Why I quit lecturing for broadcasting–Consoligbadun

Sulaiman Adegbenro

The name Sulaiman Adegbenro is not new to the Nigerian broadcasting sector. But it gathers more familiarity when the nickname, Consoligbadun is employed to describe him. Adegbenro who was a music lecturer at the Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, told Arts Dome that he quit lecturing because he wanted to pursue his passion for broadcasting.

He said, ‘‘I taught music at Osun State College of Education for 10 years from 1988 to 1998 but left the school to explore my talent in broadcasting.’’

Adegbenro, who came to limelight via the television programme, Consoligbadun, said his love for entertainment further increased with the commencement of the show even though it was not his first television programme.

‘‘I do not promote artistes but the popularity of the programme in a short time attracted musicians who identified with it. I think the success of the programme also made my fans to use the name of the show to call me. It instantly became an appellation. When one does something that people like and that thing is positive, it will be associated with one. In my line of business, the show, Consoligbadun, appeals to many people and because they like it, it is being used to identify me. In actual fact, Consoligbadun is the compounding of two words; Consolidated and Igbadun. The first word is meant to strengthen the Igbadun (enjoyment) of viewers of the programme. No matter the fun they may be having before the programme comes on air, it will consolidate it on a large scale, ’’ he said.

He also described the experience of his journey so far in broadcasting as rough, tough, challenging and interesting.

According to him, creativity is not encouraged by some corporate organisations who are only interested in making profits. He stated, ‘‘Every creative minded individual needs institutions that will assist to blossom his or her ideas. I am not saying they should not make money but profits should not be placed far and above assisting creative minds. This is the norm. I must add however that some of them are doing wonderfully well to promote the creative industry.’’

Adegbenro said when he started the programme in 1998, his goal was to make it appealing to every category of viewers and unique in all ramifications.

The broadcaster, who holds a degree in music from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) Osun State and a master’s in music production and management from the same university, said he currently anchors over eight radio programmes in stations across the country alongside the television programme.

Besides, he desires to own a broadcasting station and a school hinged on quality learning.

Adegbenro added, ‘‘This is something I have always dreamt of. I really desire this. I am hoping that God will make my dream come true. Also, I wish to own a school in future. It may be a school for arts or a secondary school. I just want a place of learning where quality teaching will take place. I think with the realisation of these dreams, I will be consolidating on my passion and contributing to the development of the society.’’