Boss Of The Week

Ebenezer Obey: Between Music and Philosophy: Celebrating a Living Legend

Published

6 years ago

August 26, 2019

Eric

In a society where we celebrate the dead, at the expense of the living, it is desirable to celebrate the living, who had impacted into our lives and essence.In the music industry, Ebenezer Olasupo Remilekun Aremu Fabiyi-Obey, is worthy of mention and deserving of accolades and encomiums.Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi did not create JuJu music, but he and some of his friendly competitors, gave JuJu music its soul, breath and life.Juju is a popular Nigerian music, derived from traditional Yoruba percussions. The name comes from the Yoruba word- JuJu or jiju- meaning- throwing or something being thrown.Juju music is played in clubs, taverns, halls and at parties across Nigeria and its neighbouring countries of Republic of Benin, most especially the Yoruba speaking parts of Ajase-Ipo, Cotonou ,Ghana, the Gambia, Senegal etc.Juju was believed to have been created and popularised by Abdul Rafiu Adekunle king, popularly known as Tunde King who waxed his first JuJu Album in 1937, followed by some other itinerant musicians, most especially, the blind minstrel-Kokoro. Ayinde Bakare, also waxed his Juju album in 1937.Life beamed into JuJu music, with the entry of Ernest Olatunde Thomas (Tunde Nightingale), an Ibadan native. Tunde Nightengale and His Agba Jolly Ochestra, held regular performances, at the West African Club, Ibadan. He pioneered Sowambe dance (is it there?) possibly, a reference to the beads (Ileke), usually worn on the waist of dancing women. Despite sounding like a Nightingale, he always kept a live bird in his house. Fatai Rolling dollars, from Ede, but lived in Lagos, Dele Ojo, Ayinde Bakare, Adeolu Akinsanya (Baba eto) and his Western Toppers Band, Victor Olaiya, IK (Isaac Kehinde) Dairo and his Morning Star Ochestra, later known as Blue Sports Band, were early pathfinders. HHoweverEbenezer Obey and Sunny Ade, made this genre, the most popular music by bringing in spectacular innovations.JuJu was popular then, in places like Lagos, Abeokuta and IbadanIn the immigrant neighborhood of Ekotedo, Adamasingba, Mokola in Ibadan and the Lagos city centres- in their tavarns, dance halls, night clubs , hotels and brothels, JuJu began to compete heavily with the imported highlife from Ghana.This was the music, that Ebenezer Obey, popularised and took to a greater height, from the level of its forebears, and from obscurity to prominence.Human Life is certainly propelled by interests, talents luck, opportunities and the ability to discover a deposited latent power. Ebenezer, made a quick discovery of a life, that would be dominated by music. Ebenezer, was born on the 3rd of April 1942, as Ebenezer Remilekun Aremu Olasupo Fabiyi in Idogo, in Egbado division of present day Ogun State, to Abigail Oyindamola Abeke Toriola Fabiyi an owu woman, from Ago Owu, Abeokuta and his father- Nathaniel Olaseewo Fabiyi, an Egba man, also from Keesi in Abeokuta.The circumstances surrounding his birth, was quite interesting, amazing and divinely inspired. Abigail his mother, was earlier married for over 20 years to her first husband, without the fruits of the womb, that is, without a child. She had travelled round the northern part of Nigeria with her husband, as a wife, of a Senior Station Manager (SSM), with the Nigerian Railways, before they finally settled in Lagos. The family of the first husband, at a family meeting, proclaimed her a barren woman, and advised her to seek her fortune elsewhere. This shocking news was almost a death sentence, being suddenly discharged, from a man she had married for over 20 years. The family however acknowledged, that she was a good woman, but what does a good woman do, without the fruit of the womb? She was distraught and melancholic. But a man of God had told her, that Gods mercy endures forever and that she would eventually be blessed with her own children.She left Lagos for Idogo, an agrarian community and Railways train station, in Egbado, present day Ogun State, whose produce from the Idogo community, usually crashes prices of agricultural commodities, food stuffs, vegetables, yams etc. in mainland Lagos, on market days, whenever the Idogo train (Oko Idogo) smiles into Lagos. In melancholy, she moved to Idogo, to stay with her elder brothers, who were farmers.Around this period, Ebenezer’s father, a carpenter and also a farmer, had also relocated to Idogo, from Lagos. It was in Idogo that Nathaniel Fabiyi met Abigail, his friends sister. Jovial and rich in Egba dialect, he had jokingly proclaimed himself, husband of Abigail and that he was aware of her story. He further prophesied, that Abigail would give birth to both male and female children for him. To her, it was infra, (infra dignitatem), for an ex-wife of a Senior Railways Station Manager, to marry a carpenter. But nonetheless, they became husband and wife, and she gave birth to her first child- Obey’s elder sister, and because this miraculous delivery was a product of Gods grace, she pleaded with Fabiyi, that the child should be called- Grace (Anuoluwamipo) Olasumbo Fabiyi…Grace was almost 80 years, when she died.The birth of Grace heralded another bouncing baby boy, that was instantly named- Ebenezer- (God has helped me thus far )- (titi de yi, l’ oluwa ran mi lowo de), with the permission of her husband, who also gave him additional names- Olasupo, Remilekun, Aremu.In Idogo, they lived in a rented apartment- the first storey building in Idogo. Coincidentally, Fabiyi was the carpenter that roofed the house. Shortly after Ebenezer’s birth, Fabiyi disappeared into Lagos again, where he already had two other wives, and could not surface into the Idogo community, until after 7 years. As a matter of fact, Ebenezer did not meet his father, until he was 7 years old.In this intervening period, Abigail was making tremendous success in her clothes selling business (Iya Alaso). She decided to build her own house in Idogo, and her neighbour, who assisted her, became her next husband and this union, gave birth to her third child- that was named Clement Oluseye Olusegun Akanni Kembi, who died in November 2018, at the age of 73.In parenthesis and sweet juxtaposition, Zulikat Wuraola Abiola, was the mother of Moshood kashimawo Olawale Abiola, an Egba woman. She got married to a man in Ikirun, in present day Osun state, and for several years, the marriage could not bear fruits and she was also pronounced a barren woman. She was advised to move back to her home town- Abeokuta, to seek a new pasture.In Abeokuta, she was introduced to Salawu Abiola, who had also suffered 22 “abikus” that is, none of the 22 children stayed. Salawu, then of advanced age, heard of Wuraola’s case