed looked like one of the local champions in Gbongan. I noticed the determination on your face that one day I will be honoured as a Chief too, this indeed has come to past even beyond the shores of Nigeria. Well Done Bros! I recollect your weekend visits to Ile-Ife around 1989-90 when I was an undergraduate student living with Uncle Ladele (Professor Ajayi your older brother) in the same boys’ quarters you lived before God shone His countenance on you in a Big way. It was always a delight to have you

around with your crew which included Kunle Bakare and Lord Mayor Akinpelu. My roommate (Fashion) and I were always guaranteed of quality food and plenty of drinks those weekends. One thing that I later found out was that you came on working visits as a reporter though it seemed like for pleasure, as you always found a way of squeezing out stories from casual gists with the boys. One thing anyone cannot take away from you is the fact that you are hardworking and create a fun atmosphere while working which may be construed to be laidback. Another memorable event was your bachelor’s eve in 1992 at Nightshift night club in Ikeja, I was travelling to the UK that night but couldn’t afford missing out on the fun, so I took the chance of rocking for a bit before proceeding to the airport to catch my flight, unfortunately I missed my flight and returned to the party. We surely enjoy partying! I can dare say you are very courageous and ever ready to take on anyone in battle, particularly war of words. No one is too old or highly placed or too young for you to engage in battle once you believe in the cause. Sometimes, I felt they were unnecessary, but I guess that is one of the qualities that make Bob Dee unique. I recollect one of those was when you took on late Kabiyesi Ooni of Ife, your Mum was so worried that you were taking it too far but at the end of the day you remained Kabiyesi’s special son till he passed on. I don’t still understand how you turn those situations around. Another incident was when you were detained in Alagbon in 1994, my Dad summoned my late cousin Seyi Fatoye and I that needed to speak with you on the need to be very careful as your life was in danger, we both knew it was pointless as you wouldn’t backoff on any cause you believed in particularly social injustice. Fast-forward to 1995 when yet again you ran into trouble with the government of the day and you had to sneak out of Nigeria. The first thought that came to mind was that this egbon was hell bent on getting killed. Anyway, you eventually arrived in the UK, thanks to all your ever-committed committee of friends. Few weeks into your time in exile, little did we know that God was opening the best chapter of your life. On this fateful evening

sometime in September 1995 you came visiting my family and I, while we were having dinner I asked the question “Egbon what do you plan to do now you’re here in the UK, and your response was that you didn’t have an idea and I said out of genuine concern that if care is not taken you’ll end up working as a Security Guard”, as if something came upon me I asked the next question “haven’t you considered starting your own magazine? And you responded that you had but the capital required is huge and it’s unlikely you’re able to raise that sort of money more so while in exile. Interestingly, I had just reviewed an investment proposal for Dad who was approached to invest in a financial magazine and my opinion was that the projections in the business plan was too optimistic and the person involved was not as visible in the publishing landscape, hence my Dad did not proceed with the investment. I recall that I suggested naively that you should consider starting a publication as your article ‘Pendulum’ was very popular and widely read. We set the ball rolling to birth the dream from that night and a few months after, sometime in December 1995 we registered the Company Ovation International Limited. Your humility laced with courage and hard work culminated to what has become a Global media conglomerate. The journey I summarised in a few sentences was not as smooth sailing as it seemed, close relationships were strained and never restored, while some were reinstated and life-long lessons learnt, though you have your own short comings like everyone else I can confidently say you have journeyed the treacherous path of life skilfully which I can attribute to your to unflinching loyalty to those who supported and believed in you and your dreams. My prayer for you as you begin another phase of life, is that you will acknowledge the hand of God upon your life more and seek to know him and please him more in all your endeavours. Congratulations on your 60th Birthday Egbon mi, I am proud of you and may you end well and finish strong in Jesus Name. God Bless you. Your Dear Aburo Segun Ezekiel 49

DIAMOND BIRTHDAY FELICITATIONS TO AN ESTEEMED AND CHERISHED BROTHER AND FRIEND –BASORUN AYOBAMI DELE MOMODU Prince Adedamola Aderemi

Hearty felicitations and congratulations on the attainment of your Diamond Jubilee age, BobD of the World, as those of us who burnished our juvenescence and youth in the University of Ife Road 9 and 20 Boys Quarters of your illustrious brother, Prof. Dele Ajayi, call you. You have been my brother, friend, homemate, homey, tutor, confidant, 50

advisor, and everything else in between, for almost 45 years now and I am proud to have been with you. You have grown from that thin, rakish, socialist, passionate literary young avid and voracious reader into the larger than life legend of the Nigerian, African and International journalistic firmament. You had an unusual acronym of “MAD”, “Dr. MAD” to be precise, in

those halcyon days of our University of Ife days, and boy, have you lived up to it in almost every way. It has truly been a mad life and experience for you. To make assurance doubly sure, you have acquired honorary doctorate degrees along the way to ensure the sobriquet of Dr. MAD really fits. The Dr. MAD and other Stories will be for the twilight of our years by God’s grace, some of the

revelations are simply too earth shaking to reveal whilst you are in the “prime” of your “youth”. As they say, if you know, you know! Hopefully, we shall live many more years to tell these stories, as we benefit from the great advances in medicine and science, and as the Lord spares our lives. Amen. I have watched with admiration as you created and developed brand “Dele Momodu” from practically the ashes of nothingness to the global phenomenon that you have now become. Your humble beginnings were never going to deter you because you had a burgeoning hunger for success and fame that could not be tethered or restrained. You wanted to be a literary giant, like your African Literature authors and heroes. And indeed, you now are, my Brother. Many will write and speak about what you have become at 60 years of age, and it is fit and proper that they do so because you are a Colossus in your field, but for me the embodiment of your life lies in your avowed ethos of simplicity, loyalty, generosity, and family, coupled with an extraordinary vision and talent spotting. There are the weaknesses too, but it is the combination of virtuoso existence and foibles that makes the whole complement of what we know as BobD, the MAN of the 10,000 lives, and many more, fame! I am aware of the riches and wealth that have always beckoned, but I know how you have shunned these to live the simple, yet glamorous life that you now live, being true to the stellar upbringing and values you imbibed from your Mum, our “Mama”, “Iya Oyo”, Mrs Gladys Arike Momodu, of blessed memory. Mama was simply divine and lovable, for each other and it was always heartwarming to witness the passion and love that you both shared. You have not let the galactic circles that you have been inducted in, affect your simplicity and you have

continued to have your feet firmly rooted to the ground, because although you were not born noble, you attained nobility at such an early age. I can attest to your fierce loyalty to causes and friends. In this regard, I know that you have been much misunderstood. However, for you, friendship trumps and conquers all. You never forget favours and will go to extraordinary lengths to repay those favours even to the detriment of yourself, earning loads of detractors along the way, because that is who we are and how we have been brought up. I know that you would rather die than abandon a friend. That has been a coruscating and luminescent feature of your work and relationships, even though others may not see or understand this. Your generosity is as legendary as your yourself are. I have been a great beneficiary of that generosity. You would rather give to others and keep nothing for yourself because the happiness of giving is for you better than the money you keep. It is a philosophy we both share, and you have never wavered even sometimes when it means great cost to yourself and family. As you agree with me, any favour you do is not done for man, but for God who has provided for us. You want nothing in return. That is another reason you are so blessed. As for family, what can I say? You have been blessed with a charming, elegant and lovely wife, Bolaji, and four wonderful boys! In your own inimitable way, you had to be more than “okunrin meta”! However, along the way you have added to your small family and acquired so many fathers, mother, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters and children along the way because you have a heart of solid gold and it shines right through. I know how soft and tender you can be, and it is comforting that the lion weeps and cries, which for you is normal and not disgrace! I salute and adulate you today as a visionary. Aeons ago, you recognised that our future, indeed that of the world would lie in the entertainment industry and you championed the career of young and upcoming artistes, comedians, actors, actresses and the arts and crafts generally. There are very few in the music and entertainment industry that will not pay homage to you as their mentor or guardian. I need not mention names, as they know themselves. You continue to do what you did from the start, which is showcase young talent and rejuvenate fading ones. You had the foresight and perspicacity to realise that social media would be next big media wave and you embraced it wholeheartedly. You have easily become the leading African journalist in this area and leaders around the Continent seek your advice and intervention. Your innovation and creativity led to the formation of Ovation Magazine, which, together with the Fatoyes and my brother, Yemi, I am proud to have been involved with as part of your Gbongan Family. Rather than rest on your laurels, you continue to reinvent the brand, being several steps ahead of the competition. The recent Instagram Live series is an attestation of your resolve never to let adversity or tribulation be an impediment or millstone to the propagation of news and entertainment. As you celebrate your Diamond jubilee birthday today, I hail you as a truly symbolic Diamond-invaluable, precious, glittering and rare! BobD of the World, as one of our sisters said in another context, “CARRY ON, THE LION”! God shall continue to be with you, honour, favour and bless you abundantly always. Amen. Happy birthday and many happy returns! Enjoy your day and the encomiums you will receive!! You are worthy and deserving!!!

e met in the early 70s when I moved to Ile-Ife to live once again with my grand parents. His mum's shop was practically in front of the Palace where I lived, so we used to hang out together a lot. His brother, Prof. Oladele Ajayi, is my father's cousin and his mother, is a Fatoye and is also my cousin by marriage. Immediately, we simply became close brothers. Bob Dee then met my brother, Damola, and since then they have become inseparable brothers too and our bond grew stronger. So many things come to mind as we were growing up, Bob Dee loved his mother to a fault. He was a mummy's spoilt brat. Mama loved him with a passion too. That love was transferred to me as well. You can not be around Dele and not read books, thank you for introducing me to all the good books we used to read from Betrand Russell to African writers series, Thomas Paine, James Hadley Chase, Sidney Sheldon and so on. He loved his food and the opposite sex was his weakness. When he comes to food and other things he pays attention to details but his weakness no scruples!!!Ayobami, like his mother fondly calls him, is a free spirit, loves his freedom and treasures his relationships with people. He is very generous. I remember when he entered university and collected his bursary around N500 in those days. He went straight to his mother to give her 10%. I always struggle to take N50 from him to keep before he begins beer parlour and buka crawling buying, for whoever he meets known and unknown. By the end of the day he is already broke. The N50 I kept for him is what would see him through. One day I asked him why he spends like that and he told me that my brother, Damola, dymistified money to him and at one point or the other people that he didn't know have shown him love and generosity and he was just paying back.Dele and food... hummm, Bob Dee loves Macdonalds. Anytime we all travel together for a function, once we drop our luggage at the hotel he calls me to go in search of McDonalds restaurant. I remember once in the US, he bought his favourite McDonalds burger and he had a bite. He immediately said the "architecture" was wrong. He went back to argue with them from, floor staff to shift supervisor to the store manager telling them how the pickle, onions, burger, Ketchup and all the other stuffings should be arranged. Of course they argued with him and told him he was wrong. My brother had another bite and insisted they were wrong. So he told them for what is worth and his own peace of mind they should check the manual. Lo and behold Bob Dee was right and the McDonald's staff were wrong. Fear and trepidation gripped them. They thought he was from headquarters and for the rest of our stay we were given free food at that McDonalds restaurant. This is a typical example of one of his qualities attention to details, not to mention his love and passion for McDonald's! About Bob Dee's weakness bit I have to respect my elders and pass on

Too Many Things To Say About My Brother,

Bob Dee

Aka Mad As He Then Was! Yemi Aderemi

the issue. But whatever he does he always put in his best. My brother Ayobamidele, it's been great knowing you over the years, memories of our childhood reminds me all the reasons I'm glad you are my friend and brother. Happy birthday and enjoy your old age sir!!!!

Mrs Toyin

Seriki "

You keep winning and soaring because you consistently break down barriers

t is with joy and gratitude to God I celebrate you my dear Brother, Ara Oje, Omo Arotiwebiojođ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2C6;đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2C6;đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2C6;đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2C6; The Lord has indeed been good to you and we return all Glory to Him that you are witnessing today. You remain a trail blazer in your chosen profession and the history of journalism would be incomplete without your great input and innovation. You changed the landscape of corporal and social events by bringing â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bashorunâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;a Former Presidential class and opulence to same. We celebrate you today as a great Candidate â&#x20AC;&#x153;. You keep winning and soaring achiever who has come a long way! Your nicknames and titles over the because you consistently break down years attest to this. From being fondly barriers and overcome every adversity called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dele Madâ&#x20AC;? đ&#x;&#x2DC;&#x20AC; (Momodu like a Champion. You are a workaholic, (totally Ayobami Dele) back then at Unife, to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bob Deeâ&#x20AC;? when you landed in Lagos dedicated to Ovation), an extremely and then â&#x20AC;&#x153;Publisherâ&#x20AC;?, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chiefâ&#x20AC;?, brilliant writer (unapologetic about your

beliefs) and an astute businessman. You always remain loyal to your friends even when it is not in your interest to do so. I pray to God to grant you the power to continue to increase on all sides and to grow from this great height to even greater heights In Jesus Name. You have been a great father and loving husband to my Darl Aburo. You shall surely reap the fruits of your labour over your children in good health and a sound mind. You always know how to make the best out of any situation. I know you surely will have an amazing day and still celebrate the Ovation styleđ&#x;&#x2018;&#x152; Enjoy your day my dear Brother InLaw and Indeed. Happy 60th birthday Champ đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2030;đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2030;đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2030;đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2030;đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2030;đ&#x;&#x17D;&#x2030;

Mrs. Kemi

Aderemi

A determined and hardworking person, totally focused. As it is with all relationships, we have had our moments of disagreements but our friendship has always come through stronger.

Happy birthday and many happy returns of the day tto my dear brother, Dele, temi nikan, my only Orogun (all other ones are pretenders). I have known you for 35 years now. You are kind, compassionate and dependable. A very loyal friend indeed. A determined and hardworking person, totally focused. As it is with all relationships, we have had our moments of disagreements but our friendship has always come through stronger. You have been there for my children and I. You

have fought for me with everything in you. The Lord will reward you in Jesus name. Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for being my brother. Thank you for being someone my children and I can count on. Emi yin a se opolopo odun ni oruko Jesu. Ma ma ri yin ba ni oruko Jesu. Have a wonderful day my dear brother. God bless you always and perfect all that concerns you in Jesus name. With love and best wishes, Emi Oga

riting a tribute to Bashorun Ayobamidele Momodu, is a difficult task because he is a man of many parts.Dele Momodu, Bob Dee as he is fondly called, was born in the heat of Nigeria's preparation for Independence on the 16th of May, 1960 in Ile Ife, Osun State. He is the son of the Late Mr. Oboh Abiodun Momodu, the grandson of Chief Momodu Odion, the great grandson of Chief Igberuwan and the great great grandson of Chief Ekuduma, of Ugba, Ihievbe in Owan East LGA of Edo State. Dele was not born with a silver spoon and so, he had to fight for everything he needed to get by in life. He is a man of steely disposition who never gives up on any project he has set his mind to do. He had no clear idea what he wanted to do in life even when he entered the University of Ife but he knew very early on that he loved books. He loved to read and write. So, he read Yoruba Language thinking it was going to be easy but he found it tough. He prevailed and went to bag a Masters degree in Literature. His love of writing, and the need to earn a living, led him to contribute columns to the Guardian Newspapers. Here, he announced his arrival on the journalism stage when he exposed one of the eminent journalists of that time who plagiarized Thomas Paine's Age Of Reason without giving credit to the author of the work. Dele had found his calling which would take him through stints at Concord Newspapers, Quality and Classique Magazines. All through, he remained true to his belief in integrity, honesty, equity and social justice. This his campaign for integrity, honesty, equity and social justice in society has found him fighting various governments, organizations and entities in Nigeria and elsewhere, who fall short of his high standard in these areas. This fight led him into exile in the days of NADECO when he wouldn't budge in his demand for the actualization of the Presidential mandate which Nigerians overwhelmingly gave to his friend, mentor and benefactor, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. If the government of the day thought they could break his spirit through hounding him into exile, they had another think coming. Dele utilized his time in exile to found Ovation Magazine which has metamorphosed into a media empire that spans Television, Online Newspaper, Entertainment and Hospitality.For somebody such awesome and intimidating credentials and power, Dele is forever affable and humble. If you are his elder, he will embarass you by protesting for you no matter where he meets you. He has instilled this same spirit of humility in his sons. No wonder he keeps ascending from height to height.It gives me great pleasure therefore, to wish this accommodating and loving husband and father; this Media Mogul of immense means and power; this unassuming but shining star of Nigeria and the Momodu family; my Aburo, Bashorun Ayobamidele Momodu, 60 hearty cheers as he turns 60 years old today. My prayer for you is that God who has brought you this far will continue to guide you, guard you and lead you. May He continue to take you to greater heights. Abundant life and light will be your portion. May your days be longer than those of your parents in Jesus name. Amen. Happy birthday Aburo.

