Chairman of Channels Television John Momoh on Saturday said the chairman of Troyka Holdings Dr Biodun Shobanjo is one whose phone call he would take at any time of the day because of his insights.
Momoh stated this on Saturday at a surprise party held at the Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island, Lagos to celebrate Shobanjo’s 80th birthday.
The event, organised by Shobi Collective, a group of former Insight Communication employees, mentees and friends, was the latest of several put together to honour the man widely regarded as the father of modern advertising in Nigeria.
Momoh said of Shobanjo, “He is someone whose call I would take at any time of the day because I know he has picked up one or two things while watching Channels Television and wants to make suggestions for improvement, whether in programming, presentation or content.”
Former governor of Ogun State Segun Osoba also paid homage to Shobanjo’s dedication to relationships, calling him a reliable brother and friend.
“He has never failed to attend any of my family events in Nigeria or London for decades now,” Osoba said.
Chairman of Cosse TTL and former general manager at Insight Communication Funmi Onabolu described his former boss as a mentor and motivator whose impact on countless careers continues to resonate globally.
“He is a friend, father, great motivator, and builder of men who has shaped the careers of so many young men and women excelling in different fields across the globe,” Onabolu said.
Chairman of SO&U Advertising Udeme Ufot credited his successful career to the foundational training and mentorship he received from Shobanjo during his years at Insight Communication.
Former chairman of Zenith Bank and advertising veteran Steve Omojafor captured the evening’s sentiment during the toast: “You stand tall in your personality, you stand tall in the industry, you stand tall in your contributions to Nigeria and Africa.”
In response to the accolades, Shobanjo reflected on his journey and expressed gratitude for being celebrated during his lifetime.
“I am the luckiest man on earth, being alive to hear all the good things people are saying about me. If I die tomorrow, I will dance to heaven,” he said.
Shobanjo described his 53-year career in advertising as “very interesting,” adding, “I am happy that I have been able to pass the baton to the younger generation.”
