Category: Sunday Interview

 Obiajulu Olabisi Ugboh is a woman of many parts. She is ex-beauty queen, a model, and singer whose stage name is Bee Cee and a Political Science graduate of Delta State University. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, the song writer takes you into her world.

WHAT actually inspires the messages in your songs?

That’s depends on the kind of song I’m writing at the time. My inspirational songs are based on true life experiences of either mine or people around me. My songs are also inspired by my observations of life.

What stands you out in the musical world?

Everything about me stands me out. For the fact that I’m a female rapper makes me unique because female rappers aren’t that much. And then you come across one rapping Englibo which of course is wow! I’m different and original. I’ve tried to carve a niche for myself in the music scene and that stands me out. It took me a while to find my style because I was listening to a whole lot of people. I wanted so much to get it right and not to suddenly start losing my essence.  So, I decided to follow my heart and stick to my style not giving a hoot what people would say. I rap fluently in English and Ibo and what better way could I make myself tick than to combine both languages? That was what birthed Englibo rap style (giggled).

Which very track brought you out and why?

 My very first rap Tumisile introduced me to the rap genre. My life philosophy is live and let’s live. The sky is big enough for all the stars to shine. And never underrate anybody because you can’t predict tomorrow. Love hard, love strong, love always. As an artiste, I have learnt that music chooses you, you don’t choose music. Music will test your resolve, try your patience but if you are consistent and don’t give up, you’ll come out on top.

What was your first day on stage like?

 My first experience on stage before a large crowd was magical. Though I was nervous inside, I didn’t let it show. I got up on stage flashed my teeth and said ‘hello, everyone’ and I got hellos back. That was it! Their hellos boosted my confidence and I had fun performing and engaging my audience.

What stands you out on the red carpets of glamorous events?

 The first thing that stands me out is my height. I’m six feet tall and I do heels too. Then my outfit, of course. I’m a fashion pundit so I know how to engage peoples’ eyes on me. I also wear my natural gold-coloured hair, that just keeps people gazing and asking questions.

What fashion item forms a large chunk of your wardrobe?

 Oh my God, shoes! I’m a shoe freak. Shoes! Shoes! Shoes! I just can’t help it. My style signature is a tie hanging loose on any of my outfit.

Tell us about some of the awards in your kitty

In 2012, I got NGMA award which was a great motivation for me.  I later bagged the Best Hip Hop and Best Collaboration Song in 2015 with my song titled ‘I Gat Faith’ which featured Obiwon. I was also given the Top Naija Music Award and Best Gospel Video in 2015.

The latest thing for me at the moment is the release of my new song which is an inspirational rap song titled ‘Never Tire’ where I featured Shola Shittu. It was produced, mixed and mastered by ace producer Phat E.

How did you come with a stage name Bee Cee?

BeeCee is coined from my second name Olabisi. My mum hails from Ado-Ekiti and that’s why I have a Yoruba name.

Tell us how the passion for music started

That was when I was very young. I remember as I child, I loved to sing so much that I used to disturb everyone around me with my voice. I did sing anywhere and everywhere. My dad used to ask me to sing for his guests and even when I wasn’t sure of the wordings of a song, I would still sing it with confidence. I’m not aspiring to be like anyone because I understand that we are all created to be different and do our own stuff. So, I admire people who work hard and keep a balance but I’ll always want to be me.

Why did you study Political Science?

Studying music in school never occurred to me. I actually wanted to study Theatre Arts but my dad refused, so I chose Political Science. Reason being that if truly I was destined to be an artiste then music would surely find me and it did at last.

Do you think you would plunge into politics in the nearest future?

I haven’t really given it a thought, but that could happen because in life; you never can tell. Education, for me, was compulsory with or without my talents. I knew that education would give me a leverage in whatever I choose to do in life. I wanted to be a strong woman in every ramification and what better tool than education. I also know that not everyone has good brains for education. However, I must say that if you have it, go for it because education puts you on a better pedestal.

What makes your day?

A quality time in God’s presence early in the morning settles my spirit for the whole day. When I don’t have time to have that, you could easily tell.

Who is the guy in your life?

Well, I’m married to my university sweetheart and we are blessed with three amazing kids

If you weren’t a musician, what would you have opted for?

I am everything I wanted to be and each time I look back, I am very happy. I am an ex beauty queen, song writer, singer, rapper, model, teacher, actor, producer, and fashion designer. Oh, there’s one missing…..chef.

Dayo Adeniyi, an alumnus of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, is the founder of Metadors Leadership Institute based in Osogbo, Osun State. He was among the 1000 young people selected across Africa in 2016 to participate in the Mandela Washington Fellowship programme in the United States.  In this interview with Hannah Ojo, he speaks on why young people should not allow their location cage their dreams.  

YOUR sobriquet, ‘Dayo Nigeria’, has become a brand in the social change circle, what is the inspiration behind this?

There are different factors that contributed to adopting that as a brand name. While I was in school, I initiated quite a number of projects that were around community development and I also used every available platform to share with other students how all of us can build the nation together. Because of this, some students started calling me ‘Dayo Nigeria’. And for me, I believe there is no Nigeria without the people who are called Nigerians, so we embody everything Nigeria. I just wanted to use that as a message to other young people.

