An Evening of Sapphires & Relaxation
Cascades Luxury, the owners of Scentified Stores and exclusive distributors of Boadicea The Victorious Perfumes in Nigeria in collaboration with Skymit Motors, recently welcomed Mr Jeremy Taylor, the esteemed Commercial Director of the renowned fragrance brand. This extraordinary event, aptly titled “An Evening of Sapphires & Relaxation,” captivated the hearts of attendees, who were treated to an enchanting experience of fine fragrances, luxurious ambience, and delightful company. Guests were immersed in a world of scents and sensations, mingling with like-minded individuals who shared their passion for exquisite perfumery.
JEREMY
KWARA
TAIWO AFOLABI MARTIN AYENI OLARONKE APAMPA OBINNA OBI IYIEGBU AMBROSE OVBIEBO & OGUNMEFUN KUNLE EKI OGUMBOR & NICOLE CHIKWE EMMANUEL EGBOH UCHE UKPAKA & MOHAMMED KOKO WHOTERA KAGHO & IFY KAGHO ADEOLA ALADE & AISHA HAMMED VANESSA AZAR & NICOLE CHIKWE OGUNMEFUN KUNLE & JIKE COKER CHIKE OGEAH, BAYO ABDUL & TAYO AYENI DONALD NEDKWU AND EMEKA OBIAGOR IFUNAYA ANAESIUBA DONALD NDEKWU, BASORUN AKIN KONGI &NIYI ADESEUN FALIL AYO ABINA, DAPO OGUNTAYO, JEREMY TAYLOR, OTUNBA LAI LABODE & ISREAL OVIRIH KAFAYAT OLUWATOYIN PETER ELUMELU ERNEST OMOREGIE, ADAEZE NNAMA & MUYIWA AKINYEMI AMANDA AMUSAN VICTOR ABHULIM, YEMI AMUSAN, CHIKE MEMEH, DR KINGSLEY UMADIA AND CONRAD MEMEH FUNMI TOMORI AND FUMI LADIPO Sunday, June 18, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10258 Sunday June 18, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10258 6 7
TAYLOR AND CHIKE MEMEH
STATE GOVERNOR), ABDULRAHMAN ABDULRAZAQ, TAYO AYENI AND KAYODE ODUKOYA
GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS
ANNOUNCES HILDA BACI’S NEW RECORD HOLDER.
Guinness World Records has announced Hilda Baci as the new record holder for the longest cooking by an individual. The GWR, in a statement on its website, said:
“Following a thorough review of all the evidence, Guinness World Records can now confirm that Hilda Effiong Bassey, better known as Hilda Baci, has officially broken the record for the longest cooking marathon (individual), with a time of 93 hours 11 minutes. “A tweet on their official Twitter page also reads: “After reviewing all the footage, we’re delighted to announce that Hilda Baci is the new record holder for the longest cooking marathon (individual).
ABBAS, KALU EMERGE, SPEAKER, DEPUTY
Tajudeen Abbas has emerged as the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Abbas, who polled 353 votes, emerged as Speaker after a roll call of members-elect, 359 out of 360 members that participated in the process of the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly. While the immediate past spokesman of the House, Benjamin Kalu, emerged unopposed as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
EDO GOVT. REDUCES SCHOOL DAYS TO 3 PER WEEK
The Edo State Government has cut school days to three times a week to mitigate the impact of the removal of fuel subsidies. Ozavize Salami, the Chairperson of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), confirmed this after a meeting between the state’s Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa and other government officials. This comes after the state government announced that public and civil servants should work thrice weekly following the removal of subsidy.
BURNA
The Recording Academy, organisers of Grammy Awards, has created a category for ‘Best African Music Performance.’ The category was among the three new ones announced by the academy. The other two newly created categories are Best Pop Dance Recording and Best Alternative Jazz Album. According to the statement, the new categories will receive nominations beginning with next year’s show.
“The addition of the Best African Music Performance category reflects how African acts such as Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems—along with the rise of the Afrobeats genre—have become global chart-topping stars and streaming juggernauts,” the statement reads.
