The Magical and Miraculous Transformation of Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) Under the Auspices of Dr. Patrick Adebola

Brief History of CRIN 

CRIN was established on the First day of December 1964 as an autonomous research institute in the likeness of the Nigerian sub-station of the defunct West African Cocoa Research institute, WACRI established in 1944, which had its headquarters in Tafo, Ghana. 

The new Insitute was formed to be different from WACRI, which sole focus was Cocoa. The Nigerian Research institutes Act No. 33 of 1964 expanded CRIN's mandate to cover research on kola and coffee in addition to cocoa, but in 1975, the Agricultural Research Institutes Establishments Act further added cashew and tea to the crops under its purview - and in 2024, the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, ARCN, disclosed the inclusion of Vitex doniana (aka Black Plum), to the crops covered. Today, CRIN has a mandate to conduct research on six crops, viz, Cocoa, Kola, Coffee, Cashew, Tea, and Black Plum. The organisation's core mandate includes research to improve the production of those crops making them highly resistible to diseases. It also investigates their ecology, and effective usefulness, and making the research results available and accessible to farmers and other end users. 

Structures of CRIN 

CRIN has substations in six locations across the country, where the mandate crops have a comparative advantage, viz. 

1.Owena in Ondo State to caters for cocoa, robusta coffee and kola, in the south-west zone rain forest belt 

2.Uhonmora in Edo State, catering for cocoa in marginal forest areas. 

3.Ochaja, Kogi State for the production of cashew and kola. 

4.Ibeku, Abia State in the South-East zone to cater for cocoa and cashew. 

5.Ajassor (Cross River State) for Cocoa and Kola, and 

6.Kusuku-Mambilla (Taraba State) for Arabica coffee and tea. 

In addition, the institute also has six experimental stations across the country. They are in 

1.Okondi (Cross River State) for robusta coffee, 

2.Mayo-Selbe (Taraba State) for cocoa and robusta coffee, 

3.Ibule (Ondo State) for cocoa, 

4.Kabba (Kogi State) for robusta coffee, 

5.Ugbenu (Anambra State) for cashew, and 

6.Onisere (Ondo State) for cocoa. 

Over the years, CRIN has become indispensable in the country's quest for food security and a major pillar of agricultural research in the African sub-region. To achieve these feats, the institute is organised into eight departments under two umbrellas of technical research and service delivery. The departments are: 

1.Research (R), 

2.Farming System Research & Extension (FSR&E), 

3.End-Use Research (EUR) 

4.Production & Sub-stations (P&S). 

5.Planning Budgeting and Training (PBAT), 

6.Library Information and Documentation (LID), 

7.Finance and Account (F&A), and 

8.Administration and Supplies (A&S) 

These Departments are under the control of the Executive Director/Chief Executive, who in turn is also responsible to the ARCN and the Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources. 

The Institute in turn maintains bilateral relationships with international organisations that deal with cocoa and other mandate crops, and links with other National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIS) in state and national agencies through which its technologies and information are disseminated. 

Unveiling the Executive Director, Dr. Patrick Olusanmi Adebola 

Dr Patrick Olusanmi Adebola is a Plant Breeder/Geneticist and the current Executive Director of Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, (CRIN) Ibadan. He is an International Agricultural Research Scientist with strong background in Applied Genetics and Plant Breeding. He obtained his BSc (1987), MSc (1990), and PhD (2003) degrees in Botany from the University of Ilorin. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Business Leadership (MBL) from the Graduate School of Business Leadership, University of South Africa. Dr Adebola has more than 30 years’ experience in agricultural research and international development. 

He was a Research Team Leader for the plant breeding division of Agricultural Research Council (ARC-VOPI), South Africa, for over ten years and led many successfully completed international donor projects. Dr Adebola also previously worked for the Africa Rice Center (Africa Rice) as a Deputy Director General of the Central Agricultural Research Institute in Liberia. Before his appointment as Executive Director, CRIN, Dr Adebola worked for the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) as a Senior Scientist and Project Leader where he led the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funded Africa Yam Project and coordinated the project activities in four target countries (Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, and Nigeria) with partners in Japan, USA, France, and United Kingdom. 

Dr Adebola was a recipient of the National Productivity Order of Merit, NPOM Award, (2021). This is an award of excellence, honour and dignity conferred by the president, on the most productive individuals in Nigeria. He is also a recipient of the South Africa National Research Foundation (NRF) postdoctoral fellowship and the Rothamsted International Postdoctoral Fellowship award hosted by the Food and Environment Research Agency (FERA), Sand Hutton, York, United Kingdom. 

Dr Adebola has over 80 scientific publications in highly rated peer reviewed international journals and has supervised several postgraduate students in Nigeria and South Africa. He is a member of several scientific /professional bodies and multi-disciplinary academic societies, the most prominent of which are Science Association of Nigerian (SAN), Botanical Society of Nigeria (BOSON), Genetics Society of Nigeria (GSN), Horticultural Society of Nigeria (HORTSON), Agricultural Society of Nigeria (ASN), and Biotechnological Society of Nigeria (BSN). Dr. Adebola was recently decorated as fellow of The Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics (Ghana) and Horticultural Society of Nigeria (HORTSON). He is a widely travelled person, who during his career visited several countries including the United Kingdom, Netherlands, South Africa, United State of America, China, Taiwan, Sweden, Belgium and France among others. 