too, and decided to marry her, at least, if for nothing else, but companionship. Wuraola instantly became pregnant and gave birth to a bouncing baby boy, that was given an “abiku” name- kashimawo- let’s see if this one would stay.Kaahimawo stayed and was only given further names- Moshood Olawale, when he was 13 years, having been assured, that this one would stay. Kashimawo, like Ebenezer, also became hugely successful. They eventually became brothers and soul mates. M.K.O became a business partner and perhaps, mentor of Ebenezer’s music and both bought over Decca West Africa Ltd.Salawu in his life time, was always happy, that the very first time, that he would enter an aircraft, it was Kashimawo’s aircraft.Ebenezer grew up in Idogo and Idogo discovered him and his musical talents.Ebenezer went to Methodist Primary School, Idogo and later finished at the Methodist secondary Modern school, Asero, Abeokuta, in 1958.In the primary school, he was a band leader. He was a member of the choir in his church- Methodist Church, Idogo.Obey and his friends, later formed the Idogo boys and girls’ club and also Ifelodun Mambo Orchestra in 1957, that finally gave birth to Royal Mambo Orchestra. Abigail saw these musical talents in Ebenezer and dissuaded him from taking to music as a career, but that she would rather encourage him to become a lawyer or a doctor(Ise ti mama miba mi da moran ki nse) The mother told him that in their own family, people sing their praises and not vise versa – “Kiki ni won ma nki wa Ni’le wa, awa kii ki eniyan.” After much pleadings, Abigail gave Ebenezer her blessings, according to her- nobody knows tomorrow. (Mama lo so wipe, ko se ni keni, to mo ojo ola).In school, Ebenezer, being a class monitor, was nick named “Obey…” i.e. Obey first, before complain, being his usual admonition, when punishing a rebellious student. The name- “Obey”, then stuck. With the added name- Ebenezer Obey, he relocated to Lagos.In Lagos, he got a job as a clerk on a monthly wage of three pounds (£3) and lived in Bolade Oshodi Lagos. He was able to buy a guitar. He was at this time, already calling himself a star and afuture star.It was in Bolade Oshodi, that he saw two itinerant singers-Akinyomi Savage and Bamgbose Jumoda, whom he later helped to secure an amplifier, for a show and also became a part time member of their band, with a rewarding patronage of two pounds (£2) per show and five shillings every day for feeding. It was through J.O Araba, an Agidigbo musician, that he met Fatai Rolling dollars, a minstrel and roving guitarist. This relationship led to the formation of the Fatai Rolling Dollars band, which obey helped to put together. In 1964, he formed his own band- Ebenezer Obey and his International Brothers Band and started with Samson Ogunlade, Vasco Da-gama, Salawu, Oke Aminu and others.Obey had difficulties in getting a musical promoter/label. After much hassles, he signed on with DECCA WEST Africa limited in Abibu Oki, Lagos.He married Juliana Olaide Olufade, his heartthrob, in 1963. Juliana, died on the 23rd of August, 2011 and left with several children and grandchildren. However, because of Obey’s insistence that he was a star and a future star, the MD of Decca West Africa- Mr. C.K Kres, showed interest in Obeys music and career.The first album “Ewa wo ohun oju ri” sold 506 copies, in 1964, after the MD of DECCA, had ordered for 25 copies to enable Ebenezer Obey secure future patronage, by hitting the target of 500 copies. He actually sold 481 copies.His second album- “Olomi Gbo Temi” (my dearest wife, listen to me) “baby mi, jowo jeka Jo ma gbadun, Aya to mo yayi lo nsefe Oko re, telegan ba ntan e, ko ma ma see gba,” was a slight improvement. His third album- “Palongo, which he also released in 1965, gave him breakthrough and commercial success.As a result of this commercial success, Obey began experimenting with Yoruba percussion style, expanding the band by adding more drum kits, guitars and talking drums.Obey’s musical dexterity, lies in weaving intricate Yoruba axioms, idioms and proverbs, into danceable music. Obey started with small Albums (SLPs) and later brought in big Albums(BLPs) that had sold 500,000 copies and received a gold award, and also 1 million copies that also received platinum award.After the London trip, and in the early 70s, Obey changed the name of the band from International brothers, to inter Reformers band and his fans named him- “Chief commander Ebenezer Obey.”In 1966, when chief Awolowo came back from prison, after the military take over, he had an album- “Awolowo, Baba wa ti de,” to welcome Chief Obafemi Awolowo. In 1987, when Chief Obafemi Awolowo died, he released an album, to mark his exit- Aaa a o ma se, ile njeniyan” what a great loss!In 1968, Obey had a hit album- “Ore mi e se Pele Pele.” He also released- “Gbe be mi oluwa, olowo laiye mo,”- Answer my prayers oh Lord and followed with further commercially successful Albums, and in 1970- Ala taja ba la,” 1971- Ija Pari” to mark the end of the Civil War, 1972- Aiye Wa a Toro”, 1973- The Horse, the man and his son, 1974- “Eko Ila”, 1975- Mukulu Muke maa jo” Etc, further entrenched his foothold in the music industry.Obey had said of his music- “my lyrics are beneficial to society, either in form of prayers or good wishes, and furthermore, that his lyrics are meaningful “with moral lessons and philosophy”Obey’s music, also brought in his trail, petty envies and jealousy.He was said to have drank “lukudi” (a fetish local preparation, for wealth)- Ogun Owo and that he had undergone surgery, when a mysterious bird flew out of his tummy.In London, on a musical tour, he was said to have planted Marijuana (Igbo) in his musical instruments. He had a rich musical band, comprising of- Samson Ogunlade, Vasco Da-Gama, Oke Aminu (who died on Saturday, the 25th of August, 1972, in Lagos, in a motor cycle (vespa), accident. He had left for his house, to change his clothes, to the uniform outfit, worn by other members of the band. Obey was a stickler for band discipline. He died on his way back to join the show.)Mitui Kekere, Gabriel Adedeji, Giwa Ojo Arigidi, Matthew Baba Legba, Akanbi Oloye, Monday John, Bode Akiwowo, were also band members.Obey does praise singing of people_- inclusive of non Yoruba people- (Michael inegbese, Alhaji Danjuma in Agege, Osawaru Igbinedion, Alhaji shehu Arikose in Ajase-Ipo, (Republic of Benin) Samuel Ogundele Adedoyin, Abiola Ogundokun, Chief. MKO Abiola,- in three different Albums, and a host of others, which also served as advertisement, for his fans.Remo carpets, Teju foams, for Tejoosho, adverts for Datsun motors- Datsun 120, 140, 160, 180, for Alhaji Arishekola Alao, Lawyer Omoni, Yinka Rhodes and praise singing of Board Members- Odunaike insurance controller, Adewuyi Barrister Folly Tairu, Bode Osinusi, Chief Samuel Okunowo, Bisi Lola Edionsere, Henry Fajemirokun and a host of others. In these praise singing, he had also, philosophical muses- Owu alantakun, ko seni ti o le fi ranso (nobody can sew clothes with cobwebs)“kini mama Alaso nta to yegba Dani abi ewure nje lace ni”- i.e.