Most times, you appear in attires of the national colours, is this a deliberate attempt at showing patriotism?

Part of the branding is to always appear on the national colours of the country and, for me, this is a deliberate way to always make people think about the country and also get the national colours close to the citizens. It is unfortunate that there is no place in our educational system to even teach students what the flag of a country represents and the honour in respecting it. My aim is to get people to unconsciously or consciously think about Nigeria whenever they see me or hear about me and for the last six years, I have always ended my posts on Facebook with a prayer for Nigeria, ‘#NigeriaShallArise’. This is because I noticed that people are quick to say negative things about the country and you can’t keep speaking negative things into something and expect positive results.

Why did you decide to set base in Osogbo when Lagos and Abuja appear to be the hub for leadership trainings?

True, everybody wants to live in Lagos and Abuja, but for me development has to spread and I must contribute to the manpower development of my state, which is why I left Lagos to go back to Osogbo fully in 2014. If everyone moved to the supposed happening places, who would stay to develop the other places that aren’t happening so that they can also happen?  I also know that success is not a choice of location, but more of the values and the results that you bring to the table. If there is anything I am committed to, it is delivering excellent results and no location can rob me of all that I add to myself on a daily basis.  If there is anything I am very clear about, it is the fact that what I know and do is too big for any location to cage. Instead of seeing Osogbo as a place that could cage my ability, I saw myself as an individual who would through his activities make the name more popular and encourage more young people to live their dreams.

As a 2016 Mandela Washington Fellow, please share some of the highpoints of the training you got in the US

The Mandela Washington Fellowship experience is what I will refer to as a major game changer for so many people, including me. I have so many high points because a greater part of what we did became major learning points for me and has added to my growth as a leadership trainer and one who encourages community participation.

It was amazing listening to incredible stories of other young people from different parts of Africa. These are not things in the news, just the stories of conflict, corruption and other negative things.

I was also humbled to have met someone I had read so much about and how he uses unconventional ways to groom young people into leaders through American football, Coach Bill Snyder, and start a mentoring relationship with him. This surely stands out as one of the highpoints for me. In summary, every day of the fellowship had one highpoint or the other; including having to be in the same hall with President Barack Obama and listening to him share some of his leadership philosophies from close range. I learnt a lot about simplicity and humility from the Presidential Summit encounter with Barack Obama.

 How have you been sharing knowledge gained from the fellowship with other young people since you returned?

I engage young people every day both online and physically, sharing lots of knowledge I gained during the fellowship with them from time to time. I use my social media platforms as a good tool to connect with many youths and I also use my monthly Leadership Clinic as platforms to share some of the knowledge gained during the Fellowship. I have been invited by various churches and organisations to also share my experience with their youths and inspire them to also become involved in productive things in the society. It is also instructive that I participated in four YALI Rollout sessions in three states to encourage more young people to be involved in the YALI Network and also apply for the Mandela Washington Fellowship and Regional Leadership Centre programmes.

How has the experience from the fellowship affected the work you do with the Matadors Leadership Institute?

It has obviously exposed me to more ways of engaging and collaboration has become a lot easier due to the things learnt during the Fellowship and the relationships I built with different strategic individuals in the USA. Before I left for the Fellowship, Leadership Clinic was just happening in Osogbo, but since I got back, we are now in Ibadan, Akure and Lagos. Another centre is starting in Lagos this month to make it two centres in Lagos and plans are almost concluded on starting in about four other centres in different states. Engaging people is a lot easier for me now than it was before I went for MWF and for this I must give kudos to the Staley School of Leadership Studies at Kansas State University and the Kansas Leadership Centre, where I was exposed to new models that I have adapted part of since I got back to Nigeria.

You have also been involved with the project of other fellows, especially around Lagos; please share your experience on the field, especially in rural communities.

One of the most important advantages or objectives of the YALI Network through the different arms (Mandela Washington Fellowship, The Regional Leadership Centres and Face2Face group on facebook) is to build a community that makes collaboration very easy. I must say that the other Mandela Washington Fellows from Nigeria in particular and some other parts of Africa have become my family. I have been involved in the projects of many fellows even before the Fellowship started. One of such was supporting Slum2School during a village medical outreach to a riverine community in Epe area of Lagos State. I have also been involved with Steer to Greatness’ Teen Leadership Sessions in Lagos and Oyo states. I have worked with other fellows in Oyo State, who have become my closest families since I am the only Mandela Washington Fellow based in Osun State. These are just few among the ongoing collaborative efforts of Mandela Washington Fellows both within and outside the country.

What are the values you want Nigerians, especially young people to imbibe from the American example?

There is no perfect system anywhere, including the United States of America. However, I discovered that one thing they have mastered that we are far away from is that sense of building a community, not individuals just seeking their own interest. This sounds ironic because the African culture is one that boasts of building strong systems around communal living. A lot of effort is put on having communities that work and this is why most people over there understand that they have a role to play either in building systems that work or preserving the existing systems/communities. This is in sharp contrast to what we have here where everybody is just interested in what s/he will get and care little about the welfare of other people. This is one of the main reasons it has been difficult for us as a people to build a leadership culture around strong values and we keep having self-serving individuals in different positions of authority because for many here, leadership is about the advantage a title gives you. This is why my programmes are weaved around activities that ensure that young people see the need to work together to find solutions to the myriad of problems we face as a people.