EXXONMOBIL APPOINTS ADESUA
DOZIE AS VICE CHAIRPERSON FOR MOBIL PRODUCING NIGERIA.
ExxonMobil has appointed Adesua Dozie as the new vice chairperson for its Nigerian affiliates, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPN) and Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL).
Until her appointment, she was an Executive Director and General Counsel for MPN and EEPNL. Dozie joined MPN in November 2019 as General Counsel and was elevated to the position of Executive Director on December 30, 2019. She is a senior legal advisor with over 20 years of experience as a trusted leader for multinational companies across Africa in diverse industries.
CBN GRANTS BANKS THE FREEDOM TO TRADE FOREX AT ANY RATE.
The Central Bank of Nigeria has authorised commercial banks to trade foreign exchange at any rate freely. The authorisation means that banks now have the power to sell forex at a market-determined rate.
For years, Nigeria has maintained a tightly controlled official exchange rate as the country’s forex reserves hit new lows. While the CBN maintained an artificial rate of $1/N462.
FANS AT UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL.
LAGOS FASHION WEEK 2023 IS HERE
Lagos Fashion Week — is set to return for an exciting fashion feast come October. Hosted in Lagos, Nigeria, the event brings together buyers, consumers and the media to view designers’ latest collections. This year’s edition is scheduled from the 25th to the 29th October, 2023.
AKPABIO ELECTED AS SENATE PRESIDENT, AND JIBRIN AS DEPUTY SENATE PRESIDENT.
Godswill Akpabio has been elected president of the 10th Senate.
Mr Akpabio polled 63 votes to defeat his lone challenger, Abdulaziz Yari, a former governor of Zamfara State, who secured 46 votes. Also, the senator representing Kano North, Barau Jibrin, emerged as the deputy senate president. Mr Jibrin was elected unopposed.
Like the Senate President, Mr Jibrin was given the instruments of his office after taking the oaths of allegiance, membership of the Senate and the office of the deputy Senate president.
Grammy award-winner Burna Boy has recorded another giant feat after he became the first African star to perform at a UEFA Champions League Final. This historic performance took place during the 2023 European Club football final in Istanbul, Turkey
Burna Boy thrilled a stadium packed filled with 80,000 fans who turned up to watch the final between Manchester City and Inter Milan. The 2023 final was held In Istanbul, Turkey, and Burna Boy thrilled fans with a collection of his hit songs as he continued to lead the international charge of Afrobeats.
CHEF DAMMY COMPLETES 120 HOUR COOK-A-THON
Ekiti-based Nigerian chef, Damilola Adeparusi, has completed her 120 hours of cook-a-thon. She announced this on her Twitter page with the caption, “120hrs done! I want to appreciate you all for your support emotionally, financially, physically & spiritually. If not for you guys, wouldn’t be able to achieve this,” she tweeted.
However in a confirmation request to Legit NG , the Guinness World Record has said has said it did not receive an application regarding the cook-a-thon .
The body said: “We have not received an application for this attempt. Applications can be made via the Guinness World Records website for our records management team to review.” Adeparusi started her cooking marathon on June 9 and has become a viral sensation ever since. Her cooking marathon also attracted different reactions from social media users. While some users commended her courage, others slammed her for allegedly planning to undermine Baci’s 93 hours record.
Ten Things
GRAMMY INTRODUCES THE ‘BEST AFRICAN MUSIC PERFORMANCE’ CATEGORY TO 2024 AWARDS.
BOY THRILLS
NEWS NEWS
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In a society where being average is applauded, we should be careful not to pat single fathers on their backs for doing what they are supposed to. Men should love and care for their children, provide emotional and financial support, and give guidance and instruction. Many men do, but society never really speaks much about them. There are many men out there who are primary caregivers and are doing phenomenally well raising children all on their own. As we celebrate Father’s Day this week, we celebrate all fathers, especially those raising kids alone. Speaking to Pastor Ituah Ighodalo on this, he shares the joy of raising his two beautiful children, who he says are his main priority after God and his journey thus far in his new role as a single father.