- what is a cloth seller, doing with cane or does goats eat clothes?And that God gives wealth- “Nibi ta lagbara gbe tin sise, to nse wahala, aro ti o le dide a si ma rise.”In his album, “ketekete”- the man the son and the horse- he had also philosophically advised- you can never please the world!He had also advised people not to bury their talents- ma se ri talent re mo le and gave examples of footballers- Teslim Thunder Balogun, Haruna Ilerika, Althlete Deji Obayemi and lady Athlete- Dupe osikoya. He had advised his fans to take it easy. Ore mi, ese Pele Pele- Easy does it and- “so re ni wan”- be careful of being extremely generous. He had also in his 1983 hit album, emphasized and encouraged hardwork- saa maa sise gba ti gbogbo eniyan ko re jo kaluku ni baba pase fun pe sii se, looniIn “oro Kan ni mo fe bi yin?”- he had asked of choice, between parents and the wife- (ninu obi eni, pelu aya eni, ewo lo se Pataki to se koko?)Obey’s vote was for the parents.In his philosophical preference, in eniyan ti mofe ran ju”, he had given preference to Iya, Baba, iyawo, omo… i.e. mother, father, wife and children in that order of importance…Obey does enormous praise singing and Christian praise worships.He sings- “Baba wa tin be ni orun, (Our Father who hath in heaven) in sweet melody, Oluwa ni agbara mi,(The Lord is my strength)Oluwa ni o, oluso aguntan mi, emi, ki yoo sala I ni o (the Lord is my shephard) and “a njade lo loni” as an early morning prayerful wishes, Mo ma yin oluwa titi laiye” (I will praise the Lord forever) and a number of inspiring gospel songs.Obey also does Miliki- “e sa ma Miliki o-, ko ma rotate, lo o were were, ko ma circulate lo o were were…”He does daily prayers, he sings love, he sang the Paulina story in the Bar beach Lagos, episode.Paulina was a ravishing beautiful lady, whom he saw at the Bar beach in Marina. He sang- “Mori Sisi Kan ni marina to ni nkaloo…”O“Obey said-I was love struck, I lifted her off her feet, singing about her bewitching beauty.Obey also sang of the sexual innuendo in – “Ina ma wa tan o, Akanbi, 2ce O pe mi wole o… o tilekun mo mi, o ti lekun mo mi ofaro idi mi, terepa ba doyun o, Obey lo loyun oo jare…”The lady said, he asked me inside, asked me to put off my clothes, and to these, obey said- “when I was a youth, I behaved as a youth.”Yes, Obey sang praises of Olanrewaju Omo Badmus- Larry publicity and Estate consultant- Fatai Irawo.In 1972, the music legend, celebrated Olabisi Ajala in his 8th Album- Board Members. He had also celebrated the Association of Brothers-UP ASSO.Obey sang the praises of Olabisi Ajala in the Album-“Ajala travel all over the world (2ce) Ajala travel (2ce) Ajala travel(2ce) Ajala travels all over the world, alajala mi Omo olola, Ala Ajala mi Oko Alhaja shade, Alhaja los’obokun fun alajala, emi Meje o, emi Meje.”After a successful music career, yearnings to serve God in HIS vine yard, became real and apparent and this call was spiritually confirmed by the late Arch Bishop Benson Idahosa.At the peak of Obey’s musical career, he heeded Gods call and for 17 years, he was completely out of secular music and was now majorly, involved in the Decross evangelical ministry. He was in the ministry and he never looked back.He had troubled and challenging moments. He lost a factory in Ota, Ogun state that produced cassettes. The company was into debts and he had to sell three of his houses, to offset the mortgage. He bought shares and stocks, that went bad.There was then, another interface in Obey’s life. He had a programme in London, with the late Myles Munroe, where they both ministered.There was a concert after the ministration. On the day of the concert according to Ebenezer Obey- “when I was performing, a lot of people turned out and thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere. So after my performance, he collected the microphone from me and told me that music is my ministry. He said God told him to inform me not to quit music, because that is my ministry. He said it was what God had wanted me to do. He further advised me to preach less, but sing more, that I should preach through music. I prayed about it and that was how we started special appearances. That was when I began to charge fees ranging from N2.5 million and above and before I knew it, I had made millions. I would take a million for my ministry and the remaining would be shared between me and the band. When you listen to GOD HE would always provide for you.”Obey had a chequered and distinguished career.He said- “whenever I hear my music being played, it is like looking into the mirror. Whenever I hear my voice, I tell myself, that is me sounding, that is me singing.”Obey said of his musical adventure- I am the musician that has the largest number of music tracks, of music released. I agree with the research.”His versatility in music composition, has certainly endeared him to the world, as one of the best music composers.Despite the disability of not singing in a universal language, those who do not understand Yoruba, still find it easy, to dance to his music and the melody- e waa gbo melody mo tun gbe melody mi dee”-Come and listen to melody, I have come with my melody.According to him- “if you do not understand the language, once you hear the melody, you start to nod your head and move your hand, that means the music has entered your body.”Ebenezer Obey is currently a Professor of music at the Ogun State University, Ago-Iwoye, a recipient of the National award and Doctor of philosophy at the Oral Roberts University, USA.Life, certainly defines roles, labyrinths and its contours, and has defined that of Ebenezer Obey as a singer, band leader, composer, guitarist, philosopher and a man after Gods own heart. The album celebrating his 70th birthday in 2012, – “Obey at 70”, was also a master piece, after a very long absence.Ebenezer Olasupo Remilekun Aremu Fabiyi-Obey, stand up and take your EVERGREEN medal… at 77. May you continue to enjoy your life, in good and robust health and continuous prosperity.ARTICLE BY:-HON. (BARR.) FEMI KEHINDEFORMER MEMBER, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, ABUJA,REPRESENTING AYEDIRE/IWO/OLAOLUWA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY OF OSUN STATE (1999-2003)&PRINCIPAL PARTNER, FEMI KEHINDE & CO (SOLICITORS)IBADAN OFFICE- NO 84, IWO ROAD, IBADAN.LAGOS OFFICE- PLOT A, OLUWALOGBON MOTORS BUILDING,OBAFEMI AWOLOWO WAY,IKEJA,LAGOS.ABUJA OFFICE-NO 8, SUEZ CRESCENT,IBRAHIM ABACHA ESTATE,WUSE ZONE 4,ABUJA,FCT.

