By Lanre Arogundade
In the early 2000s I turned to him for assistance to ensure safe delivery of my second daughter. He was empathetic and generously assisted. While turning to him, I had assumed he was already ahead of me in that field moreso as mutual friend Ayo Aluko-Olokun who linked us had by then scored goal number three.
It was months later I realized I was dead wrong. He had casually invited me to what he called a festive period get-together at his residence in Ikeja. I went alone thinking it was just a boys’ drinking binge as he also hinted to ensure I wouldn’t suspect the real purpose. To my shock, I arrived to the celebration of the first fruit of the womb of him and his amiable wife. I was totally perplexed and couldn’t contain my amazement. “Taye, so all the while you were helping to sort out the issue of my second daughter you hadn’t even had one?. “Haa, Taye, you are such a strong personality”. I went on and on, hardly able to close my mouth. “Ore, we thank God, just drink your wine”, was his response to my repeated exclamations.
Later on, he told me how friends at his club would be talking about preparation to pay school fees whenever holidays were ending while some would even tease him that as a rich guy he must have settled his own children’s fees. He said he would just nod and join others to talk excitedly about preparation for resumption even though at that time he was looking for God’s favour in that direction.
I’m sure Taye would be embarrassed reading this giving his disposition towards avoiding headlines despite being a sports journalists and media entrepreneur of repute who constantly make headlines through his achievements. But I tell this story on this auspicious occasion because I believe there are lessons for humanity in what he did for me and certainly what he has dine for many others. I pick three:
- Never think yours is the worst of problems; strive to put on some smile whatever the situation.
- Always try to find out the situation of the person you are seeking help from.
- Never get offended if someone is unable to help at some point. H/she may be going through more difficult challenge(s).
Still, Taye never ceases to amaze me.
Congratulations Taye Ige, dear friend, professional colleague and pride to journalism as you join our fast expanding club of 60s. May you continue to find honour and grace in all your endeavours. May your wife and children stay blessed. May your heart’s desires be continually fulfilled.
Happy birthday and many happy returns.