Ndidi Obioha is the CEO Enthyst Event Management and Fashion Klinik. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, the graduate of International Relations and former banker talks about life as a seasoned events consultant, passion for fashion, having a reality show and the secret of looking radiant all the time. 

You are always looking good. What is the secret?

I think it is peace of mind and then you ask what brings about peace of mind. Peace of mind comes to you when you set some goals for yourself, then achieving them and you are glad. No particular secret. I guess it is me enjoying everything I do and this is driven by passion. That way, I don’t feel stressed out. It shows that I am having fun doing it.

There must be some things that keep you going

My children keep me going, my family keeps me going. Dreaming keeps me going, every time I dream, I want to see myself actualise that dream and then knowing that I am favoured by God keeps me going. The very truth is that all of these things keep me going and the fact that I am able to do them well.

You dream big and there was a time you did some boat cruise and other interesting projects. What motivated you?

What motivated all of that was that I enjoy being a pacesetter. And when you do this, try to create trends. I remember back then, the boat cruise was way back, some nine years ago. This was me wanting to do something different; it was during this valentine period. I used to be a banker, I remember my days as a banker that Val’s day was a no go area for us because the traffic was horrendous. Everybody is on the road, trying to go here and there and it was crazy. So, a friend of mine and I thought to do something different. Something that nobody had done and that was how I came up with the idea. Everyone was in traffic because they wanted to be in one restaurant or the other. It went well, it was five star treatments all the way and it felt good.

Is it easy dreaming?

The truth is, yes, it is. It is not about dreaming, things come to you once you have an open mind. The question here is what leads to a dream? It is your thoughts. A lot of times, I believe that it is God-given and when those dreams come, I would take it back to God in prayer. And if it is something that He really wants me to do, the He would set things in motion for it, put things in place that would make things easy for me to do it. Whatever we are facing in the country, whatever the situation is, if God puts something in your mind that He wants you to accomplish, then He would make a way for you. No institution can ever deter me to take a decision or keep dreaming.

Valentine is next week, what plans do you have this year?

Funny enough, my birthday is the day after valentine. This year, that is where the economy comes in because it is a struggle for a lot of people. We don’t have anything planned out because we have a major event and it is a period that is pretty busy for us; they are events for our clients.

Let’s talk about your reality show, what inspired it?

The show, The Events Pros, was inspired having watched and seen that the event industry and it was being shaken a bit because everybody was coming into it. It did not matter whether they knew what they were doing or they did not know what they were doing. And like we all know, knowledge is power; the more information people have, the easier it would be to come up with their judgments as to who to use and who not to use. So, for me, the TV show is one of the main points needed to portray the professionals in our industry. It is also to educate people on what to look out for when you are looking forward to get an event planner.

My watchword always is to be as professional as possible. Be detailed, focused and let your work speak for you. Never think about the money first. If you do, then you would start to cut corners and when that happens the quality drops. That is one of the things that made me start the show to appreciate what the event planner brings to the table because some people do not really understand why they need a planner. So, watching the show, you would see the behind the scene, the madness, the tension that we go through as event planners. This way people can appreciate what we bring to the table and why they must obtain the services of a planner.

If you look back to when you started and now, what changes do you see?

I see growth. If there was no growth, we probably won’t still be in the business. There have been changes, there have been new trends in the business; the industry is getting more and more innovative. Interesting concepts are coming up and people are looking to be more adventurous and wanting to do things that are out of the box. So, I like the growth that I see and Nigerians are embracing it. People are beginning to understand why they need to engage the services of the planners and doing something and doing it well. If you want to have a party and you have invited people, then do it well. This is because people have taken out their time to celebrate with you, the least you can do is make their time worthwhile. Who else can help you achieve that than a seasoned planner? Someone who is creative, someone that can conceptualise and create what you want as well as make it better.

Let’s talk about some memorable moments as a planner

I think, for me, the memorable moments are the wow moments. One factor would be the surprise element, where one party is not expecting something and it happens. Whether it is the bride and groom, one of them is not expecting the surprise, birthday celebrator and others. If it is a corporate event, then the guests are the ones expected to be surprised. So, I like those wow moments. Just recently, my client had her 50th and her kids had just gone back to school abroad. We had done a documentary where goodwill messages were being wished to her as the celebrator. We had the children documented in the documentary. Her husband had planned to bring the children back but she didn’t know, she was clueless.

For me, the most exciting part of the event was being able to achieve the surprise. The kids were flown in two days before the event and she had no idea. So, they had shown the documentary. The kids had said they wished they were there and when the documentary finished, we called her out and had her back the audience, then the children walked in and we asked her to turn round. It was such an emotional moment and it was beautiful. I really cherished it and it brought tears to people’s eyes. So such elements do it for me. The most is that at the end of the event, my client calls me and all they are doing is thanking and praying for me, for having delivered. It keeps me going, makes me want to do more.

What are the other things that occupy your time?

I also run a fashion clinic; I love to dress women. My goal is to bring out the amazing look in a woman.

How long have you been doing this?