Boss Of The Week

Consistent, Focused, Impactful: The Story of Bella Disu

Published

16 hours ago

December 21, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

From whichever angle one views it, Bella, the beloved daughter of billionaire businessman, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr., is an enigma, a point of reference and research material for acumen, industriousness and resilience. She is the typical of the never-say-never spirit of the Nigerian women. Yes, she has taken hers a niche higher, infact beyond the reach of competitors.

Nigerian women have shown resilience, strength and character in administration, government and entrepreneurship, contributing more than their quota, and giving vent to the growth and development of the nation’s socio-economic sector. Among them is the impactful Executive Vice Chairman of the A-list communications outfit, the Globacom Group, Mrs. Bella Disu.

A strong purpose-driven professional and boardroom guru, whose administrative skills, intellect, experience and academic trajectory have remained a subject of reference, Bella, as she is fondly called, is a woman, who though has a privileged background, carved a niche for herself, climbing through ladders and cadres to get to where she presently is, and more importantly, can boast of the desired leverage and ability to defend her position.

Born Belinda Ajoke Adenuga, on May 29, 1986 to the duo of Emelia Adefolake Marquis, a Nigerian entrepreneur, and the global phenomenon, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr., Bella received her early education in Lagos, at the prestigious Corona School in Victoria Island before enrolling at Queen’s College for her secondary education. In 1998, she transferred to Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, where she concluded her secondary education.

She proceeded to the University of Massachusetts, Boston, USA, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations, and later, a Master of Science degree in Leadership from the Northeastern University, also in Boston.

In 2004, Disu joined her father’s Globacom, and consistently rose through the ranks to become the Executive Vice Chairman of the company. She is also a non-executive director with the construction giant, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.

In April 2010, Bella took a break to solemnize her romantic relationship with her heartthrob, Jameel Disu, a venture capitalist, and both formalized their union in a fairytale wedding that is still the talk of the town, almost 15 years after.

As phenomenal and weighty as her family name, Bella dropped, and picked up completely her husband’s name, signifying undying love and loyalty. That’s still the name she bears till date. Both are blessed with three wonderful children.

In 2019, the French Government awarded Disu the Chevalier dans ‘l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in recognition of her efforts in promoting French culture.

In January, 2021, Abumet Nigeria Limited announced her appointment as Chairman of its Board of Directors. Abumet Nigeria Limited maintains worldwide partnerships with reputable manufactures and maintains a state-of-the-art production facility, located in FCT Abuja, fully equipped with cutting-edge machinery and technology.

Abumet is a subsidiary of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, and a leading solutions provider for the planning, processing and installation of aluminium and glass products, from single standard windows to sophisticated facades and large-scale design masterpieces. She replaced Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, upon his resignation from the board. Bella is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Management of Nigeria (MNIM) and the Institute of Directors of Nigeria (MIOD).

