JayPaul: “Host With The Most”

JayPaul is an award-winning on-air personality whose life in the 2021 BBNaija “Shine Ya Eye” edition garnered attention.

Now out of the house, he is one of the housemates who is making strides in the paths he has chosen for himself, especially hosting. The Guardian Life had a chat with him about his passion for mobile cinematography, life outside the house, hosting and his Calabar kitchen.

What has been the most shocking thing for you since your journey into the spotlight?

The most shocking thing since my journey into spotlight is the fact that everything one does is under scrutiny even to the amount of times you wear an outfit. Everybody has a say in what they want you to do. In all of this, you have to maintain a level head and respond responsibly.

Describe your entire experience during the show. Is it an experience you would like to relive again?

It was a beautiful experience. It was everything I expected and more. To relive it again, I’m not sure about that. It felt like a luxurious prison where if they opened the doors and gave us the opportunity to go out for a bit, I’m not sure anybody will want to take that risk. 

How would you say your life has changed since the show? If you could change the hands of time, would you want your old life back?

My new life is quite interesting. More doors have opened up and the opportunities are endless. I love where I am now. This is what I have been working for years, so I’m happy to get here and I can’t wait to go farther! 

How would you say the show has influenced your relationship with family and friends?

My relationship with family and friends is still very intact. Nothing has changed. They are very important to me. Sometimes, in all the rush and craziness, they are the one thing that keeps me rooted and reminds me of where I’m coming from. 

Let us in about your interest in hosting. Would you say that ex-contestant Ebuka was a source of inspiration?

Most definitely. Ebuka is one of the finest there is and it’s only natural that he inspires me. I have always been into television presenting and this is one path I’m looking forward to treading and developing.

What other industry would you like to venture into asides from music?

Most definitely Film. I love to piece imaginations together and make a motion picture out of it. There are lots of stories out of Africa to tell, and our time is now. The world is paying attention and we need to make the most of it. 

How would you describe your fashion style?

Afrocentric and comfortable.

Knowing that your father was a cinematographer, and the first known animator, his career path was entertainment. Would you say that being in the entertainment industry is a way to stay close to him, given that he died when you were young?

He is the reason I fell in love with television and entertainment. We had a lot of plans together. Doing this at this level now is keeping the legacy going. I’m sure he’d be proud. 

I remember as a child always following him to studio sets. I knew there and then; I wanted to do entertainment, and I have been on that journey ever since. 

What is it about mobile cinematography that intrigues you?

What intrigues me the most is the fact that you can achieve so much with your mobile device. From the highest quality to the craziest angles, the mobile device in your hand is a machine. Everybody can now become their own storyteller. 

What’s the core idea behind “Made in Calabar” kitchen?

“Made In Calabar” was set up to promote the Calabar culture by taking it to the world. We will be doing pop up shows in different countries showcasing our colourful culture and delicious meals. It’s a known fact that Calabar has some of the most delicious meals in Nigeria, hence the birth of “Made In Calabar” kitchen. Bringing the best of Calabar hospitality to your doorstep.