Tuesday, 6th June 2023, friends and colleagues gathered at Freedom Park in Lagos to eulogise a very knowledgeable yet, humble man with shinning intellect and satorial excellence –
Femi Odugbemi FTA – as part of weeklong activities headlined by the irrepressible Jahman Anikulapo marking Odugbemi’s 60th birthday celebration.
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Guests were treated to a well-produced documentary, featuring a slice of his early paths in the creative industry.
From his dreadlocks-wearing days as Radio and TV producer in the advertising agency, Lintas, to setting up Zuri 24 Media where he currently makes motion picture magic.
Emeka Mba, Ajoke Silva, Jahman Anikulapo FTA, Bimbo Oloyede, Olu Akanmu, Sir Steve Omojafor, Yori Folarin, Prof. Niyi Coker, Dr.. Anwuli Agina all paid glowing tributes to this incredible ideas person who was last year admitted as a voting member of the prestigious Oscars motion picture academy of arts and sciences.
This co-executive director of iREP, long standing Jury chairman of AMVCA and pioneer Director, Multichoice Talent Factory, was roundly described as a man “raising an army of creatives” .
Other great personalities at the event included Chief Kayode Aderinokun, Tunde Kelani, Segun Odegbami MFR, Victor Okhai, Steve Ayorinde, Zik Zulu Okafor, Yinka Davis, Dr. Reuben Abati, Toyin Akinosho, Steve Imobhio, Stephen Ogundele FTA, Mike Nliam, Jaiye Ojo with their presence attested to the many sides of this story-teller.
Commendations were wrapped up by our adopted mother and greatest creative aunt of all time, Taiwo Ajayi Lycet. In her words..” Femi Odugbemi’s journey is so far …but oh how wonderful the rest will be.”
As I conclude my own little tribute, I join my voice to those who have commended him and add may God stand by him in this beautiful journey.
This tireless creative who represents the possibilities in Nigeria inspite of Nigeria,
a three-term Jury head of Ugandan Film Festival has written and produced award winning commercials and documentary films.
He has also produced long standing critically acclaimed television drama series on the Multichoice network TINSEL, BATTLEGROUND, BRETHREN including feature films like Bariga Boys (2009), Gidi Blues (2016), Maroko (2017) etc.
It is my prayer that you continue to be a shinning light and be relentless in providing leadership in Nigerias creative industry.
May you have peace in your mind and joy in your soul.
Happy Sixtieth Birthday
**Onwochei, FTA, is a filmmaker, writer and public commentator