Interview by Funke Babs Kufeji
Since your wife died in 2020, how has it been raising the kids independently?
Difficult to describe. The first challenge was getting the information I needed to learn about certain things. The second was pulling myself out to create more time to attend to things I didn’t quite know about or, most times, only glanced through. The third, and perhaps the funniest, was in care selection—the choice of nannies, things like that—and having to be much more involved in the children’s school activities. But it’s just an adjustment of time and knowing that now I have to take on a lot more and be a lot more hands-on and a lot more available. And know that children are the main priority of one’s life.
What do you miss most about your wife and raising the kids?
First of all, she was extremely organised, so she got everything sorted. I had nothing to do with school. In those days, she would
have gone to the schools, analysed them, evaluated them, and just come and said to me that this is the one that is good. Both schools my daughter went to, she came and said to me, “I think these are the schools”, and luckily, I knew the schools, so I didn’t need to evaluate them too much. But she made all the findings as she was extremely meticulous. She did all the legwork and found all the information, and I just approved once I felt they were in tune with what we both wanted. She also took the children out more—she took them swimming; she went with them to their parties, organised their clothes, organised their food, and everything else. I’ve had to do all that now that she is gone.
Tell us how you feel about the reputation society and movies have created about single dads and what exactly the reality is. I guess a stereotyped impression sells the movie more.: having
PASTOR ITUAH IGHODALO AND HIS KIDS UNUAKEMONYI OLAJUMOKE IGHODALO AND
IGHODALO
EHIZENAN AKINTUNDE
ITUAH IGHODALO Finding Strength in Family
You may make a few mistakes here and there, but within a few months, you’ll get into a rhythm if you’re serious about what you’re doing. And you begin to enjoy it.
COVER Sunday June 18, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10258 Sunday, June 18, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10258 14 15
a clumsy single dad who burns the food, forgets the kids, and runs raggedy all over the place. You may make a few mistakes here and there, but within a few months, you’ll get into a rhythm if you’re serious about what you’re doing. And you begin to enjoy it. remember the very first school PTA meeting that I had to attend. was initially irritated, but I’ve been to a few since then and am beginning to enjoy those things. We’re not as confused and upsidedown as movies portray. We tend to settle into a rhythm, begin to understand things, and then accept that this is our new situation in life. To be honest, society is quite understanding, accommodating, and quite accepting. I have also gotten a lot of support from my inlaws, but also a lot of support from my siblings. I’ve also got a lot of help from church members and, of course, a lot of support from even the schools that the children attend.
Most times, single mothers are harshly judged and criticised for how they raise their kids, but people are more sympathetic towards single fathers. Do you agree, and why is it so? Or do you get criticised just the same?
Not as of now. I get a lot of suggestions, or I used to get a lot of suggestions, but I am getting them less now. Maybe the initial few months that my wife passed—the initial nine months or so— I got all sorts of suggestions and things. People were scared for me— that I wouldn’t know my left from my right or what to do. But now we all seem to have settled into a rhythm, and most people have backed off. As to single mothers being criticised, it is just a societal assumption that most children are raised by their mothers, and to some extent, it’s 60 to 70% true because traditional society has women spending more time with their children. Women either stop working or find flexible work because of the children. But teaching the children the manners they need to know is up to both parents. It takes two to raise a child. So participation is very important. So any child that has not been well raised well is a result of both parents contributions as far as I’m concerned.
Many people are of the opinion that fathers should raise their kids the way moms do, but the real question here is: can a dad be a mom? Yes or no, and why?
Maybe you need to ask my daughter that question because one day I was going out, and she said I must make sure come back home early, and I said why? And she said, “Don’t you know you are now mummy/daddy?”
