Culture & Tourism Commissioner, Adijat Adeleye speaks on why Ogun state is holding event to honor entertainment icon, Jimi Solanke

Known with an expressive face, baritone voice and contagious smile, Pa Jimi Solanke is one of Africa’s most accomplished performing artistes. He is a man of different parts: a musician, poet, thespian, educationist, producer, to mention a few.

L-R,Jimi Solanke and Ogun state Commissioner for Culture & Tourism, Hon. Adijat Adeleye

The memories of him during his days as anchor of the children series on Nigeria Television Authority, NTA, storyland, lingers. He held his audience spellbound with his educative and entertaining stories which he brilliantly told, moving between characters and settings.

For every song, Jimmy Show, as he’s fondly called, churns out, a story is usually behind it. His popular song OMIYALE, a piece about terrible flooding incident, Ogunpa, that happened in Ibadan and composed over 40 years ago has great historical relevance till date.

Meanwhile, Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Adijat Adeleye Oladapo, has revealed the illustrious son of the state, Pa Solanke, is billed to be celebrated by the state.

“Pa Solanke is a treasure to Ogun state and as such, the leadership of the state as led by the governor, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun has decided to celebrate him. You will agree with me that Pa Solanke is  worthy of celebration on account of his contribution to the entertainment industry, especially the creative art. We can’t but appreciate and celebrate his the fact that he’s made the state proud.” Hon. Adeleye said in a brief chat.

The fun packed event aimed at celebrating Pa Solanke, is billed to take place Saturday 22nd , October in Abeokuta. The venue is  the recently upgraded world class June 12 Cultural Centre.