Female Disc Jockey (DJ), Adenike Oshimade has proven to be a hugely successful nerve in the Nigerian entertainment community.
As a child, Nikky Jockey, as she is fondly called by friends and colleagues, was always pushed by an uncommon dream to excel and carve a niche for herself in a profession that is dominated by males.
With a firm belief in the saying, ‘education is the great engine of personal development’, Adenike began her journey of self development when she was enrolled at the African Bethel Primary School in Ikorodu, Lagos, where she laid a strong academic foundation and developed her early love for learning.
“As a little child, my desire was to become a lawyer when I grew up. I love the way they dress, and it fascinates me each time I see a lawyer, particularly the women,” Adenike says of her early life.
The burning desire to actualize her dream saw her proceed to Oriwu Junior College, where she excelled both academically and socially, showing great enthusiasm for extracurricular activities.
By the time she completed her secondary education at Soyindo Grammar School, her childhood love for the wig had switched to the hospitality profession. Her desire for a higher school certificate led her to the Tai Solarin University of Education, where she studied Hotel Management.
Upon completing her studies, Adenike began her professional career in the hospitality sector, working with various hotels across Lagos and Ogun States.
Through her dedication, professionalism, and leadership skills, she quickly gained deep and valuable wealth of experience in hotel operations and customer service. She has managed different hospitality establishments, earning a reputation for excellence and reliability in the industry.
But despite the seeming accomplishment, Nikky Jockey still felt that something was missing. She soon found out what it was after she developed an uncommon passion for music and entertainment, particularly in disc jockeying (Djing).
Her exposure to event management and entertainment within the hospitality scene inspired her to explore this creative path. By combining her managerial expertise with her love for music, she transitioned into a dual career as a hotel manager and professional DJ.
“I really didn’t realize early enough what music and entertainment meant to me. But my exposure to various kinds of music during my stint as a manager in hotel business really opened my eyes to what has been missing in my life.”
With the new realization, Adenike chose to try hands on the turntable as a disc jockey. To gain experience, she linked up with a top disc jockey and industry leader, Roland James, who is also the chairman of the Deejays Association of Nigeria (DJAN Lagos).
Adenike learnt very fast and soon emerged as one of James’ best students.
With over one decade after she completed her training, she has successfully established herself as one of the best female DJs in the country.
On her journey into the business of disc jockey, Adenike said: “I love challenges and to explore new grounds. These are just few of the things that push me into wanting to do more.”
Today, Adenike has successfully handled numerous events, including weddings, corporate gatherings, private parties, and social functions. Her ability to engage diverse audiences and create memorable experiences through music, making her a respected name in both the entertainment and hospitality industries.
Having taken her trade to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, where she has displayed her dexterity and left her imprint on the city’s entertainment, Adenike says she is planning to export her talent to the USA and Europe, where she promises to make immediate impact.
