Boss Of The Week

My love for the Arts Immeasurable – Segun Arinze

Published

3 years ago

November 10, 2023

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

He is still as agile as he was when he first ventured into career entertainment many years ago. A professional to the core, disciplinarian, focused, determined and a gogetter, the person of Segun Padonu Aina, who is best known as Segun Arinze is larger than life.

In this brief chat with The Boss, the veteran entertainer, who has successfully traversed the world of music, movies, voice over and other splendid variables of the entertainment industry, went deep down memory lane to explain the intricate workings of the industries he found himself, his passion for the arts, love for the Glo brand and other down to earth revelations.

Excerpts:

Who is Segun Arinze in a nutshell?

Well, the truth is Segun Arinze is Segun Arinze, and that is me, by the grace of God. I’m an actor, a Nollywood filmmaker, and a media personality.

Segun Arinze; the actor, voice-over artist, and singer. Which of these explains you better?

I believe that the three explain my personality better because they’re all art and entertainment-related drive for me. So I see myself in those three facets of entertainment, and I’m very comfortable with the three of them.

So, how did you all start?

It started years back in Ilorin, Kwara State, many years ago when I was still in secondary school. That’s how I started. I got introduced by a friend called Ayo Orowale, and ever since I haven’t looked back.

Okay, so between then and now, how would you describe the journey so far?

It is actually a combination of many things – tidious, painful, agonizing, joyful…It’s a blessing. It’s a mixed bag of everything.

Segun Arinze is a native Lagosian, Segun Arinze grew up in Onitsha….

Cuts in…No, let me correct that. I was born in Onitsha. But I grew up in Lagos before my parents decided to junket the length and breadth of the country as a result of the kind of work he does then – he was a bit on the nomadic side to out it mildly. So that was how I found myself traversing all parts of Nigeria.

Was your father a soldier?

No, he wasn’t a soldier. He was a businessman. He was a contractor. There are businessmen who move around like that. They settle wherever they think is a comfort zone. They shuttle there and here. So he was that kind of person. We were at a point in time in Asaba. We were at a point in time in Benin. We were at a point in time in Ilorin. And then, we were at a point in time in Ogun State, in Sango-Otta. And then we came back to Lagos. It was after that journey that I said I wasn’t going any further. I decided to carve a niche for myself and said, I wasn’t going any further. I decided to stay back.

And that was when?

Many years back. I can’t remember.

You must have been old enough for you to make that kind of decision for yourself? When exactly was it?

It was shortly before I got into the university. That was before I went to study Dramatic Art.

At that particular time, you were still dependent, I guess. So I am wondering how it was possible.

Yes, I was 18 plus. I think I was 18, 19. Then if I remember very well, I said I needed to stay. So I moved in with one of my friends, Michael Odiachi. So he made it a bit easier for me. He was at Ojota then, and later to Ikorodu. So I made that decision. We were all in a playhouse way back then. That’s as at 1982 to 1986 or so, there about. And I was still schooling in-between.

So your parents continued the nomadic journey while you settled?

I wouldn’t say they continued the nomadic journey. I would just say, well, my dad decided to settle in one place.

I can comfortably say therefore, that your movements made you a complete Nigerian.

Well, yeah.

Can you elaborate on that?

I remember we were in Kaduna as well. I was in Jos, my grandparents were in Jos. I had to stay with them for a very long time in Jos. And I found myself traveling between Kaduna and Jos. And then I visited Kano, Zaria, and Maiduguri.

Does that make you a polyglot? How many languages do you speak?

I speak, well, let’s say five.

Name them, please.

English, Pidgin, Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and a bit of Efik.

That means you’re a complete Nigerian since Igbo, Hausa, Igbo languages are there. So I may not even be at liberty to say how come how come the Arinze name came about.

The Arinze is there because my mother is Igbo.

So why did you manage to take up the name Arinze instead of Padonou or Aina which link to your dad?

Well, when I was a recording artist on Premier Music Label, Dean Disi, who was the GM of Premier Music at that time, decided that he needed a name change. So that’s how he asked me for my name. And I told him, and he said, okay, I shouldn’t worry. And the next thing he changed my name from Segun Aina Padonou to Segun Arinze. So it was for marketing strategies. And I was a bit uncomfortable with it, but he said, don’t worry, it will work. And here I am with it. It worked.

Which of these popular names of yours sticks more to your personality? Segun Arinze or Black Arrow?

Depends on who’s talking. Depends on who you want to pick.

But what does it feel like to be called Black Arrow? Because if I remember very well, the character was not a very pleasant character.