Advancement of CRIN Under Dr. Patrick Adebola as ED 

As soon as Dr. Adebola was appointed ED in 2020, he began the development move that improved on the works of previous leaders and directors of the organisation. His developmental projects rub off on human, capital and physical areas as highlighted below: 

Safety and Security 

Knowing that the safety of lives and properties should be prioritised for development, Adebola ensured the management approved the engagement of private operatives (The rangers) to boost the existing security architecture in the head office, equipping them with adequate tools, such as defensive materials, mobility and communication gadgets. Their presence on campus is reassuring that staff members and visitors can transact their businesses without fear and hindrances. 

Industrial Harmony 

Dr. Patrick Adebola resuscitated the culture of research from its comatose state by instituting a consultative approach of open-door policy that grant stakeholders free access to him. He also built a strong team spirit among the workers, ensuring a mouth-watering motivation by settling backlog of salaries, allowances and other welfare packages that were pending since 2002. 

Old staff and pensioners were carried along under the 'staff first policy’ that built workers’ confidence and fostered unity - as soon as workers received their dues; protests, strikes, and other indices of industrial disharmony vanished from the system. 

Physical Infrastructures 

The current administration has brought significant improvement to CRIN infrastructures. Perimeter Fencing and Gates: The first thing that welcomes a visitor to CRIN is its beautiful perimeter fence and gate. Aside from its aesthetics, the structure demarcates and secures the institute’s premises. 

Remodelling and rehabilitation of Admin Block: To make the working environment exciting for all categories of staff, the ED embarked on massive remodelling, renovation, and furnishing of offices in the head office and out-stations. The administrative block was given a complete turnaround, wearing a new outlook. 

Power and Internet Access: Solar energy and generating sets were also installed to boost power supply, and a 24-hour internet access is now guaranteed following management's upgrade of the bandwidth from 4 mbps to 100 mbps. 

To boost its core research mandate, a model fermenter, equipped with modern tools and set to transform the process of fermentation has been built at the head office. 

Dr Adebola and his team have just completed the construction of Cocoa Flavour Laboratory, a cutting-edge technology facility constructed in partnership with the World Cocoa Foundation, WCF. The lab is a reference point for cocoa flavours aid genotypes research in the continent. 

Road Network: All major roads in the headquarters have been tarred and failed portions on the road have been rehabilitated. The compound has also been well landscaped to make the headquarters surreal and ideal for rigorous research. 

Establishment of a Modern Gymnastics Centre. 

Health is wealth; Dr. Adebola’s administration built a modern gymnastic centre with the state-of-the-art facilities to ensure that staff and their families are healthy. 

The mother of all achievements in terms of infrastructure is the ongoing construction of a mega multi-purpose hall. The 1,500-capacity gothic edifice is close to completion and indeed beautiful to behold. The hall is expected to boost the revenue base of CRIN. 

Other efforts targeted at improving Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, include the establishment of a sachet water factory and another for beekeeping and honey production. 

Research, Innovations, and Internal Revenue 

CRIN Scientists have recorded several life-changing research breakthroughs in all its mandate crops. The studies are generally focused on producing early bearing varieties and improved yields for all crops. The institute has developed hybrid varieties of the mandate crops, including cocoa pods, G-series cashew genotypes, and draught-resistant tea genotypes. 

Millions of hybrid seedlings have been distributed to farmers all over the country. This initiative has greatly impacted the mandate crops, leading to astronomical increases in their production, revenue generation, and a better standard of living for farmers, through research, CRIN recently developed cocoa-specific fertilizer under the IDH/OCP/CRIN/AITA project. The program is a game changer, with commensurate potential of transforming cocoa farming in all regions of Nigeria. 

The institute has also embarked on maximising the value chain of the mandate crops, leading to the production of consumer goods along the value chain, some of which are in commercial quantity. These products include cocoa powder, soy chocolate, Choco-bread, cocoa wine, cocoa custard, yoghurt, and cocoa flakes. Similarly, bathing soap, washing soap, body cream, hair cream, and low-calorie cookies, and CRIN has announced the production of highly hygienic poultry feeds. 

Conclusion 

Dr. Patrick Olusanmi Adebola holds a magical wand and is endowed with miraculous touches. Like Midas, everything he touches turns to gold. He wants people to remember him as an executive director that CRIN with open door policy who contributed in terms of human resource and infrastructural developments, renovated assets, collaborated with other institutes locally and internationally, brought peace and harmony to the institute, paid arrears of over 90 Million NGN, owed no staff and had no single fracas in during his tenure.

Man-to-Man Caught in the Act

Nigerians, due to Africanism, religiosity, and high moral standards, often believe that homosexuality is taboo within their culture and alien to the traditional belief system.

In view of this, anyone engaging in such acts is considered barbaric—likened to a pestilence or an epidemic that must not only be disdained but also ostracized, lest they become a contagious germ capable of causing collateral damage and a societal pandemic.

A shocking discovery was made on May 20, 2025, at approximately 1:35 p.m.—not in a remote village, but in Mushin, a city located in the heart of Lagos State. There, an angry mob nearly lynched a young man, approximately 42 years old.

The man, Tunde Akande Theophilus, was caught in an intimate act with another man by a neighbour, who subsequently alerted the entire community. The partner’s name was unknown at the time of reporting, as he had escaped the ensuing brutality.

Tunde and his partner were beaten and sustained injuries; their clothes were shredded, and they were nearly set ablaze but for the timely intervention of the police, whose arrival was signaled by the blaring siren of a Toyota Tacoma patrol vehicle operated by the Nigerian Police Force.

Further investigation revealed that Tunde had been involved with several other men—one of whom was Rabiu Kazeem Olalekan (popularly known in the area as KC), a husband and father of one. KC is a micropreneur recognized locally for his role as a study teacher.