I think both parents have a significant role to play. know some fathers who have done phenomenal work raising their children. They’ve been a lot more disciplined and committed. But these days, raising children is not just strict discipline as such; you want to raise children who are your friends; you want to raise children who are confident in themselves. You want to raise children whose talents and gifts you can expose and harness so they can fulfil their purpose in life, as opposed to that straight jacket way of saying, this is right, this is wrong, left, right, forward, backwards. In my opinion, there must be more flexibility, participation, and engagement with the children.
How would you describe your parenting style?
My parenting style is more of a problem-solving technique than the command-and-rule technique. Raising my children has been very pleasurable. have enjoyed it. We have a lot of fun together; we sleep together, and we have meals together. I take them to school, and we swim.
look forward to spending time with them every evening before they go to bed.
I used to get a lot of suggestions, but I am getting them less now. Maybe the initial few months that my wife passed—the initial nine months or so— I got all sorts of suggestions and things. People were scared for me—that I wouldn’t know my left from my right or what to do
between two people of opposite sexes, but now society is forcing us to believe you can have a significant other of any sex. It’s not right. It’s not natural. It’s also not biblical. But now they’re saying the Bible is old-fashioned and needs to be rewritten. Some things don’t change. For instance, you cannot eat with your ears, no matter how much you try. The ear is for hearing, not eating. It’s just not equipped to do that. You cannot look with your fingers; the fingers don’t have sight. So you cannot say that looking with your eyes is old-fashioned. And that’s what society is almost saying now.
From a spiritual perspective, what is your approach when it comes to discipline?
It’s a mixture of what you would call traditional discipline and modern engagement. I will not shy away from saying that I use a stick once in a while for my children because it’s important. Spare the rod and spoil the child. The fear is that some people might overdo things. So there must be a balance. There must be a way by which you ensure and insist on some discipline for the child. And if they push their boundaries, then they get a bit of the rod. don’t think it is inappropriate.
So you mentioned you have come into a rhythm with your kids, but some things must be hard as a single dad. Tell us the hardest part about being a single dad, and what are some of your struggles ? Also, what is the best part about it?
Physically, it’s not hard for me. I do everything with my children. I’m happy to do it. give them their baths, and I feed them, etc. My girl is a young lady now, so she likes to take a bath herself. The only difficulty is emotional, and that’s when they ask after their mom. They ask why she went and when she is coming back. Questions like that make it emotionally hard, but aside from that, nothing is hard.
What is or was your relationship with your dad, and what fond memories do you have of him? had a beautiful relationship with my dad when he was alive. When he was much younger, he had a beard. He used to live in Benin and would drive from Benin to Ibadan, where we lived as young children, with my mother who worked in the civil service. In those days, we used to sleep underneath in mosquito nets and would be asleep when he arrived from Benin. First, you would hear the horn of his car at the gate, and when he came in, he would come straight to our room, put his head inside our mosquito net, and rub his beard all over our faces. You would smell his aroma when he did this, which was really enjoyable. He was a brave man; he was calm, a good-looking man, a very affectionate man, and he loved his children. He used to take us hunting, out on drives, and he would take us to the farm. Both my parents had farms. He taught me how to ride a bicycle, and he taught me how to drive at the age of 14 or 15
Is that the same approach you have with your children, especially as a single dad?
really hope so. Time will tell whether I’m successful or not, but I allow them to have their say and consult them. We discuss, and we have fun. When they’re going out of line, stop them.
What are your hopes for your children in the future?
hope they grow up as children with strong Christian values. hope they are confident in themselves while being respectful and disciplined and, most importantly, that they fulfil their purpose. I hope to guide them towards their destinies and not force them to be what they would rather not be.
It’s fantastic to hear you are friends with your kid. But as a man of God, from a spiritual perspective, why is it important to raise kids godly in these times and climes?
It’s not just important; it’s critical. It’s critical in a society where values are being quickly eroded. Nobody knows what is right or wrong anymore. Everybody is pushing their agenda and desires and trying to force them on the world in the name of human rights. Making good old values look traditional and old-fashioned. The only values that stand the test of time are those that are Godly. And those values evolved from people having a relationship with God and being able to distinguish through inspiration and critical thinking what was proper from what was not proper. Marriage, for example, is fundamentally
What advice do you have to give other single dads?
