The stage is set for a grand celebration as Nigeria and the world prepare to honour Chief Dele Momodu, iconic journalist, media mogul, political figure, and cultural ambassador, on the occasion of his 65th birthday. In a fitting tribute to a man whose pen has shaped narratives and whose voice has resonated across continents, the organisers of the Dele Momodu Leadership Lecture and birthday festivities have unveiled an inspiring programme of events.
Titled “How to End Hunger and Poverty in Africa,” the landmark leadership lecture will take place on May 16, 2025, at the prestigious Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos. In an event that blends intellect, statesmanship, and celebration, two of Nigeria’s most revered elder statesmen — Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan — will grace the occasion as Guest Lecturer and Special Guest of Honour, respectively.
The current Governor of Osun State, the energetic and intellectually astute Senator Ademola Adeleke, will serve as Event Host, bringing both gravitas and grace to a gathering expected to attract the crème de la crème of Nigerian society — leaders of politics, media, diplomacy, industry, and culture.
Capping the day’s events, an elegant Dinner and Gala Night will hold at the luxurious Balmoral Event Centre, located within the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. The evening promises music, memories, and tributes from around the world — a fitting conclusion to a day of honour.
Chief Dele Momodu: A Life of Substance and Style
Bashorun Dele Momodu is not merely a name — he is an institution. A quintessential journalist, he rose from humble beginnings to establish Ovation International, a globally celebrated lifestyle magazine that has chronicled the stories of Africa’s high and mighty for over two decades. A global citizen with a pan-African soul, Momodu’s camera lens and ink-stained fingers have captured the vibrancy, struggles, and triumphs of a continent in flux.
But he is more than a chronicler. A former presidential aspirant, he has consistently stood on the side of the people — advocating for democracy, good governance, and the dignity of African lives. A recipient of multiple chieftaincy titles, including Bashorun of Oke-Ila, Aare Agbeluga of Ondo Kingdom, and Aare Atayese of Ile-Ife, Momodu’s honours span geography and generations.
A mentor to many, friend to presidents and paupers alike, his story is one of grace, grit, and greatness — an indelible ink on the parchment of African history.
As the countdown to May 16 begins, the continent pauses to celebrate not just a birthday, but a legacy — that of Chief Dele Momodu, a man whose life has been a bridge between media and politics, culture and commerce, Nigeria and the world.
And at 65, the ink flows still…
Written by Sola Ojewusi for Lagosian Magazine