KC was born and raised in Mushin. His residence, located at 24 Shokunbi Street, was ransacked by community members seeking to identify more individuals like him. Fortunately, he was not home at the time of the mob’s visit. However, his family members were not spared from the wrath of the aggrieved community, which continues to search for “the germ called KC,” whom they believe has committed an abomination capable of destroying their community.

The question that community leaders and residents still expect Rabiu Kazeem Olalekan to answer is: ‘How come he married a wife, had a child, and still gets intimate with a fellow man?’ If Tunde was telling the truth and the evidence discovered on his phone proves reliable, then KC is not homosexual; he is bisexual.

In Nigeria, homosexuality or bisexuality is classified as a criminal act, punishable by up to fourteen years in prison.

The police are continuing their search for KC and other individuals allegedly involved in this illicit activity, while the community is doing everything within its power to bring them to justice.

Money is the only thing that makes people win election - Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, OFR.

There are monarchs, royalties and nobles and there are special mankind that take obeisance of kings … not because of any spectacular standards – age or creed - but because of divine orchestration. When ocean roars and people shout on top of their voices that, ‘It is a magic moment!’ Many people may wonder what and why but there can never be a more magical moment than human perception and besides, the magic moment cannot be as spectacular as the magic that makes the moment fascinating. For example, it is rare to find leopards walking the streets and of the cats’ family, there is something unique and inspiring about leopards – it is their spots and great hunting skills. 

Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, OFR – an astute pharmacist/businessman, an articulate executive, a noble with excellent character who wields the magical wand that makes every moment and place phenomenal, one afternoon, in his Sonibare Estate abode hosted the duo of Lanre Olusunmade - the Publisher of Synochure International magazine and Yomi Abayomi in an inspiring and educative session that x-rayed his life from childhood to all the daring adventures he has taken and how far the Lord has taken him nationally and internationally. Excerpts below:

Sir, in 2023, you contested  for the primaries of the presidential election under PDP. What was the motivation behind this?

Well, the motivation is that all my life,  especially my adult life, I have agonized about the situation of Nigeria. I have had a passion to play some roles to see Nigeria move from an underdeveloped third world to a prosperous, competitive first world - and that passion has been hastened by the fact that a couple of countries classified as third world in the 60’s like China, Singapore and many others have either become first world nations or close to it as developing nations. Nigeria is still third world and every human development index you look at seems to be going back instead of going forward. The corruption perception index, human development index, the longevity of life, mortality rates, infant and maternal. Malaria has remained with us since I was born. Other diseases have come and gone. There are just too many things that say that Nigeria is not moving. That passion led me into advocacy through the Manufacturer Association of Nigeria, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, the Nigerian Employers Consortium, the Organised Private Sector, and the Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce. I've advocated at the state and national levels. I've written books upon books on  my thoughts on what Nigeria needs to do. I've participated in conferences ad-infinitum. The most significant one is the Vision 2010, the Strategy Conference Vision 2020, the Nigerian Political Reform Conference of 2005-2006 … all in an effort to see Nigeria become a globally competitive nation that works for all - and when all these didn't work, especially when Muhammadu Buhari came to power and Nigeria went down to anomy, poverty, criminality and everything negative. The spirit of God tugged at my heart that, ‘It's time to quit advocacy … stop complaining, and see if the work can be done. That was the major motivation that made me go all out and see if I can emerge. All I have left was just to resign and forget about Nigeria but it is difficult for me.

Why under PDP? Why not the ruling party?

When I decided to join a political party, I had two issues. First, I had been identified with PDP. I joined PDP several years ago and persuaded my younger brother to join politics in 1998 because I was quite busy with my career - and my brother being a political animal was encouraged to be where decisions are made from my constituency, ward and upwards.  So, when I thought of the ideal political organisation, PDP readily came to my mind. Secondly, I was coming with an ideology of a new Nigeria.  I did not see the performance of APC and its ideology appealing to me because I cannot identify something positive that APC did to Nigerians that mights make me join the group.  In a sane world, APC should have been punished for the way they ran down the economy of this nation like it happens in America … if I hadn't gone to PDP, I would have gone to  ANPP.

In one of the interviews you granted during that time in one of the national dailies, you said even people in your constituency did not vote for you. What will you say is responsible for that?

It is because the Nigerian political culture is completely monetised. What is the criterion for electing anybody in any political partyin Nigeria? It's how much money you have; there's nothing about capacity, competence, or character. You can be a paedophile, armed-robber, kidnapper, and assassin combined in ope body … you may not have gone to school but if you have enough money, people will vote for you.  That is what happened in 2023.  During national elections, we have Nigerians who vote for ideology, conscience, capacity, competence, to a degree, even though that may not win you the election if you don't have sufficient money to deal with INEC, to deal with security people. Even if INEC or those who rig don't rig for you, you cannot stop them from rigging  for another person. So, money still plays a vital role when it comes to political selection process  at the primaries. The only thing that makes people win election is money, nothing else. 

Sir, looking back, what was the experience like?