There’s nothing to be too worried about. I don’t know what circumstances led to their singleness. Some are single because they’re separated; some are single, like in my case, because they lost their wives; some are single because they never got married and are responsible for raising their children. My advice is that they should be good parents and good people. You can’t give what you don’t have. You should be born again; you should be a Christian. You should distinguish right from wrong values. Go back to school if you are not that inclined so you can transfer the same values to your children. The second thing is to create time for your children, look forward to it, and make it fun. Don’t think of it as a regress or that it’s not masculine to bring up children. You just have to keep going, keep doing it, and make the most of it. The third, of course, is to seek help when you need it. Consult people and ask for advice. Don’t think you know it all because nobody knows it all. I’ve sought help many times, and it helps.
Beyond Formal Attire The redefined menswear revolution extends beyond formal occasions. Casual wear has become a playground for self-expression. The limited choices of jeans and t-shirts no longer bind men. Instead, they explore a myriad of options, including tailored shorts, widelegged trousers, and layered looks. Athleisure has also gained immense popularity, providing comfort without compromising on style. It’s all about striking the perfect balance between comfort, versatility, and fashion-forwardness.
Accessories as Statements Accessories have always been an essential part of fashion, but they now play an even more significant role in redefined menswear. From statement necklaces and bracelets to vibrant pocket squares and bold socks, men are embracing accessories as an extension of their personal style. These little details can elevate an outfit and make a powerful statement. Unique eyewear, hats, and even unconventional bags are also gaining prominence, allowing men to showcase their individuality.
From Street Style to High Fashion
One of the most fascinating aspects of redefined menswear is its ability to blend street style with high fashion seamlessly. Streetwear, once considered a subculture, has now become a dominant force in the fashion industry. It has transformed the way men dress, infusing casual elements into formal attire and effortlessly blending comfort with style. From designer sneakers paired with tailored suits to hoodies worn under blazers, this fusion of styles has given birth to a new breed of fashion-forward gentlemen who effortlessly exude confidence and sophistication.
Celebrating Cultural Influences
The redefined menswear movement celebrates the influence of various cultures and ethnicities. Global fashion designers draw inspiration from diverse traditions, resulting in fusion garments that blend the best of both worlds. Traditional patterns, embroidery, and fabrics from different cultures find their way into contemporary menswear, creating a rich tapestry of style. This interplay of cultural influences allows men to express their heritage while embracing modern fashion trends.
Tailoring with a Twist
Traditional tailoring has also experienced a renaissance with a contemporary twist. Slim-fitting suits and structured blazers are still classic choices, but designers have introduced unconventional elements that challenge convention. Asymmetrical lapels, exaggerated shoulder lines, and unexpected fabric combinations add an avant-garde touch to traditional menswear. Customisation is also on the rise, with made-tomeasure and bespoke options allowing men to create garments that perfectly reflect their personalities.
THE TIMELESS APPEAL OF AGEING GRACEFULLY
For a generation obsessed with youthful appearances, the topic of male attractiveness and ageing often takes a back seat. But let’s pause for a moment and consider the undeniable charm that comes with the passage of time. Like a fine wine that only gets better with age, men possess a unique ability to exude a magnetism that transcends mere physicality. In this article, we delve into the multifaceted aspects of male attractiveness, exploring the factors that contribute to their timeless allure as they navigate the journey of ageing.
The Power of Confidence
One of the most alluring traits that accompany age is the confidence that develops over time. Mature men have experienced life’s ups and downs, gaining wisdom and self-assurance along the way. This confidence emanates from within, transforming an ordinary face into one that captivates and intrigues. It’s the magnetism of a man who knows who he is, unapologetically embracing his flaws and exuding an air of authenticity that is simply irresistible.
