The airwaves in Nigeria crackled with anticipation and emotion on Saturday, 20 December 2025, as TopRadio 90.9 FM played host to the moving grand finale of the Wale Olomu Memorial Awards (WOMA) 2025. Known for its commitment to spotlighting excellence in the creative industries, this year’s WOMA event was more than an awards ceremony – it was a heartfelt homage to a man whose passion for nurturing talent changed the landscape of Nigerian entertainment.
Ayo Lawal, FAJ, Mercy Adishi and Efe Omoregbe
Steered by the esteemed media personality Femi Akintunde-Johnson (FAJ), the live broadcast brought together a medley of voices – family, friends, and the new vanguard of the entertainment world – all united in remembrance and celebration. At the programme’s heart was not only the recognition of outstanding contributions but also a poignant reflection on the late Wale Olomu, a revered entertainment journalist and tireless advocate for emerging artists.
Wale Olomu’s story, as recalled by those closest to him, resonated deeply throughout the evening. Adebisi Taibat Yusuf, his fiancée, shared a moving tribute. “He was my fiancé, my brother, my friend. He was a good person to his family members,” she reminisced, her words heavy with the bittersweetness of loss and enduring love. Yusuf spoke candidly about her journey of healing, recounting how she sought solace abroad after his passing but always carried his memory with her. She reflected on Olomu’s unwavering faith in the future of entertainment – a vision that continues to inspire many.
FAJ with Efe Omoregbe
The familial bond and gratitude to WOMA were further underscored by Dr Dayo Olomu, Wale’s younger brother. In his message, Dr Olomu expressed deep appreciation for the platform’s role in keeping his brother’s legacy alive. He highlighted Wale’s lifelong commitment to discovering, encouraging, and uplifting new talent – principles that remain at the core of the awards today.
The evening’s spirit of recognition extended to the 2025 Special Recognition Awardees, whose acceptance speeches were as varied as they were heartfelt. Sam Uquah, taken aback by the accolade, expressed genuine surprise that his efforts had reached such prominence. Mercy Adishi paid tribute to her friendship with Wale, emphasising the depth of emotion attached to the honour. Efe Omorogbe, describing the award as both “special and humbling,” and Seyi Allen, who thanked the Steering Committee, each illustrated the transformative power of recognition.
FAJ with Mercy Adishi
One of the night’s most stirring announcements was the conferral of Lifetime Achievement Awards upon two legends – Blackman Akeeb Kareem and Emma Ogosi. These trailblazing Afro-fusion superstars of the 70s, both celebrated for their roles in sustaining indigenous Nigerian music, stood as living testaments to WOMA’s mission: to ensure that the torch of creativity and heritage never dims.
As the radio finale drew to a close, the WOMA 2025 Steering Committee encapsulated the essence of the awards: “remembrance with purpose, recognition with integrity, and a forward-looking commitment to Nigeria’s creative industries.” With their steadfast pledge to continue spotlighting excellence, nurturing fresh voices, and upholding the values championed by Wale Olomu, this year’s edition was more than a commemorative gathering. It was a clarion call to the next generation.
The WOMA 2025 finale not only honoured a remarkable legacy but ignited hope for the future of Nigerian entertainment. By blending heartfelt remembrance with forward momentum, the awards have set the stage for a vibrant era where talent is celebrated and nurtured, and the dreams of tomorrow’s stars are given every chance to shine.
Mercy Adishi
Story by Maureen Ipadeola (with additional information from the final media statement issued by the WOMA 2025 Steering Committee)
Photo credits: WOMA-R Steering Committee
© Feferity Media Group, UK, 2025