Entertainment

Book Review: Azuh Arinze’s “Success Is Not Served A La Carte” By Ayo Oyoze Baje

Published

4 years ago

July 14, 2020

Editor

By Ayo Oyoze Baje

TITLE: ‘SUCCESS IS NOT SERVED A’ LA CARTE’

AUTHOR: AZUH ARINZE

PAGES: 299

REVIEWER: AYO OYOZE BAJE (Author, Media Consultant, Public Affairs Analyst)

COVER PRICE: N2,500

DEDICATION: To ezigbonnem, Okwesiliezenwayioma, AgbaraIchie Anna Okwurunirota Azuh

FOREWORD:

In his illuminating foreword to this highly engaging, thought-provoking and greatly inspiring book, Mr.Olusegun Adeniyi, Chairman of ‘ThisDay’ Editorial Board and the former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to late President Umar Yar’ Ardua, describes it as ”very compelling”. But why, you may want to ask? The answer is right there in the several engaging interviews the author conducted with carefully selected 30 achievers in various fields of human endeavour.

Furthermore, the book “highlights the pathway to success, through the experiences of some accomplished Nigerians, who operate in different spheres of our society”. Besides, the book takes a look at a wide spectrum of achievers; from businessmen and women, lawyers, human rights activists through entertainers to top journalists, sportsmen, preachers, to the big players in the nation’s hospitality industry.

As rightly noted by Adeniyi, ”while their stories may be diverse, they all have one thing in common; tenacity of purpose”. Furthermore, “what is particularly refreshing about this book is that it is not a collection of profiles but rather a chronicle of the thoughts of these selected men and women based on the interviews conducted by the author”.

Another fascinating feature of this book is that it does not belong to one of those run-off-the mill publications preaching the get-rich-quick-syndrome. Rather, it is one outstanding collection that ”will inspire and fire the imagination of readers”.

So, what does this book really bring to the reader’s table? Let us therefore, go into the specifics. The taste of the pudding, as they say, is in the eating.

INTRODUCTION

In a touching tone, the inspired and inspiring author, Arinze explains that chief amongst the many lessons the profession of journalism has taught him in over two decades is that “success is not served a la carte”. You work for it, you prepare for it, you give it all the required and necessary attention and then you wait patiently and painstakingly for it to berth, just like a ship in the harbour”.

In that wise, he lists stars that keep shining even in the cloudy firmament of business such as Christopher Kolade, in soccer such as Nwankwo Kanu, in Nollywood such as the duo of Pete Edochie and Olu Jacobs.

Not done, he expresses his fascination about two young men currently doing wonders in the marketing communication sector – Steve Babaeko and Ayeni Adekunle. His reasons? While the former came to Lagos from Kaduna with nothing but as at today his X3M Ideas has become one of the biggest advertising agencies, not only in Nigeria but on the African continent, the latter, Ayeni, a graduate with 3rd class, who once worked under the author while he was the Editor of Encomium Weekly currently runs one of the leading Public Relations agencies in Nigeria. Little wonder that both graced the cover of the prestigious ‘Forbes Magazine’ in September, 2019!

Most inspiring, you would definitely agree. So, to spice up this home-cooked delicacy the author has added 24 similar zero-to-hero stories to make the book an irresistible serving for those with the hunger for success. One is talking about those willing to lift themselves up from the dungeon of hopelessness to the pinnacle of professionalism, while turning their stumbling blocks into stepping stones.

THE CHAPTERS:

There are 30 of them. Though these Chapters are largely arranged in their thematic focus, to create a format that flows smoothly for the reader, some minor adjustments could be made thus:

For instance, these Chapters could be segmented into the top players as:

Part One: The Business Sector.

Part Two: The World of Religion.

Part Three: The Advertising and Marketing Sector.

Part Four: The Field of Sports.

Part Five: The Media Industry.

Part Six: The Entertainment Industry.

Part Seven: Law and Human Rights Activism.

If this is done, Chapter 25 (on Tunde Okewale, MD/CEO of St. Ive’s Hospital and Chairman, WFM), Chapter 26 (Evans Akere), Chapter 29 (on Ike Biobaku, astute businesswoman and MD/CEO Mix and Bake and Chapter 30 (on Isaac Durotoye, the uncommon risk taker and pioneer MD, Mobile Toilets) would flow with Chapter 1(Chief Christopher Kolade, Nigeria’s former High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Chairman of Cadbury) and Chapter 2 (that focuses on Tony Ezenna, the well-known billionaire businessman/Chairman of Orange Drugs) all falling into the Business Sector.