Distinguished Features
With the passage of time, the face and body of a man undergo subtle changes that can enhance their attractiveness. Fine lines and wrinkles, commonly associated with ageing, add character and depth to a man’s face, revealing a life lived fully. These lines, etched with memories, tell stories that make a man intriguing and interesting. Furthermore, a well-maintained salt-and-pepper beard or distinguished grey hair can exude sophistication and lend an air of wisdom that younger counterparts may
find challenging to replicate.
Health and Vitality
While external features are essential, maintaining a healthy and vibrant appearance is equally crucial for male attractiveness as one ages. Taking care of one’s physical well-being through regular exercise and a balanced diet keeps the body in shape and adds an appealing glow to the skin. Men who prioritise their health project vitality and radiance, making them undeniably attractive regardless of age.
Personal Style Evolution
Another fascinating aspect of male attractiveness and ageing is the evolution of personal style. With age comes a refined sense of fashion and a deeper understanding of what works best for oneself. Gone are the experimental fashion phases of youth, replaced by a cultivated and effortlessly elegant style. The combination of sartorial choices and confidence is a winning formula that elevates a man’s attractiveness to new heights.
Embracing Emotional Intelligence
As men age, their emotional intelligence tends to grow, becoming an increasingly attractive quality. Emotional intelligence encompasses the ability to empathise, communicate, and connect deeply with others. These qualities go beyond physical appearances and create a magnetic pull towards a man who possesses the ability to understand and relate to others on a profound level. The emotionally intelligent man possesses the gift of making people around him feel seen, heard, and appreciated.
Embracing Change
Adapting to change becomes more natural with age, and this adaptability brings forth an undeniable charm. Men who embrace the ageing process and the changes that come with it project an attitude of grace and acceptance. They understand that life is a journey, and each phase has its unique beauty. This acceptance resonates with others, making them see the beauty of ageing as well.
Style and Fashion
Gone are the days when men were limited to a narrow spectrum of fashion choices. Today, men of all ages have embraced diverse and expressive styles, showcasing their personalities through clothing. From classic tailored suits that exude sophistication to casual ensembles that emphasise comfort and individuality, men have an expansive sartorial playground that accentuates their unique attractiveness at any age.
Embracing Authenticity
Above all, the true essence of male attractiveness lies in embracing authenticity. Men who remain true to themselves, unapologetically embracing their individuality and quirks, radiate an irresistible magnetism. This unwavering authenticity becomes the foundation upon which their attractiveness is built, ensuring a timeless charm that captivates those around them.
The Power of Experience
As men accumulate life experiences, they develop a unique depth and substance that adds to their attractiveness. The stories they carry, the lessons they’ve learned, and the wisdom they’ve acquired through the years create an unparalleled aura of magnetism. Engaging in conversations with such individuals becomes a captivating experience, as they offer insights and perspectives that are born out of a rich tapestry of experiences.
The Art of Grooming
While grey hair may grace their temples and lines may etch their faces, men today have embraced a new era of grooming that celebrates their evolving features. The meticulous care of well-maintained facial hair has become an art form, emphasising masculinity and lending a distinguished air. Coupled with proper skincare routines, which enhance the health and vitality of the skin, men have mastered the art of ageing gracefully.
TONY ELUMELU
OSCAR
IBRU R.M.D.
LANRE OGUNLESI AND JOHN OBAYUWANA
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CHIKE OGEAH
Bovi Ugboma on Fatherhood: The secrets to balancing laughter, love, and life.
When it comes to entertainment, Bovi Ugboma has made a name for himself with his infectious humour and undeniable wit. But behind the spotlight and the uproarious laughter lies a side of Bovi that many may not be familiar with – his role as a devoted father. To mark this year’s Father’s Day, we had the privilege of sitting down with this multitalented comedian and actor to delve into his personal journey of balancing fatherhood and fame. With his characteristic charm and uncanny ability to find the perfect punchline in any situation, Bovi Ugboma opens up about the joys, challenges, and lessons he’s learned on this unpredictable and hilarious journey called parenting.
