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| Alhaji Abdul-Hakeem Ayinde Soaga |
The illustrious, successful, noble and modest Top Nigerian Journalist, the CEO/General Manager of Ogun State Television (OGTV), Alhaji (Hon.) Abdul-Hakeem Ayinde Soaga amazed me with his calmness, humility, sincerity, and also love and passion for the underprivileged people. Alhaji Soaga is a man that I respect and cherish just for being him. He speaks out in such a simple, clear and straight forward manner that I wished the interview never stopped; but we both had loaded schedule, we rounded it up; it was held on the 7th of January 2015 at a location in Abeokuta, Ogun State (Nigeria). Here it goes:
You are a successful Journalist, what does this mean to you?
I would say that, I see myself as ordinary; I don't take myself seriously, I'm ordinary. I'm known everywhere, people see me and show warmth, it's humbling. TV is powerful, it spreads your name everywhere and takes your face to millions of homes and you become part of the household without knowing it. This is refreshing, and I do appreciate the fact that people like my presentation; I am glad.
It can be tiring, but I have learnt to roll with my commitments.
Who is your idol?
I have been in broadcasting since 1978, I have been known since then, when I was growing up TV was not popular, it was mainly radio. Do I say the person I love then was Olusesan Ekisola who auditioned me at Ogun Broadcasting Corporation (OGBC) in June 1978; he was the senior presenter at OGBC radio. By August 1978 I joined OGBC and began my career as a broadcaster.
What have you given back to the society?
People that had the opportunity to watch my programme can say better. From radio to TV, I have worked at the National Assembly, International Relations, Political Desk; I have made impact financially. I was the first NTA correspondent to generate foreign signal covering Nigeria from Monrovia (Liberia) in 2006; which gave birth to NTA International.
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| Alhaji Abdul-Hakeem Ayinde Soaga & Sola Opesan Brown at a meeting at a location in Abeokuta |
Very good question; we need change in Nigeria to better handle corruption. The current government governed by Jonathan has proved that corruption can not be tackled by them, so we need a new leadership.
Which Animal would you liken yourself to?
Fish. I'm affected by my environment, be it happiness or sadness. You feel poor when there are loads of poor people around you. I feel their pain.
If you were not a Journalist; what would you be?
A lawyer. My father had a diploma in law, I also have a sister that's a lawyer. I believe the undying love to be a lawyer comes from my dad.
What's your take about Nigeria Politics?
Nigeria politics get as e bi...because people are there for self interest, on the other hand the followers push the leaders into corruption because of too much demand. Corruption is an unending circle.
Tell us what people don't know about you?
I'm an open page, people think they know so much about me, while they don't know all. I have no secrets; I'm too trusting, so people can easily take advantage of me.
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| Sola Opesan Brown at OGTV Abeokuta |
I belong to The Baptist Boys High School Abeokuta Old Boys Association, which I have served as National Secretary and Social Secretary, two terms respectively. Also, Abuja Branch Chairman twice.
Are you charitable?
In Nigeria you can't afford not to be charitable, because you are amongst loads of poor people.
How can we eradicate poverty in Nigeria?
Education will eradicate poverty, this will give independence.
How do you unwind?
I particularly unwind by spending time with my family; sometimes I don't eat at all on Sundays, I'm relaxed being around my family even without food I feel good with them.
What's the easiest part of your job?
Presentation. It comes natural to me, I enjoy it.
What's the most difficult part of your job?
Everything comes easy, nothing difficult. I pre-plan, I like to rehearse my script so I don't embarrass myself.
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| Sola Opesan Brown at OGTV Abeokuta |
I'm still technically a staff of NTA, but I may not return, I might just retire after June 2015, and then go fully into politics or go into Media Consultancy Management.
What do you want people to know about you and remember you for?
I'm a guy that has restored OGTV popularity as a TV station in Ogun State, South West Nigeria, Nigeria, and around the world.
Best day of the week and why?
Monday. On Monday, I'm refreshed, I hit the week with passion and energy to go for the whole week.
Awesome: Thank you.
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