celebrity radar - gossips
OON AWARD: COME AND SEE ME DEY BUGA… By Femi Adesina OON
OON AWARD: COME AND SEE ME DEY BUGA… By Femi Adesina OON
Femi Adesina – The news came like a bolt from the blue. I had been slated to receive National Honours Award in the rank of Officer of the Order of the Niger, OON. Who, me? I almost couldn’t believe it. Astounded is the word. But the person telling me was neither flippant nor frivolous. And a short while after, I had the letter in my hands, duly signed, bearing the good news in cold print. I still asked: who, me? Yes, it was me. Emi lo kan. It was truly my turn, and no mistake.
On Tuesday, October 11, 2022, the deed was done. I was among 450 people (443 Nigerians and 7 foreigners) who turned out at the International Conference Center, Abuja, to be decorated with National Honours by no less a person than President Muhammadu Buhari himself. He was on his feet for about four hours, personally festooning winners and handing out the honors. He took only a few minutes interlude twice, so that cultural troupes could perform. At 80 in two months, God is extremely kind to our President.
The National Honours Award was established by the National Honours Act number 5 of 1964 “to honour deserving citizens who have contributed to the development and progress of the country in any field of endeavor.” What then qualified me? I didn’t know. But the Committee in charge had found me proper and worthy, and there I was, being decorated as Officer of the Order of the Niger. I wanted to ask again; who, me? But it was past questions at that time. It was reality, crystal clear. Come had come to become (apologies to colorful politician, Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe).
On award day, I had suddenly found myself awake at 1.19 am. This was the real wee hours, when people do different things, both good and bad. I love my sleep, but here was I, wide awake. And the kaleidoscope of my life began to play before me. Son of two teachers, I was barely two years old when I was frogmarched to school. Amazing that I can vividly remember the day, with my oversized school uniform, particularly the knicker, which me and my siblings later named ‘sokoto yambari,’ a jocular Yoruba word for massive, outsize. And that knicker surely was. The man who called himself a tailor must have been a carpenter in his former life.
Father was principal at St Charles Grammar School, in Osogbo, then in Western Region. And school was St Claire’s Nursery School, where I bounced cheerily to, barely visible in my sokoto yambari.
Work took my father to Notre Dame College, Usi-Ekiti, some years later. And school continued at St Joseph’s Primary School. I had grown taller, and sokoto yambari was gone.
And then in 1971, my father decided to retire from service, just in his mid-40s. We headed home, to Ipetumodu, in present day Osun State. Schooling continued at St Augustine’s Primary School, then to Origbo Community High School, and to the then University of Ife, and on and on.
Professional career. Marriage. Fatherhood. Climbing the ladder, becoming MD/Editor-in-Chief of The Sun Newspapers. Till President Buhari made me his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity in 2015. I watched the film of my life in those wee hours. From beginning till now. Will it be like that on Judgment Day, when the film of our lives would be shown to us? Well, this was no judgement day, so let’s not scare ourselves. It was Honours Day. And I began to sing, praise God, and pray. Did I also cry? I won’t tell you, lest you make jest of me.
So, Femi Adesina is now OON. The boy from Ipetumodu. A television reporter had asked me how I felt about it later that day. And I replied: delighted. If I had been object of so much abuses, excoriation, flagellation, from evil hearts, wailing wailers, simply because I came to serve my country, headed by a man I’d always admired, and I took everything in my strides, why shouldn’t I take this one, too? Why shouldn’t I, in the words of the song by Kizz Daniel and Techno, begin to buga. “Let me see you dey buga, go low low low, go low low low, buga won.”
I was landing and landing softly on the sofa floor, courtesy President Buhari and Members of the National Awards Committee, chaired by His Royal Highness, Justice Sidi Bage, the Emir of Lafia. The National Honours and Award Investiture Organizing Committee is headed by Sen. George Akume, Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs. I thank them all.
I have seen the good side of Nigerians with this award. From all walks of life, I have received congratulatory messages, through newspaper advertisements, phone calls, text messages, and on all social media platforms where I’m active. I thank my Kabiyesi, Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede, the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu who placed a phone call to me, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, who placed a full page newspaper advert on behalf of Oke-Ona Egba Dynasty Trust Foundation, my friend, Niyi Adesanya, a Leadership and Business Re-Engineering Expert, who also placed a full page newspaper advert, Prof Amidu O. Sanni, Vice Chancellor of Fountain University, Osogbo, who sent in a personal congratulatory letter, my General Overseer, Rev Sam Aboyeji of the Foursquare Gospel Church, my pastor, Rev Ayomide Abraham, and thousands and thousands of people of goodwill. Friends, loved ones, relations, and even complete strangers. This country is not just filled with wailing wailers, who see no good in others. I have seen the Lord’s goodness, His mercies and compassion…
How about my own professional association, the Nigeria Guild of Editors, of which I was a past President? They hosted me to a dinner on Tuesday, alongside other media people that were given awards. God bless you all.
I thank my friends from the South-East, under the auspices of Igbo Friends of Femi Adesina, led by Rev Austin Ifeanyi Epunam. They paid me a congratulatory visit at State House, coming with a cake which we cut together. Ndeewo.
Can I possibly mention all? ‘Imposicant,’ as we say in local lingo. Thank you, thank you, thank you everyone.
Make you see me dey buga, go low low low, go low low low, buga won.
If you don’t believe, ask my wife, who I told after the investiture: “henceforth, when you call me, you must add OON, FNGE (Fellow Nigeria Guild of Editors) FCICMC (Fellow Chartered Institute of Corporate Mentoring and Coaching), Nwanne di Namba, Ugomba, etc. Otherwise, I won’t answer.” With my shoulders up. I don become a case.
