Comedian Senator joins wife, baby in Texas, USA

– Christens son Jesse Chinonso Njoku

+ speaks on the happiest and saddest moments

This is definitely the happiest moment for fast rising comedian, Bethel Njoku, famously known as Senator, whose beautiful wife, Kemen Jibrin delivered a baby boy on Easter Monday, April 21, 2014 at the West Houston Medical Centre, Texas, United States of America.

The elated Senator, who got married on May 19, 2012, shared the good news exclusively with ENCOMIUM Weekly…

How does it feel?

It feels good and fulfilling. God has been so good over my case. He’s shown me so much love. I am so honoured and appreciative of Him.

Your wife put to bed on Easter day. What does that mean to you?

To me, it’s a way God is telling me that my child is a son of the resurrection. This is a brand new stage for me and His blessings are just beginning.

How did you receive the news?

First, my wife has been in the States since January 2014, on maternity leave. So, I have been preparing for that Day. I would have been with her before the day she put to bed, but I waited because of AY Live Show, held on Easter Sunday. However, I was online all through. My friend, Edidiong Udofiah, who is based in Houston was there with my wife in the labour room all through. From the dilation, to the pushing process, to delivery.

What plan do you have for the child’s dedication?

Already, the child has been christened. His name is Jesse Chinonso Njoku. I might host close friends when I return to Nigeria in few weeks.

What are the joys of being a father now?

It gives me some more sense of responsibility, especially the joy of seeing my son! I have started to change pampers (smiles). It’s more challenging, and pride to stand for your beloved one.

Away from that, how would you describe 2014. What and what have you been able to achieve?

2014 is still unveiling itself. God has been very faithful. I really don’t like describing achievements because some other persons could feel depressed and want to rise in challenge. I will simply say God has been very good about my case. I am so grateful to Him, many more to come.

Mention some shows you’ve staged?

It has been a successful year. I have been engaged with my brand loyalty to Nigerian Breweries Plc, who keeps me busy every year from the Star Lite launch tour to Trip to Brazil promo tour. Unilever, HP computers, to Yaws The Street, to AY Live, Battle of the Titans, and so many engaging activities.

My own comedy show, Comedy in the Mix, holds today April 25, in Houston Texas. I am here with Funnybone and the stage is set for the event. The people are itching to crack their ribs tonite. The event is a collaborative effort between me and my international DJ friend, DJ Mix Master Brown. He is based here in the US.

Who are your mentors?

My mentor remains Alibaba. I also get inspired by Julius Agwu, Basketmouth. For Alibaba, his leadership qualities and depth in interpretation is key for me. He’s calm and matured in displaying his skills. Julius is simply a determined fellow,which is inspiring. Basketmouth has great brand presence.

Do you have a favourite comedian and why?

I don’t have a favourite comedian, even the ones that inspire me are not my favourite. I just pick certain skills from each of them. They aren’t my favourite. Every comedian is unique.

What is your view on the state of stand-up comedy in Nigeria?

I would say it’s been flourishing. It’s gotten great recognition worldwide. Nigerian comics are known globally. But it’s also facing a siege because every joint or hangout, there’s a comedy club. So, it’s beginning to get commonised. Every Tom, Dick and Harry is now a comedian just for the luxury of the trade. Soon the trade will face a revolution. Comedy then was easier, today comedy is more challenging. Social media has given comedians a greater task of working hard (I mean, the original comedians, not the copy, copy type). A comedian creates jokes, the next minute it’s on Twitter, Facebook as an Akpos’ joke. When you use the joke, people will tell you they have heard it before. Back then, it wasn’t this challenging, there were fewer comedians. One could mention them easily but today even in Mushin motor park one agbero claims he’s a comedian.

Are you fulfilled as a comedian?

As I said, God has favoured me beyond words. I am so grateful to Him. My relevance over the years in the industry is in no doubt. God has kept me fresh, productive and a force to reckon with. I am fulfilled and still working.

What about your happiest and saddest moment?

“Bros, this one hard ooo.” I think my happiest will be the day my lovely wife gave birth to our son. My colleagues Buchi and Daniel tha Humourous threw a bash for me, spraying me dollars as if na me comot from labour room. It was a day I wouldn’t forget so easily. Saddest moments I can’t really remember because I am a very jolly fellow. I no sabi keep sad moments.

The biggest risk you ever took?

I’m a risk taker. All die na die. My wife, at times calls me Ninja. I take risk but I also learn to share my risks. I can’t remember any biggest risk.

 -RASHEED ABUBAKAR