Friends and entertainment stakeholders are considering adapting a book written and recently launched in honour of the late veteran journalist, Olutade Makinde, into a movie.
The book titled ‘Olu Makinde: Master of His Game’ was authored by the deceased’s journalist son, Tade Makinde II and was launched at Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan on Sunday, February 16, 2025.
The biography is about the life and times of the late journalist who died ten years ago, It also contains details of how a music competition organised in 1977 completely altered the trajectory of juju music maestro, King Sunny Ade’s life.
The 3-in-1 event, which included book launch, foundation unveil, and awards in the deceased’s name, attracted top personalities, family members, associates and friends.
Indeed, the occasion marked both an honour and realisation of a long-held dream to celebrate the achievements and enduring legacy of the late Olutade Makinde, who made his mark as the Entertainment Editor of the defunct Daily Sketch, and Nigerian Tribune.
Speaking at the event, Tade expressed happiness at the overwhelming turnout of friends and well-wishers at the event.
According to him, his father achieved several feats while he was alive, which many people do not know about. This was the reason he decided to write the 174-page biography.
“The book project took three years to complete and now stands as a monumental tribute to my dad. I am happy to tell you that the book would soon be adapted into a movie, and I am pleading for your support to make this a reality,” he said.
Senator Babafemi Ojudu, host of the event, described the late Makinde as a great journalist whose advice and support many musicians and entertainers benefited from. The former presidential aide stated that the deceased was passionate about his work and wished he had come at this time when entertainment has become a goldmine.
Also speaking, the Special Guest of Honour and former Kano State governor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, commended the author for preserving the legacy of his father, while the chairman of the event’s planning committee, Ambassador (Dr) Yemi Farounbi said Olutade Makinde might be dead, but he lives in the hearts of his friends and loved ones who gathered to celebrate his life and legacy. He recommended the book to everyone.
The book reviewer, Dr. Emmanuel Jimo, described it as a memorabilia, testimonial, photo studio and biography of a fulfilled entertainment journalist and music lover.
Those who attended the ceremony included Dr. Idris Olagoke Badmus (Chief Launcher), Princess Aderonke Rahmat Adedoja, Evang. Funmi Aragbaye, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Hon. Justice Bayo Taiwo, Chief Olugbenga Olorode, veteran juju musician, Micho Ade, and Alhaji Ahmed Sawaba, Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Wildlife, representing Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State.
Others were Hon. Fola Oyekunle, Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde; Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Chief Press Secretary to Oyo State Governor; Dr. Sule Oladipupo, President Ibadan Tennis Club; Feyi Ogunduyile; Prof. Bimpe Adenugba; Barrister Gbenga Makinde; Yomi Davies; Feyikemi Niyi-Olayinka, and Adeniran Makinde, President, NANTAP.