In an exclusive interview with ekocity magazine
CAN WE MEET YOU?
My name is Mr Patrick, I am a stand-up comedian, a writer, an actor and a skit maker. I am also a businessman.
HOW DO YOU COMBINE THIS PORTFOLIO?
Laughs. A lot of people ask me this question. Well, it’s not easy. I think it comes with Grace and passion. I am one of the comedians that combine stand up with skit making, now a chef too. I am also a show promoter, I have a show and we are planning a world tour soon. We want to reach as many countries as possible especially those countries that are yet to experience our culture, comedy and entertainment..
CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND.
I am not so learned. After secondary school, I did part time in Unilag on environmental science. Unfortunately, I didn’t finish up due to some reasons. Then I started pursuing my dream as a comedian .
WOULD YOU SAY YOUR EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND HAS AN IMPACT ON YOUR CAREER?
Yes… In entertainment, communication is key. You need t have good communication skills but the good thing about talent is that you don’t even need qualifications to excel especially in the western world where your creativity and what you have to offer is valued more. A comedy movie I wrote was nominated for AMVCA best comedy writer award. So like I said, my little educational background contributed to my success. Though I still believe at the end of the day, it has to do with creativity.
WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT NIGERIAN ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY?
Entertainment is like a getaway for most youths. The government is not really doing much for us, I think entertainment is the highest employer of labour especially the youths. The entertainment industry is really doing well especially our musicians, our music has gone global, out fashion is out there but our food also needs to be out there. This is one of the main reasons I ventured into Food business.
WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE AS AN ENTERTAINER IN THE UNITED STATES COMPARED TO NIGERIA?
I would say capital, sourcing of funds is a major challenge everywhere. We need investors in entertainment, the industry has grown so big and you need funds for a lot including shows. As for food business, I started the business when I noticed there are few African restaurants abroad. I think the major factors affecting our food is the odor and presentation If we can deodorize our food, I think African food will go far .
WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE FACTOR CONTRIBUTING TO JAPA SYNDROME
I always tell people that leaving the country is only a good option when you have a skill. Traveling abroad without a skill can be frustrating even with your educational background. I would advise anyone who has the intention to travel to learn a skill, this will make life easier for you over there. Skilled workers earn so much, when I traveled to America I already knew what I wanted and as soon as I got there I started comedy.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR NIGERIANS ON THE FORTHCOMING ELECTIONS?
They should vote wisely, maintain peace and orderliness. There’s a lot going on in Nigeria, things are so expensive. This is home, this our country and I hope the best man wins.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOUR COMPANY IN FEW YEARS TO COME
20 Years ago, the industry was not like this. Skit making wasn’t trending, I am the first Nigerian if not African to shoot a comedy skit directed by the late Sound sultan. Now look at the industry today, it’s thriving and doing so well. All thanks to technology and IT, that is the future.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR UPCOMING SKIT MAKERS IN THE INDUSTRY?
I would advice they should be consistent, focused and passion driven. When you are passion driven, you will definitely succeed. Believe in yourself, be original, be you.
WHO IS YOUR 2023 PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE?
I am obedient, I love Peter Obi. I hope for a better Nigeria, I pray the best man for the job wins and I think Peter Obi is that man for me…
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