Happy Father’s Day, Bovi. Let’s talk a bit about fatherhood. What does it mean to you, and how has it influenced your outlook on life?
Happy Father’s Day, Bovi. Let’s talk a bit about fatherhood. What does it mean to you, and how has it influenced your outlook on life?
Thank you. Being a father is fun only on paper. The only thing I love is my unconditional love for my children. Outside that, it has forced me into responsibility. Probably quicker than I planned. I have stopped living for me 100 and started to make sacrifices with joy. As an adult, it’s kind of fulfilling to be experiencing these feelings for the first time. It’s not easy, but that’s the honest truth. I had no forewarning.
What challenges do you face as a modern-day parent, and how do you strike a balance between work, family, and personal life?
I’m one person who tries not to do to others what was done to me. That’s things I didn’t like. Our parents didn’t understand us. I knew they wanted the best for me, but they also needed to know times have changed. Now find myself in the same boat with my kids, and to be honest, I’m quite cool. try to understand where they’re coming from. The only thing don’t compromise is their safety. By the time they’re teenagers, I’d let them go wherever they want. But I’d certainly have security shadowing them without them knowing. My work is flexible in a way that allows me to be home most of the time. If I’m not working, I’m home. So it’s good.
Let’s talk a bit about your kids, your daughter Elena has captured the hearts of your social media followers. It appears you both share a special bond.
What my daughter and share is not peculiar to us. Most first daughters and their fathers are very fond of each other. It’s an Electra complex. But what makes ours evident is that she’s a natural-born entertainer. Even if I wasn’t an entertainer, she would have still been famous cos she came to this world preprogrammed like that.
From the look of things, she’s following in your footsteps
What my daughter and I share is not peculiar to us. Most first daughters and their fathers are very fond of each other. It’s an Electra complex.
communication and less criticism. think it’s helped to cushion the surprises. I don’t want them to be timid, and I don’t want them to be reckless. I’m also ensuring to avoid raising them with a general method because they have different temperaments.
Your entry into the entertainment industry began with the “Extended Family” sitcom, which you wrote and produced. What were the early days like?
Just know that I was a lucky chap. Fame found me before anything else. The programme hit the airwaves by 8 pm on Sunday, 1st of April 2007. And by the next day, I couldn’t walk the streets anymore. It’s a crazy situation to blow and not have a dime or a car. Fans went into hysteria when they saw me. loved it and dreaded it at the same time. But I kept pushing. Now I’m grateful for everyone who helped me and everyone who cheated me. It was an ok growth for me.
Our parents didn’t understand us. I knew they wanted the best for me, but they also needed to know times have changed. Now I find myself in the same boat with my kids, and to be honest, I’m quite cool. I try to understand where they’re coming from.
in the entertainment industry. How would that make you feel?
It’s flattery to say she’s following in my footsteps. Even if I were a native doctor, I’m sure she would still be who she is an entertainer. It’s in her blood. It only seems like she’s following my path because I’m in showbiz. She was expressing herself way before she had developed the ability to do so . As a tot, she communicated and had a sense of humour. As crazy as that sounds, it’s the gospel truth. I advise her always to do what makes her happy.
It is popularly believed that parenting boys can present unique challenges.
Has this been your experience, and how do you approach parenting them while instilling your cherished values?
I allow the boys to be boys. You know, there’s a limit they can go. They know there are consequences for the wrong actions, but I also make sure the punishment doesn’t outweigh the crime. The last thing want to do is make my kids become timid. So I try my best to be as balanced as possible. So what’s your relationship with them like?
My sons don’t have my time as the way they have their mom’s time. put it down to the Oedipus complex—especially my first.
I’m the one who’s always calling them and trying to strike up conversations. They can go days without seeing me and not really be bothered. call them quarrelling because that they don’t ask of me, and all they say is sorry. The only time they want to be with me is to play PlayStation. So I take my pound of flesh by whooping them silly. play them like I’m playing with my mates. I remind them that I’ve been playing the game since the turn of the millenium.
