Chief Ayòbámidélé Àbáyòmí Ojútelégàn Àjàní Momodu, commonly referred to as Dele Momodu, was born on May 16, 1960, in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, is pivotal figure in Nigerian media as a journalist, publisher, and entrepreneur, most celebrated for establishing and directing Ovation International magazine. His dynamic journey across media, politics, and enterprise showcases extraordinary tenacity amid early adversities.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Ayòbámidélé Àbáyòmí Ojútelégàn Àjàní Momodu |
| Date of Birth | May 16, 1960 |
| Place of Birth | Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Osun State |
| Partner | Mobolaji Abiodun Momodu |
| Children | Four (Pekan, Yole, Eniafe, Korewa) |
| Occupations | Journalist, Publisher, Businessman, Motivational Speaker |
| Net Worth | ~$40 million |
Early Life and Education
The youngest of three siblings, Momodu lost his father at age 13 and navigated poverty with support from his mother and kin.
She prioritized education as his key to overcoming challenges. He secured a Bachelor’s degree in Yoruba Language in 1982 and a Master’s in English Literature in 1988 from Obafemi Awolowo University (formerly University of Ife).
Career
Dele Momodu’s career began with early roles in education and administration, lecturing at Oyo State College of Arts and Science during his National Youth Service (1982-1983), serving as private secretary to Ondo State’s Deputy Governor Akin Omoboriowo (1983-1985), and managing Motel Royal for the Ooni of Ife in 1986.
He advanced in journalism at African Concord under MKO Abiola in 1988, contributing to Weekend Concord, National Concord, Sunday Concord, Business Concord, and Isokan, rising to literary and news editor by 1989.
From 1990-1991, he edited Classique magazine as Nigeria’s highest-paid editor, then founded Celebrities-Goodwill Limited PR firm for clients like Abiola, Mike Adenuga, and Hakeem Belo-Osagie, leading media campaigns for Abiola’s 1993 presidential bid and Olu Falae’s 1999 run.
Facing persecution under Sani Abacha, Momodu exiled to Benin, Togo, Ghana, and the UK, launching Ovation International in 1996, which became Africa’s top bilingual celebrity magazine.
He later expanded with Ovation TV and The Boss Newspapers in 2015, pens the “Pendulum” column for ThisDay, and pursued politics with presidential bids in 2011 (National Conscience Party) and 2023 (PDP), earning honors like a 2016 Doctor of Humane Letters from the University of Professional Studies, Accra.
Personal Life
Momodu married Mobolaji Abiodun (née Miss Mobolaji Adaramaja) on December 19, 1992. They share four sons: Pekan (born 1994), Yole (born 1996), Eniafe (born 1997), and Korewa (born 2004). He is also the uncle of Sophia Momodu.
Controversies
Momodu’s exile in the 1990s arose from his Abiola ties under Abacha’s anti-democratic rule, though he was later exonerated. His 2011 and 2023 presidential bids faced scrutiny as frustration-fueled and PDP internal conflicts. No significant legal controversies appear in verified records.
Net Worth
Dele Momodu’s fortune is estimated near $40 million, fueled by Ovation International, real estate, PR ventures, and media expansions.
Awqrds and Recognitions
Dele Momodu has earned numerous awards and honors over his career, highlighting his influence in media, leadership, and philanthropy.
- Media Icon Award (South West Advancement Award and Investment Summit, 2024): For contributions to journalism and Ovation Media Group.
- Prestigious Value Leadership Award (Nigeria, a subsidiary of Moonlite Integrated Concept, 2023): For dedication and societal impact.
- Special Recognition Award (EMY Africa, 2023): For elevating African narratives globally.
- Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (University of Professional Studies, Accra, 2016): For media excellence and influence.
- 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa (2016 or later): For peace advocacy and cultural promotion.
- Vigor Unsung Heroes Awards International: For work as a journalist, publisher, and philanthropist.
