Lagos, the city that never sleeps, witnessed a celebration of its vibrant nightlife as Ojulari Olasunkanmi, popularly known as Sunky O, unveiled his highly anticipated book, The Other Side of Midnight, in a spectacular dual-location launch event on Saturday, March 1. The event, which seamlessly blended intellect, culture and the pulsating energy of Lagos after dark, marked a significant milestone in the conversation about the city’s nightlife and its broader socio-economic impact.
The festivities began with a Media Chat on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, where Sunky O shared the inspiration behind his latest work. “Lagos nightlife is not just about the music and the parties,” he explained. “It is a thriving economy, a hub for power moves, and a subculture that defines our global identity.” This sentiment set the tone for the book, which delves into the unseen world of Lagos after midnight, exploring its cultural, economic and social significance.
Sunky O is no stranger to documenting the intricacies of nightlife. His earlier work, the documentary series Nightlife in Lasgidi, earned an AMVCA nomination for Best Documentary (Unscripted) and provided a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of Lagos nightlife. This project laid the groundwork for The Other Side of Midnight, which takes a deeper dive into the industry’s influence beyond entertainment.
The book’s title, The Other Side of Midnight, emerged from a simple yet profound realisation: “When others are sleeping, we are balling.” This phrase encapsulates the essence of Lagos nightlife—a world that thrives in the shadows, powering the city’s heartbeat and fueling its economy.
The launch event itself was a reflection of the book’s themes, beginning at Rovingheights bookstore in Landmark. Hosted by the charismatic Swit Ope, the afternoon session attracted a dynamic audience, including notable figures such as Bukky George-Taylor, Beverly Osu and Madhiya, alongside literary enthusiasts, cultural stakeholders, and industry leaders. The conversation centred on the book’s core themes: the economic and cultural power of nightlife, the structures that sustain it, and its role in placing Nigeria on the global entertainment map.
As the sun set, the celebration transitioned to The Library Club in Victoria Island, where an intimate and immersive experience awaited guests. The elegant evening, sponsored by Laurent Perrier, featured champagne, deep conversations and high-energy exchanges. The setting, bathed in warm, curated lighting, embodied the spirit of the book—a world that thrives in the dark yet fuels an economy that never sleeps.
Sunky O, known for his keen insight into socio-cultural shifts, emphasised the need to challenge negative perceptions of nightlife. “Lagos nightlife has transcended being just an avenue for entertainment,” he said. “It is an economic powerhouse, a space where power moves happen, and a subculture that has placed Nigeria on the global map.”
With The Other Side of Midnight now officially out, the conversation extends beyond the book into boardrooms, clubs and cultural spaces where nightlife is more than an experience—it is an enterprise. The book is available for purchase on Sellar, Amazon and at Rovingheights for physical copies.
The Other Side of Midnight showcases the resilience, creativity and economic power of Lagos nightlife, as seen through the eyes of one of its most passionate chroniclers.