Saturday 24 October 2015

Why I want to be president of Spain --Helen Mukoro



Nigerian-born Spanish female politician, Helen Mukoro Idisi, made history as the first woman and an immigrant to be contesting for the presidency of Spain. The writer, legal consultant and forensic expert shares, in this interview with DOYIN ADEOYE, her passion, issues with the Igbo in Spain, how more women can be involved in politics, among other issues.

Why exactly do you want to be the president of Spain?
I am a good starting point to build a community based on the principles of respect and solidarity. Broadly speaking, there are a number of key points that make me a model candidate and a healthy unit that works for progress for all. And these points can serve as a self-assessment to ensure in every way that we would promote care of the environment; not act outside the limits of the law; propose many changes as we deem necessary to improve the quality of life in the country with a constructive attitude; avoid violence whenever possible, putting the dialogue as a means of conflict resolution; respect the rights of other living beings; be part of life in the country, its history and its decisions, enjoying their good times and helping to rebuild during its toughest crisis; assess other citizens, respect the role they play and their opinions.

You contested for the Mayor of Denia earlier this year and lost, what went wrong, and how did you bounce back from the defeat?
We lost, but it was expected. We came to understand that our party was only three months old when we contested, and we carefully examined our actions and criticised where we failed. But there will always be politics, and we are aware that our existence in the social organisation and ethical standards is an indisputable fact.

Monday 28 September 2015

‘Nigeria, a country where a man can turn N500,000 into $20bn’



Sijibomi Ogundele is the Chief Executive Officer of Sujimoto Construction Limited. At 34, he is a billionaire with various investments, and entrepreneur with a difference. He speaks in this interview with DOYIN ADEOYE about his business and style. Excerpts:

You recently delivered luxury estate, Medici Terraces, in Ikoyi, just within few months of your operations in Lagos. What did it take to put it all together, judging from the fact that it was sold out in record time?
The Medici Terraces was a successful project because we were true to our words of setting high standards, paying attention to details and not compromising on quality. We used the best raw materials, the best team and inputted outstanding features in the property. The facility management and concierge service, which is a subsidiary of Sujimoto Group, handles the day to day running of the property, giving residents the ultimate experience that cannot be derived anywhere else.
Our business mantra is “Build It, Sell It, Manage It.” So we always aim to exceed expectations in all three aspects. My main focus was to create the most beautiful town-house property in a choice area on the island in Lagos, and I dedicated all my effort into generating quality and value; ignoring immediate gratification.


What exactly would you say are the setbacks to the development of the real estate industry in Nigeria?
A few things come to mind as the setbacks to real estate development. The craftsmanship, lack of technical know-how, the significance of expertise and proper training are undervalued in Nigeria. As a result, finishing, quality and attention to detail are compromised.

If we want to compete with foreign developers such as the Germans, Lebanese and Italians that have spent decades mastering their craft, we will need to raise our standards in the Nigerian construction market. When people refer to quality as being expensive, I always correct them saying it’s not; what is expensive is our intention to deliver quality.

Monday 24 August 2015

National policy on education should be reviewed -- Professor Adedoja

A seasoned educationist and former Minister of Sports and Special Duties, Professor Taoheed Adedoja is the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the governing council of the Federal University, Dutse (FUD),  Jigawa State. In this interview with DOYIN ADEOYE, he shares the achievements of the institution, its prospect, and the challenges facing the education sector in Nigeria, among other issues. Excerpts:
How has it been since your appointment at the Federal University, Dutse?

I consider it a major responsibility to be one of those who would champion the cause of educational development in Nigeria, particularly in university education. I also consider myself to play a key role because of my background and experience, and also because I always find myself highly challenged if given any public responsibility. I have never failed in the past and with this assignment, I want to be seen as one who would champion the cause of good governance in higher education.
For me to be at FUD, I see it as a familiar terrain because it is quite easy for me to relate with the environment in which the university is situated. It has also been worthwhile because I met on ground a very visionary Vice Chancellor, Professor Jibril Dahiru Aminu, who was the VC at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), where I started as a lecturer. I also met a very committed Registrar of the university with whom we worked together at the Bayero University, Kano. Also, the Emir of Dutse, Dr Muhammed Sanusi, happens to be a friend and my senior while at Kano’s Teachers College. The environment is really conducive for me and more so, Jigawa is one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria.