Wonderful … very intersting … so fascinating. It did so much for me. First, I went around the country three times - and that enabled me to see the ends of this country and to associate with the people, to feel their pain, to ride on their rough roads, to enter their rough rooms and hotels, to feel the weather and   all that happens in those areas. I witnessed security problems face-to-face. There was a day we were driving in the north, coming from Zamfara, the bandits were on the other side of the road. The only thing that separated us was the median, but God saved me because I was on the other side, they were there with about 200 motorcycles. God was just merciful onto me and my entourage. Luckily enough, we’d had a car break down. One of the cars in our convoy broke down, and the moment the security people with us saw them, they told me to just drive off, and leave the broken-down car, which we did. I experienced everything we should know because part of the problems of leadership in Nigeria is that leaders are far from us, they are distant from us, they do not connect with us.  The second experience was that I got to know about Nigerian politics and understand it better. All of us who are not politicians interpret Nigerian politics in different dimension.  I also understood how Nigerian politicians think and it was clearer to me why Nigeria is where it is today. So, I resolved on a lot of things. I used to say, ‘Why is this or that?’ Now, I know why. Thirdly, as I told you, I went with a motivation. Permit me to say it is divine so I feel fulfilled that I did not chicken-out, I followed up to the end, did what I could do.  All I know today wouldn’t be known if I had disqualified myself because I didn't have much money or knew political father or because of my age. I have no guilt whatsoever, I feel good that I answered God's call and I believe that is not the end of the story …there is still something else God wants to achieve by that motivation.

So, are you still nursing the ambition of going back into the political ring in the future?

I cannot rule that out, but if you ask me if I want to run now, I will answer no. By doing so, I'm just limiting myself to my feelings because the first time I ran, I never thought I would go into politics. If I’d wanted to go into politics, I would have gone in the late 80’s and 90’s. In 1992, the governor of Abia  State invited me to serve in his cabinet. That would have been my first introduction to politics but I was already high up in my career ladder. At the end of the interview, the deputy governor called my sponsor and told him that my performance was extraordinary that I was the first person they made up their minds to choose but they are now struggling with the ministry that they can put me in as a pharmacist. The health ministry was the first natural option but they felt it was going to be too small for me. They even thought of making me the Commissioner for Information and Strategy to sell the State. The interview was conducted on Monday, the Deputy Governor called my sponsor on Wednesday - and on Friday the List of the Commissioners came out and my name was not in it. Was that a political game? I don't so; it was a divine intervention. How did I know it was a divine intervention? If I’d been named, I would have resigned from my job to become a Commissioner, and I would have done the work for one year, because the government was overthrown in 1993. The same May 19912, my appointment as Deputy Managing Director of Pfizer came out. If I had become Commissioner, I wouldn't be the MD. So I see the hand of God in everything.  My sponsor believed it was a political game but I told him it's the humble work of God and the moment they announced me as Deputy Manager, he organised a party to thank God that he did not divert me from my career.

What advice do you have for the younger ones who want to become politician in future?

With my experience; if you want to be a successful politician in Nigeria, you should start early. It is like a recruitment …an apprenticeship. Start early as a Councillor, become a chairman, House Rep. You must build it like a career. Don't do like those of us who come into politics, eyeing an elective office, from a business or other professional careers. Just be a professional politician. It's difficult to work-out except you've made a lot of money or you have people who are willing to sponsor you. To come in the middle is a tough job. So, my advice is enter into politics like an apprentice … climb … run, if you want to run, or have enough money to spend or look for the people who have the money to sponsor you. That's why we have this ‘Godfatherism Syndrome.’ But that's the only thing that works in Nigerian politics you can't run on your own goodwill without money. 

For the sake of our reading public, let's get to know you sir. Who is Mazi Sam? 

I was born on the 16th of August 1950. I'll be 75 years on earth by August 2025, and those years are actually more than 100 years for a normal person. I've lived for 100 years, given the kind of things I've been through. On my 25 years old birthday as a final year student at the University of Ife, I told my birthday  audience that i've lived half of my life, that if God gives me another 25 years, He would have done something extraordinary for me. Imagine someone like me who thought 25 years was half of his life who has had no reduction in his level of activities, with full utilisation of talents and skills, offering services and leadership everywhere he goes --- given an opportunity of 50 more years.  My life is full of testimony; I was born in Portharcourt, my parents and grandparents came from Abia to settle there. I am  first of 12 children from one father and two mothers. I did my primary school in Port Harcourt, St. Michael's Primary School. In 1964, I went to Okrika Grammar School, River States till Form 4 when the war broke out in 1967 disrupting my education. In 1968, I joined the Biafra Army and God helped me to survive. In 1970, I joined Government School in Owerri where I did my school cert. I went to the University of IFE  in 1972 to read Pharmacy,  I graduated in 1976, joined Pfizer in 1978. By 1993, I had become the Managing Director and CEO of Pfizer International, Pfizer Nigeria. The next year I became Regional Managing Director for Pfizer West Africa. I worked till 2011 when I retired, having spent 33 years in the industry. 18 years as CEO between Pfizer and Niemeth.

You were drafted into the Biafra Army as a young lad to fight in the war.  After the war, you went back to school in the east - but when it was time for higher institution you came to the West. Why Ife and why pharmacy?

My parents actually preferred I go to Nsukka but by nature, I like to travel. I decided to go far from home. I took Ife, Ibadan and Nsukka. I preferred Ibadan being the oldest university in Nigeria but it offered me Pharmacology while Ife gave me Pharmacy, even though I didn’t know the difference between the two. I attended the interviews for both schools. I didn’t go to Nsukka at all. When I got to Ife, by the time I drove from the gate and climbed to Ife and saw the building and the campus I fell in love with the school. I said, ‘This is the place!’ So, I forgot Ibadan. I didn’t plan to read Pharmacy as there was no career counselling. I was a bright student, thought to be a medical doctor. If you ask me what I loved was to be a lawyer, a journalist or humanist. I also thought about doing Geology because I had some senior friends who studied that. Because I’d lost 3 years to the war, I cant spend another 7 years studying Medicine. There was no money as such.  I needed a shorter course like business management, but my uncle persuaded me to read Pharmacy.