TRIBUTE TO MY COUSIN AND MEDIA MOGUL

BASHORUN AYOBAMIDELE

MOMODU AT 60

Pst. John

Abraham Cousin

Mr. Mike Awoyinfa “ ”

Dele you have led a good life. But the best is yet to come. You seem to have this knack of reinventing yourself. I like what you are doing dominating the social media with good old journalism brought all the way back from our younger days in Weekend Concord

How can I forget Saturday, March 4, 1989, the day we started a newspaper revolution with a different approach to news reporting? How can I forget the very first issue of Weekend Concord? The birth of a newspaper must be occasioned by a Big Bang. Just like the birth of creation itself. The paper must come out with something earthshaking, the kind of story that would for a very long time register in people’s mind. For the Weekend Concord to live up to people’s expectation we felt we needed something big. So Dele Momodu was sent out like a knight errant of the medieval times, in the grail quest for a super story that we can lead with in

our debut. Happy birthday 60th Chief Dele Momodu. We bless God for bringing us thus far. May 16 should have been double celebration. It’s also the birthday of my late friend, Dimgbà Igwe, another Weekend Concord hero like you. Dele you have led a good life. But the best is yet to come. You seem to have this knack of reinventing yourself. I like what you are doing dominating the social media with good old journalism brought all the way back from our younger days in Weekend Concord. Keep up the good work. Ain’t no stopping us now. Happy birthday from the one you call “My Boss For life”

"Your Have A Heart Filled with

Empathy For The Disadvantaged and Downtrodden"

Ruth Ohianata

Abraham Cousin

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then is not an act, but a habit."-Aristotle. I think of you every time I see this quote, cause your entire life is embodied by that simple statement. My Uncle Dele, You are an amazing human being. Wise beyond your years and one of the very few

people I look up to, simply because your life is a clear example of how we ought to live and treat each other as human beings. Every single thing you do is premised on Love. You have a heart filled with empathy for the disadvantaged and downtrodden in the

society. Kind, helpful, caring and generous are some of the words that best describe you as an individual. I can talk to you for hours on end, because your mind is an endless pool of knowledge, especially since you are constantly trying to learn new things and gain more and more knowledge. You are also always willing to share your experiences and life lessons with anyone who is willing to learn. Your humility is simply out of this world. You are one of the hardest working people I know and your strength amazes me. I used to think I had energy when working on events, until I joined your team. It almost seems as though you have a well you keep drawing an endless supply of strength from! I have watched you quietly over the years as you have expertly juggled being a husband, a father, brother, cousin, friend, Journalist, Publisher, Entrepreneur, Restauranteur, Philanthropist, Politician, Columnist, Events promoter, Political Analyst, Teacher, Orator, Mcee etc (forgive me if I've missed any of them) You wear so many caps and you wear them all effortlessly; Tackling each project with the same tenacity and discipline that you do the others. I haven't had the opportunity yet to show you just how grateful I am for the life lessons you have taught us and the various opportunities, but I know one day I will get that chance. As you celebrate your Diamond Jubilee today, I pray that God continues to bless all that concerns you. You will live to actualise all that God has destined for you and your family. As you wholeheartedly celebrate others, may God continue to celebrate you and grant you your heart's greatest desires. Good health, God's favour, Grace, Mercy, blessings in abundance, Long life and God's goodness, are some of the many things I wish you in this new phase of your life. Happy 60th birthday my Uncle Dee. I love you very much and wish you the happiest of birthdays, today and always. God bless you. Love you always

Sophie Momodu Niece

Uncle Dele -aka my second dad - is such an amazing person. He is an inspiration to us all. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so supportive & he gives the best advice always. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m so thankful for him & I pray God continues to keep him in His grace for us all. I love you so much uncle, thank you for everything!

Sophia Momodu, Imade Adeleke & Bashorun Dele Momodu 58

Yemi Ajayi -Niece

It's been 6 awesome decades of living a fulfilled life and I can't but rejoice and felicitate with you on this special occasion of your 60th birthday my dearest uncle. You are not just an uncle to me but a very special one to be proud of and worthy of emulation. You are supportive, loving, caring, compassionate and never disappointing. You have surprised me pleasantly in so many ways I cant begin to mention. I am speechless and overwhelmed by all your kind gestures towards me. I celebrate you now and always and I wish you many more blessed years in perfect health. Happy Birthday my super amazing Bob Dee. With love from your dearest Aburo

Tolu Ajayi -Niece

If all nieces were fortunate to have been blessed with uncles like you, what a lovely place this world would be. Thank you for loving me and being such a wonderful figure in my life. I still canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe how lucky I am to have a great man like you as an uncle. I can never thank you enough for teaching me to always believe in myself and my dreams. Thank you for been passionate about my success,Your

Aunty Salewa

priceless guidance, advice and love are responsible for forming me into the proud woman i am becoming. Despite your very busy schedule you continue to be my go to uncle. You are my super hero and above all my mentor, i admire your work ethics and drive. Thank you so much for all you do uncle.May God forever bless you and yours. Happy 60th birthda Egbon mi. Igba odun, odun kan ni.

Happy birthday to you Bob Dee, long life and prosperity in good health. I celebrate with you on this landmrk occasion of your 60th birthday. You have been a very supportive uncle to my children. I thank God for your life and for making our path cross. You care about people around you and you ensure you put smiles on people's faces. Joy unspeakable will be your portion and it shall be well with you and yours forever.Igba odun odun kan ni. 59

Louis Abraham (Jr.) Cousin

You are the embodiment of hardwork, resilience and generousity. You inspire me and a lot of the younger generation greatly.

My dear Uncle Dee, Finally you have reached the magical age of 60. Gone are the days when turning 60 meant getting ready for retirement or old age. You are the embodiment of hardwork, resilience and generousity. You inspire me and a lot of the younger generation greatly. Today, a new lease of life and the

dawn of your new chapter begins. I pray that you continue to live your inspiring life to the fullestaccompanied by happiness and good health, in Jesus name, Amen. So enjoy yourself uncle, and have fun as you embrace this awesome milestone in your life. I love you and wish you the very best.Have an amazing 60th birthday Uncle Dee!

60TH BIRTHDAY

Â© TY B e llo

S PE C I AL

INTERVIEW

"My Loyalty To People Has Never Failed Me"

- Chief Dele Momodu Interview: Michael Effiong Photoshoot: TY Bello

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

I was born in an Aladura Church.They said I was a Nazerite, my Christian name is Joseph. As a Nazarite, no razor touched my head for years.Tha is what is called Dada,like Joseph in the Bible, I dream a lot.

wasting my money, it was too expensive. It was like keeping someone in Sheraton Hotel, she could barely eat. I used to go there to see her, you know at that time I was not really staying in Nigeria. I used to come in and out. Eventually, they released her and she was first staying in Lagos in the house I had on top of our office at that time. Later, I decided that There is this emotional picture of you lying down on the bed with since my older brother and sister were in Ife, there was no point monopolising her in Lagos. So, she went back to Ife. your mum, tell us what circumstances surrounded that shot? Before then, there was a day I came to see her, I just knew That picture was taken when she was ill, she was old and aging. And I knew her time to go was very close. So I took she was going. I just had that premonition that she was going, I was lying down beside her, cuddling her, stroking her hair her to Duro Soleye hospital on Allen Avenue. Even they were initially reluctant to take her, they told me and crying seriously; I was just crying and she could barely she wasn't sick that it was old age. I said whatever the issue, talk. What were the thoughts going through your mind? the only you can take a person to the hospital. They felt I was

n the past few weeks, OVATION Chairman, Chief Dele Momodu has attended many interview sessions ahead of his all-important and much-awaited 60th birthday. In this engaging session, he sat down at his office in the Penthouse, Ikoyi, Lagos to chat with our Editor, Michael Effiong, where he revealed many of his best kept secrets.

â&#x20AC;?

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My parents saw visions. They could clearly predict a lot of things. There were prophecies in church about my life that if I could survive the first seven years, I was going to be famous.

”

That she was going and I would never see her again. I was still crying. Suddenly, I don’t know where the force came from, she just called my name ‘Ayobamidele, ekun yi o wa poju? Jesu o wa pelu e.’ (Ayobamidele, are these tears no too much. Jesus would be with you?). That was the last thing she ever said to me. After that encounter, she went back to Ife, I went back to London for my birthday, May 16. I was in London with my family. After two nights, I came back on the 18th and I remember as soon as we landed in the evening, I came on British Airways., I just switched on my phone and I saw a text, “Mama in Coma”. I screamed. I quickly called my sister. She said Mama could not talk that she’s in a coma. My first thought was that they should take her to the hospital.and try to keep her alive. Unfortunately, Nigeria is not a place where you can jump on a train in such situations and go straight to Ife that night. So, I planned to go to Ife in the morning. After freshening up in my apartment at Planet One Hotel, I went down to the restaurant to have my dinner. I will never forget, I was eating 3 prawns and steamed potatoes. I had eaten the first prawn, and was about to pick the second one when my phone rang. I saw Prof. Oladele Ajayi; that’s my older brother. I said I hoped he was not going to bring me bad news because it was unusual for him to call me like that. I picked the call and when I did, I just heard Dele! Dele! Dele! He called me three times and said, “our mom has gone home to rest”. I will never forget those words, I threw my fork and knife, everything away inside to restaurant, and I ran upstairs to my room and I cried all night. People were calling me that night; one of them was Uncle Bisi Olatilo, I don’t know who told him but I could not talk because my mom was everything. I started living with her at the age of 13. My father died when I was at the age of 13. She laboured so much for us to go to school. If I know how to cook today, it was because my mom couldn’t afford to give me pocket money; she had to give me raw food to go and cook in school. If I had a lot of friends today; a lot of them are silver spoons kids, it was because I was one of the few people who knew how to cook well, and I was ready to cook for them. With this, my house was always a beehive of activities. They will come and I will cook for them. So, you can now imagine losing such a mother. That was what happened!

We will still talk about your mom, but your dad, what are the recollections of him that you have?

Not much! Like I said, I was only 13 when he died. although we were very close, I became closer to my mom after my father died. My father was a spiritual 65

person who didn’t allow a woman to sleep in his bedroom. He was that strong spiritually and in those days they believed women could weaken their spirituality. So, I was the only one sleeping beside him in bed every night. I have one sister who did not sleep with us too since women were prohibited from entering his room. if he wants to see my mom, he will have to go to her room and come back. I also remember he was working with Public Works Department (PWD). He rose to become Road Overseer in the whole Mid-West but how he found his way to Ife and settled in Ife, I don’t know. I remember he also had a hotel, I think it was called, Premier Hotel & Restaurant at Sabo in Ife. I think it was on lease and he couldn’t sustain it; so, he gave it out. Then, he was a major distributor for Pioneer Biscuits. I knew he used to travel to Apapa to buy the biscuit. I also recollect that when Maltex came to Nigeria, he was one of the first Distributors of Maltex in Ile-Ife. In fact, one of the reasons I don’t drink malt till today is that when he brought it, I drank 3 bottles of it and I started throwing-up. Till today, I can’t smell or even drink malt. He was also a contractor; since he had worked at PWD before. Then, Ife and Ilesha used to be one zone. He tried his hands in all sorts. The day he died, we slept on the same bed and we woke up at 5am. And he went to church. My dad used to go to church everyday at 5am without fail. What Church was that?

It was Church of the Lord Aladura. It was headed by Papa Ayo Akeju. It was incredible. At a point, they were going to the church for the morning and and evening services.. He used to go to the mountains with my mom. They were both prayer warriors. My mom was what they called ‘Elemi’ - those possessed by the spirit inside the church He and my mum were prayer warriors, So, he did a contract in Ilesha, I think they were owing him money. He was desperate. We needed money, he was getting weak and tired. On that day, he went to church and I was dressed for school. As I was coming down to leave, he was going up and he remarked that I was running late. I told him goodbye and that was the last time I saw him alive. He went to Ilesha and that’s all. Till today, we didn’t know what killed him, I was too young to ask. They said maybe he suffered a heart attack but no one knows what killed him. And I was too young to even ask for a post mortem and all that. I also remember some family members came from Ihiebve, our village and they tried to take us away. They came to my school and of course kidnapped me and my sister and moved us to as far as Ilesha. I was quite smart at a very young age because I have been reading those James Hardly Chase novels at a very young age, but I was pitying my sister because if I decided to escape later, it will become noticeable and she would be dealt 66

with. I was a victim of kidnap.. later, Prince Damola Aderemi and we became Fortunately, and unfortunately for those best of friends. Through Damola and Yemi guys, the school I attended, the Principal was Aderemi, I had access to the Palace because my brother-in-law, Pa. Steven Adeniran; he Yemi was living in the Palace with his died recently, he noticed some people came to granddad and mom. school to pick me and he knew they were I used the excuse of going to visit him to members of my dad’s family. They had signed enter the palace. I had access to the palace. us out with them since they said my mom I believe that inspired me a great deal ordered them to pick us from school. But in because having access to the first Black those days we grow very fast in knowledge. Governor in Sir Adesoji Aderemi, We used to And that was how they took us to Ilesha and go there and stand near him. I wish there were from there they had wanted to take us to the pictures. He had Rolls Royce Phantom 6. That village in Edo State. So, he went to report at was the best Rolls Royce ever made. home that somebody came to pick us and that (Cuts in:) Did he use to cruise it around town? he wanted to be sure. My mom said she didn't Yes. When he cruised it around the town, order anybody to pick us, and that’s how they people would prostrate and hail him. They will raised alarm. scream, Baba Ye o, Kabiyesi and he would Fortunately, my uncle, was still in the cruise ever so slowly, it was so regal, so house, they went to the Police Station which spectacular for my young mind. was next door to us. And that’s You could still remember how they sent people to Ilesha the Number Plate and they brought us back. Oh yes, WF1. Even my My First Job Maybe the course of your life father that had a motor Was As An Errand would have been different? bike then it was WF333. It Boy At CSS was a special number. I Yes. Completely. Bookshop remember our phone I could remember that the first number 2242. few years of your life you didn’t cut

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your hair, tell us about this interesting story?

I was born in an Aladura Church like I told you before. The Church of the Lord. They said I was a a Nazarite, my Christian name is Joseph. My father’s own was Jacob. As a a Nazarite, no razor would touch your hair for years. That’s what they call Dada. If you look at my hair today, it is still curly. It is as a result of the experience, and I used to be a dreamer like Joseph in the Bible. I dream a lot. The higher form of dreaming is vision, that’s what my father and mother had. They were visionaries. They saw vision. They could clearly predict a lot of things and there were prophesies in the church about my life. They said if I survived the first 7 years, I was going to be very famous and all that. Most of the things they said, I can still remember faintly, has happened today. When things happen, it looks like I have seen it before. Like a déjà vu.I don’t know if such spiritual things still exist but I believe the Aladura churches still have it; unlike the Pentecostal churches that believe they are sticking to the Bible alone. I believe the Alaadura is an Africa variant of Christianity. And I do tell people that whatever religion you practice, you must adapt it to your local environment.

Tell me about Ife, the Palace and your experiences growing up in it

For me, it took a while before I could know much about the Palace because one, my father had died. My mom was an illiterate, although one of the wives of the Ooni came from Gbogan, the same place as my mom. In the village then, everyone used to say they are related. And that is Prince Damola Aderemi’s grandmother. Then, I used to go see Mama and that was how I met Prince Yemi Aderemi and

”

Tell me about the first job you ever did?

It would have been as an errand boy at CSS Bookshop in Ile-Ife. It was just opposite my mom’s shop. She had a beer palour then. During holiday, I used to go there to go and work; since my mom didn’t have money. I used to go there to work, clean the bookshelves, the floor, and when people want to buy book, I will stand with them.

(Cuts in:) Did they allow you read any of the books?

No. They didn't allow me read books because you couldn’t read the books you were going to sell. I remember, that was the first place I met Dr Tai Solarin. He came to buy books. Since Ife was a university town, there were lots of successful bookshops. We had Olusanu Omoarewa, we had Surulere Modern Bookshops, GTB Bookshop etc. That area was like going to Oxford Street in London. The place had lots of bookshops in the same small area. And the Museum was across the road. How much were you paid?