Similarly, Chapters 27 (on the resourceful designer, Vans Kere, Ayeni Adekunle, described as a fantastic writer and Founder, Black House Media Group) and Chapter 28 (on Sola Fajobi, Ideas man and MD/CEO, Digital Interactive) would merge with Chapter 13 (on Simon Kolawole, Founder/CEO of TheCable Newspaper), Chapter 14 (on Azubuike Ishiekwene, MD/Editor-in-Chief of The Interview Magazine) and Chapter 15 (Femi Sowoolu, MD, Jamz FM) as the top players in the Media Industry.

THE SURE STEPS TO LASTING SUCCESS, FROM THE MASTERS

The million-Naira question therefore, is what are the specific experiences of these selected achievers on the steps they took in the chequered journey of life, that eventually led them to resounding success? The answers are there for those willing to stoop to conquer.

For Christopher Kolade, God is the author of life and to succeed you have to seek His face. His next piece of admonition is to listen to God and obey His voice. One must work very hard and also be ready to learn. In a nutshell, “our success is up to us.”!

In his own bold words, Tony Ezenna preaches honesty and creativity in brewing new ideas: Says he: “So, trust rules everywhere. In business, without trust you have not made anything. That is why I claim that I have a name, I’m credible, I promise and I deliver.” What do other entrepreneurs consider as the nuggets of success to turn them into big businesses?

On her part, IkeoluBiobaku, the MD/CEO of Mix and Bake Confectionary and School believes that one should add skill to his or her passion. She urges business owners to set their priorities right and engage the services of professional money managers.

Of significance is the need for business people to develop a thick skin to criticisms of all sorts. That is what Isaac Durotoye advises. He was derided by people when he decided to venture into the shit business. “You worked for M.K.O Abiola, you worked for American Express, you lived abroad and you want to end up your career by packing shit”, they told him to his face. But thank God that he did not listen to them. Interestingly, a few years later three of those same critics ended up in the same shit business! He has also wisely identified the fact that whatever you studied at the university may not be one’s calling but whatever one chooses to do one should be focused.

As far as succeeding in the spreading the gospel of salvation is concerned, Madubuko canvasses that to succeed in life one must find who he really is, by divine inspiration and be true to oneself instead of trying to be someone else. He warns against losing the fear of God when one succeeds and also avoid the urge for overnight success.

Similarly, Wole Oladiyun advises those who want to succeed in the Ministry to understand their purpose and be specific in the area of the ministry God has called them to serve. He loves to read and write and wants those craving for success to imbibe such passion.

For Akinwunmi, the Group CEO of Prima Garnet Africa, one should trust God completely – which is an abiding faith – and one must not give up in the face of adversity. And Steve Babaeko, the creative mind behind X3M Ideas believes strongly that having and honing the passion for a particular business venture does the magic. One should put in place measures for the business to outlive him or her and shun pride. Controversial as his view may sound, he does not believe in partnerships as far as business is concerned as it is alien to our culture.

Others’ views on the subject of attaining success align with having the courage to try something new, according to Eiremiokhai of Oracle Experience Ltd and having the courage to stand by and speak the truth according to Dr.JoeOdumakin who was inspired by Martin Luther King Jnr.’s words and wants her impact felt as a positive change agent.

To excel in law one should be inspired by Wole Soyinka’s counsel that ”justice is the first condition of humanity’. Also, one must also work hard and be patient. On his part, Adegboruwa believes in the fear of God, widening one’s perspective about life and never take anything for granted.

To become a top player in the sports field, Kanu Nwankwo has a firm belief in God, development of one’s talents and never giving up. Jay Jay Okocha says that one must have a competitive spirit and set high standards to become an achiever.

On journalism as a profession, Kolawole is happy that it has taught him to be broad-mined, given him the opportunity to re-invent himself and to be a solution-provider. For Ishiekwene, it has provided the platform to meet a lot of people and learn from them. He also cherishes the thirst it provides to pursue justice.

When it comes to the world of entertainment, Ogidan takes little things seriously, adding the professional touch to stories and turning them into blockbusters. The veteran actor, Pete Edochie strongly believes in the pursuit of perfection, reading a lot. But that is not all. He believes that being mischievous is an attribute one needs to be a good actor!

Iconic Olu Jacobs is also a perfectionist who insists that things can always be done better. While Dele Odule stands for determination and consistency, Funke Akindele goes for being pushy and focused. Kate Henshaw is all out for great interpretation of stories and appreciates that Nollywood has opened doors to success for her.

LAST TAKE:

Azuh, the creative and indefatigable author has certainly carved a notable niche for himself in that interactive segment of media practice that involves meeting one-on-one with the subject matter and as they say, hearing it from the horse’s mouth.