Fatherhood can be both rewarding and demanding. How do you navigate the fine line between being a funloving dad and a responsible parent?
Well, certain rules must not be broken, and they know them. Do they break them? Yes, they do, but I make sure the punishment doesn’t outweigh the crime. also negotiate a lot with them. If there’s anything I desire, it’s for them to communicate properly with me. prioritised open
home? That’s a rhetorical question.
How do you maintain a balance between pushing boundaries with your comedy and ensuring your jokes are received positively?
You can’t get it right all the time. But for me, I try to see the merits and demerits of every topic. People are less offended when you make them know that you see their “why”. think that’s been my survival skill. I don’t judge anybody, but that doesn’t stop me from having a different opinion.
Fans are eagerly anticipating your upcoming American tour. And, of course, here in Lagos come September. What can they expect from your live performances?
The usual. just keep it real. I try to be as authentic as possible. I try to touch on what everyone is thinking but not wanting to talk about. Yep. That’s it. I’m doing Atlanta, New York, Maryland and Dallas. The beauty of comedy is that people want to hear a comic version of what’s happening in life. Some jokes cut across. While some of them you have to tweak. It just depends on the city. Sometimes the difference is slight. Other times you tweak it altogether. Drop some jokes. Add others.
As a producer, you have successfully created comedy shows and events such as “Bovi Man on Fire” and “Visa on Arrival” What do you consider when selecting projects, and how do you ensure they resonate with your audience? They must strike a chord in my heart first. Stand-up is different. Producing it is like producing any other show. But for stand-up, I’m the performer. I have stories to tell for ages. As regards TV shows, I like to mirror society. Visa on Arrival is a satire. You know Nigerians don’t issue visas. We are telling the story of Nigerians in public offices and how unprofessional they can be. I like to tell stories people can relate to. That’s why the show, like previous ones I’ve done, was a hit.
Your career has witnessed significant growth and success. What do you attribute to this upward trajectory, and how do you maintain your motivation to push the boundaries of your craft?
Maintaining motivation is hard. can’t even lie. Especially because for someone like me, get easily bored. think every Nigerian artist has had motivation for years. We just lack the structures to break new ground. I started doing my shows at Eko Hotel in 2013. I’ve done it there four times. I wish we had a 10 thousand or 20-thousand-capacity arena. That’s what should be doing at this stage of my career. So you see, these are some of the issues. How many arenas do we have in Nigeria?
I mean proper arenas. When the system isn’t growing, the artist gets to the top and just starts going on to station. Burna and Wiz are selling out stadiums outside their own country. Which stadium in Naija will be conducive for them to do the same at
With the rise of social media and online platforms, comedians have gained new avenues to connect with their audience. How has this digital landscape impacted your career?
I’ve been making skits and short clips even before social media exploded. Don’t forget that we used skits to promote shows on TV. So once social media blew up, it took us into more homes. It brought us into direct contact with the consumers. It’s a beautiful thing.
Being a father often comes with its fair share of unexpected and humorous moments. Can you share a funny anecdote from your parenting journey that still makes you smile?
The most recent was when my 9-yearold daughter thanked me for carrying her on my back. And my response was, “Yeah, your mom can’t do that for you, but I can”. She replied, saying, “Dad, that’s sexist”. I froze
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals for the future? Are there any projects or endeavours you are particularly excited about?
I’m holding all that close to my chest. Just know that the version of me you see today, you won’t see tomorrow. I’m like an app that is constantly updated. I’m so done with everything you know. And I’m exploring new frontiers.
What valuable lessons do you hope to pass on to your children about love, respect, and navigating life’s challenges?
I’m just taking it one day at a time. Above all, want them to treat others with respect while protecting their self-esteem. I tell them always how special they are and that their journey in life is about using their gifts to affect mankind.
BOVI AND DAUGHTER ELENA
Sunday, June 18, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10258 Sunday June 18, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10258 20 21
BOVI AND SONS CHUCHU AND DAVID