Saturday 8 August 2015

I have fun when I talk to presidents —Zuriel Oduwole

Zuriel Oduwole is an achiever compared to many children her age. At 12, she has interviewed 15 heads of state and she has four films to her credit. The Global Ambassador for the Ethiopian Airlines shares, in this interview with DOYIN ADEOYE, her passion, inspirations, projects, among other things. Excerpts:
 What exactly drives you?
I really don’t know, but I know that I have the opportunity to do something and I am doing it. I see young children, especially girls, on the news, or whenever I travel across Africa, to countries like Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Egypt, on streets hawking and I think that they should be in school just like me. So, I’m doing what I can to tell older people to do something about this, because I can’t do it all by myself. I’m only 12.
What did you have in mind when you started your advocacy?
I was nine years old and even though we were born in Los Angeles, my parents who are from Nigeria and Mauritius, always tell us about our African heritage and who we are; the kind of history our continent has.
So, I knew that I had to tell my friends and other people at every opportunity, about the African continent, especially the positive things there, because usually on the foreign news, they show only the negative things in Africa, like wars, corruption, famine and disease, but Africa is much more than that.

Wednesday 29 July 2015

2014 NUGA Games: ‘I run against time, not against opponents’

DOYIN ADEOYE captures, scenes from the 24th edition of the Nigeria University Games, holding at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
No doubt, Team University of Port-Harcourt (UNIPORT) is a major team contending for the top spot of the medals table at the ongoing Nigeria University Games (NUGA) at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. And dearest of their athletes is Peace Uko, whose mind-blowing style of running is nothing but a command to the tracks.
ADVERTISEMENT
Speaking to newsmen after winning the 100m female event final with a time of 11.65secs, Peace, says she loves what she does. “I am not tired. I have trained for four months and I run against time, not against anyone,” she said.
Besides Peace, many other athletes have proven at the games that indeed, Nigerian youths are skilled, talented and vibrant, setting standards close enough to beat records.
Sitting conveniently on top of the medals table, UNIPORT dominates in almost every game and although medals have not been officially awarded, they can account for over half of the medals already won.

OOU students’ death, a loss to all Nigerian students—NANS •Losing our colleagues is disheartening—OOU SU President

From left, Secretary to Ogun State Government, Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa; Ogun State Deputy Governor, Mrs Yetunde Onanuga and Akinbo Ibukun, the only survivor of the accident, during their visit to the Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan, Ogun State on Sunday, to visit her.
Written by: Doyin Adeoye
The executives of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have commiserated with the friends and families of students of the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago Iwoye, who died in a ghastly road accident on Friday, June 26.
Speaking with Campusbeats, the president of the association, Tijani Usman, said that the incident was not just a loss to the OOU community, but to all Nigerian students.
Tijani, while sympathising with the management, staff and students of OOU, described the incident as tragic and devastating.
“It is really sad to hear that lives of young future leaders were cut short in their prime. Seeing young, energetic and promising students die in such a manner is not something that sits well with us.
“On behalf of all Nigerian students, I pray God will grant the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased the fortitude to bear the loss,” he said.
The accident was said to have occurred at Ilishan Junction, along Sagamu/Benin Expressway, where a container-laden truck with number plate BDG 779 XE, had a head-on collision with a Mazda commercial bus with number plate XV 311 MUS, killing all occupants, except one, in the bus instantly.

Tuesday 7 July 2015

CEO, Kreatif Ink Media celebrates birthday with orphanage •Donates books to schools



It was a fun filled day for children at the Total Parental Guardian Home, Mobil, Ibadan, when entertainment journalist, Doyin Adeoye celebrateesire to give the children a sense of belonging and excitement.
“Today is not about celebrating myself, but these children. I have been here a couple of times and I just felt the need to celebrate the day with them. They are beautiful and they deserve all the fun they had and even more,” she said.
While receiving the celebrants and her friends, d her birthday with friends and well-wishers at the home. Speaking on what influenced the gesture, Doyin said the celebration was born of the dthe matron of the home, Evangelist Grace Akpan, appreciated the gesture, while also praying that God will continue to be a source of strength to her.
“Celebrating the children definitely means a lot to them. And we pray that God will reward you for this. I must confess that it is not easy running an orphanage, but with well-meaning individuals like her, it is helpful. And we really appreciate this,” Akpan said.

