Entertainment

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

Published

6 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

All White Service of Songs As Celebrities Bid Alex Ekubo Farewell

Published

2 weeks ago

June 11, 2026

Eric

Members of Nigeria’s entertainment industry turned out in large numbers on Wednesday for the service of songs of late actor Alex Ekubo.

Ekubo died on May 11, 2026, after a battle with kidney cancer.

Colleagues, friends, and dignitaries filled The Monarch Event Centre for the ceremony, dressed strictly in white as requested by the Ekubo family.

Attendees included Funke Akindele, Kate Henshaw, Chioma Akpotha, Ebele Okaro, Nancy Isime, Ruth Kadiri, Nkechi Blessing, Stan Nze, Blessing Obasi, Ik Ogbonna, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, singer Chike, and socialite Cubana Chief Priest.

The evening featured worship led by gospel ministers Peterson Okopi and Ebuka Songs, with Pastor Jerry Eze, Nathaniel Bassey, and Kaestrings also ministering.

The Ekubo family had earlier released an obituary on the late actor’s Instagram page, asking the public to keep them in prayer.

Wednesday’s service of songs officially opened Alex Ekubo’s burial rites.

The funeral moves to Arochukwu, Abia State, for a wake-keep on June 17, with burial scheduled for June 18.

Entertainment

Davido to Perform at FIFA World Cup 2026 Concert in Los Angeles

Published

3 weeks ago

June 3, 2026

Eric

Award-winning artiste – Davido – is scheduled to perform at FIFA’s World Cup 2026 Countdown Concert in Los Angeles, adding another major global platform to his career.

Davido will perform alongside Major Lazer, the music project led by producer Diplo.

FIFA announced the lineup on Instagram, noting that more special guests will be unveiled in the coming days.

The concert is part of FIFA’s first synchronised live entertainment series across the tournament’s three host nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico.

“Featuring Diplo’s Major Lazer and Davido, and more special guests to be announced soon,” FIFA wrote.

The Los Angeles show will open doors at 5:00pm PT, with the live broadcast beginning at 6:00pm PT.

The series is designed to link audiences across the host countries, with simultaneous live performances streamed from Mexico City and Toronto.

FIFA said the event will stream globally across its digital platforms, including an exclusive livestream on TikTok.

Full concert and behind-the-scenes footage will be available on VuMe Live the following day.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins June 11, 2026.

Entertainment

Renowned Singer of ‘Beauty and the Beast’, Peabo Bryson, Dies at 75

Published

3 weeks ago

June 3, 2026

Eric

Peabo Bryson has died at the age of 75. The singer was known for singing soul ballads, and particularly duets. In 1991, “Beauty and the Beast,” his duet of the title song from the Disney film with Céline Dion, became a massive hit. A year later, he and Regina Belle released “A Whole New World” from Aladdin, and it became the first song from an animated film to reach No. 1 on Billboard‘s Hot 100.

Bryson died Tuesday, June 2 surrounded by family, just days after suffering a stroke.

“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world,” Bryson’s family said in a statement shared with PEOPLE. “While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing how deeply Peabo was loved and how many lives were touched by his voice and his generous spirit. His legacy and music will live on for generations to come.”

Bryson was born Robert Peapo Bryson in Greenville, S.C., in 1951. “And, as far back as I can remember, I’ve always been into music,” he told Soul magazine in 1978. “It’s all I ever wanted to really deal with, and of course, like everyone else, I had to make that decision — I guess when I was around 14 — as to what I was going to get into, career-wise. Well, I’d thought about being a doctor or something like that, but I really felt that music was my thing.”

His mother was concerned: “She figured I’d turn into a drug addict or something like that!” he told the outlet.

Bryson began performing professionally as a teenager, singing backup with a local group called Al Freeman and the Upsetters, an outfit he described as “terrible” in the Soul interview. Freeman had trouble pronouncing Peapo, and Bryson began using the name Peabo instead.

