Encomium
Fast-rising comedian, Innocent Adulugba, popularly known as Little giant, who holds a Masters degree in Political Science, spoke extensively on what stands him out as a comedian, his family background and how hunger drove him into entertainment in an interview with ENCOMIUM Weekly recently.
How are you doing?
I’m doing great.
How would you describe 2014 as an individual and as an entertainer?
Very fine. But I think the forth coming elections affected the number of events and cash in circulation.
What are your goals and plans for 2015?
To make it big. I plan to host some shows on radio and TV.
What’s your assessment of Nigerian entertainment industry?
Good. I wish the system will help breed more new acts. More new ideas. I wish companies, events and those who engage entertainers would value the services highly.
If you could, what would you change about the industry?
I don’t know. I wish we had something like labels that sign comedians like Kennis Music, Ojez Music, so that comedians can be signed on.
How long have you been in the industry?
In and out, say about six years.
What would you say is the secret of your success so far?
God has helped me to be unique. I am very spontaneous, whether at weddings, kiddies birthdays, church or corporate events. Again, a comedian needs to be grounded in impeccable grammar because some audience are very enlightened.
Have you always dreamt of being an entertainer or you had a different dream when you were younger?
Yeah, I had a different dream when I was younger. In fact, I wanted to be a diplomat, Nigeria’s ambassador to an overseas country an author, a lecturer.
Tell us more about yourself, your family and background.
What’s there to tell? I was born by an army officer at the Ikeja Cantonment. My secondary school is the famous St. Patrick’s College in Calabar.
What did you study in school?
I have a B.Sc and M.Sc. in Political Science from the University of Lagos. But I have practiced Public Relations for about eight years. I’m a strategist, a brand expert, well groomed in media relations and proposal writing and presentation. All of these help me to identify and treat each job just like separate brands.
How far do you see yourself going in the industry?
As far as possible.
What are the challenges so far?
Competition, sentiments. Some people will watch you work, and tell you how thorough you we and how you thrilled them. Then they invite you to a job. Vouch for your competence, their colleagues will interview you, surprisingly nobody calls you again.
You call, no reply anyway. Later, the event holds. Another MC/comedian is contracted. Afterwards you hear that the other MC/Comedian was not as good as you.
What inspired your veering into comedy?
Hunger and talent.
What motivates your jokes?
Spontaneity.
Who do you look up to in the industry?
I admire all the talented and successful MC/comedians.
Do you honour all invitations?
It depends.
Are you in a relationship?
Shouldn’t I be? In fact, I should be married already!
What is your advice for upcoming artistes and entertainers?
Work hard, trust God and don’t give up.
-MICHAEL NWOKIKE