It is seven years now. Everything I have done in life, something leads to it. First is passion; my passion for fashion led me to do this. I love to dress up and I would dress to an event and have a lot of people want to know where I got my stuff. The truth is that I have always loved to dress women up, right from university days. That you are able to convince them that what you have is worth being bought. It’s a major kick for me and so I have always had that in me. When I entered the university, I was doing the fashion business. After school, I was still doing it but I have taken it to a whole different level right now. I represent a few brands. What I am is a fashion buyer; some people think that I am a fashion designer, no. As a fashion buyer, we get some designers that we carry their stuffs, having done our home work well, knowing that their clothes are good.

How would you assess our designers at the moment?

I am very proud of them. I am being honest with you. We are ready to totally start exporting our own wears finally. There is a lot more attention to details, the finishing is very good. We are still getting there but it is very impressive. I like what I see in the fashion industry.

Even the senate is advising all to go back to made-in-Nigeria goods

It is a positive thing for us. It is just that cost implication becomes a major factor but you wouldn’t blame them because of the infrastructure, and there is no power. By the time you run diesel all day, it affects the cost of production and your finished products at the end of the day. So, before the Senate starts to make noise, they need to go back and do their homework and get things in place. At the end of the day, you find that the made-in-Nigeria item is more expensive than the imported item. It doesn’t make sense and you are not truly encouraging the manufacturers here. They need to go back and put things in place to reduce cost of production. Until then, we are just joking.

A lot of female entrepreneurs have problems when it comes to accessing funds?

It is still tough for women. I had a talk with a BOI (Bank of Industry) guy, I just opened a bakery and I was trying to find out about their facilities. I found that the funds are being streamlined and if all you are doing as a bank is to fund the equipment purchase, what happens to the actual set-up, what happens to the main facility that is meant to carry those equipment? So, if you are going to do it, do it and do it all the way. For me, those are the issues; they are not getting to those who need the funds. If this is done, the effect would be totally seen on the economy.

FUNKE Oguntuga is a girl-child activist, relationship blogger, teen mentor and social media entrepreneur. In this interview with Bukola Aroloye, the mother of three talks about working with young people.

What are some of the things that make what you do different?

At Heartminders Societal Advancement Initiative, we have carefully mapped out projects and programmes for young people both in secondary school and out-of-school children (OSC). We have what is called project ‘wise-up’; this is a life modelling campaign that seeks to teach healthy relationship amongst teenagers. In addition, it teaches sex education, morals and dating, behaviours that result in injury, pregnancy and what to do when it happens.

It is called Project HAAROSA (Heartminders Action Against Rape and Other Sexual Abuse). This project is a campaign against sexual abuse in teenagers. We have done the road walk twice. Here, we walk with teenagers and give out educational and relevant flyers. We also sensitise people about abuse and invite experts and victims to tell their stories. To wrap up the walk on the two occasions that we have had it, we visited the Lagos State special correctional homes for girls. The idea is to let the teenagers appreciate freedom.

In addition, we also have what is called Project TAALK. Here, we talk about abuse to liberate kids. The focus is basically targeted at breaking the silence surrounding rape and abuse by talking about it. The project, therefore, tries to end the secrets, shame, hurts, confusion, and denials that for too long have allowed child sexual abuse to operate, and even thrive in our homes and communities.

To achieve this, we bring together parents, professionals, adult survivors, concerned citizens, elected leaders, policy makers, and funders and other stakeholders to engage them in this movement.

We also have the teenagers’ conference where we assemble students, youths, young adults, stakeholders, policy makers, and parents under the same roof. We give seminars and trainings, give awards to our idols, have fun and share thoughts and ideas. The conference also gives the teenagers a platform to meet and make new friends as well as see what happens in other schools.

Our newsletter helps to give a voice loud enough to be heard. This is a platform where teenagers who seek to pursue a career in journalism or love to write can use the opportunity to practice and give their passion a push. We also want to bridge the gap between teenagers in school and the ones that are not. Finally, the newsletter will, more importantly, serve as a guide to responsible youthful life.

Why did you decide to go into this line of business?

I would say, passion and life experience; these are the two major reasons.  I took some decisions as a teenager that I was not proud of neither was I competent or confident about acting on those decisions. I grew up in a slum and was abused emotionally and physically, yet my experiences are not as much as my passion. I will admit that as a teenager I was forced to grow up quickly by being abused and deciding to keep quiet about it and that was my personal experience. Those experiences motivated me and overcoming those challenges made me pay extra attention to teenagers and wanting to always help them anyway I can.

How did your interest in writing begin?

It all started as a blog and I also trained as a journalist. So, after many years in the banking industry, I decided to take a break for my kids and my passion for writing took over. From blogging, I started getting responses from teenagers mostly asking about sex, relationship and dating. That’s how I started doing one project after the other and this took care of so many questions bordering on relationships.

What were you doing before this?

I started out as a journalist, as I said earlier. I studied mass communication in the university and worked as a journalist with the print media then. I also worked in the banking sector for about eight years. My banking journey took me back to my first love, which was journalism. It was at that point that I started blogging about relationship, love, sex and marriage. This eventually gave birth to the Teen Project under the NGO umbrella called Heartminders Societal Advancement Initiative (HSAI).

What do you consider as some of the achievements over the years?

