Today, when many young men chase shortcuts to wealth or fall into idleness, Akinlawon Olufemi Jamiu—popularly known as Akebaje Baba Ozil—stands out as a man who has chosen dignity, resilience, and hard work from childhood. In this interview with TheTabloid.net, the Higher National Diploma (HND) holder shares story behind his hand in different vocations.
How was your upbringing?
I grew up with my grandmother on Apapa Road, Ebute Meta. After her death in 1999, I moved to Bariga and later furthered my education while living alone. As a boy, I loved running errands and doing chores. My aunt even nicknamed me Anfaani Adugbo. Those habits built me into who I am today.
How did you come about your nickname Akebaje Baba Ozil?
It came from childhood. My mother lost two sons before me, and when I fell seriously ill at age four, people feared the worst. By God’s grace, I survived. A trader at Tejuosho Market once said, “eti ke omoyi ni akebaje”. Since then, my family called me Akebaje. As for Baba Ozil, I am a football lover and Arsenal fan. When Arsenal signed Mesut Özil in 2013, I named my son after him, and the name stuck.
How did you develop the spirit of doing different works?
I studied Mass Communication, which sharpened my MC skills. I learned painting in 2001 after secondary school. The livestock trade, however, is in my blood. My grandfather was said to be the first butcher at Tejuosho Market, and my father worked in Boundary Market, Ajegunle. Humility keeps me going, I believe no work is too small if it feeds my family.
What’s one memorable experience from your livestock trips up north?
After COVID, I once loaded rams to Lagos, but our vehicle broke down between Eyenkorin and Ogbomoso. We had to offload all the animals before repairs. I suffered but such experience teaches patience and resilience.
What is your advice to young people who avoid hustling and prefer shortcuts?
Believe in yourself, avoid laziness, and be content. Don’t be desperate for riches.
What gives you the greatest sense of pride?
My background.
What legacy would you like to leave behind?
A legacy that future generations will be proud to read about—a story of dignity over idleness.
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