In addition to her French National Honour of Chevalier dans l’ordre des Arts et des Lettres (“CAL”), and currently the Executive Vice- Chairman of Globacom Limited, she is also the Chief Executive Officer of Cobblestone Properties & Estates Limited, and a Director on the Board of Mike Adenuga Centre.

In less than four years of her leadership, Abumet’s profits, according to Billionaire Africa, surged to 307% in 2024, marking a major turnaround from losses in 2021.

The paper reported of her exploits as follows: “As a Non-Executive Director, she helped boost Julius Berger’s revenue to N566.2 billion, pushing it into Nigeria’s top 50 listed firms.

“At Abumet, Disu is driving innovation in façade technology, deploying unitized curtain walls for improved insulation and energy efficiency in Nigeria’s construction sector.

“Nigerian business executive Bella Disu has led Abumet Nigeria Limited, an innovative glass and aluminum manufacturing company, to record-breaking earnings, with profits quadrupling at the end of the 2024 fiscal year. Her leadership has not only steered the company back to profitability but has also reinforced the business acumen that runs deep in the Adenuga family.

“In a LinkedIn post, Disu, who has served as chairman of Abumet since 2021, shared the company’s turnaround: “Abumet is reaching new heights, and I’m excited to share our latest achievements. I am especially proud of the remarkable turnaround we’ve achieved—transforming from a loss in 2021 to delivering a 307 percent increase in profit in 2024.

“At just 38, Disu has earned her place among Africa’s top executives under 40, proving her ability to drive business success while steadily stepping into the legacy of her father, billionaire Mike Adenuga, who ranks among the continent’s wealthiest individuals with a fortune of $6.8 billion. She took over as chairman of Abumet’s Board of Directors in January 2021, succeeding Bamanga Tukur at a time when the company was struggling with steep losses.

“Since then, Disu has orchestrated one of the most impressive corporate recoveries in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. Under her leadership, Abumet returned to profitability by the end of the 2022 fiscal year, bouncing back from the impact of COVID-19 and the financial challenges of 2021. The company sustained its profit in 2023 before posting a fourfold increase in 2024.

“Reflecting on this achievement, Disu credited the success to strong leadership and teamwork: “This success is the result of strategic leadership at the Board level, the dedication of our management team, and the collective effort of every Abumet employee.”

“Bella Disu expands Abumet’s market reach
As a 90-percent subsidiary of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Abumet plays a key role in the construction giant’s success. Bella Disu, who also serves as a Non-Executive Director at Julius Berger, has played a ‘much more’ active role in driving growth in the building solutions sector. By the end of the 2024 fiscal year, Julius Berger’s revenue rose from N446.1 billion ($296.4 million) in 2023 to N566.2 billion ($376.2 million) in 2024.

“Profit after tax also increased from N12.74 billion ($8.5 million) to N14.97 billion ($10 million), boosting the company’s market capitalization on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) to N202.1 billion ($134.3 million). This has placed Julius Berger among Nigeria’s top 50 publicly listed firms, ranking 35th on the NGX.

“Under Disu’s leadership, Abumet has strengthened its market position by expanding its sales and marketing efforts. The launch of its Lagos sales office has helped grow its market share for made-in-Nigeria window and door solutions, while its EVONIGGLASS insulated glass brand has gained wider recognition. Despite market challenges, the company has posted record-high revenue and profits, exceeding expectations.

Abumet deploys energy-efficient curtain walls

Looking ahead, Disu is focused on pushing innovation in advanced façade solutions, leading Abumet’s efforts in glass and aluminum manufacturing.

“Abumet is deploying unitized curtain walls that will completely envelop the façade, ensuring not just aesthetic excellence but also enhanced energy efficiency through modern insulation technologies,” she said.

With a strong record of turning businesses around and driving growth, Disu is cementing her leadership in Nigeria’s business world. Her influence now extends beyond construction, telecommunications, and real estate into the country’s broader manufacturing sector, where she continues to make a lasting impact.”

Bella’s trajectory in the world of enterprise is a clear case of the demystification of the proverbial a tree cannot make a forest’, as she has conscientiously turned tables around wherever she found herself, bring in new ideas, new innovations and structural discipline that completely overhauls a system for all the positive outcomes.

Hers, is a case of continuous rise in the business world, and the home front. She is a better definition of a virtuous woman, and at less than 40 in age, the sky holds no barrier to how much more Belinda Ajoke Olubunmi Disu nee Adenuga could achieve in the coming months.

In November 2025, at a Techx Ikoyi event, Bella made a strong case for positivism, using herself as a veritable content and well researched material. Her speech titled, Say Yes Now! Why Readiness is a Myth, is still much talked about as presented in full below:

I was 38 when I finally met my whole self. Bella Disu — the change maker, the creative, the lifelong learner, the woman unafraid to keep evolving.

It’s interesting though, I didn’t meet her in a moment of perfect readiness. I met her after I got tired of constantly walking within the same walls. Today, I’d like to share the story of how I stopped waiting, what it taught me about why we hesitate, and what happens when we finally say yes.

A while ago, I decided to try something new. Not in business, but in my years-long fitness journey. At one point, I weighed 110 kilos. At another, 64. By my mid-30s, I had found a rhythm: 160 grams of protein a day, strength training four times a week, 10,000 steps daily. Slight work, right? I had three walking pads — one in my bedroom, one in my study, one in the office. Don’t ask. I’ve never been one for small measures.

But it worked. Of course it did. Until one day, I realized this is my life — walking in place and staring at the same walls. So, I thought maybe it’s time to move differently. Maybe I should learn tennis.

Yet, as soon as the thought came into my mind, I hesitated. I asked myself, “Should I do it? Should I wait? Wasn’t it too technical, too hard, too late?” After all, who starts tennis at 38?