It was nothing. May be 50kobo because years later when I started writing for Guardian Newspaper, they were paying me 35naira per story. Tell us about the first time you came to Lagos?

I can’t remember but I think it would have been around 1969. I was about 9 years old. My eldest brother, Bunmi’s dad, still lives in America. I remember he left March 1969. I think after he left, he later sent a message to my father that he had impregnated a woman, an Igbo woman. My dad used to carry me like

his hand bag, so we went to trace the woman and we brought her to Ife, to stay with us till she had her baby. She gave birth to a girl, and that’s Bunmi. The baby was born prematurely, and the mother thought she was going to die. This was in 1969, October 18. We were supposed to do naming ceremony but the baby was looking very fragile and tiny; you could see veins and blood on her body. The mom just left her in the cot and ddisappeared. Till today, no one has ever seen her. There is nothing we’ve not done to find her. We have done newspaper adverts, we have done so many things, almost everything to find her but no luck. I don't know how anybody can disappear from the surface of the earth. My mum took care of Bunmi like her own child. So you could see the reason I cried so much when she died, my mother meant the world to me. Thus Bunmi was brought up by my mum. This and many more reasons made my cry when she passed. My older sister was from another mother, if you are not told, you will never know. My mum taught us never to discriminate against anyone.

We have talked so much about your background, tell me about the birth of your first son and how his name came about?

I got married in December 1992 in Ijebu-Igbo. And I married Mobolaji Adaramaja. Her father was the first Attorney General of Ogun State. It was a fairly big wedding. Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Alex Akinyele, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Kola Abiola, Nduka Obaigbena and former wife, Efe, the Late Tunde Adejumo, Rotimi Obey, Sir Shina Peters and Kunle Bakare were my best men, it was a beautiful wedding. (Cuts in) I was there too

General laughter Yes you were there. It was also rated by Punch Newspaper that year as one of the top 3 weddings. Don’t forget that Kola Abiola also got married that year. So, between that December and January, Nduka had

engaged me to set up Leaders and Company which became ThisDay Newspaper. With this, I had recruited most of the guys like Okagbue Adugba, Augustine Sam, Eno GeorgeUfot, and Nduka brought in Ide Eguabor, Victor Ifijie - the MD of The Nation now. We were on that project when suddenly I was in Nduka’s house; he used to live on Mekwen Road in Ikoyi, he got a message that Abiola had joined politics. We didn’t have confirmation. So, he said I should contact Kola Abiola. I went to Kola’s house that evening, and he said he just heard it too because his father was coming from abroad and flew straight to Abuja. Thereafter, we had to go for convention in Jos. Abiola won the Convention. Abiola won the ticket at the Convention and we came back to Lagos. I brought him to Niteshift Coliseum for the Grand House Reception and I also brought Kingibe and all of them. I was busy following Abiola then, Nduka followed Bashir Tofa who was the other candidate from the NRC. My own candidate was from the SDP. Of course, you know I was arrested briefly and taken to Alagbon. What I was trying to say was that I was too busy with politics, I didn’t have time for my wife. And you know after marriage, everybody was mounting pressure for us to start having children. You know the marriage was just months old. I had gone to Alagbon and back. My wife was already getting worried. She took me to one Dr Muyiwa Ore in a fertility clinic. Eventually, what now worked was that every December, my mother-in-law would invite all her children and their spouses to Ijebu. She has a place and all of us had our different apartments. So, they will lock you up throughout that Christmas period and you could not go anywhere, and that was how she got pregnant. And by September the following year, she had Pekan. But, by then, I was in trouble and I couldn’t really travel.

Bashorun Dele Momodu with mother, Madam Gladys Momodu during one of his visits.

“

”

You could see the reason I cried so much when she died, my mother meant the world to me.

Though, we travelled first in March to London. In fact, Nduka Obaigbena released his very beautiful apartment in Devonshire Close to us. Nduka has always been very good to me. He used to travel almost every week to London but throughout our stay he didn’t come. Even Chief Abiola gave me money and said I deserved to take my wife for a honey moon. After we came back, my wife had to go back to go and deliver the baby. By then, Abiola has been arrested! So, I was trapped in Nigeria and my wife was abroad with our first baby. I had no telephone to communicate with her; although she was staying with Damola. But then, I now got the phone number from Dr Doyin Abiola, Anytime my wife had a message for me, she would phone Dr Doyin Abiola. So, I got to know about my first baby from Dr Doyin Abiola’s phone. Dr Doyin used tell me how Chief MKO Abiola would ask from the prison, “how is Dele’s wife?” I was shocked that the man would still have time to check on people. And that was how we had Pekan. Besides, I had always wanted to have unique names for my

Bashorun Dele and Yeye Bashorun Bolaji Momodu in the early days

children; maybe because I studied Yoruba in Ile-Ife. I coined that name. I have never heard it before but, Ekan, means root, I gave him Oluwapekansayemi, which means God has expanded my roots or branches. Enitianyole, I heard it from Kayode Akinyele, he used to talk about a Lagos merchant, a wealthy man. He was called Enitanyole Georgius Cole. I only heard it from his mouth. I loved the name and so when my second son was born, I named him Enitianyole. The third one, Eniafelamoamoenitofeni. We had both of them in exile, and I had loads of challenges in exile that really shook me. Nobody could imagine the trauma I faced. People thought those that ran to exile were actually enjoying. So, when I had the this third one, I now named him Eni a fe la mo, a o mo eni to fe ni, which means we only know those we love, we dont know those why love us. That’s the origin of that. The last one, by then, I had stabilised a bit because there was a gap of ten years. He was born in 2004, Pekan was born in 1994.

Dele Momodu and Bashorun MKO Abiola

spoken to Kola and Kola said I should come and see him the next morning. So I went to see Kola who was living in Anthony. As You were not there when Pekan was born, what of the other soon I got inside, he said, Dele... do you like Jetta (in children? I was there when the other Children were born, aside Yoruba), I said I was desperate since I did not have any the first child. They were given birth to at the St Mary's car. He then used his phone to call his friend. He said “You Hospital, Paddington, same place Prince William and wife know my friend, Dele Momodu, he said he wants to buy had their children. And that was another thing I learnt that your car, please can they release the key to him, he from the British. The gap between the privileged and said I will send you the cheque. I thought he was going to underprivileged is not much. It is one of the reasons I pay the difference between N20,000 and N25,000 which contested in Nigeria, hoping I would bring those social was N5,000 but he paid all. That was how I got my first welfare system into Nigeria. car. Kola could not have been more than 29 years old then. Now your first car? He took that generosity from his dad. Usually, children of My first car was an official car. It was in the Concord, rich people don’t like protégés of their father. They always I was a Staff Writer and we had a pool car but I used to use believe the proteges are leeches that want to come and it most of the time. The Editor used to release it to me take what belongs to them. But it is God who gives and to travel at times. I had an official driver Kola knew that and we became very close. Even when his When I left Concord, my new Publisher, May Ellen- wife, Victoria Arafat had Rabiat I was the one who went Ezekiel later Mrs Mofe-Damijo got me an official car a to the hospital to pick her. The lady is now grown up and Peugeot 504. When I left, they took it and that was when I see her as my daughter till today. Then my second car I decided that people will be asking what are you doing, was bought by his dad, the flat booth Mercedes 200. I and I decided to sell Wonder Loaves. It was something to wanted to travel to Germany to buy it but Gbenga Obadara keep body and soul together. (later Senator Obadara) bought it for me eventually. I was there one day when I saw a second hand Jetta, in As someone in exile, how were you able to stabilise things since the premises and they placed " For Sale" on it. I then asked you were living well in Nigeria the manager, Mrs Chichi Belonwu, the price, she said It was not easy, I had many challenges. But like I N25,000. I said, I had only N20,000. She said actually it always say, my biggest asset is my access. Without was not their car but it belonged to one of Kola's friends prompting or asking, God always sends angels to me. And called Alhaji. She said she would call Kola and get back. one of them has always been Dr Mike Adenuga Jnr; since The following day I went again and she said, she has 1991, when I first met him. Till today, it is like there is Then, I felt Enikorewafunmi, which means this is the one who has brought me good fortune.

telepathy between us.

Cuts: I remember the encounter in the train?

Yes, we were at Gatwick and had taken the shuttle from South Terminal going to North Terminal, it was me and Damola. We were at the airport and as we entered the light rail., I was telling Damola, do you know I think Mike Adenuga is a spirit o. He said why. I said because nobody sees that man and that I wonder where he could be. You wont believe it, we boarded the train, and Mike Adenuga was on that train because those days he wasn’t flying private jets. I was like Uncle Mike, did you hear me mention your name just now? He said no. He said he was going to Houston, Texas. He then said Bob Dee give me your number. I never saw him but he used to send money to me every year. The love is so great. It is unbelievable. Definitely, our love was made in heaven. There is nobody who can convince me that there is nothing spiritual about it. And that is one of the things that inspired me to describe him as the Spirit of Africa. He too used to wonder why I call him spirit, I was told that he called Bode (Opeseitan) and said what is this spirit thing about. It is the trajectory of him and myself that is always spiritual. Aside OVATION, my biggest investment is school fees, and there was no way my earning could afford to pay those humongous school fees. People thought Ovation has been making all the money in the world but you know yourself that it is not like that. Not once or twice, Adenuga had rescued me. One day I was in London, and I needed to pay 40,000pounds on school fees. I was disturbed and I was getting depressed. There was nothing for me that could be more shameful than my children being sent out of school. Then, I just got a call from Lagos; I was in London and the caller says I am calling from Dr Adenuga’s office, and that he asked him to give me an envelope. I didn’t know maybe it was money or letter, because I didn’t ask him for anything. But I asked if I could send someone to pick it up, the person said no problem that he or she should just bring an ID when coming. When the person came back, it was exactly 40,000pounds worth of naira that was inside. That was how I was able to offset that school fees. There was another occasion. I was in Lagos one Saturday afternoon, and my wife called me that she received a mail from the school that we are

owing another 40,000pounds; that by Monday I must pay. As a man I had to do bravado, that don’t worry, a miracle would happen. A lot of my friends used to say no one should copy me if they don’t want to suffer, that my case and God is different. You will not believe it, my wife was still on the other phone from London when my other phone rang. Normally, I don’t pick numbers that I don’t know, but I saw 080555. I said this is a Glo line and I just picked it instinctively, and asked my wife to hold on. When the person said his name saying he has a message for me. for me. It was from Dr Adenuga. He said I should come to Banana Island. When I dropped the phone, my wife asked which Chairman, I said your uncle, Dr. Adenuga, she asked if we had spoken before telling her that there was a miracle, I said no. That I never told him anything and had not spoken to him in a while. I told her I don't know what it was he was sending. Believe it or not, when I got there and opened the envelope, the exact money was there. He is indeed a Spirit.

Your first cheque from Natwest Bank?

I think my cases are spiritual. I had come to London, Nduka had brought me to do some things and I was staying at Arabella Court, in St. John’s Wood. I was expecting a parcel to be delivered to my apartment and Damola and I were going to a party. So when we got out of the station, I think it was Central Line train to Stratford, I then went to the phone booth to call to find out if the parcel had delivered. I put a 20P coin in the phone, and by the time I finished it was remaining 10P. So, I didn’t want to waste it, and I thought, who can I call, I then decided, I then decided to call Abiola's house to speak with Deji Abiola. The good thing about life is that when you look out for others, you don’t know how God will also look out for you. At that time, African Concord was having problems with the government. So I called, I said can I speak with Deji please, and the person who picked the call said, “Who is that?”I said Dele Momodu, and the person said, Dele, I then said, who is that? And the person said my name is Moshood Abiola, the phone nearly fell from my hand. He then said, Dele where are you?, I said I am in London sir.He said he’s also in London, and asked “Can you come right a way? Abiola is calling you and you will

be asking questions, you must be a big idiot and I was not. I told him we would be there right away and that I was going to get a taxi. Chief Abiola laughed at me, and said London was not Lagos and that the fastest route to his Chester Terrace home was to get on a train and drop at Great Portland Street Station. And that was what we did. We rushed there, went to his place and we pressed the bell. No one answered. Then a Mr George I think he was the Butler came and said Chief was waiting on the fourth floor, so I took the lift. So we were chatting and he said, Dele, why are you not married, I said I could not afford to marry yet and said as a matter of fact the lady I wanted to marry was in London with me. So, when I was about to go, he just said Dele One what can I give you. Your Pen is hot, what can I give you. I did not say anything. He just asked will £2500 be okay for you? will it be okay for me? this was in August 199. Immediately, I stood up, and I was shaking. What followed me to London was 290 pounds, from 290 someone was asking if 2500 was Ok. I thought I was running mental because that would be more that my salary of one year. He just said you even said your girlfriend was around, I will make it £4grand. I just fell on the floor. He looked at me and asked if I have an account, I said no. So, he just said I am lucky for that. That was how he wrote to his Account Officer behind the cheque. I still remember the words" Dear Collin Haywood, the bearer has no account in the UK, please kindly open two account for him". When I left his place, I couldn’t remember to use the lift. When I got to the door, I couldn’t open it; I ran back to Chief, he then ordered his assistant to go open the door for me. It was on a Sunday evening, and I was just singing, Ide mi ja Halleluja mo dele ayo, which means my shackles are broken, God has released me from poverty. I was just singing like a mad man. I couldn’t sleep all night, I was looking at the cheque, and thinking maybe the man made a mistake, and that how can somebody give me 4000pounds. Then, in the morning, I went to 2, Pentoville Road King’s Cross, that was where the Natwest bank, branch was. When I got there that morning, they said Mr Haywood had gone for break, I said, hmmmm break early this morning?, I felt maybe chief had 71

changed his mind and the man was playing to the script. When he eventually came, I gave him the cheque, he said from Chief and he asked which account I wanted to open. I told him I don’t know; so, he recommended a Chequing Account and a Special Reserve Account. He now said in the meantime, would I need some cash, I said, yes, he should give me 1grand!. I took the one grand and entered Oxford Street. Suede had just been launched then, I bought all colours. By the time I got back to Nigeria, I and everything about me had changed; even my Publisher couldn’t recognise me. She was like what deal could I be doing at that time. Around that time, I had also met Dr Adenuga. Myself and RMD were supposed to write a story about him but we didn’t do the story. We didn’t collect a dime from him and he didn’t offer us bribe. What struck me was when he said he was from Ijebu Igbo and I told him that my wife was from the same place and he asked whose daughter she is, I said Chief Adaramaja. He just said Jocularly, that is good, if you write any story, we will take our daughter from you. And we laughed over it and left. That was how we became friends.

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Without prompting or asking, God always sends angels to me. And one of them is Dr Mike Adenuga Jnr.

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So, what’s the value of friendship?

Well I would think the question should actually be what is the most important condition for friendship? Then I can answer your question. I want to state the the condition is LOYALTY. When you say somebody is your friend, it should not be about money or material things. It is just like a marriage, friendship should be till death do us part, unless the person is extremely nasty to you. And when that happens, you should try to forgive even if you cannot forget. Many times, people have tried to make me regret all I have done, because they cannot do it. People will condemn you for going the extra mile....even imagine doing. I remembered when I was in detention at Alagbon, they were telling me, pressing me to abandon MKO, the state agents even said they will leave me alone if I do so. They were saying, what is your own in the matter, are you Kola Abiola? Guess what? The day I left Alagbon, I went straight to Abiola's house. My loyalty to people has never failed me. It has enhanced my status. And I believe one of the reasons, Dr Mike Adenuga liked me was because he was watching my loyalty to Abiola.

Globacom Chairman Chairman, Dr Mike Adenuga aka The Spirit Of Africa with Dele Momodu at a private function

is very key; your friends would respect you if they know you are relevant and ready to deliver when ever they need you. Nobody wants to invest in a useless person.

What was your reaction to the first publication of OVATION Magazine?

It was like the way you react to having your first baby. It was an anti-climax because we had worked so hard and not very sure if it will came out well and what it will look like. But when it came out, it was too beautiful. It was on newsprint; 55 improved grade gsm. I was relived. With this, we were proud to send it anywhere. Till today, if you see the first edition, it still looks as fresh as it was then. I was very excited, and at the Aside Loyalty, what are the other ingredients that has helped you same time tired. Then, next was how to continue. Then some people were saying the quality was good but it was too to arrive here today? The ability to recognise opportunity. And people don’t give expensive. Then, magazine was selling in Nigeria sold for a lazy man money, they like those who work hard. Hard-work N200, we were selling our own for N450. So I just had faith in God. Another thing is tenacity. I suffered a lot in silence, but I just take it in my stride and move on. What would you say has been the staying power of OVATION?