Well, that was from Silent Night. Chico Ejiro had asked me to play the role of Black Arrow. He also had Ramsey Noah, Joke Silva, Victoria lyama, Emeka Ike, and Alex Osifo Omiagbo. Quite a number of people were in that film at that time. I wasn’t even the lead, but he asked me to play the role of Black Arrow, and by God’s grace and to His glory, it happened. And that was how that changed. So everybody started seeing me as Black Arrow. I wasn’t even the lead. It was Ramsey that was the lead in the movie then. But that’s how it changed. And then we went on to do Silent Night 2 and 3.

Was your musical outing, Dreams, the piece that showcased you as an artist or was it your acting career?

I would say both. Because I remember, before my recording, I was doing a little bit of acting. And I got signed on because I was with Kingsley Ogoro. We were working at Klink Studios then. And Dean Disi listened to my songs. But before that, I had written a lot of theme songs for the Nigerian Music Awards with Tony Okoroji at the helm of Affairs of NMA. And so when we had done that, he liked it. And then I decided to do some recording. Klink Studios was at Tafawa Balewa Square then. We just started and opened shop. And just about then, Sam Uqua, the producer, called me and said, Dean says he wants to see you. And so I went to Satellite Town and Dean Disi said, “I like the songs that you sent to me. We would like to sign you on.” And that was how I got signed on to Premier Music.

Mind you, Premier Music has the likes of Alex O. And Premier Music was also going through a rejuvenation then. They were also rebranding, so to speak. They were originally Polygram. So we were changing to Premier Music. And Tony Minnis had just bought over Polygram. And so, there was Alex O, there was Blacky, there was Alex Zito, Ras Kimono was there. Oris Wiliki was also on that label. And so we started. And that was how I started to record then. My singing friend, my co-singer then was Ese Agese, who Kiss Latham later got married to. So she got signed on to Sony Music. And that was how everything just evolved. And I recorded the album.

Was it a single?

Yes, it was a single. But there were other songs also that were added later on.

But much later I left the contract. I remember that in 2006, 2007, I decided to come back and I did another album called, In the Mood. And then we had more songs on it. And that’s been my journey so far in music.

But I decided now to focus on my acting career because I’m a trained actor. I got trained in Ife by Chuck Mike in the Dramatic Arts Department. So a lot of things just went on to shape up this person called Segun Arize. It’s actually been a lot of work trying to build that brand.

I’m not sure there is anything about Segun Arinze that’s not in the public space at the moment. However, I want to believe that there is something…

…In terms of my career, my job, yes.

So what is new about Segun Arinze?

I’m still evolving…laughs

At least as of today, something must have evolved.

A lot is evolving. I’m still working. Thankfully, I’m still working. I’m still doing quite a number of things. Some of them I keep to my chest.

But there must be something off the chest that is about to hit the airwaves.

There is something I’m working seriously on. But I’d like to keep to myself. Keep your mouth shut. Work. And when it comes out, people will be surprised. So I don’t believe that I need to open up my mind to announcing all the things that I do. But yeah, but I’ve done quite a number of things that people have seen and I’m still working. I had a talk show called No Holds Barred, as you know, that was run on AIT. It was rested but not totally rested because sometime along the line, I’m sure that it will come busting out again. So there are a lot of things I’m working on, a lot of projects that I’m doing, and I just take them one step at a time.

So at the moment, what do you tell your team and audience out there to look out for?

You’re trying to put me on the spot, right? (Laughs…) Well, let them watch out. We have quite a number of things we’re doing and 2024 will unfold and tell a lot of stories.

So they should just keep their fingers crossed?

Keep your fingers crossed. As at now, I represent quite a few brands. Legrande. Legande is one of them. It’s a real estate company. I’m representing them now and I’m very proud of them. They are doing quite well, and it’s been a lovely journey with them and we’re still together. I’m looking forward to signing quite a number of other brands. Let’s see how it goes.

And for the voiceover category, which companies can you itemize as having worked with?

There’s a lot of them that I have worked with, but I can’t begin to itemize them. It’s quite large.

What about the five most important?

I can’t say the five most important because they’re quite a lot. You say one, you offend the other. So I’ve worked with quite a number of brands. But I wish to work with more brands. I look forward to doing voiceovers with more Nigerian brands. One of the brands that I’m very, very impressed with is Glo. Though I’m not an ambassador nor have I done anything with them, still just go to see their shows and all that. I’m quite impressed with what Chairman Mike Adenuga has done with the Glo brand. I’m very, very, very impressed with what he’s done with it. He has taken it to a different level entirely. Honestly, working with that brand will be a dream come true. I like the way the brand has been packaged. Wholly Nigerian, 100% Nigerian, no foreign influence. That’s good to know. It’s good to know that one can look back and say, okay, this is truly a Nigerian brand, and you can relate to it.