The book, which is presented in simple, easy-to-read format, devoid of ambiguity and covering a wide array of subjects from the perspective of the achievers is a must-read for all those with the thirst and hunger for enduring success.

It is hereby recommended for all students, from secondary school up to the tertiary education level – who want to turn their dreams into reality against all odds. Any one engaged in the study of entrepreneurship, economics, commerce, marketing, public relations, religious practice, sports and entertainment will find it a most useful guide.

In essence, this enriching book builds upon the strong foundation laid by ‘Tested and Trusted Success Secrets of the Rich and Famous’ as well as ‘The CEO’s Bible’, all of which have turned into bestsellers.

One would therefore, advise the author of this motivational masterpiece to take it all from theory to practice. He should set up a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) to bring these timely truths to the doorsteps of today’s restless youth. One is talking about the hordes of con-men, fraudsters, yahoo-yahoo boys, ritualists, kidnappers, paid political thugs and arsonists who have found themselves caught in the well-woven web of the Machiavellian tactics; of the end justifying the means!

Then, they would drink from their fountains of immense knowledge. And come to understand that irrespective of one’s profession, integrity, which Azuh discovered as the ”common thread” amongst these trail blazers, should be their driving passion. Through such lectures/symposia they will get to know that indeed, ‘Success is not Served A’ La Carte’!

Entertainment

CNN’s Busari, Efex Confirmed for Mega Star Man of the Decade Awards

Published

4 days ago

November 18, 2024

Eric

Momentum is gathering ahead of (Megastar Man of the Decade Award (MMOTDA) organised by MegaStar Magazine, a renowned publication brand that celebrates People, Business and Events.

Holding on 1st December, 2024 at the Prestigious Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, an international broadcast journalist and tv host, CNN senior editor for Africa, Stephanie Busari has confirmed availability as the host. Also to feature as co-host is Dr Efex popularly known as Efex De Entertainer.

According to the organisers of the award, the decision to pick the experience host, compere, moderator and award winning journalist who has about 20 years in the industry is to give it the ambience of global outlook especially going by the categories of awardees that will be recognised that day.

The project director of Megastar Man of the Decade Award (MMOTDA) Adeniyi Ifetayo Moses while addressing journalists said Busari is a veteran broadcast journalist who has paid her dues in the industry has worked with some of the globally renowned media organizations, including the BBC.

According to him, proceeds from MMOTDA will be channeled to corporate social responsibility especially underserved communities in Abuja.

He said projects such as borehole, school renovation and furniture for schools within the FCT and other projects that will impact the society.

He said this is a way of improving lives of communities pursuant to the magazine’s corporate social responsibility.

Among those to be honoured include Senator representing Delta North, Sen. Ned Nwoko, founder Ovation magazine and veteran journalist, Dele Momodu, late Hosa Wells Okunbo, President Paul kegami, Nasarawa Governor Engr Sule Abdullahi, Dr Mike Adenuga, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Teni Makanaki, Davido and several other prominent Nigerians who have made immense contributions in the last ten years.

The lead host, Busari wields deep knowledge of Hosting and Moderation of Events and Conferences and Expertly facilitates engaging and impactful events.

Skilled in moderating panels and discussions with high-profile participants, Busari also facilitates Media Training for Senior Executives, Provides comprehensive training to enhance media presence and performance.

Additionally, she stands out as an expert in Personal Branding and Visibility Strategy, Develops customized strategies to boost personal and professional brand visibility, Focuses on leveraging strengths and unique qualities to stand out in competitive markets.

Efex De Entertainer also has years of expertise in event anchoring, moderation and the corporate MC.

He was once chief protocol to former Governor of Edo state adams Oshiomhole, An Harvard Alumni.

There would also be Megastar Man of the decade Posthumous for late Captain Hosa Okunbo for pioneering Private Marine security in Nigeria. Friends of Nigeria award category, designed for foreign nationals whose businesses or services to the Nigerian nation have made life easier and few Diasporans who have been good ambassadors to the country.

There would be a panel discussion with the theme SOCIAL ENTERPRISE, A CATALYST FOR DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA where bright minds will proffer solutions on how to improve the lives of our people and develop the nation.

Entertainment

Producer Par Excellence, Quincy Jones, Dies at 91

Published

3 weeks ago

November 4, 2024

Eric

Quincy Jones, the multi-talented music titan whose vast legacy ranged from producing Michael Jackson’s historic “Thriller” album to writing prize-winning film and television scores and collaborating with Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and hundreds of other recording artists, has died at 91.

Jones’ publicist, Arnold Robinson, says he died Sunday night at his home in the Bel Air section of Los Angeles, surrounded by his family.