What was your experience like at Ife, and how do you compare what was obtainable in your time to what we have now?

I had a very beautiful experience at Ife but there is no way I can compare what I had with what my daughter had. I ensured my daughter chose Ife for her Pharmacy but I never visited her until she’d spent more than 2 years in Ife. I went to her hostel, they had 6 bunks in a room, which means they were 12 in a room and then she told me they all had squatters in a room which means they are like 24 in a room. When I was in Ife we were 2 in a room. Things have gone down.  When I became CEO I did my bit in the school. I am not one to complain. 

In what ways will you say going to Ife has impacted on your profession?

The basic thing about Ife was the colouration and the mix of the people. It was ethnically balanced, people from all tribes - even from other nationalities. There was no known discrimination against the igbos. Ife taught me discipline especially pharmacy. 

Why did you choose Business and Management for your postgraduate, or was it going back to your first love ?

It was Pfizer that sent me to Columbia University for the executive management programme. I didn’t opt for it on my own --- and I can even say it is divine arrangement. 

When you joined Pfizer, did it cross your mind that one day you will become the Managing Director of Pfizer?

It was after the first five years of joining Pfizer that I started noticing some changes because my initial plan was to spend between 3 to 5 years because I had an uncle who asked that we start a pharmaceutical business together. Very attractive offer but God restrained me. Those 5 years at Pfizer were years of extraordinary works, not necessarily for the good of the company but for my own good.  My growth in Pfizer exceeded my bosses’ expectations. In 1980, I became the Regional Manager and in 1985, I became the National Sales Manager.  1983 that was supposed to be my 5th in Pfizer, and the year I needed to fulfill my promise to my uncle by resigning in January but at the Christmas and annual award party, they called me to receive my 5 years service award/certificate, the chairman of our company was arguing. I didn’t know what they were arguing about. Eventually, the Chairman stepped out and asked, “Sam, have you been only 5 years in this company?” I answered, “Yes sir!” He said, “Unbelievable! You made this kind of impact in just 5 years. My son, you have a bright future. Keep it up.’ 10 years after my encounter with the then Chairman I became the Chairman/CEO.

Sir, you left the buy-over of 60% equity and you never converted. Why did you do that ?

All my life I have never been money-conscious or lived a selfish life. I can’t claim not wanting to but there is this special enablement by God, who has always been providing for me, going ahead of me and softening the road, fighting my battle -- and that has influenced my behavior. I have never made money an issue, I enjoy sharing. I don’t regret my action. My joy is that the company is still alive and doing well.

You are a man of many parts how do you joggle all effectively without one rubbing of on the other?

Its tough. I have learnt the job, and practised the act of time management. I keep diaries and journalise the day. I have a detailed outline of what I am going to do per day. All I am doing are in focus. 

While growing up who was your role model?

As a young person, my role model has always changed in line with what I look out. One person that was a role model for me as a young person was Nnamdi Azikwe. I loved him and revered him.  In my Adult life, I have 3 areas that I was looking at role models such as community development, there was a man Pa Chris. I was the chairman of his burial committee.  I loved him because he was a community-minded person. He did things for the community. In my profession as a pharmacist, the man that I looked up to was Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi (CEO Juli Pharmacy). He still remains my mentor and hero in pharmacy. Then in corporate management as a CEO, I looked up to someone like Felix Onyiwere of Nigerian Brewery Plc.

What advices do you have for the younger ones ?

My recommendation for them are as follows; (1) Whatever it takes; get education, without education nothing can stand. It sets you apart. It opens your mind and broadens your scope, (2) They should embrace God however they believe God. (3) They must learn to exercise their talents and use their skills and abilities for humanity and honour God. (4) Everybody can succeed in life, it depends on your measure of success.  There are 5 things every man must know to drive him to success in any positive endeavor. They must have purpose or vision. They must plan every move, project on things they want to do. They must be a hard worker; hard work does not kill. They must have passion; passion is what produces the oxygen to drive when everybody else is in difficulty. They must plan for providence. They are all do able.

How do you unwind?

I unwind by doing different things. Being in the presence of God to me is unwinding. My relaxation is in-built into my several activities. I am a social animal; I attend parties . I also do some bit of sports.

What do you want to be remembered for?

The guy that came, and ensured anywhere he went, he tried to make it better than he met it.  I want to be remembered as a man who believed in sharing the love of God and everthing he has with other people … a man who believed in putting smile on the faces of people by supporting them in his own capacity

Cardinal Richard Cushing's Prayer of Submission and Relevance

Dear God,

Help me be a good sport in this game of life.  I don't ask for an easy place in the line up. Just put me where You need me. 

I'll only ask that I can give You 100% of all I have. If the hard drives seem to come my way, I thank You for the compliment.

Help me remember that You never send a player and have him do more than he can handle. 

Help me, Oh, Lord, to accept the bad breaks as part of the game. 

And may I always play the game on the square no matter what the others do. 

Help me study the books so that I can know the rules. 

Finally, God, if the natural turn of events go against me and I am benched for sickness or old age, please help me to accept that as part of the game, too. 

Keep me from whimpering or squealing that I was framed or that I ruined a deal, and when I finish the final inning I ask for no laurels. All I want is to believe that in my heart I played as well as I could. 

Amen !

Identity

 

A farmer once took home a lion’s cub and reared him with the herd of his goats and sheep – and so was the cub’s mindset taken away; he never realised his potentials till he grew up.