So how have you managed to keep this voice the same over the years?

It’s been because of tenacity. I’ve been very tenacious, I must say. I’ve been deliberate about it and I’ve been keeping it.

And you will not believe who actually introduced me to voiceover. Soni Irabor. Then I got major influences from the likes of Manny Onumonu, Ike Emokwede, a d Osaze Iyamu. I got quite a number of influences from them. They all influenced me. But one person who kept pushing for me was Soni Irabor. And when I look back, I really say thank you to Soni Irabor. And I was privileged to be on the show with him one day, on his own show. And I told him that he was a catalyst for it.

In all your years of being in the entertainment industry, can you say there are incidents that trigger regrets?

One thing I try not to do is regret. I try as much as possible not to have regrets. What I do is I learn from every incident, and move on. Don’t just stay in one spot, move on.

Which particular incident can you say you actually learnt from and moved on?

A number of them, quite a number of them. There’s this particular one, though the person is late now. It was when I was still an aspiring singer, I wanted to sing badly. I wanted to record. And I went to meet this great Nigerian artist, a great musician. And I asked him, I said, sir, I like what you did with Yvonne Maha. And then he looked at me and say, you just finished secondary school. Yes? Why don’t you get a job as a clerk or something? I felt very bad that I was rebuffed. I was rejected. But many years later, I grew big, I grew very big. And I went on to meet my friend, the late Dr. Paul Oje, who was opening his house. And on the stage was this same great Nigerian musician, and then he was singing my praises. And I was like, God, you’re the greatest humorist. But I didn’t let that weigh me down. Actually, I didn’t let that weigh me down. And I moved on; in terms of creativity, I’m very, very restless. I like to move from one thing to another. I like to do things as fast as possible. I’m a creative animal. I don’t like to stop in my track. And that’s just my kind of person. That’s how I am. And people who have worked with me will tell you, hey, when it comes to creativity, leave Segun Arinze alone. That’s how I am.

Can you please differenciate between the Segun Arinze in the movies and the Segun Arinze as a person?

Segun Arinze in the movies does his work. Segun Arinze as a person is a family man.

What I mean actually, Segun Arinze in the movies is practically voracious, practically…

No, no, no, no. Segun Arinze is an actor. I don’t want to use the word voracious. Because I refuse anybody making me a typecast. I’m not a stereotype and I refuse to be a stereotype. I’m an actor. I want to play any role I’m given and give my 100% to it or even 110% to it. But I don’t want to be stuck in that place and say, yeah, you’re a stereotype. No, no, no. That’s not Segun Arinze. I’m a trained actor and I want to work that way. Granted, there are certain roles I might not be well suited for, but that doesn’t mean I’m not giving it my best shot.

But outside that, I’m a family man. I like to stick with my family. I like to have a good time with my family. When the opportunity comes, we go on holiday. When it’s not there, I do my work. But I always watch over my wife, and my kids. I just love my family.

Okay, tell us exactly how you combine your tight schedule with being a wonderful family man.

Very tough. And the good thing is that God has blessed me with a wonderful wife. A great wife. So where I fall short, she makes up for it. But she also makes sure she carries me along by giving me information on what and what, and where I’m lagging behind. I try to make up for it. It’s not easy. It’s not a bed of roses. It’s also trying to get your children to understand the kind of work that you do. When they were younger, they didn’t understand it. But now they begin to understand the nature of your work and all that. I try to take the pressure off them because wherever they go, they hear your dad is this, your dad is that. And when they come back, they give all the stories. My last born is so inquisitive. She wrote her first book at the age of seven. I try as much as possible to carry her, and all my children along. I have grown-up children and I have younger children.

Talking about wives and family…I remember you lost your first marriage after 14 years…

Can we not talk about that? Let’s move on. I don’t like talking about that. I like to keep her out. It’s done and dusted. Move on!

I’ve moved on from that. Yes, I have a lot of respect for her. I have nothing but good respect for her. And I would not want anybody to tarnish her image. She’s done so well for herself. I have a good and enormous respect for her.

So, how does Segun Arinze relax?

I listen to music a lot. I like telling jokes, I like listening to jokes, I like being among friends, I like staying with my family during my spare time, I sit down with my wife and we all do gossip. My wife is my best gossip partner…laughs.

I like that…Laugh

So we talk a lot. My Gist partner, I’m very comfortable around her. I can say what I want to say, express myself and that’s just how it is.

What was it like when you made your first million?

I can’t even remember what it was. When I made my first million. Ha!