Despite not feeling quite ready, I found a coach, showed up on the court, and soon I was playing tennis three, sometimes four times a week. And then, to my horror, I discovered that tennis doesn’t even give you that many steps. All those side-to-side moves don’t count. But by then, it wasn’t about steps anymore. I was hooked. And now I am often amazed at the physical and mental growth that has since happened all because of one small decision. I’d asked myself, “Should I do it? Should I wait?” And something in me answered, “Say yes now.”
But I’ve thought about why I hesitated in the first place. And it’s that for years I thought I had to wait for the right moment, for more qualifications, for a different version of myself. Psychologists call it destination addiction — the belief that happiness lives at the next milestone. So, a certain weight, title, or degree.

And I know I’m not alone. How many of you have asked yourselves: “Should I do it? Should I wait? What if I fail?” We all know that familiar voice that whispers, “Not yet.” So, if the antidote is that simple — say yes now — why don’t we all do it?

We don’t because hesitation is a conundrum. It wears the mask of readiness. And I used to mistake readiness for a finish line. Then in 2014, I met a coach I had invited to facilitate an HR session. And after the session, he said, “So tell me about Bella.”

I froze. I really did. I could talk about my work, my father’s mentorship, even my wedding — which is probably my biggest claim to fame at the time. But about me, I… I really didn’t have much to say. So, I was thankful when he offered me a complimentary session and said, “Let’s talk to Bella from 10 years ago. What would you tell her? And 10 years ahead — who is she?”

To be honest, that future Bella was hazy. But his questions drew out interests and passions I once buried. So he then said, “What’s stopping you from going after them? You can be many things at once.”

So I said a mental yes to his words — and it opened doors to pursuing diverse interests: a first master’s, later an MBA, writing and publishing my first children’s book, impacting lives through the Bella Disu Foundation, and gaining the courage to walk into rooms that once intimidated me.
You see, each step reinforced something critical: readiness is not a destination — it’s a posture. And we become ready by doing.

Today, I’m no longer a woman hesitating in life or business. And that transformation has seeped into organizations I lead. I’ve led through discomfort many times. I’ve restructured a board and redesigned corporate strategies. And I’ve dealt with the late nights, the doubts, and that familiar restlessness that keeps leaders awake thinking, “We have to make this change.”
Yet conviction, grounded in facts, gives me a sense of urgency. And that to me is leadership — seeing what could be and moving towards it. Viewing urgency as a journey toward clarity and not chaos.

And this is particularly important because organizations wrestle with hesitation just like individuals do. Some companies choose to wait for perfect timing — and lose their moment. Others say yes now — and change industries.

I’m sure you all are familiar with these three companies that sat at the same intersection in the 1990s. Remember Kodak?
Kodak saw digital images coming and froze. Blockbuster saw Netflix and laughed. Why? Organizational loss aversion. The fear of letting go of a successful past to pursue an uncertain future.

In contrast, Apple saw the same digital future and accelerated it. The difference? Two companies chose to protect their past and failed. One chose to create its future and thrived.

And that story isn’t foreign. It’s happened right here at home, too. Just think of how we went from seeing the glory days of a popular quick-service restaurant that defined our childhoods to the success and triumph of newer ones like Chicken Republic and Kilimanjaro.

We’ve also seen the rise and agility of fintechs pushing banks to challenge their long-held ways of doing business — and in doing so, unlocking entirely new markets and customer segments.

The companies that say yes now prove that courage and speed matter more than size and comfort. Therefore, the companies that thrive, the leaders who excel, the people who grow — they all share one thing: they’ve come to recognize the mask of hesitation and take it off.

When hesitation says “not yet,” they know that doing creates readiness. And when comfort offers its gentle cage, they choose the discomfort that leads to growth.

Indeed, when I look back at every important shift in my life, it began with a small yes — often inconvenient, sometimes uncomfortable, occasionally irrational.

Saying yes to tennis at 38. Saying yes to learning again. Saying yes to growth when it would have been easier to just stay still.
But here’s what I didn’t expect: saying yes never ends with you. My teams learn to challenge comfort because I did. The women I mentor raise their hands because they saw me raise mine. And my daughter Paris picked up a racket because I picked up courage.

Every yes we give ourselves becomes a light that tells someone else it is safe to begin.

So, right now in this room, someone is sitting on an idea — starting a new business, changing roles, writing that first page, booking that class. Maybe you’re waiting for perfect timing, asking yourself, “Should I do it? Should I wait?”

You already have your answer. The traffic light — it’s already green. So move. Say yes. But most of all… say yes now.

Thank you.

Bella is sure a force to reckon with; in all ramifications!

Boss Of The Week

Olubukola Adubi: Entrepreneurial Amazon of Immeasurable Value

Published

2 weeks ago

December 4, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Presiding over a 47 years old company, MicCom Cables and Wires Limited, with its attendant triumphs, glories, challenges and strategic leadership, Engr. (Mrs) Olubukola Adubi, has come a long way in professionalism, delivery and influence. It is therefore no surprise when she was practically anointed and robed as an honorary FELLOW of the Nigerian Society of Engineers during the 2025 NSE International Conference Exhibition and Annual General Meeting; a ceremony that took place at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan, Oyo State.

With the hall filled to capacity, families and friends in high expectation, the event kickstarted with the arrival of the President/Chairman-in-Council of NSE, Mrs Margaret Aina Oguntala, and other important guests, followed by the rendition of the National anthem, which triggered speeches from selected dignitaries before the all important robing of Mrs Adubi as an honorary fellow of the Society.

