Family and friends converged on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at the historical Trenchard Hall of the University of Ibadan (UI) to honour and celebrate the legacies and achievements of late, great Journalist, Olutade Makinde—a towering figure in the entertainment and media industries.
The 3-in-1event in memory of the great mediaman, which featured a foundation unveiling, a book launch, and awards, was graced by top dignitaries and luminaries from various sectors. Their presence underscored the high regard in which Makinde was held and contributed to the program’s resounding success. The book, titled OLU MAKINDE: MASTER OF HIS GAME, was unveiled as a centerpiece of the celebration.
For Makinde’s family—especially his children—the occasion marked both an honor and the realization of a long-held dream to celebrate the achievements and enduring legacy of their late father. Makinde, who made his mark as the entertainment editor at the now-defunct Sketch Press Limited and The Nigeria Tribune. He was fondly remembered for his trailblazing work.
Speaking at the event, Senator Babafemi Ojodu, who officially opened the program, noted, “Honoring the late Olutade Makinde is imperative given his enormous success and contributions to the entertainment sector and the media industry in the Southwest nation as a whole.”
He added that Makinde’s versatile reporting and entrepreneurial spirit helped promote numerous musicians—including King Sunny Ade, who rose to prominence partly due to Makinde’s efforts.
Reflecting on Makinde’s legacy, Senator Ojodu said, “The great late Olu Makinde, who excelled in entertainment journalism, was in a league of his own. As the entertainment editor at Sketch Press Limited and The Nigeria Tribune, he used his expertise to promote renowned figures such as King Sunny Ade, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey, Shina Peters, Roy Chicago, and many others.
“Celebrating his memory is both a welcome and well-deserved tribute. I want to commend his children, particularly author Tade Makinde II and Barrister Gbenga Makinde, for this fitting homage. This legacy will undoubtedly stand the test of time.”
He further recalled that Makinde was close to many, including King Sunny Ade, and that his contributions to the success of numerous artistes and the industry at large cannot be overstated.
“Throughout his career, he was driven not by financial gain but by the pursuit of fulfillment and a good reputation. Uncle Makinde made his mark through hard work, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his profession,” he remarked.
In his address, the author, Tade Makinde II expressed joy at the overwhelming turnout of friends and well-wishers. Tade, who once served as an entertainment reporter and editor at The Nigeria Tribune, recalled that his father passed away in February 2015. “After my meeting with Mr. Clement Ige about how we could honor our dad, he suggested creating a book in his memory. I then discussed the idea with my brother, and the journey began,” Tade explained.
He continued, “I thank the Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State Governor, Pastor Olanrewaju Suleiman, Ph.D., for his outstanding contributions to the project. Our appreciation also goes to our father and mentor, Ambassador (Dr.) Yemi Farounbi, for his significant role in the success of this book.”
According to Tade, the project took three years to complete and now stands as a monumental tribute to their hero.
Versatile gospel singer, Evangelist (Dr.) Funmi Aragbaye who lauded the family’s initiative said, “We were very close with the late Olu Makinde before his passing; he was also very close to my husband. They both served in various capacities at Sketch Press Limited and The Nigeria Tribune in 1976. His records and achievements are highly encouraging. He was a fearless and objective journalist, whose accuracy in reporting was reminiscent of a griot with a pen,” she said.
Aragbaye further decried the poor remuneration of journalists and called for intervention by stakeholders and the government to better support the profession.
Representing former Kano State Governor Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Alhaji Ahmed Sawaba emphasized, “Our leader cherishes education and anyone with the talent to write. Today, we celebrate the memory of an icon—Olutade Makinde—who used his writing skills in journalism to shape society and our country in countless ways.”
In his address, the chairman of the project planning committee, Ambassador (Dr.) Yemi Farounbi, described both the book and the foundation as a fitting tribute to the late media guru, noting that the legacy will undoubtedly endure for many years. Recalling the immense commitment and sacrifice invested in the project, he commended Tade Makinde, Gbenga Makinde, and the entire family for their worthwhile efforts.
In a brief review, Dr. Jimoh Emmanuel stated, “The man ‘Tolumakinde’ has not died but lives on through his good works and enduring memory.” He described the late entertainment guru as a journalist of impeccable character who dynamically shaped the industry by promoting indigenous artistes such as King Sunny Ade, Chief Commander, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey, Roy Chicago, Shina Peters, and many others.
“This book is a celebration of quality parenting, significant contributions to journalism, and its positive impact on society. Indeed, he was a master of his game, and his memory will live forever through his achievements,” Dr. Emmanuel added.
The Programme also featured a documentary showcasing the life, times, and achievements of the late Olutade Makinde, and was attended by numerous dignitaries and industry leaders.
Among those present were the Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde; Pastor Olanrewaju Suleiman, Ph.D.; Ambassador Olayinka Agboola, publisher of Parrot Extra Magazine; former NTA Ibadan sports analyst Mr. Feyi Ogunduyile; Dr. Badmus Idris Olagoke; Micho Ade; and many others.
Credit: ooduanews.com