Funnily enough, I didn’t get over the roof. Funnily enough, I didn’t get to the blues. When I made my first million, when the money hit my account, I was like okay. I was calm. I was very, very calm. I didn’t think that money entered my head. And it was from Guinness. I was looking at the money. They’re taking me to South Africa to do something. And that money was some crazy figures of millions. So I was calm. Very, very calm. I took it in my stride. Ever since then, millions have kept hitting my accounts.

Social media quantified you as a four million dollars person in net worth.

That’s social media, not me.

Yeah! Are they right?

They are stupid. They don’tseem to get it. I can’t tell them my worth, because these things are dynamic. They keep changing. I don’t want to say this is what I’m worth or this is not what I’m worth. I don’t want to say that. In fact, when I saw that, I was very upset and I felt highly disrespected. Yes. I felt highly disrespected. I was very annoyed. I was very angry. I felt highly disrespected.

Is it because it is on the low side…

No, no, no. Whether it is on the low side or the high side, I feel highly disrespected.

Are you saying that there’s no need for it?

There’s no need for it. It is my private life. You don’t need to. I don’t need that. I was very, very upset and disrespected. If I had known the person who wrote that thing, I would have given him a piece of my mind. That was extremely stupid, that was silly, and they should not ever and ever try that again. They should leave public figures to their lives, and stop counting their money. It is none of your business; focus on our work. Focus on the work we have, and what we are doing for society. How we are trying to make the society a better place. Don’t go prying into my private accounts or knowing what I’m worth and what I’m not. I think it’s disrespectful.

They will definitely hear. Does Segun arinze have any interest of going politics anytime in the future?

I can’t say for now. I can’t say. I used to think I had that interest but with the way things are going, I can’t say, but whatever it is I’m gonna sit down, observe, watch, communicate, talk to people, have meetings, and when the time is right, I will make the statement. But for now, I’m still observing and I’m watching.

Can you compare the Nollywood of your time and the Nollywood of today, in terms of similarities and differences?

You don’t compare an old Mercedes Benz to a new Mercedes Benz

Tell us more

So many dynamics but the foundation of the Mercedes Benz is still there. All they used in creating the first Mercedes Benz is still there and that’s what they’re using to make the new Mercedes Benz?

Are we making progress or retrogressing in the industry?

We are making progress. I’m very impressed. I’ve seen a lot of talents in Nollywood. I’m so proud of some of the young ones I’ve seen. Extremely proud of them! I’ve interacted with a lot of them, and I know that they have a great future; Filmmakers both producers, directors, and all. In fact, Nollywood can give Hollywood a run for its money right now.

In those days, we can easily mention all the Nollywood actors offhand, but today I’m not sure that’s the case again. Why’s that?

In that wise, yes! You are right. Because if there was a role, you have the opportunity of picking five persons for it. It was reserved within five people for a certain kind of role. You can say if Ramsey doesn’t play this, there’s Segun or Bob Manuel, or Kanayo O. Kanayo you have a limitation of like 5 or 6 in the worst-case scenario. Now, they are like hundreds of talent vying for one role. That tells you the competitiveness of the industry and it’s a welcome development. But they also do themselves a big favor by being very professional and focusing on the work. The worst part of it is that social media has come and taken everything away from the norm. So, social media has expanded it. It’s widened the gap, and within that window and ecosystem. So, you find a lot of people grazing in that ecosystem to get to the top. It’s tough. Then, the ecosystem was limited, but now, it is expanding. I wish them all the best of luck.

Beginning from your period, we have started noticing a little trend in the industry. When an artiste starts getting old, one of these two things starts happening to him, if not the two, either he is impoverished or is struck with a disease, I don’t know if there is anything you can say about this.

I will like to keep quiet on that. I will like to honestly maintain my silence in that and not say anything about it. One is because these are my colleagues; both senior and contemporary. And out of utmost respect for all of them, I will not say anything. Well, I can say that it is well, God will continue to heal all of us. Uh, the rain doesn’t fall on one person’s roof alone, it falls everywhere. So, I would not say anything about it. What I will tell you for free is that I’m in discussions with the president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas. I was a onetime president, so I understand what’s happening and properly. I was also the president of the Association of Voice-over Artists. What I would say is that Emeka Rollas is doing his best. They are working and doing everything they can and also Kate Henshaw, the Head of Public Communication. Let them do what they have to do, but I am not going to say anything about that. In due course, when things are sorted out, we can come out to make a categorical statement. But I also know that there is a health insurance policy, that HMO. I believe a lot of actors would take advantage of that.

Do you play or love any games?

I love football a lot. Although my club is not doing very well we would bounce back. We have won two Champions Leagues, we have won Europa, we have won two FA cups. Arsenal should come and tell us what they have won. We would bounce back for sure. And for Super Eagles, they are doing very well. I’m impressed. I just pray that we qualify for the next World Cup. Oshimen deserves to be at the World Cup. He deserves to be there and at the Nations Cup. In fact, all the young players in Super Eagles deserve to be there.

