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Popular Nigerian movie producer and author, Duke of Shomolu, has praised Dr. Nduka Obaigbena, the Chairman of Thisday Newspaper, for inviting him to the upcoming Thisday Awards, which will mark the 30th anniversary celebration of the newspaper.

In a statement shared on social media this morning, Duke expressed his excitement and gratitude for the invitation. He referred to Dr. Obaigbena as “a prince who refused to turn into a frog,” highlighting his admiration for Obaigbena’s understanding of Nigeria’s socio-political structure and his unwavering commitment to his values.

Duke recounted his encounters with Dr. Obaigbena, noting that he had met him only three times in his life. “Twice in his expansive apartment in Ikoyi, and once at the Afrif event last December, where I had gone to meet the governor. Dr. Obaigbena was seated at the front, preparing to take the stage,” he shared.

He further explained the significance of the invitation, especially given his past experiences with being overlooked by the organizers of the prestigious Thisday Awards. “Year after year, I’ve been ignored, left with an ashen face while others are celebrated,” Duke remarked. “But this time, the prince sent me an electronic invite with a personal request to RSVP, and I did so immediately.”

Duke also recounted his long admiration for the Thisday newspaper and its unmatched contribution to Nigeria’s media landscape. He fondly remembered the days when, as a young man, he would walk to Onipanu bus stop to buy the paper. “I fell in love with the beautiful prose of the writers, who became the next generation of superstar editors,” he said.

He acknowledged the transformative impact of Dr. Obaigbena’s leadership, which brought together talented writers and helped shape Thisday into a powerhouse of print journalism. “From the aesthetics of Thisday Style to the brilliant essays and features, it’s simply the best,” he said. “I have always believed this, long before I started writing for them.”

Duke also highlighted the influence of Thisday’s sister company, Arise TV, and its role in shaping national conversations. “Arise TV has become the go-to channel for many Nigerians, taking over as the premier station, even surpassing CNN in local offices.”

Despite his earlier frustrations with being ignored by the Thisday Awards organizers, Duke emphasized the significance of the upcoming event. “Tomorrow, local and international heroes will gather to celebrate Dr. Obaigbena’s vision, and I will be there, champagne in hand, enjoying the company of legends like Diana Ross.”

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