In the past four years, we have been able to mentor about 17,000 teenagers in different secondary schools across Lagos (both public and private schools) and about 350 girls in our one-on-one mentoring programmes. We have also handled rape and sexual abuse cases, some of which have been referred to experts on the field and relevant agencies. Apart from all this, we have also run ads and campaigns against rape that have received commendations from the state government. But what really means the world to me is getting calls from time to time from teenagers thanking us for reaching out to them and helping them one way or the other, which means we’re doing things right.

What are some of the challenges encountered?

The first is that we have had to confront inadequate information and data which can form the basis of effective planning for out-of-school teenagers. Secondly, I would say, is the mindset of people on the subject, ‘sex and sexuality’. If parents and guardians are on the same page and agree to discuss these issues with their wards, then we will have less awkwardness treating this topic. This also means that breaking the silence of abuse will be less complicated.

Finance is also a major challenge because NGOs need money for operations. The truth of the matter is that there is no direct correlation with the work and income. This is unlike a for-profit company where the work you do is directly sold for revenue, the correlation between raising money and solving problems is very little. So NGOs have to put resources on creating successful media campaigns, getting the right connections, filling tons of forms and paperwork for grants, aid and taxation. Not to forget the hassles in getting the NGO recognised as an NGO and finding a secure way of getting tax-exempt donations. What all this results in is usually a lack of focus. This often leads to a disconnect between the vision and work.

If you have to compare what you do with your counterparts in other parts of the world, what would you say?

Unlike the western world, NGOs in Nigeria and Africa are typically weaker because they are not as financially independent as the other sectors. In Nigeria, state governments may welcome charities and welfare bodies providing for the homeless, elderly and sick, because this reduces state expenditure.

Let’s talk about some of the memorable moments in life and on the job

I have had so many memorable moments in life; from getting married to having children, and the children becoming pre-teens in front of my eyes actually create great memories for me.

On the job, the memorable moments are in the times I spent listening to my teenagers, solving their relationship issues, being able to put smiles on their faces.

I recall vividly a 13-year-old girl that was suffering abuse from her step dad. After hearing her story, we immediately swung into action and reported the case to the appropriate authorities. In the end, she was removed from the house, remanded and whenever I visit her, all I see is a joyful girl whose mind is at peace and I feel fulfilled.

What are the other things that occupy your time?

Writing and spending time with my family. I also like to volunteer my spare time because I am not a very sociable person but I like to hang out with my friends when I am free.

What changes would you like to see in the sector?

I would like to see more acceptance from the government and constituted authorities. I hope to see bills passed by the lower and upper house criminalising abuse, rape, child marriages, genital mutilation and so on. I hope to see a more organised sector where NGOs will work together to achieve more. I also hope corporate bodies and well-meaning Nigerians will invest more in our sector.

When it comes to advising women, what would you tell them?

Dear mothers, being a mom is one of the most demanding jobs in the world. And while women who take on paid work in addition to parenthood have their hands full, they represent the majority of mothers and therefore should learn to prioritise.

Children are God’s heritage and mothers will be accountable to God. To women in business, politics and activism, I say keep the flag flying and always make it happen. The future is ours.

Who or what do you consider as the greatest inspiration in your life?

God is my greatest inspiration. The fact that I’ve done this for four years without hitches, but testimonies, is an attestation to the fact that God is with me. Another inspiration is feedbacks from my teenagers and referrals from mentees. By referrals, I mean when people refer teenagers to us for mentoring due to what they’ve heard about us or what we hav

Evelyn Obahor started her career in Jos, Plateau State, presenting on TV and contributing to the costume department. She later became the continuity announcer on NTA Benin, then moved to Mainframe Productions before joining DBN Productions which metamorphosed to DBN Television. Here, she created and presented programmes like Nightshift, Lunchdate, AM TV, NTA 2 This Morning. Hello Lagos on Silver screen and Ben TV Breakfast show in UK were some of the other stints she had before setting up her own company, Floodlights Broadcasting Network. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she gives you a part of her world.

I am still into broadcasting. I have my television show, THE JUSTEVE SHOW, which is broadcast in the United Kingdom, America, Canada, and from this February in the Caribbean. I’m also in the process of publishing a magazine called Hey!  I also have a fragrance called JUSTEVE LONDON.

Tell us about life as a broadcaster in Nigeria

I would say that my life as a broadcaster has been very interesting. It has afforded me the opportunity to meet different kinds of people from across the globe; interacting with people from all races, religion, sexuality, and all walks of life has made me to see life differently. It’s really not about where you are from, your religion or sexuality. It’s actually about us as human beings. That’s what I see and it has made me get much wiser. I am therefore grateful for the privilege and don’t take it for granted.

What inspired you to go into broadcasting?

Interestingly, I am not sure what inspired me to go into broadcasting. All I can say is that right from the time I could think, I knew that I was going to be in entertainment but what part I didn’t know. I guess here I am.

Who are some of your role models and mentors?

This may sound arrogant but I would say that I am my role model. I look in the mirror everyday and see a better person than I was yesterday. Of course it’s not an easy thing; it’s a personal thing that I strive to do. I guess everyone is different. As for having mentors, when asked that question I ask what they really mean. Back in the day in Nigeria, Soni Irabor and Bisi Olatilo used to encourage me a lot, especially when I wanted to throw in the towel.  When I was in secondary school, Chika Okpala of the Giringory fame saw me direct a play I had written and acted in. He pulled my ear and said he doesn’t want to hear that I did anything else in my career when it comes to making choices. So maybe I would call them my mentors; people who motivated me to be where I am today. But, above all, there is nobody I’ve seen and said I want to be like that person. I’ve always wanted to be me. I remain me till this day. Don’t get me wrong. I admire the likes of Oprah, Tyra Banks but I don’t want to be like anybody. I work better just being me.