Talking about football, most African nations did not vote for Osimhen during the Ballon d’Or even Nigeria did not vote for him.

See, I said something today on a football platform. FIFA used the journalists to do what they wanted to do. It was a smoke screen. And I am sure there would have been a subtle threat in between. So they use them to do what they want to do but I tell you before God and man. I think that Halland deserves the Ballon d’Or

I was thinking that because he didn’t win the World Cup

Also, Oshimen deserves a better rating than the 8th position. He did so well for Napoli. So there’s always this politics in FIFA. God help all of them. Just the way we have it in the British league the referees are highly corrupt. I saw what they did to Arsenal. Go and check the VAR, some of them ignored VAR. It’s crazy. It’s not only us, they have done it to all the clubs. Don’t forget, that these referees are human beings, and they have their own affinity that they are supporting.

What about human errors…

Human error is one percent. As far as I am concerned, human error in the UK league is one percent. Every other thing is deliberate. They know what to do. The funny thing is that VAR tells the referees to go and check, but the decision is entirely up to him. See what happened to the referee who has been demoted to the second division. That’s why you don’t find British referees in FIFA events, they are corrupt. They need to wake up. The English referees need to wake up. They really need to wake up.

So what’s your best food and attire?

Anything that fits, that makes me look good and comfortable. As for the best food, I don’t have. Anything I can eat, relish, and make me happy.

And who’s your most admired Nollywood actor now?

Now? I don’t have. We are all colleagues. I can’t mention names. The moments you start mentioning names, you get yourself in trouble. My peer group are all good. I also know a few young ones who are fantastic, but I won’t mention names. I know at least six of them that I can close my eyes and mention their names, but all I would say is the best of luck. And may they continue to grow in their chosen field.

Just a few months ago, we lost Saint Obi. Anything to say about that?

Very sad, very sad, very very sad! But it is well.

I want to say thank you Mr Segun Arinze for your time

Thank you so much.

Boss Of The Week

Meet Gen Chinedu Nnebeife, the Brain Behind OyoRescue

Published

1 week ago

July 12, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

One man has remained at the centre of attraction as the intelligence-based rescue of the Oyo students and teachers continue to trend. He is Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Ibadan; one of the major strategic military formations in the country.

The efforts of General Nnebeife and his team did not only heighten their personality as individuals, but further buttresses the Military’s role in tackling the menace of insecurity across the country.

The rescue operation, which culminated in the safe return of 44 schoolchildren and teachers, has been widely celebrated by Nigerians and has further cemented the reputation of the senior military officer as an accomplished and result-oriented commander, a writer Ken Chukwudi Raph wrote.

A Proud Son of Anambra

Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife hails from Umuogbu village in Awka, the capital of Anambra state.

For many indigenes of the state, the latest successful operation coordinated by the General has become another source of pride, as one of their own continues to distinguish himself in the service of the nation.

Over the years, Anambra state has produced many distinguished military officers, public servants and professionals who have contributed immensely to national development, and Major General Nnebeife’s accomplishments have added another illustrious chapter to that rich history.

Those who know him describe him as a calm, disciplined and thoroughbred officer whose leadership style is defined by professionalism, courage and dedication to duty.

Distinguished Military Career

The journey to becoming a two-star General in the Nigerian Army is never an easy one.

It is a path that requires years of hard work, discipline, sacrifice and exemplary service.

Major General Nnebeife’s rise through the ranks of the Nigerian Army reflects his commitment to excellence and his ability to deliver results in every assignment entrusted to him.

Throughout his military career, he has served in various operational and command positions, earning the respect of both his superiors and subordinates.

His appointments over the years have exposed him to different security challenges across the country, equipping him with the experience and expertise needed to handle complex military operations.

It is this wealth of experience that many observers believe played a key role in the successful rescue of the Oyo pupils and their teachers.

Coordinating a Complex Rescue Mission

Kidnapping has become one of the major security challenges confronting many parts of Nigeria.

The abduction of schoolchildren, in particular, often creates fear and anxiety among parents and communities.

Therefore, the successful rescue of the Oyo schoolchildren and their teachers without loss of lives represents a significant achievement.

Military sources said the operation involved extensive intelligence gathering, strategic planning and coordination among various security agencies.

As the General Officer Commanding the 2 Division, Major General Nnebeife was at the centre of the operation, coordinating efforts that eventually led to the safe rescue of the victims.

The feat has attracted commendation from various quarters, with many Nigerians praising the professionalism displayed by the military personnel involved in the operation.