First is our power of reinvention and tenacity. You cannot be doing the same thing over and over again and expect different results. Like, see the way I have embraced social media, a lot of people are stunned. It is like I have a television studio in my own house, I am reaching greatest of the greatest of the globe. That’s very important, you must always reinvent. You cannot just sit down idle and expect that things are going to happen for you. Then, our passion. We are passionate about what we do, we are professional journalists which is different from an adventurer taking a plunge into the media business. It has not been smooth sailing all the time. Like you know, the publishing business is the ultimate casino but our passion has been the fuel that has continued to power us.

You are now 60. What does 60 mean to you? 72

Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Dele Momodu & Sir Shina Peters at Momodu's wedding in 1992

Well, I thank God because not many people would reach 60. I think the life span of an average Nigeria is about 57; it means if you get to 60, you are lucky and that’s a bonus for you. And I also follow the biblical way that says we should number our days. Every time I wake, I know it’s minus 1. This helps you to be more careful. At 60, I have not slept 2 nights at any hospital. I know of people that at 30 they are looking old. My doctors would always say your blood pressure is always normal. No matter the situation, once they ask me for something and I can't do it. Anything I can't do, I and I tell you sorry, it is not possible and you don't believe me, there is nothing I can do about it.

You travel a lot, how has that affected your relationship with your children?

Well, I believe I am very close to them. Don’t forget that the children of nowadays are so very independent unlike our days. These ones don’t want you to control them. Like during the COVID season, we would have shipped them to Nigeria and all that, but they refused and that they are old enough. The first one is going to be 26, and at 22, I was teaching A levels in the village. Whereas, they are over 22 and don’t want their parents to control them. We discuss a lot and I tell them what I can afford to give and what I cannot and they understand. It has helped them to value money and appreciate the little that they get. We are living in different times, and we have to realise it and adjust accordingly.

What are tthose things they learnt from you.?

Very independent and ambitious. I have one of them who is a journalist, and people are saying instead of him interviewing me, I should interview him and hear what he would say. My attitude is that God will protect them. I have done my bit, and that’s to give them education. The rest is in their hands

You sent your children to very top schools in the world? Was it planned?

I never planned that any of my family would be a British citizen. Pekan was first born in London, but that did not make us have British passports. But when exile came, things began to solidify because neither my wife nor I were citizens. So, God just planned my life and that’s how I would put it. If I had not had multiple visas on my passport then, I could not have escaped to London, I would have ended up in Ghana. So that means that you should always prepare because opportunity can come at any time. I believe that whatever your situation life, you have to work hard. Hence, I work extremely hard, my wife and children know that I do not .joke with my work. My understanding is that when you work hard, God will then help you to. locate your destiny and bless the work of your hand.

Talking of God, how were you able to build this serious relationship with Rev. Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi in so short a time?

It is impossible not to see Iya Adura as an angel of God. Yes! She needed me to do a a few things for her but we went beyond the call of duty. We became a family. I met her husband, Dr Ademuyiwa Ajayi, a very quiet man who minds his business but in my case, he just liked me. Till today, I dont know what he found in me and Mama would say for him to like me, there must be something special about me. I have the grace of God that follows me everywhere. You were there that first day at her church, we were supposed to be doing a normal corporate PR duty for them but I became one of the few people that could travel with them. Even the children call me when there is need to clarify something. They call me Daddy Ovation. I love and appreciate them everyday. And I don’t think I have anything I can give her but I know God will help me thank her.

Final question. In 10 years, when you are 70, what are your expectations from God?

The only thing I need is good health because if you have good health, you have everything. It just occurred to me when a friend, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, called me that he has been with me for decades because he was at my 40th and 50th birthday. And that he didn’t come to visit me at the hospital. So, why wont I thank God. In 10 years, I hope he would say I was at your 40th, 50th, 60th, and now 70th birthday, because time runs so quickly.. I am rushing against time, I want to achieve so much because this is the most productive time of my life. And if I am lucky like Professor Wande Abimbola, maybe another 20 years I would be 80. It’s scary that 60 has gone but I pray to God to give me good health. If I have good health, my brain is still intact, I will always get by.

Thank you very much sir!

God bless you…

UNVEILING

DELE MOMODU:

THE PARABLE OF THE ELEPHANT AND THE BLIND MEN.

BY CHIEF MIKE OZEKHOME, SAN, OFR, Ph. D, FCIArb, LL.D.

ow does a writer capture the essence of Dele Momodu? Just how? When I got confused, it occurred to me I could use the allegory of the blind men and their encounter with the elephant. The story first originated from India. A group of blind men who had never seen an elephant were said to have argued fiercely as to what it looks like. Each of the blind men touched and felt a different part of the body. Just one part of the elephant is quite big. Each described what he felt with his hands. Each version of the experience was limited, even though true. Each suspected the other of profanity and dishonesty. They were even said to have come to blows. But they were all right; yet all wrong. Though there are several Hindu, Jain and Buddhist versions of this story, each of the blind men were said to have groped different parts of the elephant. Their individual perceptions of what the Elephant looks like are as follows: One who touched the trunk said the elephant was like a thick snake. Another touched the large ear, he concluded the elephant must look like a fan. For another who touched the leg, he said the elephant is a pillar, like a tree trunk. One touched its hard side and concluded it was like a wall. The one who touched its tail described the elephant as a rope. Yet, another touched the tusk, and vowed to the heavens that the elephant is like a hard, smooth spear. The blind men were all partially correct; but also, all partially wrong. In celebrating my brother, friend, and soulmate, Dele Momodu at 60, I have encountered the same difficulty of these blind men. The reason is that Momodu wears many caps, so many that he means a different person to different observers and analysts. I will show this anon. Dele Momodu stirs controversy, wittingly and unwittingly. One of these is that people across the globe erroneously believe Dele is a Yoruba man. You cannot blame such people. He appears so. What with Dele’s one sentence-long Yoruba name, Ayobamidele Abayomi Ojutelegan Ajani Momodu (AAOAM)? What of the fact that he was born and bred in the cradle of Yoruba civilization, IleIfe? How do you blame anyone for thinking Dele is Yoruba when he is also married to a Yoruba woman and his first degree was actually Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Yoruba language in 1982; before Masters in Literature in 1988? During this period, he wrote features for The Guardian and Sunday Tribune newspapers. He

had all these degrees at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife. Then guess what? His first job was to lecture at the Oyo State College of Arts and Science, also at Ile-Ife (1982-1983). Still enjoying his apparent Yoruba lineage, Dele worked as Private Secretary to late Deputy Governor of Ondo state, Chief Akin Omoboriowo (1983-1985). He also managed Motel Royal Ltd, Ile-Ife, owned by Oba Okunade Sijuade, Olubuse II (1986). Then, Dele Momodu later worked with African Concord magazine, owned by late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, and was transferred to Weekend Concord, as a pioneer staff, becoming Literary Editor. In just six months, he was elevated to the position of News Editor. Dele was later to edit May Ellen Ezekiel’s Classique Magazine between 1990 and 1991, also in Lagos. All his birth, education and first working life were effected in Yoruba-land. So, if you mistake Momodu for a Yoruba man, you could be well forgiven. The truth however, is that Momodu has his pedigree and ancestry in Edo state. Dele is an Edo man of Edoid origin. Pure and simple, he hails from Ihievbe, in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo state. He is therefore of Afenmai extraction like me (I am from Iviukwe, near Agenebode, Etsako East LGA, Edo state). Edo blood runs through the whole veins of Bashorun Dele Momodu. As a Human Rights Activist, who strongly believes that “Nigeria died the day we killed June 12, because on June 12, there was no discrimination”, Dele later joined M.K.O Abiola’s campaign team of “Farewell to poverty”. This was after a brief stint with Thisday Newspapers. He loved Abiola with a passion. They both bonded and enjoyed a father-and-son relationship. When in 1993 General Ibrahim Babaginda annulled the freest, fairest and most credible elections in Nigeria, Dele was caught in the crossfire of the annulment, being intensely involved in the presidential campaign of Chief M.K.O Abiola, the undoubted winner and martyr of democracy who was later illegally detained and killed in hazy circumstances undisclosed till date. He was charged with sedition (a non-existent offence) and detained in a dungeon at Alagbon Close, Lagos. Undeterred, Dele used his caustic pen to puncture the heart of dark-googled dictator, Sani Abacha. Though innocent, he was later falsely accused of being one of the brains

behind an emergent pirate radio station, Radio Freedom. Later this was renamed Radio Kudirat, in honour of fearless amazon, Kudirat Abiola, who was savagely murdered by Abacha’s faceless goons. Dele was later forewarned by his wife who had hosted strange and faceless elements who came looking for him in the morning, to skip town. Dele therefore disguised like a farmer and escaped from Nigeria (with some “co-conspirators”) through Seme border, into Cotonou. From Cotonou, he journeyed to Lomé, Togo, Aflao Ghana, and finally landed in London. Dele wept. He was sad because he was leaving behind a barely 2-year matrimony and a ten months old baby, to escape into the unknown. Esmeralda Santiago once asked, “how can you know what you are capable of if you don’t embrace the unknown?”. Dele probably followed the advice of Deepak Chopra, who once counseled, “relinquish your attachment to the known, step into the field of all possibilities”. Thus, an unknown London opened up new vistas for precocious Dele, who seized the bull by the horn in exile to establish Ovation International in 1996. In founding Ovation, Dele probably remembered clearly the immortal words of Williams Shakespeare, “there is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood, leads on to fortune. Omitted, all the voyage of life is bound in shallows and in miseries. On such a full sea are we now afloat. And we must take the current when it serves, or lose our ventures”. Dele took the current, nurtured the Ovation brand and turned it into a bilingual, celebrity magazine printed in English and French, Ovation has covered events in over 60 countries and read globally. Ovation aims at showcasing African culture, promoting it as a tourist attraction, and correcting primordial negative views about Africa as the “dark continent”. Dele has since grown Ovation stable to include Ovation TV which airs to a global audience and The Boss Newspapers, an online publication. And he is an Author of several books too. OVATION also now boasts of OVATION Carol and Awards, one of Africa’s most popular annual events that showcases music, celebrities, drama, fashion, awards and charitable causes. And he once owned the biggest restaurant in Accra, Ghana called The House Of OVATION, where once hosted me to a sumptuous three-course meal with local brew, in 2012. One of the many caps that Momodu wears is that of a politician. At 22, he ventured into the

murky waters of politics. At different times, he was Media Campaigner to Chief M.K.O Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Chief Olu Falae of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and All Peoples Party (APP). He actually took a shot, albeit unsuccessfully, at the presidency, in 2011. Is Dele Momodu wealthy? It depends on what you understand by wealth. Dele is quite wealthy on the matrimonial front, in having a stable, blissful family life, blessed with a beautiful wife of 28 years, Mobolaji Abiodun Momodu, and four lovely children, Pekan, Yole, Eniafe and Korewa. Wealth could also be affluence in sheer cash. But the real measure of wealth is how much you’d be worth if you lost all your money. As Ayn Rand once put it “money is only a tool…It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver”. The wealth of Dele therefore cannot be measured in naira and kobo, Dollars or pounds, yen or Euro and Rouble. It lies in his intellect and his many contributions towards having a better society. Even then, he has solid physical wealth. Palatial mansions? He has them in form of his investment in young Africans! You can also not measure Dele’s wealth in the number of presidents, royals, international figures and celebrities he has, over the years, met, interacted, dined and wined with across the globe. No. His writing, especially his Pendulum column, has become a piercing thorn in the flesh of successive governments. Hate or love Dele, you must admire his writing skills, well-organised thoughts, courage and daring bravado, in exhuming and discussing issues that matter. He does it without apologies; with the typical Edoid stance or frankness, candour, honesty, openness and truth; with history in mind. And Dele has cut his wisdom tooth in history. In his writes-up, Dele rakes up the issues; speaks truth to authority; and challenges governmental excesses. He asks the right questions. Then, he answers the questions. Occasionally, he questions the answers. That is Momodu for you. Dele, the typical story of “grass-to-grace” (like me) can be summarised in the Latinic 47 BC Julius Caesar’s phrase in a letter written to the Roman Senate after defeating Pharnaces II of Pontus in the Battle of Zela: “Veni, Vidi, Vici” (“I came, I saw, I conquered”). Congratulations, Ojutelegan Ajani, on your 60th birthday. I can only wish you Exodus 6:3 and Philippians 4:7.

BASHORUN MADE A GREAT IMPRESSION ON MY YOUNG MIND -MR. DEBO AYOADE

met Bashorun 41 years ago through Prince Adedamola Aderemi. He was cerebral ideologue in the liberal tradition of Great Ife that moulded him. He was what we all wanted to be and he made a great impression on my young mind. Bashorun then knew where he was going and was not distracted nor diverted. He wanted to be a journalist and tenaciously walked towards this goal becoming the 82

highest paid editor in Nigeria at 28 years of age Bashorun loves adding value to people and has built incredible network of friends both at home and abroad. His penchant to be his brother's keeper is the quality I admire most in him and I have seen this quality work for him in many instances. Diamond they say last forever, I join all your admirers to wish Chief peace, long life and good health. God bless you

“

I usually do not like to write a lot of words if it doesn’t have the potentials of bringing money. The only time I do is when I write or edit a business proposal but Dele Momodu deserves a tribute.

Dele Momodu Deserves A Tribute

Ayo Animashaun

“

usually do not like to write a lot of words if it doesn’t have the potentials of bringing money. The only time I do is when I write or edit a business proposal but Dele Momodu deserves a tribute. Business was very frustrating. My “gra gra” level had gone down. I was frustrated, disappointed and disillusioned. I was psychologically deflated and defeated. It was difficult accessing Hip Hop

World magazine sales proceeds, the bullish sales agents stood up to me in uniformity, I had to get another edition out to be paid for the previous one I sold to them. That was the rule for my category of publisher....What could I do? There was no money or clout to fight them. I sold to them on credit and after sales, some of them would tell me, “ small boy like you, wetin you wan take money do? “ I was so frustrated, I literally threw in the towel. Every week, I was one of the many guys who visited Dele Momodu at Excellence Hotel, Ogba where he stayed at that time, we didn’t need an appointment. His 91

suite was a rendezvous of sort for journalists, media moguls, analyst, thinkers, political aspirants and very ambitious change agents, most of them in their late thirties and early forties, my nickname then? The youngest publisher in Nigeria....Bob Dee called me that so many times, I forgot my real name each time I was around him....but I was no longer a publisher, I had given up. I became an Ovation sales agent, getting adverts and collecting 10% and that was enough to buy pampers for Tomiwa ( My son) and a few household essentials. Coward, I couldn’t face the world. I had gone back to my shell. Chickened out, with my tail between my legs. After so several months of Bob Dee convincing me to go back to publishing, he stage a coupe de at against me.

He invited Mayor Akinpelu, Senator, Tokunbo Atikuyomi, Seye Kehinde, Kunle Bakare and probably six other people to his hotel suite. I was the last to step into the room. The mission? “Ayo mustn’t loose his identity, he had to return to publishing” it wasn’t cajoling or anything close to a friend conversation. It was a combo of tongue lashing and vehement reprimanding. All my excuses were not accepted... That night, I cried right in their presence like a baby. I wasn’t so young. I was probably thirty. But, seriously. That was what I needed to return to publishing, I fought back like a wounded lion. He even

helped me raise N500k from a Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi at that time. That would be more or close to N10m today. It wasn’t a loan. That Money was a lifeline. I bounced. So many stories to be told another day, my first exploits in South Africa, my first visit to London and Ghana were all facilitated by this great man..... He went everywhere with people and sent us where he couldn’t go. Bob Dee could have built mansions everywhere, he didn’t, houses don’t talk, they can’t pay tribute He built his mansions in a generation of people he came across when it made no business or logical sense to do so. It must have been genuine love and passion to support others. Today, we continue to celebrate you and we can’t do that enough. Thank you for being a blessing to us.