What are some of the achievements over the years?

For me, being able to put smiles on faces and inspire people with what I do is important. For example, when someone walks up to me and says “I watched your show and I was inspired, and because I saw that or because Evelyn said that I was able to do this” that would be my greatest achievement. But on another part, I created a reality show and I was in search of a television presenter of African descent here in the U.K. We held auditions and sent people into a

house where we drilled them in different areas of TV presenting, till a winner emerged. It was a very interesting process and seeing all contestants – both winners and evictees – doing so well, for me, was an achievement. Also, seeing my show being aired in major countries is an achievement. It can only be God, I am humbled.

Tell us about some of the memorable moments in your life and in broadcasting

Every moment is memorable to me. I come alive when I’m In front of the camera. Otherwise, I am a very shy person. I worked with someone from BBC on an event and I was commenting for five hours nonstop. The director was in awe and asked me how I did that. I told him I was taught to work giving my blood. But the most memorable would be presenting Nightshift. That was awesome! I still get people today that call me nightshift.

What are some of the challenges encountered?

There are challenges on a daily basis; having team members not knowing where you are coming from. I am grateful that I have a great team that gets me and the job moving. For instance, guests can cancel at the last minute, but you have to have a backup plan. Alternatively, it could just be guest arriving late and altering the programme a bit. I don’t want to say funding because that would be flogging a dead horse. But I think there should be more investment in broadcasting. Things have changed. The world, I say, is a global hamlet, not a village. Information is now on your finger tip. The private sector should do more and the government should support by making the environment friendly. But on the whole we meet with new challenges on a daily basis. ow do you cope with the challenges?

I cope with the challenges by just getting on with it. There is always a way out, just find it. There is nothing wrong with failing, the important thing is to have a vision and follow it. My mother used to tell me while I was growing up “never say you can’t, how do you know what you want when you haven’t tried and you haven’t tried until you’ve succeeded”. I have grown up with that and so nothing fazes me.

What do you consider as the greatest influence in your life?

Here, I would say that two words are important: God and life.

What are the other things that you are passionate about?

I am passionate about children and survivors of rape. I am a survivor. I have an organisation where I help people who have been raped. It’s called Haven of Light. The focus is the JUSTEVE organisation supporting survivors of rape.

What is your definition of style?

Style, to me, is what you are comfortable in and what suits your body.  I usually don’t wear something because it is in vogue. I believe the way you look tells a lot about who you are. Class is key. As I say, it doesn’t have to be expensive or designer. It should be something that is just well put together.

If you had to advise women, what would you tell them?

I would advise them to first and foremost be themselves; believe in themselves, never let anyone put you down. We are life influencers, keep being strong. The world cannot function without women; we run the world. So there is no need to be in the shadows. At the same time, I am a firm believer that men should be respected. They should be in control and by that I don’t mean he should step all over me. But once you know you’ve got it, you rule. Always be confident..

The orphans are young children, sometimes babies, who for one reason or the other were denied the privilege of having parents and families. Some lost their parents during war and other conflicts. I strongly believe that each time we look at the orphans, it should remind us that we are privileged to have our parents and families, as it were.

So, you can imagine what life would have been like without our dear families! No one to love and be loved by; no one to cry to, no one to teach us, nurture and inspire us. It is very sad to live and have no one to depend on for the basic disciplines and life statutes, no family culture and aspirations, no reputation whatsoever, no defence, no pride, and worst of all, a possibility of a totally misguided and uncharted future!

The Olori Wuraola Orphan Aid Project was inspired by a compassionate desire to step into the gap and fight for a future for these children. It was a desire nursed and worked towards through the last few years, long before I became a queen. I have also been passionate about the sad living condition most of these homes are in. A lot of my friends and family will testify to how I had disturbed them to all partner with me to renovate most of the homes. At the time I did my bit, and now I feel I have a bigger platform to reach out to more people and carry them along in supporting.

I believe that someone has to prove to the children and to the world in general that they are not a mistake of existence! God did not make a mistake in creating them. No matter how unlikely it may seem in their situation! Nigerians are very passionate people and a lot is being done in the area of philanthropy. But compared to what needs to be done, it is a drop in the ocean! A tremendous lot still remains undone. The project is therefore my modest effort to do my bit in reaching out to others.

The truth of the matter here is that none of us chose where and when we are to be born. It is a privilege from God Almighty that most of us have the backgrounds that we have, and are where we are today. We can show appreciation to God for his many blessings in our lives by assisting in the lives of these children. We can give them love, care, nurturing and a future. A lot of these children are awesomely talented. It will be great if we assist in their self-discovery and help give them a future and a purpose-driven life of self-actualisation, making them relevant and a source of value to the society.

What are some of the unique things that you would be doing?