Previous Rescue Operations

The latest rescue mission is not the first time Major General Nnebeife has been associated with successful operations against criminal elements.

During one of his previous assignments in Kwara State, he reportedly led an operation that resulted in the rescue of several kidnapped victims.

The operation further strengthened his reputation as an officer capable of handling difficult assignments and producing positive outcomes.

Security experts have often noted that effective military leadership is crucial in addressing the country’s security challenges, and officers such as Major General Nnebeife continue to demonstrate the importance of experience, intelligence and strategic planning in combating criminality.

Commitment to National Service

Beyond the commendations and accolades, Major General Nnebeife’s achievements underscore the sacrifices made daily by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in protecting the country’s territorial integrity and safeguarding lives and property.

Military personnel often operate under difficult and dangerous conditions, sometimes risking their own lives to ensure the safety of ordinary citizens.

The successful rescue of the Oyo pupils and teachers serves as another reminder of the commitment and dedication of Nigeria’s security forces.

For the Anambra-born General, the latest achievement is another milestone in a distinguished career devoted to national service and the pursuit of peace and security.

A source of inspiration

As congratulatory messages continue to pour in from different parts of the country, many have offered prayers for God’s continued guidance, protection and wisdom for the senior military officer.

They have also expressed hope that he will continue to excel in his responsibilities and attain even greater heights in his military career.

For many young Nigerians, especially those from Anambra State, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife’s story serves as an inspiration and a testament to the rewards of discipline, hard work and dedicated service to the nation.

His role in coordinating the rescue of the Oyo school pupils and teachers has not only brought relief to the affected families but has also further enhanced his reputation as one of the Nigerian Army’s finest officers and a worthy ambassador of Anambra State and Nigeria at large.

The entire nation stands in obeisance of the seasoned military officer, and wish the military continous success in its onslaught against terrorism, banditry as well as internal and external insurrection.

Congratulations General Nnebeife!!!

Additional information: Blueprint

Boss Of The Week

Fashion Icon, Eniafe Momodu, Joins Berlin Contemporary Jury

Published

2 weeks ago

July 6, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The appointment of fast rising world’s fashion influencer, Eniafe Momodu, into the Berlin Contemporary Jury, did not come as a surprise to as many that know the charisma and talent the young fashion enthusiast is endowed it. This is coupled with the landmark achievements that have trailed him in the pursuit of his chosen profession.

Eniafe is widely regarded as one of the most respected young figures in African fashion, whose work spans creative direction, image making, editorial development, cultural research, and brand strategy.

Sired by one of world’s leading journalists, Aare Dele Momodu, arguably the most influential and famous DELE in Africa, Eniafe has completely carved a strong niche for himself, taking a deep dive into the world of self awareness.

From a very young age, Eniafe had exuded style, composure, elegance and the flair to ‘look good’ at all times. His signature large bourbon attires, that was privately original, created distinct visibility for the young man, who continually has success as his motivating slogan. And success he has achieved in such a brief 28 years period.

Fondly referred to as ‘My Twin’ by his dotting father, Eniafe has continued to not only uplift the Momodu brand, but continually project the image of Nigeria and Africa in the brightest of colours.

Eniafe’s appointment reflects his growing influence as a creative strategist, producer, photographer, writer, and cultural commentator whose work has helped shape contemporary conversations around African fashion and its global impact. Recognised by platforms like Vogue Magazine and ESSENCE as a leading voice in the industry, he has built a reputation for bridging fashion, culture, research, and storytelling across international markets.

“It’s been an incredible process serving on the jury,” said Momodu. “The jury selection this season includes designers from Asia, Europe, Africa and America. I think this really underscores the German Fashion Council’s commitment to celebrating design talents from all over the world.”

More so, his appointment places the Nigerian creative among the industry leaders responsible for selecting and supporting emerging fashion talent.

The programme, one of Europe’s leading fashion development initiatives, awarded €25,000 grants to 19 winning concepts this season. Among the selected designers were Nigerian brands Orange Culture and Fruché, alongside talents from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Momodu described the selection as a reflection of the German Fashion Council’s commitment to celebrating design talent from around the world, further highlighting the growing presence of African voices in global fashion decision-making.

A PEEP INTO DESCRIPTIONS OF ENIAFE MOMODU BY FASUION MEDIA

In January 2022, Vogue captured the growing influence of Eniafe Momodu, through its reporter, Vincent Desmond, in story titled: Eniafe Momodu’s Style Shows the Extravagance of Men’s Fashion in Nigeria, as follows:

There’s a changing of the guard in fashion and culture. Gen-Z creators are pushing the conversation forward in ways both awe-inspiring and audacious. Our latest project, Youthquake, invites you to discover how these artists, musicians, actors, designers, and models are radically reimagining the future.