Saturday 27 June 2015

The song ‘Sade’ actually my real life story

Ever since he dropped ‘Sade,’ a cover to One Direction’s ‘Story of My Life,’ Adekunle Kosoko has become a popular name in the Nigerian music industry. From one stage to another, Adekunle Gold, as he is popularly known portrays creativity and style. He speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE in this interview on his career, label mates and craft, among other issues.


Foray into music...
I grew up listening to a lot of songs, from the old to the new. And it has been amazing how, over the years, I’ve learnt different genres. I was a member of the teen’s choir in church back in the days, and later on in life, I joined a band. So the interest has always been there; I’ve always been a music lover.
I later decided to take it up professionally because I believe that I have something to offer the industry and I could turn heads to the some extent with my kind of music. So in 2011, I started out with a band called ‘The Bridge,’ and we dropped a couple of singles; we featured Skales on the track ‘Norm Breaker,’ we did another one with GT The Guitarman titled ‘Make It Happen,’ and some other covers. So basically, I came into the industry officially in 2011.
What influenced your decision to go solo?
Things were not working for us the way we wanted it. It can be hard for a duo to break into the industry. It is even a hard for a solo artiste, not to talk of a group. So my partner and I discussed and decided to part ways to see how it would work out. And so far, it turned out to be the best decision I have ever made.

Monday 25 May 2015

How I sold 39 cars to Mayweather

Obi Okeke is the co-owner of American based prestige car dealership, Fusion Luxury Motors. His clientele list includes Floyd Mayweather, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Britney Spears and the likes. He speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE in this interview on his foray into being a celebrity car dealer, among other issues. Excerpts:

How I carved a niche for myself
I would say it is the result of me following my passion for cars. I’ve always stayed true to myself in the automotive industry and it has always paid off. My focus was always to learn, and try to be the best. I always knew what I wanted, but did not know exactly how to get there. So after years of trial and error here I am. I’ve always appreciated every opportunity that came my way.

Foray into being a car enthusiast
The journey began when I was only four years old. I remember being very intrigued with automobiles while in Nigeria. My father at that time had a classic American car in Enugu, Nigeria, and he would take us for a ride in it on Sundays.
So when the Nigerian Civil War broke out, my mother took us out of Nigeria; we were five children at that time. My father, being a Nigerian, had to stay and fight in the war. So my mother, my sisters, brothers and I arrived in the USA as refugees.

Monday 18 May 2015

Nigerians making waves in Hollywood

They are Nigerians and they are world class entertainers. From movies, to art and music, these Nigerians are forces to be reckoned with in their various choices of career. DOYIN ADEOYE writes about Nigerians making waves in Hollywood.

Chiwetel Ejiofor
A renowned British actor of film, television and theatre, Chiwetel Ejiofor was born in July 1977 in London to Nigerian parents. He gained a scholarship to the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art after he enrolled at the National Youth Theatre in 1995 and by age 19, and only three months into his course, Chiwetel was chosen by Steven Spielberg to play a small part in Amistad as James Covey.

His archive of awards and nominations include the BAFTA Orange Rising Star Award in 2006, five Golden Globe Award nominations and the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor for his performance in Othello in 2008.

Finance’s simple rule: ‘No risk, no profit’

Christian Ngan is the CEO, Madlyn Cazalis, a bio-cosmetics company that produces natural body oils, lotions and soaps for ethnic skins. Starting with only $3,000 in 2012, the company is now worth million dollars. Recognised by Forbes Africa as one of 30 Most Promising Young Entrepreneurs in Africa 2014, he speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE in this interview, on what it takes to run a successful business in Africa.
What exactly does Madlyn Cazalis stand for as a brand?
Madlyn Cazalis is an all-natural African cosmetic company. We fight against bleaching products and through our brands, we provide quality African-owned products. I noticed that we don’t have enough major African international brands; we depend a lot on foreign products, forgetting that Africa has a lot of resources that we could work with. So Madlyn Cazalis is an African identity; the Zebra logo represents our African pride.
So what spurred you into being an entrepreneur?
I left Cameroon in 2002 to study in France. I was working in the Private Equity and Investment Banking Industry. I achieved my main goals: attending great universities and having professional experience, but I needed more. I needed to express my creativity, be my own boss and build something new, especially for Africa. So in 2012, I resigned and started my own company.

