What did you do before comedy?
I started in comedy when I was 17. I had literally just finished secondary school at the time. I was basically doing all the entertainment; from learning to play the piano to singing, to acting, then to comedy. I was in a musical group, then I realized I loved comedy more.
How did you know comedy was what you wanted to do?
When I started stand-up comedy, I was still young; I had almost nothing to lose. I was doing everything for fun until one day someone arranged an all-night music concert for me and they paid me. Then it clicked that I should pretend to be someone who was paying. From that night on, I got small bookings here and there. At that point, I knew it was time to take advantage of what made me happy and what made me money at the same time.
How did you feel for the first time on stage?
It was fun for me the first time because everyone knew me as the guy in the singing group, so when I got on the mic, I was having fun and telling jokes from the comedians I was watching. I had to fear or fight, after all there was little or no hope.
Did you ever see yourself winning the competition hosted by Ayo Makun or was it pure luck?
I heard about the competition for the first time in 2006; In early 2008 I decided to give it a try. At that time, I knew I was mature and ready. I went there with one thing in my mind and one thing in my mind and I said to myself: ‘I’m going to win’. And here we are.
How has the star changed your daily life?
Stardom is one of the fastest ways to learn etiquette because every move you make means something to different people. You always want to be at your best, even if it is misinterpreted, at least you are sure that your intentions are true and pure. On the positive side, it helps open doors faster than other people can take them. People love you and express you in every form just by seeing you. That in itself is a blessing.
Do you have any regrets about coming into the light?
Oh no not at all. I’m a private person by nature and I think I’ve tried hard enough to separate my private life from the public space. So I’m fine.
If you could go back in time to change something, what would it be?
That’s not difficult, it will be my hometown.
What are you working on today?
I am working on my next stand-up comedy tour around the country and abroad. It starts with America from June to July. Then the UK in August, and Lagos and Abuja in September and October respectively.
Any advice for upcoming comedians?
There is always room for you if you bring substance. No market is ever saturated, it’s only saturated if you’re repeating what’s in the market. Come new, come fresh, come original, choose a mentor you really want, put in the work and the sky will be your starting point.