Instead of roaring, he would bleat ... Instead of demonstrating royalty, he was foolish like a sheep ... Instead of being elegant, he was shabby ... Instead of exhibiting prowess, he was stubborn like goats.

Over and over, another lion in the community would come and terrorise the herd and all the animals would run away from the predator but one day, this farmer’s lion went to the stream to lap water when he saw the reflection of himself. At first he was jittery, thinking that the predator was about to pounce on him but with further experiments and closer examinations, he realised he was looking at himself – then he discovered who he was ... A LION; neither a sheep nor a goat.

After that experience, the terror lion appeared and as other animals escaped for their dear lives ... he roared back at the unfriendly predator. They roared at each other ... and he realised, he was not created to roam but to roar as wild cat. So he left the herd and followed his kind. He was a king of the jungle.

Your identity defines and repositions you. Your identity tells the world your personality and shows your ability.

What is your identity? For as long as Jacob saw himself as a fraudster, he remained a fugitive and until Gideon realised he was a mighty Warrior, he kept hiding in ignorance. Until you realise your individuality, you cannot accept your responsibility or celebrate your characteristics. You are unique!

Who are you? You are a Prince(ss) of God – your father owns the heaven and earth. Even the Prince(ss) of this world will not at any time fight on the street, dress shabbily or try to prove their worth to anyone because they know who they are.

Jesus knew who He was ... He says, “I Am the Way, the Truth and the Life.” Do you know who you are?

Evaluation:

How have you let circumstances, medicine, economy or people define your identity?

What have you reduced yourself to by accepting the world’s appellations?

All things supplied; what will you prefer to be called?

Compare:

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light.” 2 Peter 2:9

The Power of Decision

Jesus whilst He was barely 12 years old asked His parents, “Don’t you know I must be about My Father’s business?” I am not surprised that before His crucifixion at 33, He had achieved a record that nobody can break till the end comes.

It is not that many of us are not determined enough; it is just that we lack decisions that prompt actions. We dream and procrastinate. We fantasize on lofty ideas without making any move – and a good idea without a corresponding action is as good as nothing.

A man who decides to be in Lagos Island by 8 am and set on a journey by 5 am will not only meet-up with his appointments, he will also return home on time. His endeavour for the day will be better than that of the man who is contemplating whether to go or not – who may find an excuse in the weather or traffic. 

What have you been pushing aside? You may not have the capabilities to start a big venture for now but you can still do a small venture in a big way. For example, if your plan is to pastor a mega-church – and the reality seems to be far away. Tomorrow morning, preach in the bus on your way to work or go to the nearest park and talk to the people there. Don’t forget that God actually promises, “If you get to the crossroad and you don’t know the next turn to take, you will hear a voice behind you saying this is the way walk in it.” He didn’t say, ‘Sit down and pray until you have clear understanding of the way to follow.’

Stop chasing nuggets ... being rich is not being fulfilled. Your future lies in your dream. Your prosperity is determined by the potency of your decisions. You are where you are at this moment because of the decisions you made in the past and you may still be in the same position if you do not make a progressive decision today.

The Bible is a comprehensive book comprising the stories of ordinary people like me and you performing extraordinary feats. Your life begins now but you’ve got to make a drastic decision NOW !

Before you sleep tonight ...

List all the things you have been shoving aside

Write your plans for tomorrow and put a time limit on each

Think about an easiest way to get yourself on the track for greatness.

May the Lord bless your mind in the mighty name of Jesus >>> Yomi-Abayomi

The Making of an Iron Butterfly; Mercy Alexander, MD/CEO, D’Gallery TV

Extremely few are the women who boldly pound their chests where most men cower. Mercy Alexander is one of those few amazons who has also taken her exploits to an extra mile; she can venture into and single-handedly conquer any field that twenty men cannot together plough within the same stipulated time. 

Mercy’s journey to the citadel baffles many doubters, but her footprint on each rung of the ladder signifies that she did not only walk her way up the ladder, she also worked her way through without missing her lessons or wasting the experience.

Many of her friends, due to her strength and business acumen, call her Lady Jagaban – and this profile showcases the life of a lady who, initially, had no chance but who with determination, resiliency and focus is today dominating territories, championing courses – and winning all, because failure to her is a step further, an opportunity to dig deeper.

Personality 

Mercy Alexander is a Nigerian talk show host, media personality, actress and philanthropist.  Mercy is best known for her talk show, D’ Gallery Show, broadcast from NTA 2 Channel 5, Lagos – and the show has been running for almost ten years – since 2013.  

Mercy, a Multi-talented winner of many awards is one of the most influential women in the media industry.

Early Childhood

Born as Mercy in a thick village forest and poverty stricken region in Delta State, Nigeria. Her father, Late Alexander Osuya was a retired soldier in the Nigeria Army and later, a travelling oil marketer and truck driver working with a private firm, ABM.  He hailed from Ukwuani LGA of Delta State whilst her mother was from Kalabari, Bakana in Rivers State.

Mercy spent more time in the wilderness of Delta State, schooling, trading and farming, but despite being enshrouded in a thick hopeless darkness of the environment, she ensured her light never grew dim, she believed it will dispel whatever darkness.

Lady Jagaban has always being an optimist, she said to herself and her aunt repeatedly whenever she saw aeroplanes passed in their village, pointing upward to the sky, “Nne, I will be flying in that thing,” and at every opportunity she had watching TV, she would say to herself, “I will be in that tube.”  She was a dreamer. She has always enjoyed the company of herself, because aloneness enhances her ability to dream big.

