I’m determined to put Africa, Nigeria on world map – popular events planner, Okobi

Okobi John Emeka, better known as Yeyelagosboy has identified interpersonal relationship skills, ability to manage different set of people and the ability to work under pressure as what makes a great events manager.

The popular event guru made this known while speaking with journalists in Lagos on Friday, noting that it can be very demanding sometimes.

He explained that his journey of being an event/stage manager has been splendid, noting that he learn a lot from the job and also meet different people from different spheres of life.

Okobi affirmed that it can be very demanding sometimes.
He said: “I’ve been doing this since my university days, from my second year in the University of Ibadan. I’ve been hosting events for different organisations that come into our campus, they run campaigns, do shows amidst other things. I can say I’ve been doing this for nine years now, hosting events, managing events and also creating contents.

“My talent inspired me. I’m determined to put Africa, Nigeria on the world map. I figured that I could speak to a reasonable number of my friends and they’d be engrossed in my talk talk because it was always fun and relaxing to them.

“I have seen people shaking on stage, but it has never happened to me before. Because before I host any event I pray and ask God to take control of this event and he does that all the time for me so I have never been nervous on stage

“My journey of being an event/stage manager has been splendid, I learn a lot from the job and also meet different people from different spheres of life. It can be very demanding sometimes but i love doing it

“What makes a great manager for me it’s your interpersonal relationship skills, the ability to manage different set of people that you work with and get results. Also the ability to work under pressure because pressure will always locate you on the job

“I’ve not managed any event that didn’t go as planned, it might not look like it when the event starts but we always get our desired results by the end of the event.

“If I can remember, I think my first stage management responsibilities was at Oyo State Youth Festival, I can’t really remember the year but it was under the tenure of Abayomi Oke.

“I balance work and personal life which include family and friends very well. You see there’s time for everything under the sun, when it’s time for me to work, I work. When its time for family and friends, I also don’t joke with it.

“I have always advice the young folks who want to venture into the entertainment industry to firstly get themself solid education, school no be scam. Enlighten yourself with information about the industry you’re about to get into, see the areas you’re strong in, find a mentor and keep growing. Don’t forget God. God is the ultimate factor in your success,” he added.

Okobi John Emeka, hailed from Asaba, Delta State, but was born and raised in Ibadan, Oyo State.

After completing his degree at the prestigious University of Ibadan, he moved to Lagos to pursue his career in entertainment. He has worked as an event host, also known as a Master of Ceremony, and also involved in event and stage management.

Okobi who is a content creator, runs a charity event for orphans every December and this has been held for three years and still counting.