“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the family said in a statement. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”

Jones rose from running with gangs on the South Side of Chicago to the very heights of show business, becoming one of the first Black executives to thrive in Hollywood and amassing an extraordinary musical catalog that includes some of the richest moments of American rhythm and song. For years, it was unlikely to find a music lover who did not own at least one record with his name on it, or a leader in the entertainment industry and beyond who did not have some connection to him.

Jones kept company with presidents and foreign leaders, movie stars and musicians, philanthropists and business leaders. He toured with Count Basie and Lionel Hampton, arranged records for Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, composed the soundtracks for “Roots” and “In the Heat of the Night,” organized President Bill Clinton’s first inaugural celebration and oversaw the all-star recording of “We Are the World,” the 1985 charity record for famine relief in Africa.

Lionel Richie, who co-wrote “We Are the World” and was among the featured singers, would call Jones “the master orchestrator.”

In a career which began when records were still played on vinyl at 78 rpm, top honors likely go to his productions with Jackson: “Off the Wall,” “Thriller” and “Bad” were albums near-universal in their style and appeal. Jones’ versatility and imagination helped set off the explosive talents of Jackson as he transformed from child star to the “King of Pop.” On such classic tracks as “Billie Jean” and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” Jones and Jackson fashioned a global soundscape out of disco, funk, rock, pop, R&B and jazz and African chants. For “Thriller,” some of the most memorable touches originated with Jones, who recruited Eddie Van Halen for a guitar solo on the genre-fusing “Beat It” and brought in Vincent Price for a ghoulish voiceover on the title track.

“Thriller” sold more than 20 million copies in 1983 alone and has contended with the Eagles’ “Greatest Hits 1971-1975” among others as the best-selling album of all time.

“If an album doesn’t do well, everyone says ‘it was the producers fault’; so if it does well, it should be your ‘fault,’ too,” Jones said in an interview with the Library of Congress in 2016. “The tracks don’t just all of a sudden appear. The producer has to have the skill, experience and ability to guide the vision to completion.”

The list of his honors and awards fills 18 pages in his 2001 autobiography “Q”, including 27 Grammys at the time (now 28), an honorary Academy Award (now two) and an Emmy for “Roots.” He also received France’s Legion d’Honneur, the Rudolph Valentino Award from the Republic of Italy and a Kennedy Center tribute for his contributions to American culture. He was the subject of a 1990 documentary, “Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones” and a 2018 film by daughter Rashida Jones. His memoir made him a best-selling author.

Born in Chicago in 1933, Jones would cite the hymns his mother sang around the house as the first music he could remember. But he looked back sadly on his childhood, once telling Oprah Winfrey that “There are two kinds of people: those who have nurturing parents or caretakers, and those who don’t. Nothing’s in between.” Jones’ mother suffered from emotional problems and was eventually institutionalized, a loss that made the world seem “senseless” for Quincy. He spent much of his time in Chicago on the streets, with gangs, stealing and fighting.

“They nailed my hand to a fence with a switchblade, man,” he told the AP in 2018, showing a scar from his childhood.

Music saved him. As a boy, he learned that a Chicago neighbor owned a piano and he soon played it constantly himself. His father moved to Washington state when Quincy was 10 and his world changed at a neighborhood recreation center. Jones and some friends had broken into the kitchen and helped themselves to lemon meringue pie when Jones noticed a small room nearby with a stage. On the stage was a piano.

“I went up there, paused, stared, and then tinkled on it for a moment,” he wrote in his autobiography. “That’s where I began to find peace. I was 11. I knew this was it for me. Forever.”

Source: APnews

Entertainment

Rocky Dawuni Rises to the Occasion with New Single

Published

1 month ago

October 19, 2024

Eric

By Samantha Ofole-Prince

He is the first Ghanaian artist to have ever been nominated for a Grammy award and is back with a new single just in time to be nominated for music industry’s biggest night.

Titled “Rise,” the single blends Afrobeat and highlife with Hip-Hop and is the first official release from his forthcoming album which will be distributed by Aquarian Records through Tuff Gong International, the label founded by Bob Marley and Rita Marley.

“Imagine what we could do if we organize? Imagine what we could do if we unify?” Dawuni sings with conviction in the video directed by Emmanuel and Samuel Appiah Gyan.

“Rise,” Dawuni says, “Is an anthem for overcoming adversity and celebrating life’s victories.”

A trailblazing performer who has shared the stage with Stevie Wonder, Ozomatli, Peter Gabriel and Angelique Kidjo, Dawuni was named one of Africa’s Top 10 global stars by CNN.