Ali Baba

Babafemi Ojudu

Last Sunday, Ali Baba graced us as the compere at the Olowe of Ise event in Lagos. It was an occasion not just of art and celebration, but of mentorship and uplifting others—principles I hold dear. One of my enduring commitments has been mentoring the youth in Ekiti, fostering opportunities for growth and exposure. To that end, I invited Sola, a promising young radio personality from Ekiti, to shadow Ali Baba at this significant event. I hadn’t informed Ali Baba beforehand, so when he arrived, I approached him and said, “Ali Baba, meet a young and upcoming MC from Ekiti. I would love for you to mentor him.”

Without a moment’s hesitation, Ali Baba replied, “Consider it done, Egbon.” True to his word, he graciously assigned Sola roles during the event, giving him a platform that may very well have been the biggest of his career to date. That simple gesture could become a turning point for Sola, a memory and inspiration that might propel him to greater heights.

This is quintessential Ali Baba—ever supportive, humble, and generous. His success is no mystery; it stems from a heart that seeks to uplift others without reservation. Years ago, a friend in Atlanta, USA, reached out to me for help. Her daughter, an emerging talent in the American entertainment scene, wanted to connect with top Nigerian entertainers. As fate would have it, Ali Baba’s annual January event was approaching. I made a call, and, without delay, Ali Baba asked for their details. A month later, mother and daughter were in Nigeria, and the young lady shone brightly on his celebrated stage.

Thank you, Ali Baba, for being a beacon of mentorship and generosity. Your light illuminates the path for so many, and in doing so, you prove time and again that a brightly burning candle loses nothing by igniting others. Keep raising stars; the world is brighter because of you.