As Seun Oloketuyi celebrates his 50th birthday, friends, colleagues and associates are reflecting on a remarkable journey shaped by vision, determination, creativity and a commitment to Nigeria’s entertainment and media industries.
In a tribute to Oloketuyi, Prince Adeyemi Aseperi-Shonibare described him as a man who does not merely conceive ideas but works tirelessly to turn them into reality.
According to him, Oloketuyi’s career has cut across journalism, publishing, public relations, event management, filmmaking and entrepreneurship.
He recalled first knowing Oloketuyi from his days at Fame Magazine, where he followed his growing influence in Nigeria’s entertainment and media space. Their relationship later became closer through their mutual friend, Akin Adeoya.
One of the experiences that strengthened their relationship was the Police People’s Marathon in Abuja, which had about 23,000 registered participants. Oloketuyi was responsible for logistics during the major event.
Prince Aseperi-Shonibare said the responsibility demonstrated Oloketuyi’s ability to coordinate people, manage relationships and remain composed while handling demanding assignments.
He noted that those qualities have remained central to Oloketuyi’s career over the years.
Building Nigeria’s Entertainment Industry
Oloketuyi’s contribution to entertainment, according to the tribute, extends beyond his association with celebrities and events.
He has worked as a journalist, publisher, documentarian, organiser, entrepreneur, connector and institution builder.
He has also served as a public relations consultant to individuals and organisations in the public and private sectors, helping them manage communication, visibility and relationships.
His work on directories documenting personalities and professionals in the Nigerian music and Nollywood industries also reflected his belief in the importance of preserving the history and achievements of the entertainment sector.
The Birth Of BON Awards
A major milestone in Oloketuyi’s career was the establishment of the Best of Nollywood Awards, popularly known as BON Awards.
Prince Aseperi-Shonibare recalled providing input and consultancy during the early stages of the awards platform.
The first edition was held in Ikeja, Lagos, before the initiative expanded beyond Lagos and developed relationships with stakeholders across the country.
BON Awards has since travelled to more than eight states, providing a platform for recognition and celebration within Nigeria’s film industry. The 2026 edition, according to the tribute, is scheduled to take place in Enugu State.
From Celebrating Filmmakers To Becoming One
Oloketuyi later moved from documenting and celebrating the entertainment industry to becoming an active participant in filmmaking.
He has worked as a film producer and filmmaker, with projects including Blogger’s Wife, Last Man Standing, Adedibu, Awujale, Babalaje and Exco.
Several of his projects have focused on Nigerian personalities, politics, traditional institutions, culture and history.
The tribute described this aspect of his career as more than entertainment, noting that his biographical and historical films contribute to preserving stories about Nigeria for future generations.
His film Last Man Standing, for instance, explored the political journey of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while other projects examined personalities and institutions such as Lamidi Adedibu and the Awujale.
Embracing The Digital Era
Oloketuyi has also continued to adapt to changes in the media and entertainment landscape.
From magazines and industry directories to awards, film production and digital distribution, he has consistently embraced new platforms and opportunities.
His latest film project, Wife Material, where he served as Supervising Producer, explores themes including relationships, marriage, ambition, identity and contemporary society.
The film is currently available on YouTube, giving the project access to a wider digital audience.
Author And Networker
Beyond journalism, awards and filmmaking, Oloketuyi has also ventured into book publishing.
His latest book, How To Win Elections In Nigeria, represents another dimension of his interest in politics, communication, mobilisation and Nigerian society.
The book was reviewed by Wale Olaleye, Deputy Editor of ThisDay Newspapers, at an event attended by politicians, family members, friends and associates.
The tribute also highlighted Oloketuyi’s ability to build relationships across different sectors, describing him as a strong networker with connections spanning entertainment, government, corporate Nigeria and entrepreneurship.
According to Prince Aseperi-Shonibare, Oloketuyi does not simply maintain contacts but builds lasting relationships that have helped him create opportunities and expand initiatives such as BON Awards.
A Man Defined By Tenacity
One of the qualities particularly praised in the tribute is Oloketuyi’s determination.
Prince Aseperi-Shonibare said Oloketuyi possesses a mindset that encourages him to keep trying even when an initial attempt fails.
He described persistence as one of the qualities that has helped Oloketuyi turn ideas into achievements over the years.
At 50, the tribute argues that his journey is far from complete, with more opportunities ahead for him to contribute to entertainment, media, filmmaking and society.
Family, Faith And The Next Chapter
Beyond his public achievements, Oloketuyi was also celebrated as a devoted family man.
The tribute acknowledged the support of his family, particularly his praying mother and wife, describing their encouragement and sacrifice as an important part of his journey.
His 50th birthday was described as more than a milestone but as a testimony of grace, preservation and achievement.
Prince Aseperi-Shonibare expressed confidence that the next 50 years would bring greater wisdom, influence, responsibility, impact and fulfilment.
And Of Course, Arsenal
The tribute also highlighted Oloketuyi’s passion for Arsenal Football Club.
His love for the English club was presented as another reflection of his personality — hopeful, passionate, faithful and persistent.
The writer recalled how Arsenal-related birthday celebrations, including a birthday cake, had provided memorable moments for Oloketuyi.
The club’s victory over Chelsea on the eve of his birthday was humorously described as the icing on his birthday cake.
The tribute concluded by celebrating Oloketuyi as a journalist, publisher, filmmaker, author, organiser, networker, family man and believer who continues to pursue his dreams.
At 50, Prince Aseperi-Shonibare said Oloketuyi should see the occasion not as the end of a chapter but as the beginning of another phase filled with greater opportunities.
He wished him continued success, stronger family ties, greater influence and an enduring legacy.
“Happy 50th birthday, my dear Aburo,” the tribute concluded, urging Oloketuyi to keep thinking, believing, pursuing and making things happen.
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