Friday 15 May 2015

Piracy can never be eradicated, but...

Rykardo Agbor has been in the Nigerian movie industry for 23 years. Making waves in both the English and Yoruba sector of the industry, the actor who hails from Cross River State, speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE on his experience and prospects of the industry, among other things.

A friend introduced me to acting
I started acting through a friend, Leo Mirani. We were both fashion models then, but he was the one who introduced me to acting. I had always had it in me, but I never knew how to go about it. So, we both went for an audition, after which we went for cast selection for a TV commercial. When we got through with that, he took me to a movie audition and I remember Fidelis Duker was the one who coordinated it; that was in 1992. I got picked, my friend wasn’t. And that was the beginning for me.

Friday 17 April 2015

Is xenophobia becoming part of South Africa’s way of life?



Xenophobia in South Africa is not a new phenomenon.  This has been in practice in the country on different occasions over the years. DOYIN ADEOYE writes on the developments in the recent attacks.

South Africa’s xenophobia, not a new phenomenon
As far back as 2008, tens of thousands of migrants were displaced, amid mass looting and destruction of foreign-owned homes, property and businesses across the country, with the violence coming in the form of high-profile mob attacks.
 At least 60 people were reportedly killed in the 2008 xenophobic violence in the country, prompting some 6,000 people to flee. The protest, which originated in the township of Alexandra, soon expanded to neighbouring areas. According to a Guardian report, at the time of the unrest,some 50 people were taken to hospitals with gunshot and stab wounds after protesters attacked dozens of shops and businesses owned by Zimbabweans in Cleveland, in the south of Johannesburg.
At least 1,140 people were arrested in connection with the violence, while displaced people were moved into temporary refugee camps with the government vowing not to force reintegration and not to deport immigrants found to be living in South Africa illegally.

Wednesday 15 April 2015

What makes me the next Bob Marley —Patoranking



Patrick Nnamemeka Okorie, better known as Patoranking is one young artiste that has carved a niche for himself among the dancehall artistes in the Nigerian entertainment industry. The Ebonyi State indigene, spoke with DOYIN ADEOYE in this interview, about growing up in the ghetto, his career and style, among other things.
Foray into music, when did it all begin for you?
Actually, I started as a dancer. I remember back then, I would dance to all genre of music. I started dancing as a child and I developed the passion for reggae as a dancer, so I decided to give reggae music a trial. So I went into music and professionally it has been five years now, and it has been fun.
Why reggae, there must have been other genres of music to fall in love with?
I was opportuned to only listen to reggae songs while I was growing up. I danced to any kind of reggae music, such as galala, which has that reggae and dance hall fusion and that was how it all started for me.

Monday 23 March 2015

It’s pathetic that female footballers are labelled lesbians —Cynthia Uwak

Cynthia Uwak is an ex-Super Falcons’ player who has been named the African Woman Footballer of the Year twice. The striker, who hails from Akwa Ibom State, has played for clubs in Germany, Finland, Sweden and France. She speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE in this interview about her career, style and the world of female footballers. Excerpts

Your Foray into sports, how did it begin?
I’ve always been a sports lover. In fact, I started playing football when I was young. I used to run around with boys then, playing with anything that was round and kickable. So it came as no surprise when I eventually took up football as a career.
Many girls are often discouraged from pursuing a career in football. Did you have the same experience?
I actually didn’t experience many difficulties. I loved soccer and wanted to play.  Though the money wasn’t coming in that much when I started, I was so much into it that it didn’t bother me.  My mother was my biggest fan. She still is. She not only encouraged me, she supported me. So, as regards having support from home, let’s just say I was lucky.