Where elsewhere men may shy from colorful fabrics and oversized dramatic silhouettes, in Lagos, Nigeria, they wear them as a symbol of wealth and great personal style. Each fashion week, you’ll see these men dressed in their best eye-catching prints, dramatic arm details, and flowing bodices, determined to outshine everyone else on the street style scene. Among this group is Eniafe Momodu, standing out and dominating over the rest not just in height—he stands at a towering 6’6’’—but also with one of the best looks.

Within the last two years, Momodu, a graduate of the University of Leeds who currently works as a photographer, producer, and writer, has become one of Lagos’s most recognizable Gen-Z style icons with over 24,000 Instagram followers. Momodu has brought to life campaigns and productions for companies like Arise Fashion Week, Alara, and Ebony Life, and has also been a host for his own projects, like New World Brunch. His custom green aso-oke and gazar silk agbada from Fruche, which he wore to the last Lagos Fashion Week in November, was lauded by many publications, including Vogue, as one of the best looks from the event. To attend Lagos Is Burning, a ballroom-inspired party, he wore custom-made all-black robes, which, in his words, channeled “Andre Leon Talley, Billy Porter, and Dominique Jackson.”

“My style is often described as grand, larger-than-life, and reminiscent of André Leon Talley.” Eniafe Momodu says from Dubai. But that extravagance belies his core fashion philosophy. “My typical silhouette involves something long and free-flowing,” he says. “There’s a certain ease of movement that I try to convey through my style, which also speaks to my personality. I don’t subscribe to the belief that fashion is pain. Comfort can be very stylish. For me, what I wear isn’t really about how I look. I’m far more concerned with the message behind what I’m wearing. I always think deeply about what a garment says about me, but also what it says about culture, gender, sustainability, and other facets of our society.”

Despite being a fashion capital, Lagos stores offer limited options for plus-size customers, particularly from the ready-to-wear brands. Plus-size outfits are often double or triple the price for the same outfit in a smaller size. Momodu has often faced this struggle and instead relies on easily accessible tailors in Nigeria to create his custom wardrobe. It’s a process with less hassle, but still not ideal.

“I would not describe fashion in Lagos as particularly size inclusive,” Momodu says. “However, thanks to the prominent bespoke culture in Lagos, the ready-to-wear industry and its shortcomings do not have as totalitarian an influence on our clothing as they do in other parts of the world. People here regularly turn to the made-to-measure industry and employ local tailors to create clothing for special occasions like weddings, funerals, and birthdays, as well as for their day-to-day traditional attire.” The caftans that Momodu has become known for are mostly made-to-measure by his favorite tailor (the two have a collaborative relationship and Momodu will send fabrics to him). He describes the process as many Nigerians would: Tailors rarely stick to deadlines, but they always get the job done well.

The easy access to tailors and bespoke fashion isn’t the only thing Momodu is grateful for as a stylish man living in Lagos. He considers himself lucky to have access to the culture and history that surround him in Lagos. The creative scene and the never-ending supply of fashion inspiration fuel his storytelling as a creator.

“In Lagos, we are privileged to have access to such a rich and vibrant cultural history. As a creative, you can find inspiration everywhere you look,” Momodu says. “When it comes to prints, patterns, textiles, and color combinations, we have centuries worth of references to choose from. At its core, Nigeria is a melting pot of different cultures and influences, so local designers and artisans can draw from aspects of Nigerian culture without becoming homogenous.”

In August 2025, prestigious lifestyle and fashion magazine, ESSENCE, through Ugonnaora Owoh, wrote the following on an encounter with Eniafe Momodu with the topic, How One Of Nigeria’s Most Influential Style Icons Eniafe Momodu Is Crafting His Own Style Legacy

When I finally catch up with Eniafe Momodu, it’s in person at the Nordic Hotel in the middle of Lagos’ bustling suburbs, which Momodu has been calling home for the past week while working on some projects. Our conversation commences as we share thoughts on the recent Met Gala. He lights up as we unpack and undress this year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” It’s a lighthearted conversation, but he speaks with the clarity and authority that you would expect from Nigeria’s most prolific cultural dandy.

Momodu, a producer, photographer, writer, and entrepreneur is one of the most notable, young forces in African fashion. At just 27 years old, his creative repertoire is impressive. Born in London to a journalist father and an accountant mother, he describes his childhood as ridden with the characteristics of a multi-hyphenate. He was a precocious child whose earliest memories were shaped by his love of music and literature.