Our core objective is the rehabilitation of the dwelling places of these orphans. That is one of our main concerns and this gave birth to the maiden edition of the #GIVE BACK concert.  For this, we have targeted twenty orphanages all through the south Western part of Nigeria. We will be raising

funds that will be used to improve infrastructure at the orphanages. You will be shocked at how deplorable some of the structures of these orphanages and the sore state most of the children are living. We will also be equipping them with schools’ supplies and basic medical equipment, and we will also be taking care of talent discovery, education, in terms of scholarships and, in some cases, entrepreneurial empowerment in various degrees.

Tell us about the Giveback Concert and some of the things to look out for

The Giveback Concert was conceived from a desire first and foremost to give love to these children. February is the month of love. In February, everyone will be with their loved ones, sharing and giving. But who remembers the children in the orphanages? I am driven to give these children something that will last them a lifetime in terms of memory. Most importantly, to use the avenue of music which is the common tool that

brings people of diverse backgrounds together, and to open their minds to the plight of the less-privileged.

We are talking to most of the major artistes who are very excited about the project. The likes of Tu face, Dare Art Alade and other major artists.  Cobhams Asuquo is the project ambassador and his life is an absolute

inspiration to these children. With his story, they will know that they too, regardless of circumstances, could become great.

The proceeds will be used for the orphanages as part of our empowerment and support scheme, towards rehabilitating basic infrastructures and giving the children the basic amenities which they need.

What gives you the motivation to do the things you are doing?

I am inspired by God and the spirit of humanity. There is something in every person that cries out to help each other. It is love and humane spirit. Everyone has a desire to help but difficult schedules, financial constraints and the fact that we all have individual difficulties, often make it rather hard to step out in that

extra and seemingly unrewarded cause of assisting the helpless.

But the truth, however, is that God’s real reward lies in there. I wish we all could do more. I wish we could all muster more courage. I am inspired by the fulfilment

that comes from giving. I want to reach out, to be able to tell others that, ‘look, no matter how little you can do, it is very important and it will go a long way in saving the lives of these orphans.’ To tell people not to hold back but to reach out and touch a life! It will make all the difference if we all get involved.

Let’s talk about some memorable moments as wife of the Ooni of ife

I must say that being married to the Ooni is like being married to any other man, except with its peculiarity, as you know.

He is exceptionally kind and supportive. In that, I must say that I am blessed and I give glory to God! Memorable moments?

Well, the day we were married for one; it was a day I will never forget. Every day, I can tell you, has been memorable in our lives because no matter what the day brings there is always something to take from it. It’s been eventful.

What are some of the things that you share in common with your husband? What qualities attracted you to him?

We share a common passion to make the world a better place by helping the less-privileged. The House of Oduduwa Foundation is established to do just that. My husband has a tremendous passion for the youth. He is very much involved in entrepreneurial empowerment of young people, helping them to discover their

innate abilities, merge them with opportunities within their environment and carve an economic niche; thereby creating employment for themselves and ultimately for others. This is what I think the world needs now.

Government cannot do it all. If we all lend a helping hand, we will realise that we are helping ourselves in the long run.

On my own part, I am giving my best at empowering women and helping the orphans. It is all an effort towards doing that which most people feel is not their responsibility. Getting involved in underprivileged peoples’ lives is not easy, but if we do not do it, we will be left with a society that is less human.

What are some of the changes that you would like to see in the life of women and children in Ife?

I will love to see better health care, more inclusion in business financing, more education, a stronger voice and reduction in marginalisation in terms of land tenure, and better respect for women, especially reduction in abuse and cruelty from family and husbands. I will love to see more cooperation among women. I will love

to see more visibility for the contributions of women, especially in terms of agriculture, to the national economy and therefore more investments from foreign bodies and corporations. These are a few of the changes I would love to see, not just in Ife but the entire country.

Let’s compare life before you became Olori and now. Is there anything that you miss?

I am not sure, it’s been a while. I have almost completely forgotten what life was like before this status. Maybe I miss the ability to be anonymous now. Of course it wasn’t all the same. But of course this is where

I am now. I am a queen and this is my role and I have become part of it and it has also become part of me. I am happy; I’m in a good place. I love my husband and I have strong duties to him and his office as the Ooni, and that is all that matters now.

Who are some of your role models or mentors?

I learned almost all I know from my mother, God rest her soul. A strong-willed woman with a larger-than-life image and a pure heart almost like a child. I have also had the privilege of meeting some great people. I have read a lot about so many people too. It will be unfair to mention one person and not the other and there are so many. However, now, I have become a role model of myself and I concentrate on improving myself and making my life a source of inspiration to future generations. I also learn a lot from my husband. He is a well of wisdom.

Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life?

God and love are my greatest motivators. I also believe in fairness and purposeful lifestyle by which you set attainable targets and do your best to give a good account of all that you were bequeathed with, in all ramifications.

What is your definition of style?

As the Ooni’s wife, you can’t just wear anything at all. There is an imperative demand on you to respect your

office and status as a matter of duty. Yet, that is not an excuse to be drab and uninspiring. So, I create my own style to look as much as myself and not anyone else and still look good. So that defines a line of best fit: respectful, dignifying and yet exceptionally nice and classy. Anything that fits those limits, and I don’t compromise on comfort.

What are the items that you treasure most in your wardrobe?

I am not sure. There are quite a number of valuable things there. I don’t let all that define my life, but I am also not attached to anything in particular.