Monday 9 March 2015

The idea is the biggest capital anyone can have —Eric Kinoti

Eric Kinoti is an entrepreneur and a mentor. The founder and director of Shade Systems (EA) Ltd, SafiSana Home Services, Alma Tents and Bag Base Kenya Ltd, has appeared twice on Kenya’s list of Top 40 under 40, and the Forbes Top 30 under 30 in Africa. He is also a patron at the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the self-made millionaire speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE in this interview on how he achieved such feats and what it takes to make one’s business survive in Africa. Excerpts:

What spurred you into being an entrepreneur? 
I’ve always wanted to be financially independent, be my own boss and be able to create job opportunities. So when getting a blue collar job became difficult after I completed my tertiary education, I started selling eggs and it was during this time that I discovered I did not need to be employed anymore.
How easy was it getting started as an entrepreneur?
It was never easy, and it will never be easy to start up. I faced a lot of difficulties, so many hurdles and obstacles. In fact, all odds were against me, but I was determined to make my dream a reality.

Sunday 1 February 2015

Meeting Dr Dre, one of the highest points of my career —Fliptyce

Fliptyce is one name that would ring a bell in one’s memory, judging by his immense contribution to the Nigerian music scene as one of its top producers. Famously known for his incredible work on P-square’s chop my money remix featuring international super star Akon, Folorunso Busayo Phillips is a producer that evolved from being paid N1,500 to record a beat, to charging at least $1,500 for one now. He spoke with DOYIN ADEOYE, in this interview, about his career, his new management deal with Dr Dre’s Aftermath Entertainment, among other issues. Excerpts:
You were recently signed to Dr Dre’s Aftermath Entertainments…
Recently, during my last trip, my international manager, Opi One, who operates an outfit, ‘True Shine’ was able to have a partnership deal with bombrush and Aftermath. The deal was for me to be producing some of their songs. It was a big deal for me because Dr Dre is the richest man in this industry and the first to cross a billion dollars in acquisitions. Now, for me to be in the studio with him and shake hands is a big deal. Some may not see it that way, but the fact is that I am the first African producer or entertainer to be in a studio with Dr Dre is phenomenal. So, I feel good about it and I am looking forward to dropping the first release from Aftermath soon.
When and how did you develop the passion for music?
My passion for music started as a child. I started in the choir. We were taught songs; we would write it down in books, rehearse it and render special numbers in those days. I was also a part of a band both in primary and secondary school. I played the bass drum. I remember we used to organise social nights then and mime popular songs. I believe that was the foundation I had and I worked on it. So, music has always been in me.

My brother is my most valuable movie producer —Gabriel Afolayan

A part of the popular Afolayan family, Gabriel Afolayan is a versatile artistic individual with his impressive acting skills and delivery of soulful music. Also known by stage name, G-Fresh, he speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE about his career and relationship with his brothers, among other things. Excerpts:

How was growing up?
It was a normal childhood like every other person’s. It was a very cordial father-son relationship and I loved most part of it. The experience is my antecedent, one cannot rule that out. It is a great influence in what I do today.
What childhood memories do you have?
Although we were young then, we were made to see what he did. We were not very actively involved, but we were there. He showed us a whole lot of stuffs and he made mention of the fact that if any of us was interested, we could pick it up from there.
The path I’m walking right now has always been my childhood dreams. I have always had passion for this. I didn’t deceive myself on anything else.
How did the foray into movies professionally begin for you?
I started as a child actor, so it’s been a long time coming for me. I grew up into the trade. I learnt the trade both formally and informally, so it is something I have always been doing. And it has been an awesome experience. Just like every other business, you have ups and downs; you have it good, bad and ugly. It’s never  smooth sailing, but whatever comes good to you, there is always a journey to it.

Wednesday 14 January 2015

I refuse some roles now because I am born again

Toyin Aimakhu Johnson is an actress that has been soaring since she joined the movie industry over a decade ago. The talented lady, who hails from Auchi, Edo State, in this interview, speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE about her career, marriage, the movie industry, among other issues. Excerpts:
How would you describe yourself as a person?
I am first and foremost, a wife. I see myself as a role model, daughter, mother to-be and a born again Christian.
Born again? That sounds strange?
Yes, I have fully given my life to Christ, because I realised that without Him, one is nothing. I was born and brought up as a born again Christian, but the thing is when you get into school, you’ll meet a lot of people and they influence you. But, I have been into the world and I’m back. So I can tell right from wrong now.
What influenced your decision to go back to Christ?
I would say my husband and my pastor. My husband is a practising Christian and they both influenced my life positively.