If you call her a woman of many parts, you won’t be wrong. Mrs Adubi is a Pharmacist by qualification, an Engineer by vocation and hospitality practitioner by passion. She is, by the dictates of 9-5, the Chief Operating Officer of Nigeria’s foremost indigenous cable and wire company, MicCom Cables and Wires Limited.

Adubi’s sphere of influence is overwhelming as she compliments her official responsibilities with wifely and motherly duties. She has also been the president of the Cables Manufacturing Association of Nigeria (CAMAN), which is the umbrella body for essentially all the cable manufacturers in Nigeria.

Her intelligence, an adequate blend of genuine personality and beauty, has remained her ultimate selling point, giving her a leeway among competitors, contemporaries and partners. Her take on diverse issues bordering on family, nation building and the need to protect local content, especially in the cable manufacturing sector, is topnotch and proves both her patriotic stand as a Nigerian and individual flexibility.

Adubi’s sojourn in the world of manufacturing has implanted in the spirit of due process and humane mind. She is a student of good quality, no matter the length traveled to acquired. And that explains her pride in her MicCom products. In a 2023 interview with The Boss, she said matter of factly; “I can beat my chest and say that because MicCom products are not in the market, there’s no chance of a fake product. So if you are buying a MicCom product, you can go to sleep because I know the processes that we go through in the factory. I know how intentional we are about quality. We are certified with the quality management system. We are currently being certified for the occupational health safety and the health & safety management systems.

“We are particular about safety and quality. I can assure you. A lot of my other colleagues in the industry wonder why we are not in the market and there’s a reason. Sometimes you have decide what is more important – whether it is money or to protect the quality of the name. This, for us, is just about out name, and nothing can stop that.”

And till date, Adubi has not compromised, but continue to dish out the best of quality under a sustainable atmosphere for both staff and product.

In her self-produced biodata, Adubi, who cherishes a good and a good legacy more than anything, acknowledged her educational trajectory, a brief understanding of the steps taken so and the trophies that have followed and trailed the magnanimous steps.

THE BIODATA IS PRESENTED AS FOLLOWS:

Mrs. Olubukola Adubi began her career as a Pharmacist in the United Kingdom 25 years ago. She was just 22 years. Over the past two decades, she has gained experience across industries, including pharmaceuticals, consulting, hospitality, and manufacturing. She has established a reputation as a transformational leader who consistently delivers impact in complex and competitive environments.

She holds a Master’s Degree in Pharmacy, a Master’s in International Business Administration and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration. She is a member of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, and the Institute of Directors.

Mrs Adubi is currently the Chief Executive Officer of MicCom Cables & Wires Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading cable manufacturers, where she oversees strategic growth, operational excellence, and industry innovation, ensuring full compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 standards. This positions MicCom as a leader in quality, environmental, and occupational health standards. MicCom remains the only cable manufacturer in Nigeria with all three certifications.

She is currently leading the design, installation, and commissioning of MicCom’s new, state-of-the-art Smart Cable Factory, which incorporates automation, IoT-based monitoring, and advanced testing infrastructure, making it one of the most technologically advanced cable plants in sub-Saharan Africa.

Under her leadership, MicCom has become a training ground for emerging Nigerian engineers, offering real-world industrial exposure and practical skill development, and has established a strategic partnership with Nigerian universities to strengthen the link between academia and industry, providing a valuable training environment for students and graduate engineers.

A committed advocate for Nigeria’s industrial development, she serves as President of the Cable Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (CAMAN) – coincidentally the 2nd female to hold this position, the first being her late mother, Engr. Olufunke Ponnle, FNSE, where she leads efforts to strengthen industry standards, promote local capacity, and engage stakeholders on critical policy and infrastructure issues. She has been recognised for her values-driven leadership rooted in loyalty, integrity, and excellence. From guiding operational teams to influencing national manufacturing policies, she exemplifies a leadership style that is both people-focused and results-oriented.

She is passionate about innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth. She continues to make significant contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector and broader economic development.

Her leadership at MicCom and within CAMAN demonstrates a deep commitment to advancing industrial excellence, human capital development, and inclusive growth, aligning with Nigeria’s strategic objective of achieving sustainable industrial transformation and global competitiveness.”

Still in her 40s, the plantain loving entrepreneur, has set target for herself as she approaches the golden age of 50, which is in the next three years. She told The Boss two years ago as follows;

“Oh…50 is very close. To be honest, I have actually been thinking about it recently, and I am pretty fulfilled. I will be 50 in five years, my children will be much older. I have a daughter now going into the university, and the other one will be joining her in a few years. By that time, the one going in now would have graduated, and the one following would be almost graduating. That, in itself is fulfillment for me. That I have two girls that are self-sufficient. And that God has helped me to have done the best I can with them, then it will be them and God.

“Again, by that time, I want to be thinking of dialing down a notch. I have spent a lot of my years in work. I do enjoy working, and put everything I have in my work, but it will be time to dial it down. I want to travel around the world. I want to enjoy myself. I want to travel for once without thinking about or taking my computer as I do now. I can sit down and read. Of course, that’s one thing I do enjoy very well. You are transported to a different world when you read. It takes me away from work, and I love that.”

A woman that loves life, living and family, Adubi is also a philanthropist, who is not in the business of blowing her trumpet. She allows her work to speak for her, and vocally, loudly and intelligently, they have spoken. Her influence radiates the Agege area, where her MicCom factory is located, as the residents can testify of her corporate social responsibility.

Ahe os married to her heartthrob, whom she fondly call ‘My Wole’, and describe as ‘such joy’.

“He has allowed a very ambitious and career minded person like me to be what I wish to be. Honestly, I chose a good man, and I am happy. And my children are better off for it. One of us is always available. He’s always there when I’m not. We have a great partnership, and it’s fantastic. I couldn’t have asked for a better husband,” she gushed.