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AT HOME WITH

WORLD LEADERS

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II

Bashorun Dele Momodu looks on as Her Majesty The Queen greets The Otunba Adekunle Ojora and The Erelu Ojuolape Ojora

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with then US President George Walker Bush

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with the US President, Bill Clinton

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Former President of Ghana, John Agyekum Kufour

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with Africa's first female President, H. E Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

Chief Dele Momodu with Sierra Leone President, HE Ahmad Tejan Kabbah

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HIS MAIN MAN, FORMER

GHANA PRESIDENT, JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA

Former President Dramani & Bashorun Dele Momodu

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President John Dramani Mahama, Chief Dele Momodu & Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman, UBA 126

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President Mahama, Chief Dele Momodu with former President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki

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Chief Dele Momodu & President Mahama in a strategy session

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ONE ON ONE WITH PRESIDENT

MUHAMMADU BUHARI

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with President Muhammadu Buhari

Senator Lanre Tejuoso, then Presidential aspirant, General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd) with Chief Dele Momodu

Former President, John Dramani Mahama, President Muhammadu Buhari with Chief Momodu

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Mr Femi Adesina, Chief Emeka Anyaoku with Chief Dele Momodu

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Bashorun with Winnie Mandela 136

Former South African President, H.E Jacob Zuma with Chief Momodu

Former South African President, H.E Thabo Mbeki

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with President of Congo, Dr. Mr. Felix Tsitsikedi

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Chief Dele Momodu, Isha Johansen with former Vice President of The Gambia, Mrs Isatou Njie Saidy

President of Zimbabwe, H.E. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa with Chief Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Morgan Tsvangirai

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Isha Johansen, Dele Momodu with former First Lady of The Gambia

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Former Vice President, Namadi Sambo with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Chief Momodu, with former Ghana President, H.E John Agyekum Kufuor

Segun Adeniyi of Thisday, interviewing President John Kufuor & Chief Momodu who facilitated the session looks on

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Former Nigerian President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan with Chief Dele Momodu

Bashorun Dele Momodu with President Goodluck Jonathan

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Chief Dele Momodu with President Olusegun Obasanjo

Bashorun Dele Momodu with Chief Olusegun Obasanjo

Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, his long-time aide, Mr Chris Mammah with Chief Dele Momodu

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Bashorun Dele with First President of Ghana's Fourth Republic, HE Jerry John Rawlings

Chief Dele Momodu with Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo

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President of Liberia, HE George Oppong Weah with Chief Dele Momodu

President Yahya Jammeh of The Gambia greeting Chief Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu greeting Vice President of Ghana Alhaji Aliu Mahama.

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HE Senator Jewel Howard Taylor, Vice President of Liberia

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Bashorun Momodu with Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo

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A MAN WITH DEEP TRADITIONAL VALUES

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BEHOLD: THE BASHORUN OF OKE-ILA ORANGUN

Bashorun Dele and Yeye Bashorun Bolaji Momodu with HRM Oba Adeokun Abolarin, The Orangun of Oke Ila-Orangun

HRM Oba Adedokun Abolarin, Bashorun Dele Momodu with Oba Adeyemi Adekeye, Abepa of Jogaland

Daniel Tobi-Sanni; Sandra Ajayi, Bashorun Dele Momodu & Dele Momodu & Jennifer Onose

Yeye Bashorun, Oba Abolarin, Otunba Olabiyi Durojaiye with Bashorun

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Chief Dele Momodu with former boss, His Imperial Majesty, The Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade

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HRM Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona with Bashorun Dele Momodu

ONIGEGE ARA OF JOGALAND

Oba Adeyemi Adekeye, the Abepa of Jogaland with Bashorun & Yeye Bashorun Momodu

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The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi with Chief Dele Momodu

The Oba of Lagos, HRM Rilwan Akiolu with Chief Dele Momodu

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Erelu Abiola Dosunmu with Chief Dele Momodu

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Asiwaju of Ife, Chief Alex Duduyemi with Chief Dele Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu with Oba Adedokun Abolarin, The Orangun of Oke-Ila Orangun & The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi

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Chief Dele Momodu greeting The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi

Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, Bashorun Dele Momodu with UBA Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu

Chief Dele Momodu, Oba Rilwan Akiolu with Alake Of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion

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Chief Olusegun Osoba with Chief Dele Momodu

Senator Lanre Tejuoso, Bashorun Dele Momodu with HRM Oba Adedapo Tejuoso

Oba Adedokun Abolarin with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Chief Momodu: Son of the soil paying obedience to The Ooni

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Deji of Akure, Oba Adebiyi Adesida with Bashorun Dele and Bolaji Momodu

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Dr Oba Otudeko with Chief Dele Momodu

Ms Modupe Ozolua, Oba Michael Ajayi and Chief Dele Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu with Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi during his chieftaincy ceremony in Imo State

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Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, Oluwo of Iwo with Chief Dele Momodu

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GOWNING AS CHIEF OF GRAND CAPE COUNTY, LIBERIA

The gowning ceremony

Senator Jewel Howard-Taylor at the ceremony

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Chief Momodu with The Asantehene, Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II

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PEACE MISSION TO SIERRA LEONE, MEETING WITH ECOMOG SOLDIERS

Peace Mission To Sierra Leone to encourage ECOMOG Soldiers

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MISSION TO LIBERIA

Chief Momodu with Chris Onanuga during his mission to boost morale of ECOMOG Soldiers in Liberia

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AN UNABASHED FAMILY MAN

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Blajo and her dear Ajani

The House of Momodu: Bashorun Dele, Yeye Bashorun Mobolaji, Pekan, Yole, Eniafe and Korewa 197

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Chief Momodu celebrating his birthday in London

Men in Black

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Oluwapekansayemi

Eniafelamo

Enikorewa

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At Chief Momodu's Conferment with a Honorary Doctorate Degree by University of Professional Studies, Accra, Ghana

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY DELE, OMO MOMODU, BOB DEE Arc. Biodun Fari-Arole

appy 60th birthday Dele omo Momodu, Bob Dee . It shall be a blessed and glorious

year for you in Jesus' mighty name.

Christ, the Wisdom of God, who has been walking the distance with you will neither forsake

nor leave you. He shall continue to work with you. You have been a trail blazer ever since I

knew you, may continue to make real and great difference wherever you are and in whatever

you do. You will enjoy divine health, strength and wealth. This prophetic word will work for

you in all its details; you will rejoice and testify, to the glory of God all the days of your life in

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Jesus mighty name. Congratulations my very amiable brother.

AAFRIEND STARS FRIENDOF OFAFRICA' AFRICA'SS MEGA MEGA STARS

Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka with Chief Dele Momodu

Chief Dele Momodu with Juju Maestro, King Sunny Ade

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Sir Victor Uwaifo with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Sir Shina Peters who was Bestman at his wedding in 1992 with Dele Momodu

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Richard Mofe-Damijo with Dele Momodu

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RMD and wife, Jumobi wth Dele and Bolaji Momodu

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Kanu Nwankwo with Chief Dele Momodu

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Samuel Eto Fils with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Omotola Jalade-Ekiende with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Kwam 1, SSP, Daddy Showkey at an early edition of Ovation Carol

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Evangelist Sunny Okusuns with Dele Momodu, Segun Ezekiel, Dayo Olomu & Others in 1996 at Ovation Docklands, London office

Comedian Bovi with Chief Momodu

Charter House GMD, Mr Iyiola Ayoade, Tuface, Sammy Okposo, Chief Dele Momodu with Sound Sultan

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Tee A with Chief

Tunde Obe with Chief Dele Momodu

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Miss World Agbani Darego with Chief Dele Momodu

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Genevieve Nnaji and Chief Dele Momodu

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Davido with Chief Dele Momodu

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KCee with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu with Stars: Yomi Badejo-Okunsanya, Julius Agwu, Opa Wiliams & Segun Arinze

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Madam Kofo with Chief Dele Momodu

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Tuface with Chief Momodu

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Becca and husband, Daniel Tobi-Sanni with Dele Momodu at their wedding

Bashorun with Adewale Ayuba

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ACCESS IS MY GREATEST ASSET

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Chief Dele Momodu with Glo Chairman, Dr Mike Adenuga Jnr

Chief Dele Momodu with UBA Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu

Senator Udoma Udoma, Tony Elumelu with Dele Momodu

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Sir Kesington Adebutu with Bashorun Dele Momodu & Michael during Ovation's exclusive coverage of his Odole Oodua chieftaincy ceremony in Ife

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Sir Kesington Adebutu with Bashorun Dele Momodu & Michael Effiong during Ovation's exclusive coverage of his Odole Oodua

Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion with Publisher, Ovation International

Former Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Igninedion with Chief Momodu

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- President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote with Chief Momodu

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Chairman, Geregu Power Plc, Mr. Femi Otedola with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu with Chief Dele Momodu

Hajia Bola Shagaya with Dele Momodu

Senator Florence Ita-Giwa with Publisher Ovation International

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Mr Kola Abiola with Dele Momodu

Kola Abiola with Bahorun Dele and Yeye Bashorun Mobolaji Momodu

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Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Dele Momodu & Mani Onumonu during the NADECO days in London

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Chief Dele Momodu, then Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila with Dr Kayode Fayemi in Ghana

Chief Momodu with Chief Mike Inegbese and wife, Mary

Former Governor, Obong Godswill Akpabio with Publisher

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Prince Damola Aderemi, Chief Dele Momodu & Otunba Gbenga Daniel

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Foluso Adeagbo with Chief Momodu

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Senator Sola Adeyeye, Prince Nduka Obaigbena ?, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi with Chief Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu & Prince Nduka Obaigbena

Tosin Alobo- Bakare with Dele Momodu

Lanre Olusola with Chief Momodu

Pastor Dotun Ojelabi, AIG Tunji Alapini, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru & Otunba Johnson Fasawe

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Chief Dele Momodu with Asiwaju Oyekunle Alex-Duduyemi

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Chief Dele Momodu with Governor Dapo Abiodun

UBA's Mr. Victor Osadolor and GMD UBA, Kennedy Uzoka with Chief Momodu

Governor Donald Duke, Amb. Joe Keshi & Chief Momodu

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ONE OF HIS ANGELS: DR MIKE ADENUGA JNR., THE SPIRIT OF AFRICA

Chief Dele Momodu explaining a point to The Guru, Dr Mike Adenuga Jnr as Ms Phanice Kwamboka looks on

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Dr. Mike Adenuga Jnr with Chief Dele Momodu in a jolly mood

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Chief Mike Adenuga Jnr., Chief Dele Momodu, Chief Rauf Ladipo and Ghana Football Supporters Club Chairman

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ONE OF HIS ANGELS: REV. MOTHER ESTHER ABIMBOLA AJAYI

Dr. Ademuyiwa Ajayi, Rev. Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi with Bashorun Dele Momodu at a function

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Founder Esther Ajayi Foundation, Rev. Mother Esther Abimbola Ajay with Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Chief Dele Momodu

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Rev. Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi with Bashorun Dele Momodu

R-L: Adewunmi Ajayi & friend with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Michael Ajayi with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Ade & Michael Ajayi with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Simi & Olawunmi Ajayi with Chief Momodu

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Rev. Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi, Dr Ademuyiwa & Chief Dele Momodu

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Chief & Mrs Momodu, President John Mahama with Rev & Dr Ajayi

Dr. Doyin Abiola, Chief Momodu with Chief (Mrs.) Bisi Abiola

Kola Abiola & Dele Momodu

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Alhaji Asoma Banda with Publisher

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Barr. Dokun Abolarin (Now Oba Dokun Abolarin, Chief Ayo Adebanjo with Chief Dele Momodu

Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Lady Cherry Igbinedion, Mr Peter Igbinedion & Chief Dele Momodu

Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion & Chief Dele Momodu

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Alhaji Aliko Dangote with Chief Dele Momodu

Mr Femi Otedola, Chiarman, Geregu Power Plc with Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Bashorun Dele Momodu

Chief Momodu, Mr Femi Otedola, Executive Vice Chairman, SAPETRO, Senator Daisy Danjuma & MD/CEO Practoil, Hajia Bola Shagaya

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Chairman, UBA Plc, Mr Tony Elumelu with Bashorun Dele Momodu

In a jolly mood: Chief Dele Momodu with Mr Tony Elumelu

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Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu with Dele Momodu

Chief Dele Momodu with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

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Chief Dele Momodu with Chief Bisi Akande

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Bashorun MKO Abiola with Mike Awoyinfa, Tunji Bello & Dele Momodu

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Governor with Chief Dele Momodu

Former Vice President of Nigeria: HE Namadi Sambo with Chief Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu greeting Former First Lady, Mrs Mariam Abacha

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Chief Mrs Bola Adenuga, Dele Momodu, Major General Adeyinka Adebayo And Professor Henrietta Sumbo Abiose At The Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Decades Ago

Former Bayelsa State Governor, Henry Seriake Dickson with Chief Momodu

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Chief Momodu paying homage to Mama HID Awolowo

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Alhaji Bamanga Tukor & wife Hajia Fatima with Chief Dele Momodu

Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu with Chief Dele Momodu

Hon. Abike Dabiri Erewa with Chief Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu with late Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari

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Chief Emeka Anyaoku with Chief Momodu

Eleganza Chairman, Chief Rasak Okoya with Chief Dele Momodu

Eleganza Chairman, Chief Rasak Okoya, Otunba Funso Lawal with Chief Dele Momodu

Chief (Mrs) Folashade Okoya, Chief Rasak Okoya with Chief Dele Momodu

Chief (Mrs) Sade Okoya with Chief Dele Momodu

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Chief Raymond Alegho Dokpesi with Chief Momodu

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Keke Ogungbe, Chief Dele Momodu, Dr Raymond Dokpesi & Mr Tony Akhiotu

Chief Momodu with Alhaji Tanko Yinusu, his NCP running mate at the 2011 Presidential Elections

Ide Ahaba of Asaba, Chief Sonny Odogwu with Chief Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu & Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso

The Alaafin of Oyo, HRM Oba Lamidi Adeyemi & The Ooni of Ife, HIM Oba Okunade Sijuwade reconcile at the 40th birthday of Chief Momodu in Lagos

Alabo Tonye, Graham-Douglas, Aisha Babangida, Dele Momodu, Senator Daisy Danjuma, Ms Priscilla Soyemi at his 40th Birthday

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General TY Danjuma (Rtd) & Chief Dele Momodu

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General TY Danjuma (Rtd) & Chief Dele Momodu

Chief Momodu with Senator David Mark & Senator Andy Uba

Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo with Chief Dele Momodu

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Chairman, Bua Group, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu with Chief Momodu

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Obong Godswill Akpabio, Chief Dele Momodu & Senator Musiliu Obanikoro

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The Gambia Billionaire, Ahmadou Samba with Chief Momodu

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Chief Momodu, Mrs Bolaji Momodu with Terry Waya

Chief Dele Momodu with Pastor E.A Adeboye

Former President of Ghana, John Jerry Rawlings with Chief Momodu

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Mr Timipre Sylva with Chief Dele Momodu

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H.E. (Mrs.) Fatoumata Bah-Barrow, First Lady of The Gambia with Chief Momodu

H.E Mrs Titi Atiku with Chief Dele Momodu

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THE EVER BUBBLY BOB DEE

Chief Momodu in a jolly mood, dancing with Senator Daisy Danjuma

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Chief Momodu dancing with Hajia Abah Folawiyo

Chief Momodu as a king in stage play in Lagos

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Capt. Hosa Okunbo with Chief Momodu

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Coscharis Chairman, Mr Cosmas Maduka with Chief Momodu & friend

Hajia Bola Shagaya with Chief Momodu

Chief (Mrs.) Dupe Jemibewon with Chief Momodu

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Senator Florence Ita-Giwa with Chief Momodu

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Princess Abiodun Omotade with daughter & Bashorun Momodu

Prince Tokunbo Sijuwade with Chief Dele Momodu

Dr. Newton Jibunoh & Chief Momodu

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Mrs Funmi Ajila-Ladipo with Chief Momodu

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Pastor Chris Okotie with Chief Momodu at an Ovation event

Dr Dora Akunyili, Dr Condoleeza Rice & Chief Momodu Prof. Dora Akunyili with Chief Dele Momodu

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Chief Emeka Anyaoku with Chief Dele Momodu

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Chief Momodu, Chief Emeka Anyaoku with Mr Femi Adesina, Senior Special Assistant to President Buhari

Chief Momodu, Mrs Folake St.Mathew Daniel -& Prince Nduka Obaigbena

Terry Waya, Chief Momodu & Aremo Segun Oniru

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Senator Tunde Igbeha with Chief Momodu