Later, Bryson toured the Chitlin’ Circuit with Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display. Bang Records heard them perform and was impressed with Bryson. He released one album, Peabo, with the label in 1976 before moving to Capitol Records.His first Top 10 hit on the R&B chart was 1978’s “Reaching for the Sky.” In 1979, “Gimme Some Time,” his duet with Natalie Cole, hit No. 8 on the chart, a preview of his duet success to come. They released “What You Won’t Do for Love” a year later, and it reached No. 16. Bryson also had a Top 20 hit with “Minute by Minute,” a cover of the Doobie Brothers song. In 1980, he released his first duet with Flack, “Make the World Stand Still.” It hit No. 13 on the R&B chart. They would also release the duets “Love Is a Waiting Game,” “You’re Lookin’ Like Love to Me,” “I Just Came Here to Dance” and their most successful, “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” which reached No. 16 on the Hot 100. They also released the 1983 duets album Born to Love.

“I think the secret to a really good duet is that you have to fall a little bit in love with your duet partner,” Bryson told Tatler Asia in 2015. “I was very fortunate in finding a duet partner in Roberta Flack who really knew what a duet was and knew how to play to a person’s strengths and weaknesses equally. I learned how to do a great duet from working with Roberta Flack because she’s that great.”

In 1984, “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” was Bryson’s first Top 10 single on the Hot 100. He released “Show & Tell” in 1989, and it hit No. 1 on the R&B chart; he scored another R&B chart-topper with 1991’s “Can You Stop the Rain.”

1991 also brought “Beauty and the Beast.” Initially, Dion had been chosen to sing the song solo, but execs worried that she was too new and wanted a more established artist. “When you’re a great singer like [Dion], oftentimes you find yourself in situations where you have to dial back,” Bryson told the CBC in 2017. “I learned that from doing duets. The key to it is to play to your duet partner’s strength and weaknesses equally. So essentially that renders into a situation where there are no weaknesses because you’re playing to them both equally.”

He said Dion was very tentative at first, but they slowly built a rapport in the studio.

He remembered: “I looked across at her, and she looked back at me and what went on from the point of becoming relaxed was extremely intimate. You can’t buy that. You can record it, though.”

Their duet became a massive success, reaching No. 9 on the Hot 100 and winning them both a Grammy. Bryson told the CBC, “I never ever got tired of listening to it.”

Disney turned to Bryson again for 1992’s “A Whole New World,” which he sang with Belle. Bryson and Belle had also worked together on the song “Without You” for the 1988 movie Leonard Part 6, and she wanted Bryson to join her on the track because she knew they worked well together.

“That ‘Whole New World’ concept… that is what really took us over the top,” Belle told ABC Radio in 2019. “Because when you think about it, a ‘whole new world’ can be ascribed to most… everything… that has made a difference in your life.”

Bryson added: “It’s a song that represents every hope and every promise that you will ever have. I sang it in South Africa for the first time they allowed Black South Africans to enter into the Miss South Africa beauty pageant.”

Their version of the song hit No. 1 on the Hot 100 and would remain the only song from an animated film to do so until “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Encanto in 2022. Bryson and Belle also won a Grammy.

He returned to Disney again in 1997 and sang “As Long As There’s Christmas” with Flack during the end credits of Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas, a direct-to-video sequel.

Bryson at times felt dissatisfied with how the music industry prized youth over experience. He and singers like Flack were never played by MTV, which he believed was “detrimental” to the industry.

“I don’t think there’s anything I can’t do,” he told the Los Angeles Times in 1994. “I see myself as a true Renaissance man. I don’t like one-dimensional concepts of myself.”In total, Bryson released 20 studio albums. He was an eight-time Grammy nominee.

Bryson suffered a heart attack in 2019 but made a full recovery.

Bryson welcomed a daughter, Linda, in 1968. He wed Tanya Boniface, a member of the British girl group The 411, in 2010, and they welcomed a son, Robert, in 2018.