The couple is blessed with three great children.

Boss Of The Week

Selassie Ibrahim: Astute Screen Goddess on a Mission

Published

3 weeks ago

November 30, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Of the many notable and prolific actors that have graced the big screens across the world with enviable African heritage, is the extraordinary Ghana-born actress, who doubles as a film producer; the beautiful Selassie Ibrahim.

Born on May 19 a few years ago, Ibrahim is not only entertainment prone, she is a dotting mother, a loving wife and a thriving entrepreneur, who is the CEO of Smarttys Management and production, which specializes in talent management, corporate events, adverts, documentaries, movie and magazines production, public relations and consultancy services.

If versatility were a person, it would surely be called Selassie Ibrahim, for her ability to effortlessly combine acting with movie production, business consultancy, act of philanthropy and not forgetting management of her home front.

Selassie Ibrahim is educationally savvy, well read and a proud product of some of the best institutions in the world. She is an alumnus of the University of Ghana and the Cumbria University, England, where she obtained Bachelors degree in Business Administration and a Masters degree in Media and Communication respectively.

A veteran, with about three decades consistent practice in the movie world, Selassie Ibrahim made her screen debut in the 90s, when she featured in the movie “My Sweetie”. The appearance, coupled with her classy performance, gave her the needed push and breakthrough to excel in the movie world. Even as a newbie, she was not intimidated starring alongside Grace Omaboe and Mc- Jordan Amatefio.

With her growing influence, focus, interpersonal skills, high level of emotional Intelligence as well as resilience and adaptability, she has continued to take one good step after another, establishing herself firmly as a force to reckon with. In 2001 therefore, she produced her first Movie with Zack Orji which was later followed with the CEO in 2009.

There was no stopping her anymore; she seemed to have crossed the Rubicon as in 2011, she also did a production which featured top actors including Nadia Buari, James Gardner, Desmond Elliot and Roselyn Ngissah. As a follow-up to her rising profile, in 2017, she produced a Television series which was directed by Desmond Elliott titled Entrapped, and it was shown on popular platforms including African Magic Showcase, EbonyLifeTV and TV3 Network in Ghana. The series, at a stage won the Best Film award.

She has also starred in various productions that was produced in Nigeria for IROKOtv, notable amongst them are Baby Palaver, and Her Mother’s Man.

For her efforts during the period, she was nominated as Best Actress in Supporting Role in the 2019 Golden Movie Awards.

Additionally, she has also featured in movies like Without Bounds, Love Shenanigans, Graduation, City Crime, I Hate You Too, Meet the Jacobs, 40 Looks Good on You, where she featured alongside Freddie Leonard, Uche Jombo, John Dumelo, Shafy Bello and Roselyn Ngissah, and a whole lot more.

The much talked about movie, 40 Looks Good on You, centres on five best friends; Yaaba, Stacy, Mawusi, Ruth and Araaba, who made a pact to succeed in life before they hit the age of 40 amid twist and turns. It is worthy of note that she won the Best Producer with the film.

Also the Executive Director of Jabneel Impact, a non-governmental developmental organization (NGO), working to bring sustainable livelihood to a defined segment of the vulnerable in the society, Selassie Ibrahim has featured in over 50 Ghanaian movies, and still counting. She has not failed in her defined objective of enhancing the capacity of individuals for effective social functioning through carefully crafted strategies. It is not out of place to conclude that she is a lover of humanity.

With her solid experience in the film industry, Selassie founded the REGAL FILM FESTIVAL and AWARDS (REFFA), a platform for recognizing both up and coming and established talents in the entertainment business. She also runs Selpharma, a pharmaceutical company, as the Chief Executive Officer while also heading a multifaceted consultancy firm, known as DEBO CONSULT.

“Selassie is an astute business consultant renowned for her vast experience and expertise across multiple high-impact industries, including, communication, public relations, marketing, pharmaceutical supplies and other merchandise.

“With a keen strategic mind and a deep understanding of diverse market dynamics. Selassie Ibrahim has become a trusted advisor to many leading corporations and startups alike in Africa and beyond. She has the ability to prioritize tasks, Manage projects and meet deadline,” a stakeholder in the industry, who craved anonymity told The Boss

With so much to show the world, she operates a YouTube channel “Selassie Ibrahim TV”, where her creative works including movies are showcased. She has effectively managed her time in the industry for the greater good, collaborated effectively with stakeholders and proved to be a worthy team player at every point in time, her shimmering cloud of glory notwithstanding.

A creative thinker and problem solving specialist, Selassie Ibrahim has a splendid connectivity within the West Africa sub-region, and that has made a known name in Awards and grant. Some of them are;

Ghana Movie Awards – 2015

Best supporting Actress – shackles

Ghana Movie Award 2019

Best African collaboration

Ghana women’s Award – 2019

Outstanding Woman In Film

Ghana Actors & Entertainers Awards – 2020

Best Film – Entrapped

Ghana Actors & Entertainers Awards – 2020

Best Producer – 40 LOOKS GOOD ON YOU

Ghana Actors & Entertainers Awards – 2020

Best Actress – MEET THE JACOBS

Creative & Business Award – 2021

Special Honoree

Nollywood TV Award – – 2022

Best TV series Actress – Entrapped

Selassie Ibrahim is married to her heartthrob, Ibrahim Adam, who is a former minister with the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), in Ghana, and the couple are blessed with two children; a son and a daughter.

The A-list actress has been on a mission of empathy, professionalism, discovery and rewards of talents as well as raising the bar in entertainment, pharmaceutical, marketing, management, public relations and creativity among many others, and has been a great success.

Selassie Ibrahim is still on a mission to do more positives for humanity.

Congratulations ma’am!