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Senator Ben Murray-Bruce & Chief Momodu

Chief Dele Momodu at an event with Governor Babatunde Fashola

Isha Sessay, Isha Johansen with Dele Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu with Prophet T.B Joshua

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Chief Dele Momodu with Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti State Governor

Governor Kayode Fayemi with Chief Momodu

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Mr Jim Ovia with Chief Dele Momodu

Dr Victor Olunloyo with Dele Momodu

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Hon. Abike Dabiri, Hajia Abah Folawiyo & Chief Momodu

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Hajia Folawiyo decorating Chief Momodu

Mr Morgan Tsvangirai with Chief Momodu

Mr Segun Adeniyi (Thisday) interviewing then President John Kufuor and Wife, Theresa as Chief Momodu who facilitated the session looks on

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Onukaba Adinoyi-Ojo, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu & Chief Momodu at the launch of House of Ovation & Ovation West Africa in Accra

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Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chief Dele Momodu, Senate President Adolphus Wagbara with Alhaji Asoma Banda at the launch of House of Ovation in Accra

Dr Awele Elumelu, Chief Momodu & Mr Tony Elumelu

Azubuike Ishiekwene with Chief Momodu

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R-L: John Fashanu, Prince Wale Osiyemi, Terry Waya, & Chief Momodu

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Prince Damola Aderemi, Mrs Bolaji Momodu with Chief Dele Momodu

Dr. Bukola Saraki with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu & Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi

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Mr Kunle Bakare, Isha Tejan Johansen, first lady of The Gambia, Chief Momodu with Mayor Akinpelu

Chief Dele Momodu with Steve Forbes, the Publisher of Forbes Magazine

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Senator Daisy Danjuma with Chief Momodu

Asiwaju of Ife, Chief Oyekunle Alex-Duduyemi with Chief Momodu

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Chief Alex Duduyemi with Chief Momodu

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Chief Momodu with Founder, Motown Records, Mr Berry Gordon at the funeral of Michael Jackson in Los Angeles

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Smokey Robinson with Chief Dele Momodu

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Mr Rotimi Obey, Amb. Toye Okanlawon with Chief Momodu

Chief Momodu with Ruth Osime & Mo Abudu

Mr Tunde Folawiyo with Chief Dele Momodu

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Mr Benny Obaze of Bevista with Chief Dele Momodu

Editor, Ovation International, Michael Effiong James, Chief Momodu and late Michael Anyiam-Osigwe

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Chief Momodu with Former Kogi State Governor, Idris Wada

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Chief Dele Momodu, Mr Jim Ovia with Prince Bola Ajibola

Former President John Mahama, Chief Momodu with Vice President of Kenya, HE William Ruto

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Lagos State Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

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General Alani Akinrinade ( Rtd) with Chief Momodu

Ms Modupe Ozolua with Publisher

Obama Strategist & Aide, David Axelrod with Chief Momodu

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Former Emir of Kano: HRH Lamido Sanusi Lamido

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Former Speaker, Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole with Chief Momodu

Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN with Chief Momodu

Tony Tetuila with Publisher

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Daddy Showkey with Chief Momodu

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Mr Olu Maintain with Chief Dele Momodu

Former Speaker, Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Gail Na' Abbah with Chief Momodu

Rt. Hon. Patricia Etteh, Former Speaker, Federal House of Representatives

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Bishop David Abioye, Senior Pastor, Winners Chapel, Goshen City, Abuja praying for Chief Dele Momodu

Bishop David Abioye, Senior Pastor, Winners Chapel, Goshen City, Abuja with Dele Momodu

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Chief Chris Uba with Chief Momodu

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Mr Phillips Oduoza with Chief Dele Momodu

Late First Lady, H.E Mrs Stella Obasanjo, a big fan of Ovation International

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PASSIONATE ABOUT THE PEOPLE

Chief Momodu with Chief (Mrs) Ganiyat Fawehimi, Barr. Mohammad Fayemi & others at a protest

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Volunters during his presidential campaign

Chief Momodu with Charly Boy & Others in Abuja during Enough Is Enough protest

Chief Momodu with Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde at the Enough Is Enough Protest

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Former Governor Donald Duke, Chief Dele Momodu, Alhaji Aliko Dangote & Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede

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GMDCEO, Access Bank, Mr Herbert Wigwe with Chief Dele Momodu

Olori Ladun Sijuwade with Chief Momodu

Chief Momodu with Fidelity Bank's Charles Aigbe & Presiential aide, Louis Odion

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Minister of Transportation, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce with Chief Momodu

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Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Chief Momodu & a friend

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Sir & Lady Olu Okeowo with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Dr Chris Ngige & Bashorun Dele Momodu

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General TY Danjuma with Chief Dele Momodu

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Amb Toye Okanlawon, Otunba Dayo Adeneye with Dele Momodu

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Former Governor Olusegun Mimiko with Chief Momodu

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Princess Toyin Kolade with Chief Momodu

Governor Sule Lamido with Chief Momodu

Dr Wale Babalakin with Dele Momodu

Princess Ronke Ademiluyi with Momodu

Prince Aderemi Sijuwade with Chief Momodu

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Tayo Ayeni, Dr Ibe Kachikwu & Dele Momodu

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Chief Dele Momodu, Segun Awolowo Jnr and Prince Damola Aderemi

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Bashorunn Dele Momodu & Alhaji Atiku Abubakar

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Govenor Kayode Fayemi & Bashorunn Dele Momodu

Chief Richard Akinrele, Bashorun, Amb. Patrick Dele Cole & & Eluem Emeka-Izeze

Mr. Kunle Bakare with Bashorun Dele Momodu

Mallam Nuhu Ribadu with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Bashorun Dele Momodu with Prince Bisi Olatilo

Bashorun with Prince Damola Aderemi

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Otunba Bimbo Ashiru

Pastor Dotun Ojelabi

Abdulsalami Abubakar with Publisher

Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce with Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, & Bashorun

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Tunde Ayeni with Chief Momodu

Drâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Oba Otudeko with Bashorun

Prince Rahmon Adedoyin, Chancellor, Oduduwa University

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Chief Dele Momodu with Mr Akinwunmi Adesina, President, Africa Development Bank

Chief Momodu, Hajia Bola Shagaya, Senator Daisy Danjuma with Senator Adeleke

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Senator Demola Adeleke & Bashorun Dele Momodu

Prince Adegbite Sijuwade with Bashorun

Olorogun Oskar Ibru with Chief Momodu

Mr. Wale Okunniyi, Dame Abimbola Fashola, Princess Sarah Sosan with Chief Momodu

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Segun Adesanya with Publisher

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Lady Maiden Ibru

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Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams with Chief Dele Momodu

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Pastor Ituah Ighodalo with Chief Momodu

Bashorun with Rev. Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi

Bashorun with the Dangotes

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Chief (Mrs.) Bisi Abiola with Chief Dele Momodu

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Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan with Chief Momoduwith Chief Momodu

Oba Adedapo Tejuoso with Chief Momodu

Wale Adebajo, Briris High Commissioner with Chief Momodu

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Amb. Oludare Agbi, Nigeria High Commissioner to Australia with Bashorun & others

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Mr. Tunde Oshinowo & friend with Chief Momodu

General Buba Marwa & Munirat Marwa with Chief Momodu & Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi

Princess Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya with Chief Momodu

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Ide Ahaba Chief Sonny Odogwu with Bshorun Dele Momodu

Chief Kemi Nelson with bashorun Dele Momodu

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Senator Daisy Danjuma & Bashorun Dele Momodu

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Alabo Tonye Graham-Douglas, Hajia Aisha Babangida, Chief Momodu, Senator Daisy Danjuma & Priscilla Soyemi

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Patricia Kolynson ( Pattie Boulaye) with Dele Momodu

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CELEBRATING BOB DOO AND HIS 60 YEARS OF IMPACT Michael Effiong James

It was in 1991 or was it early 1992, I had just joined Fame Magazine as a Freelancer and Bob Doo as he was called was a Contributor and was very close friends to the three Musketeers that founded Fame: Mayor Akinpelu (Editor), Kunle Bakare (Managing Editor) and Femi Akintunde-Johnson (Executive Editor). You cannot but notice Chief Dele Momodu. His ebullience fills the room, and of course his booming voice is unmistakable. Later on, his Aramis Perfume will announce his presence and will be wafting in the air, and captivating your senses long after he had gone. He had a presence.There was never a dull moment with him around, that is why we used to call him: Adekiluomo (The one who shakes the town with his presence) He was a master story teller, never tired of sharing his escapades. So we always gather when he holds court. Of course, when he has spats in the Media, Fame, was the place to review and gauge the reaction. There were no twitter trollers or voltrons back in those days. On such days, when he arrives, he is

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hailed by all " Bob Doo, gbogbo ara Ija, action-packed like a Chinese film"-and he would be atop the moon. He will then remark "Don't mind so so, I have another bazooka next week!. To us younger friends like Ayo Animashaun, myself, Ojiks Conga aka The genius (Sanya) etc, he would always say, everything you do, give it your very best, you never know who is watching. Never allow any one rubbish your work or your name. I was a bystander as well as a participant as his life progressed. Interestingly, the flat he left when he got married in 1992 was the same flat, on Medical Road, Ikeja that I moved into with Sanya Ojikutu (the award-winning Cartoonist and artist now based in Maryland, USA). Sanya himself had lived there with Kunle Bakare (Publisher, Encomium Magazine) and later we had Tunde Thomas (now based in London, UK), Ajayi Oyebo, Remi Aboderin (Secretary General, Nigeria Boxing Board of Control) and others all using this facility. It was a Boys Hub! As the youngest members of the team, Sanya and I were the ones always at the beck and call of these other Senior Colleagues, thus, we played very critical roles in the weddings of all of them, except FAJ (who played a fast one on us all). Bob Dee's wedding in Ijebu Ode and Ijebu-Igbo was the top of the pile. The weeks of preparation, the shuttle to the tailors and back. It was tasking but it was Bob Dee after all, he always raises the stakes.. It was at his engagement ceremony in Ijebu, Ogun State that I really got up, close and personal with the late MKO. He had arrived in the night, and I can never forget that occasion. The way he ate with everyone and joked. I was astounded at this rare expression of humility from such a giant of a man. I then began to see why Bob Dee would sing Abiola's praise to the high heavens. During the June 12 struggle, we were in the trenches, although not as deep as some others. We used to serve as couriers and also I remember the occasion when Bob Dee brought tapes of a song by the famous Lagbaja lambasting Abacha for us to distribute in the dead of the night...."Some parts of that song said " igo

(glasses) lo ju Omo Odaran spectacle lo ju omo ja wo ja wo ja wo, how dem go know, how dem go know say we dey suffer, Aso Rock e different from Olumo". He played the tape for us to sample, inside, his green flat booth Benz and then said 'Guys, we have to hit town with this o". That is equivalent of saying, guys we have to make this trend in today's language. With Abacha informants everywhere, we were not sure, if this was a wise thing to do, but you do not say no to Bob Dee. Since I lived near the Afrika Shrine. It was quite easy for me to execute the job. As a night crawler, the street boys from Ikeja bus stop all the way to the shrine were my guys, so with their protection and help, we did it perfectly. That is Bob Dee greatest strength, he is loyal 101 per cent. if he is convinced about something. He gives it his all. I remember when OVATION began. Our office, at Wemabod Estate was the semi Nigerian office, OVATION tapped into the pool of resources we had. OVATION was Bob Dee's baby, anything that belonged to Bob Dee was ours. Though, there was a serious personal quarrel with one of his close friends in Fame at the time, it did not dampen our enthusiasm to ensure OVATION succeeded big time. We could feel his enthusiasm even from as far away as Lagos. He was in constant touch to monitor sales, reactions etc. I think my name first appeared in the second edition of OVATION . I had written a reaction to an article on Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. OVATION at the beginning was more wordy than it is now. When he came back to Nigeria after those years of living in exile, Bob Dee on his trips to Nigeria was a willing host at his base in Lagos Travel Inn or Excellence Hotel. He was very gracious with food, drinks and other matters that excite the writer's muse. He never fails to impress and his joie de vivre never wanes. Fast forward to 2003, Chief Dele Momodu has always loved my writing, the love affair was mutual. I loved the way he writes, and he ,along with Mr Kunle Bakare and Time Magazine's Nancy Gibbs top the list of my finest journalists and writers. These three, craft words that bring a story to life. It was on one sunny afternoon that I got a call from Bob Dee. He was calling from London. That call eventually changed the trajectory of my career in journalism.

In the past few years, Ovation has faced tough challenges, we had made some wrong business decisions, but he would always say, we have lost millions but we have gained billions in experience

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It was a simple conversation: "Mikolo, do you have a valid UK Visa? I said, Yes. He continued. "I would like you to go with us to the Caribbean, I wanted to go with your oga KB to help us handle the stories, he says he is busy, you are my alternative". I said an instant yes. Although he supports Arsenal (in the days of Kanu), his lifestyle is encapsulated in the pay-off line of Liverpool: He never walks alone. It also brings to fore his penchant for spotting and deploying young talents, numerous stories will be told of his appreciation and support of young people in dif-

ferent spheres of life.We promote them all the time in our magazine. He then said, "Paul (Ukpabio), (his Personal Assistant at the time), will call you and arrange details. Every year, I had always saved to travel, I have always believed that traveling was not only for exposure but education. This was an all-expense paid trip, a jackpot and an opportunity to save my money for that summer holiday. It was a win-win situation because I know with Bob Dee as your host, it will be fun and enjoyment all the way. The trip came and went, and caused a lot of bad blood. The full details would be revealed in my forth-coming memoirs, but that exciting trip to Commonwealth of Dominca, St Lucia and Barbados, despite the intervention of Bob Dee himself, Benny Obaze (The King of Bevista), Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi and a few others, led to my

exit from Encomium. One thing about Chief Dele Momodu is his ability to connect. Many have attested to this. After that not so happy exit at my job at Encomium, a company that we all founded, that I wrote the first cover story and gave my all, I was of course devastated. I had planned to take a trip to visit my sweet mother whom I had not seen for months because of the back-breaking work as Editor, Encomium Magazine and then seek the advice of a few of my mentors and older friends like Chief Mike Inegbese, Mr. Godwin Mekwuye of Vivid Imagination, Oba Adedokun Abolarin (who has always wanted me to go for my Masters), the late Gbegi Ojora and a few others. I was planning that all important trip to Akwa-Ibom State when I got a call from Bob Dee. Again, he was in London. He said he heard what happened and wanted to know what my plans were for the future. I told him I was still consulting. He then said: "The job of Editor, Ovation International is open for you, think about it and let me know when you are back". Seventeen years after that conversation, I am still here as the Editor of Ovation: I will describe Chief Dele Momodu as a friend, a boss and a teacher. He scolds bountifully and praises sparingly. In the past few years, Ovation has faced tough challenges, we had made some wrong business decisions, but he would always say, we have lost millions but we have gained billions in experience. We have also had our big breaks. Bitter-sweet will be the best way to describe the journey so far, God has been faithful. And I believe there are still many rivers to cross. His love for his brand is unbeatable. He wears it on his head and on his body. It is unmistakable, it is his love for real. We have been stopped at far flung airports many time by strangers to confirm if he was indeed the Mr Ovation in flesh and blood. His love for Ovation is only matched by genuine affection for his wife, Bolaji and children: Pekan, Yole, Eniafe and Korewa. I believe they have all come to appreciate that the sacrifice he makes by giving his all to the 412