Hahahahahaaaaaaa. Let me see you dey buga, go low low low, go low low low, buga won.
*Adesina is Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media and Publicity
celebrity radar - gossips
Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems
Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy
By Alhaji Arems
In the vibrant world of Fuji music, where the artistry of storytelling and cultural commentary thrive, Saheed Osupa has carved out a unique role as both an artist and an influencer of thought. Recently, his name has been lighting up social media discussions and generating significant buzz—not just because of his music but because of the depth of his words. Osupa’s trending status is rooted in his ability to subtly address pressing issues, particularly those surrounding the ongoing tension between fellow Fuji musicians Taye Currency and Pasuma Wonder.
Osupa’s recent contributions to this situation have not been straightforward; rather, he has adopted an artistic approach, using parables and proverbs—sometimes through complex storytelling—to impart wisdom. These nuanced messages, often hidden within his lyrics, resonate with fans who appreciate the clever way he brings age-old Yoruba wisdom into contemporary issues. One notable example involves a story about an animal (traditionally symbolizing patience and resilience) that many believe reflects Osupa’s thoughts on rivalry and pride. Through this parable, he seems to suggest the importance of self-reflection and restraint, especially in the heat of conflict.
In a genre that values not only musicality but also the power of words, Osupa has long been seen as a master of *itan*, or storytelling. His recent songs echo the traditional Yoruba way of imparting wisdom through tales that serve as lessons. This is a skill that few artists have mastered, making his approach particularly impactful in today’s fast-paced digital world, where nuanced messages can often be overlooked.
Beyond the Taye Currency-Pasuma Wonder issue, Osupa’s trending status is also due to his reputation as a voice of reason and maturity in Fuji music. As a genre that is often vibrant and full of competitive spirit, Fuji has its share of rivalries. Yet, Osupa has often stood out by promoting unity and peaceful dialogue among Fuji artists. By sharing these reflective stories in his music, he adds layers of meaning that fans continue to unpack and discuss, drawing new audiences who appreciate both the artistry and wisdom behind his words.
The charm of Saheed Osupa lies in his timeless approach. In a world where trends are fleeting, he reminds fans of the importance of timeless values, urging reflection, humility, and understanding. As fans interpret and share his latest stories, Osupa’s message continues to resonate widely—proof that, in Fuji, the power of words can be as influential as the beat of the drum.
celebrity radar - gossips
What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade
What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade
Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade, born on January 1, 1989, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is an accomplished Nigerian actor, producer, and filmmaker with a deep passion for Yoruba cinema. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, he is the first child in his family. Sholagbade began his education at Kadara Primary School and continued at Sojomen Talabi High School, Akute, and Nawairudeen Secondary School, Ebute Metta. He later earned an Ordinary Narional Diploma in Business Administration from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Pursuing his passion for acting, he trained at Odunfa Caucus, where he graduated in 2010.
Sholagbade launched his acting career in 2005, making a name for himself in Yoruba-language films. His portfolio includes roles in popular films like Olowo Ghetto, Alaimo, Ebun Mi, Esi, Gold and Treasure, Liam, Emilomo Babaolowo, Oko Aunty Mi, Broken Bond (Tude), and Last Born. In addition to acting, he has also produced several films, further cementing his influence in the industry.
Beyond the entertainment world, Sholagbade is a versatile professional with experience in railway engineering, IT support, and site management in the UK. He is also a farmer and general merchant, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse skill set.
Throughout his career, Sholagbade has collaborated with top figures in Yoruba cinema, such as Yinka Quadri, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Odun Adekola, Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Jide Kosoko, Funsho Adeolu, Fathia William Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Wunmi Toriola, and Mide Martins.
Sholagbade’s hobbies include traveling, business, football, filmmaking, and meeting new people, reflecting his dynamic and outgoing personality.
Sholagbade’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including: Best Actor Yoruba – BON Awards, 2024, Best Supporting Actor– Afro Nollywood Awards, UK, 2019, Best Supporting Actor– Heritage Awards, Atlanta, USA, Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards, Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards.
With his achievements and versatility, Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade remains a notable force in the Nigerian film industry and a proud ambassador of Yoruba cinema worldwide.
Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Terrorism in Nigeria has congratulated Major-General Olufemi Oluyede on his appointment as the acting Chief of Army Staff, (Ag COAS, Nigerian Army).
The Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, in a statement, said General Oluyede has the responsibility to consolidate the success achieved by the Nigerian Army under General Taoreed Lagbaja.
President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday, October 30, appointed Oluyede as acting COAS pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja.
The Coalition said his appointment is a welcome development. It said: “Major-General Olufemi Oluyede is well qualified for the position. He was a member of the 39th regular course and commissioned as an officer in 1987. Aged 56, he was promoted to the rank of Major-General in September 2020. A professional and top-notch security expert, he brings a lot of hope and inspiration to younger officers as acting chief of Army Staff.
“His appointment is the way to go. As the acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede has the responsibility to lead an army that will administratively manage the institution, consolidate on the success achieved by General Lagbaja and his team to mop up remnants of insurgents, bandits and the ragtag criminal elements in the North, and dismantle the ethnic militias in the Southeast to bring peace in the country.
“The 56-year-old Oluyede shares a long history with General Lagbaja, with a track record and excellent service to the nation. Both are members of the 39th Regular Course and were commissioned as officers in 1987.
“Oluyede’s meritorious career began as a Platoon commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, advancing to Company commander at 177 Guards Battalion and later Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade and commandant of Amphibious Training School.
“Oluyede has been part of many notable operations, including the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.
“He has received honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, and Grand Service Star, all recognition for passing the Staff Course and membership in the National Institute, and his dedication and achievements in service.”
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