Education

Mercy Alexander started her educational career at Army Children’s School, Gombe in the old Bauchi State and when her dad was transferred to Lagos, Mercy was moved down to the village to stay with her aunt, and was transferred to Etio Primary School to continue her studies ... and due to persistent movements of her dad, she attended several schools.

 Army Children’s School, Gombe, Gombe State

 Etio Primary School, Umutu, Delta State

 Ufuoma Primary School, Sapele, Delta State 

 Aunty Lynn Private School, Umutu, Delta State.

 Imola Comprehensive High School, off College Road, Agege, Lagos State

 University of Bamako, Mali, West Africa, for a Proficiency Training in Theatre Arts.

 PEFTI School, Oshodi, Lagos, Nigeria, Formal Training in Acting

Sojourning to Greater Height

In the year 2002, Lady Jagaban decided to bring her dream into limelight. She left her village with her neighbourhood friend who had two sisters in Europe, Spain and Germany. Their plan was to travel to Europe by road in search of greener pastures but on reaching Mali, they hit a fence. The opportunity they thought was an easy ride was not even available, just like a mirage, but Mercy being a dreamer conjured a way out.  

Her charisma led her to a kind-hearted family (parents) that adopted her and sponsored her for a Proficiency Training in Theatre Arts at the University of Bamako in Mali – and in Gao community where she resided in Mali, she contested and won a third place in Miss Gao Beauty Pageant.

Mercy after completing the training and realising that Nollywood was growing large and becoming a cash-cow for actors and movie stakeholders, decided to return home and seize the moment. 

She returned to Nigeria and started going for various auditions without success – as she was not given lines, saved few extra roles she won in Yoruba genre where she could have blossomed if not for language barrier.

Taking another Turn

“The Nigeria I left in 2002 was not the one I met when I returned in 2005 – everything has changed; economy, the people, and the system ... it was so bad. If not for God, I would have caved-in to the situation at hand but I said to myself, ‘He that rides a tiger dares not dismount.’ I went to my village to re-strategise and plan my way for proper exploits.”

Rather than quit, Mercy made her lemon into lemonade, stayed in the village for one year, buying and selling farm produce to make ends meet. She also became a contractor for farmland preparation and cultivation; she would get the contract, hired labourers to do the jobs and sub-contracted others. After raising enough money to pursue her dream to be on the television, she set for Lagos, the Centre of Excellence.

Dominating Lagos with Work Ethics

Mercy started her life in Lagos as a Sales Girl in a supermarket and continued as a marketer until her character and charisma connected her to one Daddy Karim and his family, who encouraged her to go for part-time studies at Lagos State University but after several trials, Mercy concluded, “All I wanted to do was be on the TV, acting.” She went to PEFTI, a cinematography school founded and managed by Mr. Wale Adenuga, owner of WAP TV, with Daddy Karim’s support.

“After graduation, I went for several auditioning, paid my way through but no success from the much talked about Nollywood (English Genre). I could have hit a jackpot with the Yoruba Genre had I been able to speak the language fluently, because their producers are more professional in their dealings than other folks who want gratification. In Yoruba genre, you get the script once you are qualified.”

Languages Spoken

International

English Language (Conversational)

French Language (Limited)

Local

Igbo Language (Conversational)

Yoruba Language (Limited)

Hausa Language (Limited)

Changing the Game

Mercy opted into media and entertainment, by deciding to understudy an entertainer and event organiser that linked him with Mr. Cornel at the Haven Event Centre at Ikeja GRA, Lagos. 

Mercy again volunteered as Cornel’s errand girl, using her own resources to deliver letters and attending events. 

“I kept doing those things because I wanted to learn the rudiments of the game. I wanted to discover the Secret of Success.” She said.

Whilst she was deep in Cornel’s job, she was getting offer from her mentor’s friends in the entertainment industry that contracted her to anchor red carpet for their platforms and events – and from then on, Mercy started realigning her thoughts for the future. 

Major Discovery

Alexander finally carved a niche for herself; she felt the urge to start something in her own name, however small. She wanted something that will outlive her.

“I started mapping out a magazine programme for TV. I needed money, equipments and manpower – especially a presenter. I asked a staff of Galaxy TV to help anchor the programme but she was requesting I pay 200,000 NGN per week.”  The partnership did not work – but Mercy did not give-up.

The Advice that Switched Her Mindset

“One day, in Mr. David Agwazim’s office (Publisher of Classic Magazine), I met Aunty Jane Osamor (Publisher of Fabulous Magazine) who said to me, ‘My dear, your face is beautiful enough for the screen. Be the Face of your Brand. Don’t be afraid of your vocabulary, everything will fall in place over time.’”

She heeded Jane’s advice and set for the next phase.

Birth of D’Gallery TV

The name, D’ Gallery, was inspired via a dream and it started as D’ Gallery Show on MiTV.  

The programme has also been aired on NTA Channel 10 and later NTA 2 Channel 5 highlighting the lifestyles of achievers who have made marks in their various fields – politicians, movie stars, and captains of industries. 

In February 2020, D’ Gallery TV started on the internet, reporting news and covering events and other regular things done by terrestrial stations.

Other Activities Performed By Mercy Alexander

 Furniture: sales and marketing

 Event Planning and Management 

 Hosting and anchoring of events and activities

 Organising shows, events and other social packages

 Consultancy 

Notable People Who Have Appeared on D' Gallery TV Show

1. Dr. Ayodele Fayose, former Ekiti State Governor. “He was and is still very supportive of my vision. He introduced me to several political icons in the PDP.”

2. Pa John Oyegun, former Edo State Governor and former APC National Chairman. “I always call him my daddy because of his fatherly roles. He mentors me, supports me in any way he can. Papa even introduced me to the DG of NTA.”