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Ovation Project, is to ensure tration of running our Ghana they are not exposed to the vioperations was becoming too On my 50th birthday last year, suffocating. The governcissitudes of life. Chief Dele Momodu ment agencies were not he shocked me totally. Femi abhors indolence and you friendly at all, he was so Otedola's daughter, Cuppy cannot be around him and not downcast because we were was having an event in Abuja want to be a success: His bleeding financially and usual refrain: There is nothing same day, I felt he would just wanted to leave. I told him to glamorise about poverty that just packing up and leavbreeze in and out. No way! rings in my ears every time. ing was not his stock in trade. He was the Chief of Protocol, He insists that the reason he By giving up and taking off, welcoming guests and coordiworks round the clock is to we would be leaving years of chase away the stubborn nating activities. At the venue, corporate equity that Ovation demon called poverty from has garnered in Ghana. We I spotted him a few times his family! He would then can reduce our operations but working the phones inviting add that it is the reason, his we should not pack up and people. He kept shifting his greatest investment in life leave. apart from Ovation, is the edThree days later, he had flight and eventually caught ucation of his children.For made a decision. He called the late night flight to meet him, if not for education, he me to his room and inforned the fundraiser. That was truly would not be where he is me that he has agreed that remarkable and made me very today. leaving Ghana completely And having lived with was not an option-and it emotional. the family, and watched all turned out a very divine decithe boys grow through prision because our stay in mary school, elite public Ghana led to his meeting with schools in England and now University (three are al- President John Dramani Mahama, with whom he has ready graduates), becoming fine, respectful, respon- now struck a life-long friendship. sible and Afrocentric young men, I know that he is He is a risk taker par excellence. There is no as proud of them as they are of him. better example of this than the coverage of Esama of I must personally thank his wife, Yeye Basho- Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion's 70th birthday. We run Bolaji(she likes to be called Blajo) for holding were contacted to cover the event, and the family forte. She has been a stabilising force and the bridge. members were not too sure it was worth it. Hon. She also has played host to many Ovation staff, my- Omosede Igbinedion and her mother, Lady Cherry Igself inclusive, without any complaints. She is ever binedion appealed that we should make the trip, they willing to serve her award-winning Jollof rice (second contracted us, and begged that we go ahead with the only to that of my wife, Oluwakemi) anytime, any little they were offering. They were sure that Chief day- and that is not all, she and the children, some- would come round to liking the idea when he sees us times catch the bug, and help out with Ovation pro- in action. duction! In typical Ovation style, we are not known for No one is perfect, we sometimes have our com- doing small things, our first payoff line: Loud For A bustive battles, and whenever I hear Michael or Mr Purpose" was not for nothing. We went all out. InEditor on the other side of the line, I know there is stead of one photographer, we flew in two. I led the trouble, but there is mutual respect, which has helped advance party while the Publisher was to join us. I to shape the relationship that we have. Many times, I joked to our Publisher that we have overshot our have felt like leaving, but he always finds a way of budget in terms of airfares, upkeep and accommodaworming his way into your heart. tion. He said "Editor, don't worry yourself, you will One important thing about Chief Dele Mo- see, this is our territory". modu is that he listens at times. He may argue openly We landed in South Africa a good two days to but in his sober moments when he sees reason with the main ceremony, and we had hardly unpacked, your line of argument, he will often soften up and when we were told that our services where needed bebacktrack. One of those occasions,was when the frus- cause the House of Igbinedion was going to visit,

President Nelson Mandela and Winnie. And as God would have it, the official photographers they had arranged were not available, thus, we were the only ones around! That was how we rescued the situation. And we took those unforgettable shots. From South Africa, we covered London, Abuja and Benin segments of the birthday. At the end of it all, Chief was so impressed with our professionalism that when we named our price for a Special Edition, he paid! And for the past 15 years, he has been inviting Ovation to every important family function! I have slept in the worlds top hotels, flown business and first class, cruised in private jets, savoured first-rate yachts, indeed, traveled the world and met Africa's leading lights on account of my association with Ovation International and Chief Dele Momodu. He has his way with arranging the perfect trips. He tries to give maximum comfort. My boss, is like a baby when it comes to trying out new things.He plunges into it headlong with so much innocence and willingness to learn. That is why his social media presence is so huge, he is driven by passion. He always loves new adventures, new projects and those situations keeps his adrenaline pumping! He is a man who never settles for anything but the best! Look at how he has launched into the instagram live space-you cannot but admire his penchant for exploring new opportunities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are as good as your last performance," "never live on past glory", "reinvent

yourself" are some of his favourite quotable quotes. On my 50th birthday last year, he shocked me totally. Femi Otedola's daughter, Cuppy was having an event in Abuja same day, I felt he would just breeze in and out. No way! He was the Chief of Protocol, welcoming guests and coordinating activities. At the venue, I spotted him a few times working the phones inviting people. He kept shifting his flight and eventually caught the late night flight to meet the fundraiser. That was truly remarkable and made me very emotional. My friends, colleagues and fellow members of Rotary Club of Ikeja South were surprised that he could perform such a role. They do not understand that Bob Dee is a master in making every encounter memorable. I had promised to beat his record when he turns 60, but God had other plans for the world. Therefore, I join the millions around and few of us that are in the inner inner caucus, to wish him a wondrous birthday. Don't worry, we would be there to do justice to your 70th, 80th, 90th and 100th! Bob Dee, I am mightily proud of you for being able to move through hard work, tenacity and God's grace from Ile-Ife to Ikoyi. I pray that God will continue to shower you with excellent health and grant you long life to enjoy the fruits of your labour and to savour the success stories of your children's children. Amen. Happy Birthday THE BOSS!

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OVATION ICONIC COVERS

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THE VIRTUAL 60TH PARTY

THAT

SHOOK THE WORLD Story: Eric Elezuo Photo: Adekoya Adegbite

The celebrator, Bashorun Dele Momodu & wife, Mobolaji 419

illions

online

worship as well as prayers. One

the globe logged on

taken by the celebrant's wife,

viewers from across

to twitter, facebook, Instagram

Bolaji, who read Psalm 91.

of-its-kind virtual 60th birthday

metres from his wife was

Chairman,

excitement

and YouTube to attend the oneparty of Ovation Founder and Momodu

Bashorun

Dele

It was indeed a gathering of

Africa's best and brightest and the

echoes

the

grand

The celebrant who sat a few

bubbling was bubbling with event

Earlier,

throughout Nigerian

the

Vice

President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo,

Vice President of Liberia, Mrs.

celebration is still reverberating

Jewel

conclusion.

Reverend Mother Esther Ajayi

days

after

the

party's

Anchored

A-list

comedians, Gbenga Adeyinka

1st and Tee A, the party kicked

off with an opening prayer, by Pastor Shola Fola-Alade of The Liberty Church.

This was followed by a

thanksgiving Service officiated by Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of the Trinity

House

and

Pastor

Ghandi Olaoye of Jesus House, DC.

Chief Momodu deep in prayers and thanksgiving

of the day's Bible readings was

The

lively

service

had

sessions for hymns, praise and

Edwina

Howard-Taylor, Baaba

Mrs

Banda,

and her husband, Reverend Ademuyiwa Ajayi, glowing

Momodu,

tributes

all

describing

paid

Chief him

unanimously with impressive

adjectives, reliving the sweet

paths of their encounters.

The thanksgiving service

was rounded off with a closing

prayer

Olaoye.

Pastor

Ghandi

A wordsmith and famous

journalist, Momodu, who was

born on May 16, 1960, proved

420

that the word impossibility has no place in his dictionary, creating the

first ever virtual, wholy online

party,

while

government

distancing.

laws

respecting

social

In his remarks, Momodu, who

was overwhelmed by the huge

turnout of all and sundry including

highbrow Nigerians acknowledged

their presence with humility, and

said he would never take their

Bashorun Dele Momodu with HipHopTV, Chairman Ayo Animashaun, member of the Organising Team

friendship for granted.

That done, the second part of

the event which held from 1pm till

way past 5pm, was broadcast live

via Zoom and on all social media

platforms and on HIPTV DSTV

Channel 324 and GOTV channels

kicked

off

-and

entertainment galore. Thereafter, gospel sensation and Nara crooner, Tim Godfrey, thrilled the audience with his melodious voice and dance steps, bringing alive the event as participants either jumped to their

Chief Momodu paying obeisance to Asiwaju of Ife, Chief Oyekunle Alex-Duduyemi who came visiting after the party

421

Part of the Organising Team; Wale Oluwaleimu, Tee A and Michael Effiong

was

HIPTV and OVATION TV staff beaming the occasion live for the global audience

Gbenga Adeyinka 1st

feet in ecstasy or rhythmically moved their bodies to lyrics from their respective homes. The celebrant was not left out as he showed that the musician is one of his best singers. Other performers were Laolu Gbenjo, Sammy Okposo, Waka Queen, Salawa Abeni, Afro juju originator, Shina Peters, SB, Engo and Adewale Ayuba. Former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, whose daughter, Aisha,had sent tribute earlier, also called in, and wholeheartedly wished the happy celebrant a glorious birthday. Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu who had logged on to watch the event also called in to wish Chief Momodu well. There were also birthday wishes from Former Ghanaian President, John Dramani Mahama, Senator Jewel Howard - Taylor, Chief Commander Ebenezer, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Mrs Isha Johansen, Chief Alex Duduyemi, Dr Larry Izamoje, Banky W, The Orafidiyas, Pastor Dotun Ojelabii and Chief (Mrs) Shade Okoya.

While Heirs Holdings Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu proposed the toast.Thisday Publisher and Chairman, Arise Media, Prince Nduka Obaigbena officiated the cutting of the cake. Other

attendees

were

Senator Dino Melaye, Minister of

Transportation,

Rotimi

Odegbami,

Dame

Olunloyo,

Mayor

Amaechi, former Eagles star,

Segun

Abimbola Fashola, Dayo Olomu,

Gbenga

Akinpelu, and Sanya Ojikutu Momodu, a former Presidential aspirant is married to his beautiful Mobolaji, and they are blessed with four boys.The event which had Ayo Animashaun( CEO, HIPTV), Iyiola Ayoade ( Group CEO, Charterhouse), Wale Oluwaleimu, Ovation Editor, Michael Effiong Ben OseiBansah and several staff of HIPTV on the organising team, also saw a few guests receiving special 60th birthday boxes from the celebrant. The boxes were creatively arranged by De Potters Limited.

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e p i l o gu e

I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A REBEL AND

A RISK TAKER -DELE MOMODU

s prelude to th his 60th birthday celebration, Ovation Publisher, Chief Dele Momodu had an engaging instagram live interview conducted by City People Publisher, Mr Seye Kehinde. Here are excerpts of the session as transcribed by Lawal Adetayo Ibrahim. What is the significance of your turning 60, what does it mean to you? Well, I’m not the type that worries so much about age but I count my days as recommended by the holy book, the Bible because if you remember that for every new day you spend on earth, you have to minus it from your life then it forces you to think and plan ahead, a lot of people die like chicken because they don’t plan. I can tell you that I have a master plan about everything that I do so I’ve planned my life in such a way that if you ask me what I’m going to do next year, in two years’ time, I can almost tell you. So, turning 60 suddenly reminds me again that I’m getting old and if I’m lucky to live old to 80 then I have 20 years. What are the other lessons you’ve learnt in life; you are someone who has been through a lot of challenges, what are the expereinces that you have garnered over the last 60 years? To be honest, my major lesson in life is that you must never give up. There must be trials and tribulations but you must never give up. City People that your run has stood the test of time, you have reinvented, so that is what I do too. I reinvent and upgrade and every travel you make is an education on its own, there is no university that is greater than travelling far and wide because you are going to meet new friends and see new things. How did your growing up shape you to enable you face the challenges you meet? I will answer it in two ways. There is no way your childhood can prepare you for the challenges ahead, if you were to go by my background, then I will have no hope in life because I lost my father when I was 13 and we couldn’t afford to pay rent so we had to go and squat with my cousins in Modakeke, The Oyemades. You can imagine that, later, I went to live with my sister whose husband is a Teacher who later became the Principal of my Secondary School at St. Johns Grammar School in IleIfe. After that I became an errand boy at CSS Bookshop that is close to the palace in Ife, on getting to Ife, I got a job at the University of Ife as a Library Attendant, picking books for children and scholars who come to use the library and that was when the Kole Omotosho, the Dr Yemi Ogunbiyi, Prof. Akinwunmi Ishola and all the big men were in Ife.

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I spent one year doing that job then we were the first set of Jambites in 1978 and spent 4 years studying Yoruba studies. So if you look at my background, my tallest dream was to be a Teacher, marry a Teacher and live happily thereafter but I didn’t know God has plans for me. After that, fortunately, I got a job with the then Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Chief Akin Omoboriowo in Akure and we used to shuttle between Akure and Ijero-Ekiti and then the Buhari Government suddenly came at the end of 1983 and then my boss and other politicians were arrested and taken into prison so my boss was kept in Owo Prison and I used to travel on daily basis from Ijero-Ekiti to Owo where he will give me an assignment and I started gaining experience and mentors and from there I worked for the Oba Okunade Sijuwade, the Ooni of Ife where I was managing Motel Royal, it was from there I went to the Olojo festival one day and I wrote an article which was published by The African Guardian and that was how the idea of writing started and The Guardian was paying me 25 naira per article and I will wait for four articles to make 100 naira then I will travel from Ife to Lagos to pick a hundred naira and that was how crazy it was in those days. Onukaba ( Adinoyi Ojo) invited me to Lagos and I got a job with the Concord Newspapers and everything changed from there. I was going to ask you, Why the choice of Yoruba out of all the courses then? I’ve always been a rebel, I wanted a course that was uncommon, ordinarily, English students were graduating from the so-called funky courses but 2 to 4 people were graduating from Yoruba and I asked why? They said Yoruba is tough and I thought to myself that if care is not taken, this language may go into extinction and there will be nobody speaking it again so I like originality. And went for it. What have been the major challenges you faced with Publishing? There is no challenge that I will talk about that you are not aware of because publishing is a casino, I call it the ultimate casino because it is a practical thing. In fact, a friend of mine pulled out when we started Ovation, many people were saying I was unrealistic, I’m a risk-taker and I take calculated risk. We had 20,000 pounds and I spent 14, 000 pounds and the guy was like how will we survive but my own idea was that a man who is down should fear no fall. The first thing I learnt from the people I worked for from Chief

Omoboriowo, Michael Adenuga, Hakeem Bello-Osagie, I’ve been very fortunate at that time to work in one capacity or the other, the experience was so humongous to the extent that nobody does business with a poor man but if people get the impression that you are doing well, they will rush at you and that was my idea but my friend was not ready to take such a risk so he pulled out and we had to register a new company urgently, Ovation International Limited. The day we got to our new office, a bomb exploded next door, I started running and shouting Abacha, I thought Abacha had traced me to London and they were going to kill me in that building but we didn’t know the police had evacuated the whole area and that was our first major challenge. We later realized it was the Irish Republican Army who were always throwing bomb around London. My theory worked perfectly, when people hear we are in the Docklands, they were impressed. It was strange for a black business to be in Docklands, we were only about three or four, I remember myself, Geoge Noah, Richie Dayo-Johnson and Femi Babatunde who had a law firm then just behind our own building and then everybody was always coming to visit us and that was how people saw that we were the new Hello of Africa because it was not common to see a magazine of that quality. I know you have expanded to other things; can you give us a snapshot of Ovation now? Yes, what we’ve always done at the beginning was newsprint 55 GSM grade then later we decided to go for gloss, then we started doing what we call, Ovation Special edition as well, whereby if you have an event you can decide not to have another story in your own edition and we’ve done it for a couple of people like Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Chief Subomi Balogun, Hajia Bola Shagaya, Baba Ijebu and so on. You must know your target market, initially we were doing magazine like newspaper, we were trying to sell to everybody, printing 70,000 copies but we adjusted and we are probably the most expensive magazine on the continent then later we started what we call, The Boss Newspaper, we realized that Ovation will cater for lifestyle but we needed to be relevant in other genres. Then I realized the future is going to be television but not the kind of television people are doing now, we targeted online and syndicated our content and YouTube provided us that platform even if you miss any occasion on regular TV, you can check it on OVTV. Mercifully, IGTV came on Instagram and it is 10 minutes’ maximum so we can broadcast live events on our social media platforms.