Momodu’s eccentric style has propelled his status as one of Lagos’ highly stylish individuals. Characterized by colorful garments and long-flowing silhouettes, his signature style has been replicated by many. Growing up tall and large, fashion to him was originally about concealment. His mother would dress him in clothes aimed at making him blend in and stand out as little as possible. The global pandemic and subsequent #EndSARS protests spurred his return to Lagos (having left at 16 to complete his studies in the UK), which led him to craft a new style identity.

At 11, he tells me he stumbled across an old digital camera, which instantly sparked a long-term relationship with photography and filmmaking. Throughout his early teens, he would capture candid moments of his family and friends at school. At 14, advised by a cousin to pursue photography more seriously, Eniafe approached his dad asking if he could buy him a professional camera. “I was lucky to be a second-generation creative,” he says. “My dad always encouraged my creative interests, but he was also a stubborn believer in academia.” Momudu explains that when he asked his father if he could buy a professional camera he declared he would if he received all A’s on his next report card. He notes that he doesn’t recall ever studying harder–however, he ended up receiving all A’s–and his camera was gifted by his father several weeks later.

That Nikon DSLR camera ushered in a new era for a young Eniafe, who quickly adopted photo-sharing apps like Instagram and Tumblr, becoming his secondary school’s de facto student photographer and yearbook editor shortly after. When Venus and Serena Williams visited Lagos in 2012 and hosted an inter-school tennis tournament, he was the youngest photographer granted access to document the showdown.

“I was able to see that there was a real power in photography. Being able to document specific moments, whether they were intimate or big, and seeing the joy in people’s faces as they relive moments you’ve captured. Not to mention the access it gives you. This was before everyone was a photographer and could take high-quality pictures from their phones. It was a superpower back then,” he tells ESSENCE.

Eniafe’s image continues to loom large, and it can be imagined how much more of a great achievement he is poised to bring to the table in the coming years.

A hearty congratulations to the fashion icon!

Boss Of The Week

Professor Abiodun Adeniyi: An Epitome of Leadership, Scholarship and Media Entrepreneurship

Published

3 weeks ago

June 29, 2026

Eric

By Adeoye Inioluwa

Professor Abiodun Adeniyi is a distinguished Nigerian media scholar, journalist, and academic leader whose career reflects a rare blend of professional journalism, rigorous scholarship, and institutional administration.

He currently serves as the Vice Chancellor of Baze University, Abuja, where he provides strategic academic leadership focused on innovation, excellence, and the advancement of higher education.

His academic foundation was laid at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. He furthered his professional training in journalism at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja, before proceeding on the prestigious Chevening Scholarship to the University of Leeds, United Kingdom. There, he obtained a Master’s degree in International Communications and later completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication Studies, with research that explored internet-mediated communication among Nigerians in the diaspora.

Before transitioning fully into academia, Professor Adeniyi built a solid career in journalism. He worked with Today Newspapers and later spent over a decade at The Guardian, where he distinguished himself as a reporter and editor covering politics, governance, and national affairs.

His years in the newsroom not only shaped his understanding of media practice but also grounded his later academic work in real-world experience.

Following his doctoral studies, he returned to Nigeria and briefly served as a Communications Consultant on the World Bank-supported Economic Reform and Governance Project at the Bureau of Public Procurement.
He later established Witswords Consults Limited, where he offered strategic communication advisory services to public and private sector institutions.

At Baze University, Professor Adeniyi has played a central role in academic development and institutional growth. Over the years, he has served in several capacities, including Head of Department of Mass Communication, Deputy Dean, Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, University Orator, Registrar, and ultimately Vice Chancellor.

He is widely recognized as one of the pioneering figures in strengthening postgraduate education and communication studies within the institution.

An accomplished scholar, his research interests span strategic communication, journalism studies, political communication, media and governance, diaspora and migration studies, and digital media. He has authored and co-authored scholarly works published in reputable outlets and has contributed to advancing discourse on media, democracy, identity, and communication in contemporary society.

Beyond academia, Professor Adeniyi has maintained active engagement in public discourse through consulting, research collaborations, and policy-related advisory work. He has worked with international development partners, including organisations such as the World Bank, European Union, USAID, and the International Organization for Migration, among others. His expertise has also been sought in media commentary, public lectures, and intellectual forums across Nigeria and beyond.
Colleagues and observers often describe him as a “public intellectual” whose work bridges the gap between theory and practice.

His contributions reflect a consistent commitment to ethical journalism, critical inquiry, and the role of communication in strengthening democratic governance and civic engagement.

Professor Abiodun Adeniyi stands today as one of Nigeria’s notable academic voices in media and communication studies. He is an intellectual whose career continues to demonstrate the enduring relevance of scholarship in shaping society, policy, and public understanding.