Honours To Quiet Change Agents – 2

Femi Akintunde-Johnson

Finally, we have come to the end of the year 2024, and the final chapter in our celebration of genuine change agents in the Nigerian entertainment world. For the past three weeks, we have concentrated attention on the remarkable life and impact of a journalist cut short by the cold hands of death at mere 30 years of age. We conclude our citations of the second set of awardees at the just concluded Wale Olomu Memorial Awards (WOMA 2024)…with a hint that the New Year would not only be prosperous and positively eventful, but that more hidden gems whose pioneering or painstaking investment in the growth of Nigerian entertainment could not be overlooked, would be identified, recognized and celebrated. 

Here are our final roll call of honorees:

OLUFEMI ADERIBIGBE (KWAME) – Media Executive, Broadcaster & Pioneer of Nigerian Entertainment

  Femi Aderibigbe, widely celebrated as Kwame, is a visionary media executive, broadcaster, and entertainment industry pioneer whose impact reverberates across Nigeria’s music, television, and radio sectors. With over two decades of transformative contributions, Kwame has emerged as one of the architects of contemporary Nigerian entertainment, using his platform to amplify African music, culture, and storytelling on a global scale.

  Kwame’s journey began in radio broadcasting, where his distinctive voice, magnetic personality, and unwavering passion for music garnered a dedicated audience. His transition into television marked a new era in African media, as he founded Nigezie, Nigeria’s first urban music and lifestyle channel. Nigezie has been instrumental in spotlighting African talent, showcasing Nigerian music videos, and serving as a launchpad for some of today’s most prominent African artists.

  As a tastemaker and trailblazer, Kwame has played a pivotal role in the global rise of Afrobeats, redefining artist promotion and innovating content creation. His entrepreneurial acumen and visionary leadership have solidified his status as a cornerstone of the Nigerian entertainment industry. Passionate about youth empowerment, he has mentored the next generation of African talent, inspiring excellence and originality.

For his groundbreaking achievements, unwavering vision, and enduring commitment to African media and entertainment, the WOMA Steering Committee proudly bestows the SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD upon Femi Aderibigbe (Kwame) for his outstanding contributions to the growth of the entertainment industry.

EDI LAWANI – Pioneer, Visionary, Mentor

  Edi Lawani, fondly referred to as the “godfather of showbiz,” is one of Nigeria’s most respected figures in the entertainment industry. With over four decades of dedication, Lawani has set the gold standard for live event production and management in Africa. His career, marked by professionalism, innovation, and excellence, has solidified his position as a key architect of Nigeria’s thriving entertainment ecosystem.

  He is the Head Consultant at Kukuruku Inc., a total entertainment production and management company, as well as Showbiz Network Services Ltd. and Paragonis Multi-Media Productions. Lawani is also the founder of Órúpèzá Festivals, a unique, needs-based hybrid initiative fostering community-driven entertainment. His multifaceted career has seen him serve as a university undergraduate events promoter, journalist, teacher, artist manager, and music administrator with the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN). These experiences laid the foundation for his current role as a “special event consultant.”

  Lawani has worked with or contributed to projects featuring renowned artists and events, including Onyeka Onwenu, Angélique Kidjo, Awilo Logomba, 2Baba and Plantashun Boyz, Trybesmen, and Ras Kimono. He has also been instrumental in organizing landmark events such as Lekki Sunsplash, Star Mega Jam concerts (featuring R. Kelly, Shaggy, Busta Rhymes, and Nas), Rothmans Mega Groove Concert Tour (with Caron Wheeler, Via B, and Stacy Phipps), and AfroChella (Ghana) with Burna Boy, Asake, and Shatta Wale. His expertise has been sought after for productions like Lagos New Year Countdown, Kilimanjaro concerts (with Boyz II Men, Joe, and Sean Paul), Star Quest Talent Hunt, Coke Studio (Kenya), West African Idols, MTV Nigeria’s launch, Miss Nigeria, Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, Google Africa Day, and the Airtel rollout in Nigeria, among others.

  Renowned for his expertise in event production and stage management, Lawani has played pivotal roles as Show Producer, Consultant, Adviser, or Director for prestigious events like AMVCA, The Headies, Sound City MVP Awards, Fame Music Awards, St. Moritz Style Awards, AMAA, CAF Awards (Ghana), Gulder Ultimate Search, Big Brother Naija, and many more. His meticulous approach and innovative ideas have elevated live music and performance culture, setting benchmarks that continue to inspire and influence generations.

Beyond his technical prowess, Edi Lawani is a committed mentor, consultant, and visionary leader, guiding countless emerging talents and professionals in the entertainment and event production industry. His collaborations with leading brands, artists, and organizers reflect his unwavering commitment to excellence and his deep understanding of media, public relations, and the evolving landscape of show business.

 For his immense contributions to African entertainment, live event innovation, and youth mentorship, the WOMA Steering Committee proudly honours Edi Lawani with the SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD for his outstanding achievements in the industry.

GLORIA RHODES – Educator, Musician, Advocate

  Gloria Rhodes is a remarkable figure whose life has seamlessly blended a passion for education, music, and child advocacy. Born on April 7, 1954, in Hamburg, Germany, to the legendary musician Elder Steve Rhodes, and Gilda Spath, Gloria grew up immersed in the vibrant worlds of creativity and culture, splitting her early years between Lagos and Ibadan. Her father’s groundbreaking role as Africa’s first Director of Programmes for television laid the foundation for Gloria’s lifelong commitment to excellence and innovation.

  A certified educator and accomplished musician, Gloria studied Education at the prestigious Froebel Institute (now Roehampton University) in London, specializing in music. Her musical journey began at an early age, earning certifications in music theory from the Royal College of Music and voice training from a member of the world-renowned Bach Choir. As a foundation member of the Steve Rhodes Voices, she represented Nigeria on international stages, notably winning accolades at the Eisteddfod Music Festival in Wales. Over the years, Gloria has collaborated with icons like Ebenezer Obey, Ayo Bankole, and Miatta Fahnbulleh, among others, enriching Nigeria’s music legacy.

  In the classroom and beyond, Gloria’s dedication to children has been unwavering. From her early years as a teacher’s aide at St. Saviour’s School, Ikoyi, to her leadership roles at Ikoyi Nursery School, Corporate Kids Academy, and Temple Schools, she has nurtured generations of learners. Her advocacy extends to initiatives supporting underprivileged children through organizations like The Purple Girl Foundation, United for Kid, and Equipped 2Excel, while also serving as Executive Director of the Steve Rhodes Foundation, preserving Nigeria’s rich musical heritage.

  For her outstanding contributions to education, music, and child advocacy, the WOMA Steering Committee is proud to present Gloria Rhodes with the LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, celebrating her lifelong commitment to empowering young minds and preserving Africa’s cultural legacy.

(The End)