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“

My major lesson in life is that you must never give up. There must be trials and tribulations but you must never give up

”

On Twitter alone now, I have over 1.2 million followers and even if I’m running a television station, I’m not sure we can have such viewership so what we’ve done in summary is that we have upgraded our products. Let’s talk about writing, I know you have a column you write weekly which you don’t miss. What does it take from you in terms of time and others? You can’t imagine what it takes from me. I’ve written maybe over 2000 articles over time, I think I started writing in 1991, it’s been a tough game but I’m addicted to it but everyone who knows me knows that on Friday, don’t talk to Dele, it is that serious. People know I put my entire being into whatever thing I do, you cannot do your job well, if you don’t have passion for it and striving to be the best in it. In every aspect of my life, I make sure I put in everything, there are times I have mental block, I will call the Editor and say “please, I can’t write today”, I will tell them to put something there but they will say No that I must have told them two days before and I will start writing around 9pm. Unknown to people, anything I write, I will send it to my lawyer, my best friend, Prince Damola Aderemi must read and confirm that there are no legal issues in what I’ve written and that is why over time, my articles are not too controversial. Let’s talk about your experience on the job and the rich men you’ve covered events for and interacted with over the years, what are the things you’ve learnt from your interactions with these people? Well, every personality has a peculiarity and let me start from Chief Omoboriowo. While I was very young I liked politics so he looked at me and said you sound intelligent this young boy and he asked what I was doing and I said I’m in school and he decided that once I finished my school, I should come and work for him. What I learnt from him was that he was very prayerful, God-fearing, I learnt not to be desperate about position or anything. The next one I will talk about is Oba Okunade Sijuwade, the experience was quite interesting. One day, Kabiyesi might call me and say you are a great guy and you are doing very well, he will praise you to the high heavens, and I will prostrate and greet him, Kabiyesii oo. Then the next day, he would summon me and scold me, and I will tell him, Kabiyesi, you told me I was the best not long ago and he would make me realize “A star is as good as his last performance”, it was from him I learnt that phrase, you don’t just perform once, you must perform all the time. Secondly, he was the biggest networker I first met in life, I learnt from him that you should never because of politics abandon your friends and that is why when a lot of people ask how I do it, I will disagree with you politically but not on the matters of personal

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friendship. It was from Kabiyesi. When I was going to look for a job, I wanted The Guardian, Chief Abiola’s name had been spoilt by people, I will say he was the most hated Nigerian at a time because he didn’t support Awolowo so the UPN media took him to the cleaners but I couldn’t get a job and I needed a job because I couldn’t discriminate so reluctantly, I moved to Concord, only for me to discover that most of the things people told me about Abiola were not true, people said he was an Islamic fundamentalist which wasn’t true. I learnt from Chief Abiola generosity, he always told us Givers don’t lack, I learnt from Chief Abiola that the hand of a Giver is always on top. When I want to do something, I ask myself “what would Chief Abiola had done?”. Then, I met the man I like to call “The Spirit of Africa”, Dr. Michael Adeniyi Agbolade Ishola Adenuga, I thought I had met them all until I met him, I mean when you meet a man who gives out so much to his friends, who gives the same car he drives to friends, then you know he is remarkable. I’ve been very fortunate to meet people like Dr. Adenuga, I’ve been very fortunate to learn from his fountain of knowledge, “Adenuga told me once, what is the point of calling someone your friend, if his wealth cannot reflect on you?” that is his policy and he is a man who I learnt from doesn’t want people to know Chief Abiola he is doing something for generosity, he you, he is reaching out to always told us everybody but each of us will never know, he deals with Givers don’t lack, people individually. Of I learnt from course, no human being is Chief Abiola that perfect. the hand of a For Antonio Fernandez, I have been looking for him for Giver is always a long time and called his on top. When I number many times no want to do response. But I was at the something, I ask Hilton Hotel in Abuja one day and the phone rang, I still myself “what don’t know how he knew I would Chief was in the hotel so he called Abiola had and he said his name with done?. his usual baritone voice and I was like Kabiyesi sir, he said “I heard you have been looking for me all this while, now, I’m ready for you”. He asked what I wanted and I said I wanted to cover his island in New York so he said Okay, my Personal Assistant will contact you in a few minutes and I said I will like to fly to New York with a photographer, he asked where I was travelling from, I told him I would be travelling from Lagos but I will be picking a Photographer from England. When his PA called I told him we fly minimum of Business class and gave him our itinerary, when he wanted to talk too much, I told him to confirm from Chief Fernandez. The photographer we used was Collin Ramsey, we called him The Godfather of photography and that was how we flew to New York, I was dazed to see a Nigerian owning an island in New York and the road leading to the island, it was boldly written: Avenue Deinde Fernandez, we were there for five days, he was in Shanghai China at the time but he had opened his home, everything to us. In his garage, he had a hydraulics system that will lift the cars up so that when there is a flood, it will not mess up the cars, and that was one of our best editions I will like to speak about Hakeem Bello-Osagie, before I went on exile, I had heard about him from Kola Abiola, we all call him Chairman, then he bought UBA and then he had problems for a while, Ademola Adekogbe, may God bless his soul, contacted me that he had spoken to Keem and that I could be of help so I asked who are the people harassing him and he said they are The Tribune people in

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Ibadan and I said they are my people, Uncle Folu Olamiji was my Boss, Biodun Oduwole so I told him I was going to help him but he would have do something that we would go to Ibadan to meet them. I called Kakanfo Inn on Ring Road which was one of the best hotels then in Ibadan and I booked a suite, I

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In fact, a friend of mine pulled out when we started Ovation, many people were saying I was unrealistic, I’m a risk-takerand I take calculated risk. Adenuga told me once, what is the point of calling someone your friend, if his wealth cannot reflect on you?

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called the Editors that I would like us to have a meeting with Hakeem BelloOsagie and that was how they came and that was it. Did you know after Ademola died, Hakeem never forgot the favour, he contacted me again n London, around the time he wanted to bring Moneygram to Nigeria and I used to accompany him to the Moneygram office and I learnt a lot from that. Tony Elumelu who happens to be one of the brightest guys of this generation, extremely gifted, extremely bright, we met when he was still at Standard Trust Bank and by that time I had started living in Ghana, I heard he had bought the UBA and I was like what? Then I met him and they started opening branches in Ghana, and we were of help because Ovation was already established in Ghana. Tony Elumelu is such a smart guy and I respect him a lot, he had that global perspective for UBA from day one and that was one of the things I learnt from Chief Abiola that you should never make yourself a local champion. In 2007, I had a brainwave about what Ovation can do to immortalize itself and we decided on

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having a Christmas event. So I went to a man I respect very much, Mr Leke Alder, I called him to help us design the idea and he was the one that came up with the name Ovation Red Carol so we pitched it to Tony Elumelu’s UBA and Globacom but immediately we got to UBA, Kennedy Uzoka who is now the Group Managing Director was the one who presided over that meeting then later Charles Aigbe and they got approval that they were going to sponsor the Ovation Carol and we had the first one at Eko Hotel so they sponsored the next one too and that was how they became our sponsors for many years and I’m very grateful to them. And of course, Globacom also sponsored some editions too and we cannot thank them enough. Chief Harry Akande, we like to describe him as “The Chicago Billionaire”, he was one of the first Nigerians I knew who flew his own private jet, he was living in Chicago and there were all kinds of attack, what I like about him was that he pursued it legally and he went back to Chicago so the day we went to Chicago, we had a big event in his house, he invited Baba Abraham Adesanya and his good friend, General Abdulsalami Abubakar so I got very close to him, I love him and his family very dearly, I still spoke to him a few days ago in Lagos. Alhaji Aliko Dangote, he is such an enigma, a lot of people don’t know that he is the quiet and shy type. He doesn’t like to make noise, Sir Shina Peters was always singing his praise and that was how I first knew about him since then he has blown so big but I’m grateful to him for the support he is giving to Ovation. All the countries he has plants, when he wanted to open them, he called us. I flew on his private jet to Ethiopia when he was going to open his plant there, he invited me to Tanzania and I honoured it, I think the only one I missed was Cameroon so we’ve been together. When his daughter had her wedding in Kano, I was the MC because the MC did not show up. He is a very great African and we are very proud of him, the last wedding he did in Lagos where Bill Gates attended, we did a special edition for him. He is also a member of the Ovation Platinum Club. Femi Otedola, I think I was always feel very nostalgic any time the name Femi Otedola is mentioned, He is one of the most blessed men of our generation, I’ve known him since the time of Sir Shina Peters and that was my first encounter with him. I remember when he was living in Ilupeju, we used to go and visit him then he was courting Nana and he married Nana then they moved to Ikeja G.R.A, from Ikeja G.R.A, they

moved to Ikoyi and he now has that one in town Office in Victoria Island so we’ve come a long way together and I’m always happy for these great men. Someone just wrote Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, first he was Senator, we got closer in our exile days in London and then he has always been our benefactor, there is no one who has met Asiwaju Bola Tinubu that won’t tell you that he is a generous giver and when we were in exile, he was one of the few people that if you are broke, he will always be willing to help. I was particularly close to him that I used to go to his house almost on daily basis, I had free access and I will go to his kitchen and cook. So to those who think Tinubu just made money from Lagos, he had always had money, he made money from oil business and all that and very free with it and that is why just like other generous people, God is blessing him. 7Someone just mentioned Iya Adura, where do I start from? I don’t think I’ve ever done any interview like this where I will analyze big newsmakers in Nigeria but thanks for the opportunity. Iya Adura is one of the greatest human beings I’ve ever encountered and nobody will believe that I met her less than three years ago, a young man had approached me that he wanted me to meet Iya Adura. We call him Brother Paseda and I said why not, unfortunately the day he met me, I was travelling out of London then he called me that he was with Iya Adura, I’ve never met her nor spoken to her but I said “My dearest Mummy” and that is one thing about me, maybe because I’ve worked with great people so I know how to respect people and I saw the greatness in her. He said I should hold on for her and when I said “My dearest Mummy”, she too said “Baba mi Dele Momodu” and till today that is how we banter. She said she heard I was at the airport, I said yes then she said I shouldn’t go, I said I’ve already checked in but I told her that I heard she was going to have the 10th anniversary of her church, Love of Christ, Church, Clapham, in September, and she said Yes and I said I will make it to the event and that was it. From that moment till today, I’ve become a member of her family and I saw a very determined but maligned woman, I saw a woman who depends totally on Jesus Christ and God, I have every evidence that if there is one prayer warrior remaining in this world, it certainly will be Iya Adura , I discovered a woman who overflows with lots of human kindness. God sent her as the Esther of our time to turn around the fortunes

of Cherubim and Seraphim and all the white garment churches. I remembered one day in Turkey, we got tired of people stopping her to take pictures with her, she is an authentic celebrity now thanks to Ovation. I can’t even count what I’ve learnt from her. Someone asked about Saraki, everybody knows that I’m close to him, our closeness was activated by his good friend Rt. Hon Chibuike Amaechi who during his time as Governor of Rivers State used to talk about Saraki, Saraki was the Chairman of the Governors Forum before Amaechi took over and I

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Mahama, the former President of Ghana, everyone knows he is one of the closest leaders to me and I respect him absolutely, Great guy, a lot of Ghanaians call him Nkrumah the second

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discovered a man well-trained and prepared for whatever roles he plays in politics. I see him as an ajebutter but he was trained to a certain level then he trained himself to a level higher and that is what I see in Saraki and I remember when the fracas happened at the National Assembly, I granted an interview with The Vanguard Newspapers, you can check that, I said I’m Tinubu’s boy but on this issue I’m supporting Saraki and everybody said how will I prefer him to Tinubu and I said the word isn’t preference but I’ve studied him and there was no way the Federal Government could succeed in removing him, he was so much in control of the National Assembly. I don’t follow people sheepishly, there was no way Saraki would have given me more money than Tinubu if money was my problem, I followed him because I hate injustice and oppression, the APC was an arrangement of different political parties, the CPC had Buhari as

President, the ACN where Tinubu belonged to had Osinbajo as VicePresident and then the N-PDP where Saraki belonged to, wanted the National Assembly and they were going to stop them. I said that to me was not fair so my position was that even if they don’t want him, they should do proper election and not that they will force him to step down. I an happy that Saraki didn’t disappoint us, the number of bills passed under Saraki is unsurpassed. When people say some people are corrupt, I say “A Nation is not led by a saint but by a Performer” He is one of the most ordained leaders we have in Nigeria today. Doctor Adedeji Adeleke, Yes, he is a brother I’ve known for a very long time, if you are looking for a perfect gentleman, you will find one in Dr. Adeleke, even when we had issues over Davido and my cousin, Sophie, I like the way it was eventually resolved, he is a gentleman that I respect, again, he had something in common with Abiola and others, his generosity, if you know the number of people he is sending to school on scholarship all over the world, it is incredible and I love him for that, he loves his siblings, we also call him Chairman and he is just a fantastic human being. Someone has written Prophet T.B Joshua, I tell people that my biggest asset is my access; Prophet T.B Joshua is another man that is usually maligned. My attitude is that religion is between you and your God, you don’t have to believe a prophet if you don’t want to believe him and if you want to believe him then do so, nobody will force you to go to any church but my personal experience, I tried to look at my personal relationship with Prophet T.B Joshua. He is a very good and kind-hearted man, on top of it, he is one of the most successful prophets in Africa. Someone just wrote about Mahama, the former President of Ghana, John Mahama, everyone knows he is one of the closest leaders to me and I respect him absolutely, Great guy, a lot of Ghanaians call him Nkrumah the second because of his investment in infrastructure development in Ghana, in three years, he showed that you don’t need all the time in the world to develop a nation, he upgraded the existing international terminal and built a brand new terminal 3 at Kotoka International Airport, he built in Accra alone several sophisticated hospitals and that is why Ghana can cope better with this COVID-19 right now. I have never seen a leader who within one term in office added over 1000-bed capacity hospitals in Accra alone and he built hospitals across the

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Iya Adura is one still doesn’t mean you will pass an of the greatest exam so when you human beings I’ve talk about Mrs Alakija, she is so ever encountered brilliant and her and nobody will husband is very fantastic and God believe I met her has blessed them less than three extremely, I was very impressed by years ago her speech at Harvard three years ago when we met, she has been making Africa proud. Chief Abdul-Rasak Akanni Okoya, my Daddy, I’ve known him for a very long time since the days of Eleganza around 7UP, the Eleganza conglomerate, very hardworking, foremost industrialist, I am friends with some of his children and then I met his senior wife, Alhaja Kuburat and then later Chief Mrs Folasade, we were just chatting few minutes ago before I started this interview, a blessed man at 80, he looks very young, relaxed, he is a man that God has really blessed, his 80th birthday in January was one of the best party I’ve attended in recent time, a great man! Nduka Obaigbena? He is one of the first friends I made when I arrived Lagos in 1988, the Publisher of This Day Newspapers, Chairman of Arise News Channel, if there is one man I revere in Journalism, it will be Nduka. I call him the Publisher of Publishers, a very daring man, I called him last night and I’m planning to do a Zoom party for my 60th birthday on Saturday and I called him and said he has to propose the toast and he said why not, he is a friend forever and I love him so much. He came to my office in London when I started Ovation and he told me, Dele, failure has no brothers, that I should do everything I can to ensure that Ovation must not die and I thank him so much for the advice. Chief Olusegun Osoba, when I got to Lagos, I was squatting with my friend, Segun Adegbesan somewhere around Anthony village very close to Gani Fawehinmi Chambers and he had a record that Chief Ebenezer Obey sang for Chief Osoba, I used to play that album every morning and I will look skyward and beg God to bless my life like Chief Osoba’s, and that was why I was so happy to interview him a few days ago and my highest regards to him. Thank you very much Bob-Dee, it has been very educative and you have answered every question well and you took time to explain the people they hear about. I also thank you for always being supportive. Oh No, what I admire in you is that for every business, there is always competition, there is no point pretending about it but you and I from day one even when you were in Ife, we met and since we met, we’ve never departed and your wife, Funke is our sister, my wife’s younger sister is married to your wife’s brother so we are in-laws and I know how much you’ve labored, may God bless you.

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10 regions of Ghana at that time, he built a new stadium, new markets, he upgraded fishery by giving them fishing equipment, he upgraded the Ghana Police Service and then he encouraged vocational studies, he converted a lot of the polytechnics in Ghana to Universities of Technology, so today, if you are looking for some of the best artisans in Africa, if you go to Ghana you will find them. He is trying to seek reelection on December 7th this year and I wish him the best of luck. Who else? Kola Abiola? Kola and I are brothers from different mothers but his dad was a father to me and Kola behaved to me like a true brother, you will not believe Kola bought me my first car. Kola would have been about 29 years old when he bought me my first car in life, I didn’t have a car at that time and Kola heard about it then he told me to pick up a car and Kola also gave me my first account when I started a business called “Celebrities Goodwill Limited” in 1992, Kola attended my wedding, I think we married the same year in 1992, I think he married in March and I married in December and till today, his wife, Victoria Arafat and I are like brother and sister. In fact, I was the one who went to pick her from Ebute-Meta Hospital when they gave birth to their first child, that is one thing I learnt about Kola, he is so patriotic about Nigeria. He believed so much in Nigeria and he has done a lot of investment in Nigeria and I love him for that. I will speak with you briefly about Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija, I’ve known her from the Rose of Sharon days, even before then she had Supreme Stitches, people think people just make it out of the blues, No, there is always what they call preparation before readiness, I tell people even if they give you questions and answers, it

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