How do you relax?

A good book, a peaceful space, and making sure I have my pen and paper to scribble down ideas as I get inspired, and, of course, precious time with my husband. We try to create those moments despite our very hectic schedule.

What is your majesty’s advice to young people?

My advice for them is to set a goal, go for it with tenacity. You will have distractions but pick yourself back up and continue to move; be honest in your dealings. Even the bible says, “should a man be diligent in his ways, he shall stand before kings.” Allow people the luxury to have different opinions about you but always remember who you truly are, and that will take you far.

He is one of the pioneer musicians who started reggae music in the ghetto city of Ajegunle, an outskirt of Lagos, along with his contemporaries like Friday Igweh (Baba Fryo), John  Asiemo (Daddy Showkey).  In this interview with Omolara Akintoye, the veteran musician, Innocent Onyebuchi Onyemuwa , popularly known as Daddy Fresh, talks about establishing a foundation to redirect the youths to be more focussed as well as the need for government to revive the moribund art industry, among others

We don’t seem to hear your music any more, what has kept you away from the scene?

I went to the background to tidy up things properly and to do the right thing. Also, to study what is obtainable at the moment in the industry and to know how to follow it up, polish up my songs. I also went to tidy up every loophole that I have had in the past. I am currently taking my time to do so many things, even with the upcoming artistes and giving them the support that I can offer.

Can your kind of music compete with the new generation’s?

My kind of music can blend more with the new crop of musicians. If I can drop a single song like winchy winchy and it could go up to number one on the chart. It went straight to number one on the chart at different radio stations. It was late last year that I dropped the single Winchy Winchy, so it blends and it can even blend more with the new generational music. I have always come up to set standard and I believe that I have done that.

Why is it taking you so long to have a record label?

Yes, I have to take my time. I have to do survey; I have to know where and where to channel it and what I really want out of it and my targeted goal. Like I want to know which artist should come in and which artist should not come in. I want to know what kind of music I want to promote. And how is it going to help towards the development of Nigerian music industry.

What can you say about the young ones that are in AJ city?

I want to take my personality strictly out of AJ city (Ajegunle). I am not singing for AJ, I am singing for the world. So, when you are talking about the youth in AJ, I don’t keep them in AJ, but I take them across the country. Wherever I go, I take them along with me. I mentor a whole lot of them, so it is not just the youths in AJ, but a whole lot of them in the country.

 How did your career in music start?

I would not say that my going into music was by accident. I was inspired by God. The talent is inherent in me and I nurtured it. I took it after my late mother, who was a very good singer. I love music; it is part of my life.

I am passionate about it. I strive so hard so that my voice is heard. I did not want my talent to waste and I have got what it takes to be a musician. It was not easy for me after I lost my parents. I had to nurture my career with the passage of time.

 I appreciate the people I met whilst nurturing my talent. They call it Ajegunle, the jungle city. They call it the city where the people who drop out of schools live. I had to thank God that I was able to break that jinx and Ajegunle is being given that recognition and it still stands till date.

 Which among your songs brought you to the limelight?

I would always want to start with my first album, because without my first album other ones would not have come. My first album gave me and Ajegunle the first nomination in my award category in Nigeria. It was a jinx breaker.

In my first album, I was trying to preach about the life in the ghetto. I presented it in a positive way, giving the people the reason why they need to come to the ghetto; that when you are in the ghetto you have everything. I always use my music to tell people to love one another, the need for national solidarity, the need for us to be self reliant.

The song was also about the impression people have about the youths in Ajegunle, that they never do well or that they are drop outs from schools. So I always want to respect my first album. My first album gave birth to the other indigenous albums.

What is your impression of the western culture on Nigerian music?

In my own opinion, it has never had a negative impact on the Nigerian music. It does not, because, if our music can be marketed internationally, there will be more money for our country in terms of exchange rate.

Aside from singing, what else do you do?

I want to establish a foundation for the youth. This is because of my love for them. I want to redirect them to be more focussed. I want to bring them back home. It is all about the future of the youth, to guide them to walk on the right paths. By so doing, they will be useful to the society, the country and the world at large. The society has given to me and it is about time that I gave back to them.

Let’s talk about government’s support for the entertainment industry

The government has to support, because they have always depended on our natural resources which is oil & gas. But in advanced countries like the United States of America, it is all about showbiz. They should give necessary support to the entertainment industry, especially the Ministry of Art and Culture. Some of the facilities that we have in place are obsolete, that is the National Theatre, it has become moribund. What we have now is privately owned by individuals.

The moment some of the facilities are put in place, the entertainment industry in Nigeria will blossom.

What message do you have for the young ones who are looking up to you?

It is not an easy road at all. The industry is not easy. What I should say is that they should be very hard working and God fearing and to stay off drugs.

Because, it has begun to eat the fabric of our Nigerian youths, and that is one of the reasons why I am establishing my own youth foundation this year.

When your group relocated, creativity died in Ajegunle. Can you explain that?

I will speak for myself. We have got some of these youths, what they can do? If they actually learn from us, if there is anything that they emulated from us to other ones coming behind them too, it bothers me also.

In our own time, we came up with what we could actually defend.

It is like they could not defend it, but that is notwithstanding, I am back for business. I am back to put things right because I did it earlier.