Turning sixty-five today, Chief Ayobamidele Momodu, the publisher of Ovation International, is celebrated as a source of pride for both the media industry and the nation. Olawale Olaleye reflects on his impactful career.
Chief Ayobamidele Momodu’s “grass to grace” narrative is widely known. His life story, marked by its complexities, is something he openly shares with enthusiasm and self-respect at every opportunity.
With a simple online search, one can easily find comprehensive information about this respected media figure and native of Edo State. He chose to “naturalise” in Yorubaland, establishing Ile-Ife, a historically significant town, as his adopted home. This connection is reflected in his Yoruba names, including Ojutelegan Ajani.
Driven by a natural aversion to injustice, this accomplished writer has achieved success in areas where many hesitated to venture. Unlike those discouraged by others’ failures, “Bob Dee,” as he is universally known, embraces his own learning experiences.
His resilient spirit, characteristic of many Nigerians who possess a strong sense of confidence and self-worth, has prevented him from being marginalized in life.
He consistently stays informed about the latest developments in journalism and communication. Furthermore, he actively pursues personal growth to remain a relevant and enduring figure in his profession. His sustained relevance over several decades is not accidental.
His notable willingness and readiness to assist others, regardless of their challenges, distinguishes him as an individual. This trait clearly reflects his upbringing and the welcoming Yoruba culture where he began his life, immersed in kindness and hospitality.
Having navigated the media landscape for many years, gaining extensive experience across significant brands before embarking on his own ventures and establishing valuable connections in this multifaceted field, it seems illogical to question whether “Bob Dee” is indeed a journalist.
With a hint of sarcasm and clear cynicism, LereOlayinka, an aide to the Minister of the FCT, recently questioned “Bob Dee’s” journalistic credentials during an interview on Arise News Television. In a deliberate attempt to create mischief, he suggested that Momodu should be considered a “Babalawo” (a Yoruba diviner) because he earned his first degree in Yoruba. This disrespectful remark is quite astonishing.
A graduate of Yoruba and holder of a Master’s degree in English Literature from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife) in 1982, Momodu began his media career as a staff writer for African Concord magazine, owned by the late Chief MKO Abiola. He later became a pioneer staff member of Weekend Concord.
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This Yoruba graduate authored the inaugural cover story for the newspaper in March 1989 and contributed to various publications, including National Concord, Sunday Concord, Business Concord, and the Yoruba newspaper, Isokan, which was particularly his domain.
“Bob Dee,” the Yoruba graduate humorously suggested to have missed his calling as a “Babalawo,” quickly rose through the ranks at Weekend Concord, becoming the literary editor within six months and subsequently the news editor. He then went on to edit May Ellen Ezekiel’s Classique, a celebrity magazine, a role that made him the highest-paid editor in Nigeria at the time.
From establishing his own public relations firm, Celebrities-Goodwill Limited, to founding the esteemed Ovation Magazine, which brought international perspectives to its Nigerian readership, the question remains: what further qualifications could this well-regarded individual possess to be recognized as a journalist?
Despite his numerous commitments and demanding schedule, both as a politician and a journalist, “Bob Dee” continues to maintain a column on the back page of Nigeria’s prominent national daily, THISDAY, where he regularly offers his insights on critical and current issues.
Given such extensive professional experience, it seems inconceivable that anyone would attempt to dismiss his contributions as a significant figure in the growth of Nigerian journalism. This is especially true considering his long-standing career, which began many years ago, and despite his academic background in Yoruba and English.
Regrettably, if the “Babalawo” reference was intended to belittle and humiliate him, it may have inadvertently become a fitting description for a man with a profound understanding of journalism. His practice and achievements often allow him to predict events with remarkable accuracy and to influence Nigeria’s dynamic political economy.
“Bob Dee” is not one to be condescended to professionally by any disrespectful individual, regardless of their academic credentials, particularly when such individuals have no noteworthy accomplishments in the field of journalism.
A local talent with international recognition, “Bob Dee” has cultivated an extensive network of global friendships, granting him access to almost any circle. This is unlikely to be a result of mere chance or luck but rather the product of many years of dedicated hard work.
While “Bob Dee” does not need validation from anyone, especially those unqualified to be considered his peers in any field, let alone journalism, any futile attempts to diminish his achievements will not gain any recognition or traction.
Respectable professions consistently protect their most accomplished members, except in environments filled with incompetent individuals, charlatans, or amateurs.
Heartfelt congratulations to the globally acclaimed “Bob Dee,” and a happy 65th birthday.