Thursday 8 January 2015

New Year resolutions every student should make

It is a new year, a time of the year that gives an opportunity to start afresh and set reality goals to look forward to. Do you make New Year resolutions? Here are some more you could include on the list.
Don’t forget to be a student
Many students often forget the fact that they are students and quickly turn their backs on their primary responsibilities of facing their studies and making good grades. This is a habit that should be dropped this year.
Also ironically, others get so engrossed in their studies that they forget that they are actually students.
What do I mean? Although your studies should be your priority, the university gives an experience like any other; it gives you the opportunity to discover yourself. Do something different; you could volunteer, it not only helps you grow as a person, but also looks great on a resume.
Party and hang out with friends that will motivate you. Enjoy life. The trick is maintaining moderation and not overdoing it. Try to balance both sides.

Our New Year Wishes for Nigeria —Student beauty queens


Monday 5 January 2015

Generally acclaimed movies of 2014

The Nigerian movie industry improved drastically this year, with many world-class productions to show for it. With captivating storylines and presentations different from what the audience is used to. Doyin Adeoye chronicles some movies that went beyond the imagination of many movie lovers in 2014.
Half of a Yellow Sun
Not just in Nigeria, ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’ is one of the most acclaimed films from Africa in 2014. Based on the story of a couple in the newly independent Nigeria and the effect of the Nigerian Civil War of the late 1960s on the family, the film is an adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel of the same title.
With world-wide rave reviews and critical acclaim, the N1.27 billion ($8m) budgeted movie was directed by Biyi Bandele. First shown across cinemas in Nigeria on August 1, the movie featured both Nollywood and Hollywood actors which included Chiwetel Ejiofor, John Boyega, Genevieve Nnaji, Hakeem Kae-Kazim, Joseph Mawle, Kasper Michaels, Onyeka Onwenu, Paul Hampshire and Thandie Newton, among others.

Medicinal benefits of fruits and leaves


Herbs and natural fruits have been a means of maintaining good health over time, but with the advent of modern health care services, traditional herbal treatments seem to be going down the drain. However, Reverend Tony Akinyemi, among other people, still believes in the importance, effectiveness and reliability of natural plants. DOYIN ADEOYE reports his convictions.

THERE have been numerous of controversies surrounding the usage of herbal medicine. From the modern health practitioners to religious groups and traditionalists, the argument rages on. But when a clergyman says many benefits abound in usage of herbal leaves and fruits, all ears must be opened.Speaking at a lecture organised by the Foursquare Gospel Church, at Oke Bola, Ibadan district, Reverend Tony Akinyemi, emphasised the importance of good health and how to achieve it with the aid of natural plants and faith in God's words. Having been his passion for more than a decade, Akinyemi explained how an individual's health affects his entirety, 'when you are sick, you are distracted and you cannot maintain a focus, thus your productivity declines.

Exposing some flesh won't kill... Adunni Ade

Born to a Nigerian father and an American/German mother, Adunni Adewale is a fast-rising star in the Nigerian movie industry. Popularly known as Adunni Ade, the beautiful actress, in this interview with DOYIN ADEOYE, speaks on why she relocated to Nigeria, her style and career among other things.

Adunni Adewale as a brand
In terms of brand, I would say that I am a hardworking, dedicated and a strong-minded person. I believe in hard work to attain my best in my choice of career.
Growing up
Just like everyone, we all have one story or the other to tell and mine is no exception. Overall, my childhood groomed me to be my best as I am today.

I didn’t follow anyone’s music formula, I created mine — Ikechukwu

Ikechukwu Onunaku is one rapper with intense lyrical vocabulary rap and has managed to stay relevant in the music industry for years. Popularly known as Killz, he speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE about his brand, the World Famous Academy (WFA), issues with Dbanj, why he is always in the news, among other things. Excerpts:

What kind of childhood did you have?
I’d say I had somewhat of a privileged childhood, because I had seen a lot of things out there. I never wanted anything as a child. I was born abroad, but raised here in Nigeria. It was a lot of fun; I was in Nigeria until I was about 17 before I moved back to the UnitedStates.
How would you define Ikechukwu as a brand?
Brand wise, I believe I’ve had a rocky road as far as my career is concerned in Nigeria, but one thing is for sure, I am a significant name when it comes to entertainment and I am definitely one of those who brought the game to where it is today.