3. Hon. Captain (Rtd) Yusuf Buba, Representative from Gombi/Hong in Adamawa State Federal Constituency and House Committee Chairman on Foreign Affairs.

4. Mr.Yakubu Ibn Mohammed, NTA DG. “He has being a father and mentor on this journey. He gave me the slot I am using to date and also ensures my programme gains the needed attention. Whenever I have problems, either professionally, technically or business wise, he is always available to offer solutions.”

5. HE Gov. Nyessom Wike. The former Executive Governor of Rivers State. 

6. HE Gov. Seyi Makinde. The Executive Governor of Oyo State

7. Chief Bode George. A notable politician and PDP chieftain.

8. HE Chief Dapo Abiodun, the Executive Governor of Ogun State.

9. HE Ogbeni Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN. The Executive Governor of Ondo State. 

10. Captains of industries

11. Businessmen 

12. Local Government Chairmen 

13. Educationists and Social Analysts

Although the D' Gallery Show was started without sponsors, adverts or supports, today corporate organisations are showcasing their products and services on the show, identifying with the brand.

Act of Generosity

Mercy Alexander is a woman with a golden heart; she will rather break her secret vault than see a fellow man wallow in poverty.  She gives her resources to better the life and circumstances of many less-privileged in the society. 

Her NGO, Mercy Alexander Foundation, cater for the needs of orphans, destitute, less-privileged and the elderly. 

Her Education Empowerment Programme picks wandering kids on the streets, settle them in schools, provide books and stationeries, as well as uniforms and other packages.  Her vision for this initiative is to ensure that every child has basic education.

She also, on her birthdays, gives scholarships to two students and supports the elderly and orphans by visiting homes for such people. 

Faith Booster and Hiding Place

Mercy Alexander is a prayer warrior. She believes so much in the power of prayer.

“Since childhood, maybe because of the uncertainty I had as a child or because of the terrible family line I come from, I pray a lot. I also enjoy dancing to praise songs. It is part and parcel of me.”

Winning Qualities

• Happiness ...  I get angry sometimes but I am always happy.

• Hard Work ... I have been telling myself since my days in the village, ‘Mercy, you have nobody but God – and He won’t come down to assist you. He will use people to assist you but you won’t meet those people by sitting down, doing nothing. You have to get going.’

• Lively ... I can light-up everywhere with my playfulness. I am a lively person. I hardly get moody; even when things aren’t going well with me.

• Positive ... I don’t allow situations to keep me down. If it doesn’t work now, it will work fine later. Everything is working together for my good.

• Optimistic ... I don’t give up on circumstances. I don’t give up on people. I look out for and see the positive sides of things and mankind.

Regrets 

When we look back on our lives, there are certain things we feel we could have done otherwise had the hands of time be turned anti-clockwise.

To Mercy;

1. Though my upbringing ... being raised on the street toughened my skin but I would have loved to be raised in a normal  family setting, a home with daddy, mommy and siblings doing things together. I really missed that fusion ... the chemistry such union bring and that is why I always keep my son close to me.

2. I would have preferred to stay in school like normal pupils and students. The way I was tossed about really affected my education and that is why I hate seeing kids, especially girls, on the street and that is why I always invest my money in them to ensure they have the basic education that will enable them to read and write.

Things She will Never Toy With ...

1) I will never in my life, even if I want to rubbish myself, sleep with a man of God, a pastor. 

2) I will never desist from paying my tithe. I have experienced the wonders of God in different dimension 

Her Dream for the Future

 To have a permanent transmission site for D' Gallery TV

 To build or buy houses for her staffs.

 Get into politics, change the narratives.

Motherhood

Mercy Alexander is a single mother; disciplined and focused. When asked why she is so close to her son, Emmanuel (an undergraduate of Adeleke University, Ede), she replied, 

“We used to quarrel a lot until he understood my principles and reasons. I do not believe in youthful exuberance and juvenile delinquency. I know of parental failure because I could have gone wayward based on my upbringing and if I kept my cool, my son have no excuse for unruly behaviours.” 

Advice to Youths 

• Keep away from unfriendly friends. Don’t mingle with friends who can destroy your future. Learn how to choose your friends. Don’t let your friends choose you.

• Don’t give up on your dream.

• Ladies, do not rely on your beauty. Empower yourself in a skill or vocation so as to make headway in life because beauty can fade, intelligence becomes better over the years.

• Don’t be diabolical. There’s no life without God. If the devil gives you a shoe, he will take your legs.

Hobbies 

• Dancing ... it is my means of exercising.

• Singing ... it takes me to another level of inspiration – especially praise songs; they connect me to God fast. 

• Talking ... discussing with people that inspire me to become more – and that is why I enjoy my work. It links me with people of timber and calibre whose lives are a lesson to me.

• Driving ... it tells me there is no distance, real or perceived, that I cannot cover.

• Dressing well ... Looking good is a good business. You don’t need millions to look fine and presentable. Dressing well builds your confidence. 

Countries Visited

• Ghana for official duty 

• The Gambia for leisure and business 

• South Africa to meet the then Minister for Foreign Affairs.

• United Arab Emirates ... I visited Dubai for consultancy and property business. 

If Mercy Alexander, the Lady Jagaban, was a musical instrument, she would be a trumpet; difficult to play, loud enough to hear and rhythmically appealing to whatever kind of music.

Mercy is a case study, a magnificent heroine, an Amazon, a business Tycoon and a lively and lovely woman – bold, beautiful and brilliant.