LAGOS, Nigeria – May 18, 2025 – Chief Dele Momodu, the charismatic publisher of Ovation International and a towering figure in African media, celebrated his 65th birthday on May 16, 2025, with events that underscored his enduring influence as a journalist, philanthropist, and cultural ambassador. The milestone was marked by a blend of intellectual discourse, star-studded celebrations, and heartfelt tributes, cementing Momodu’s legacy as a media mogul and advocate for African excellence.
The festivities began with the second edition of the Dele Momodu Leadership Lecture at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos, themed “How to End Hunger and Poverty in Africa.” Former President Olusegun Obasanjo delivered a compelling keynote address, with former President Goodluck Jonathan as the Special Guest of Honour. Hosted by Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, the lecture showcased Momodu’s commitment to addressing Africa’s pressing challenges. The day culminated in a glamorous Dinner and Gala Night at the Balmoral Event Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, attended by luminaries including billionaire Razaq Okoya, music icon Davido, and Aare Gani Adams. A viral moment emerged when Davido prostrated to greet Momodu, his baby mama Sophia Momodu’s uncle, sparking widespread online buzz.
Born on May 16, 1960, in Ile-Ife, Momodu’s journey from modest roots to global prominence is a testament to resilience and vision. A graduate of the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) with degrees in Yoruba (1982) and English Literature (1988), he rose to prominence as Nigeria’s highest-paid editor by 1990, working with African Concord and Classique magazine. In 1996, while in exile, he founded Ovation International, a bilingual magazine celebrating African success stories, which has become a global symbol of aspiration. His weekly ThisDay column, “Pendulum,” remains a bold voice on national issues.
Momodu’s influence extends beyond media. A philanthropist and mentor, he has supported initiatives like palliatives for Nigerian traders displaced in Ghana and nurtured countless journalists. The inauguration of the Dele Momodu Leadership Centre in Ibadan during the celebrations highlighted his dedication to societal progress. Tributes poured in from leaders like Governor Adeleke, who praised Momodu’s humility, and Sophia Momodu, who hailed him as a guiding light on Instagram. Posts on X echoed this, calling him a “billionaire of hearts” and a “living legend.”
As Momodu steps into his 66th year, his global network—spanning presidents, monarchs, and celebrities—positions him as a bridge between Africa and the world. Stakeholders Magazine salutes Chief Dele Momodu for redefining African storytelling and inspiring generations.
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