Technical Theatre guru and art entrepreneur, Olateju Wasee Kareem, was 60 on Sunday, March 27, which coincidentally was the International Theatre Day (ITD).
As expected, the Theatre community in Nigeria rolled out the drum of tributes to celebrate the life and accomplishments of one of their illustrious members, who is known for his usual and generous support for the cause of the vocation he trained in and to which he has committed his life and career.
A technical theatre expert, businessman, philanthropist, founder and CEO of Zmirage Multimedia Limited, Olateju Wasee Kareem is renowned for his adroitness as a theatre practitioner, who through sheer creativity, inventiveness, industry and adherence to high standard, has stamped his authority as a frontline practitioner of theatre, especially in the areas of stage and light designs. He has also over the years, manifested himself as one of the most resourceful producers of theatrical contents, with practice spanning Nigeria to London, to south Africa, the USA, and the Caribbean.
Trained at the Department of Theatre Arts, University of Ibadan where he emerged as one of the best in technical theatre studies, he thereafter obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration from the Hastings School of Business and Management Studies, United Kingdom.
Teju Kareem from the Ijaiye quarters of Abeokuta in Ogun State is also revered as a philanthropist who gives endlessly to support fellow artists and projects he considers germane to the advancement of the society.
His high-networth position in the theatre and as a philanthropist was captured in an academic book that was published 10 years ago to mark hs 50th birthday anniversary. Titled ‘Technical Theatre and the Performing Arts in Nigeria: Celebrating Wasee Kareem,’ the book edited by Professors Duro Oni and Enessi Ododo is about to be reproduced due to popular demand, but can be ordered via: https://www.worldcat.org/title/technical-theatre-and-the-performing-arts-in-nigeria-celebrating-olateju-wasee-kareem/oclc/748585379
Having practised theatre extensively in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, he revolutionised technical theatre practice in Nigeria by setting up Zmirage Multimedia Limited in 1996 to fill the yawning gap created by the absence of world class infrastructure to aid practitioners in that field. Now in its twenty third year as the pioneer and leading suppliers of technical equipment to the entertainment and corporate event industries, Zmirage has grown and diversified its services far beyond the boundaries of a mere theatrical technical hire company, reaching into every area where technical equipment is used as part of entertainment, with the rare capacity to handle several events simultaneously no matter the time or location.
Zmirage and Teju Kareem who also hold the franchise for the popular Miss Malaika Beauty Pageant, have handled countless high profile events within and outside Nigeria. Projects undertaken include KORA Music Awards in South Africa, Mariam Makeba the musical both in America and South Africa, WSICE at the African Centre and CANIRIV at Notting Hill Carnival, both in London.
During his conferment with Honourary Doctorate Degree by the EdXcel University, Benin Republic. The ceremony was held Wednesday, December 4, in the course of the school’s 2019 Matriculation, Convocation & Honorary Award Programme at the Palace Bayol (Cultural Centre) of the city of Porto Novo.
With many awards and honours to his credit, Teju Kareem is the chairman of Abuja Rocks. He is the Consultant Technical Producer of Nigeria Election Debate Group (NEDG) and was Consultant for the Sierra Leone Election Debate Group (SEDG). He was also Consultant Technical Producer for the Nigerian Olympic stage plays held at Stratford Theatre London in July 2012.
Among his numerous credits are: Technical Director, CORA Awards Abuja and SARO the Musical, President Miss Malaika Nigeria and President CIOF Nigeria a cultural body devoted to the development of folklore festivals from 2007 – 2009; artistic producer/Director African Drums Festival 2017 – 2019.
Teju Kareem is a fellow of The National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP), member of the Institute of Directors (IOD), a fellow of Theater Arts Practitioners (FTA) and director of Communication and African Renaissance.
Teju Kareem is the Executive Producer of the annual WS International Cultural Exchange Program now in its tenth year and Consultant/Producer for all 18 editions of the ongoing Federal Government of Nigeria Town Hall meetings. He has remained consistent in his relentless efforts to restore the glory of live theatre in Nigeria.
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Lillian Amah-Aluko, COO. Zmirage & pioneer producer WSICE: Happy diamond birthday to a theatrical gem. Service to humanity is a calling which you unstintingly and unhesitantly fulfil day after day. May your time on the 6th floor be full of love, joy, peace and good cheer. May Heaven’s best be your portion now and always Sir.
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There have also been congratulatory messages from Kareem’s other communities:
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Yakubu Muhammed Kebir, Managing Director /CEO Leadfort Insurance Brokers Limited; President/ Chairman Muslim Teachers Training College Old Students Association (Muteco Class Of ’81): “Alhamdu Lillah, Alhamdu Lillah, Alhamdu Lillah Rabbi l Alamin.
“I am grateful to God Almighty for the life of my brother and leader – Wasee Teju Kareem as you mark your 60th birthday anniversary.
“I am not in anyway surprised at the obeisance, extolments and the encomiums showered on you by the larger community at your birthday.
“All I have to do is to give Praises and Exultation to God Almighty for the person He has made out of you.
“I feel proud at all times at the mention of your name – Teju. It is never a dull moment conversing or interacting with you. There is never a time I have the opportunity of seeing or meeting you, even if it’s for a second, I’ll not leave you as a better person – well loaded with ideas, wisdom, and even happier.
“I, on behalf of Itsemhe, my family and the entire MUTECO FAMILY remain eternally grateful to you for your efforts in making the MUTECO family better focused, positioned and stronger by the day. We adore your personality, your mien, tact, finesse, dint of hardwork and commitment whenever your attention is called upon.
“We will continue to celebrate you in all spheres and at all times.
Once again, a very big congratulation my leader and Egbon on your 60th birthday.”
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Mrs Mojota, former comm. Of Education and current member of House of assembly, OGSG.
“Uncle Z. Only providence can truly express how we reconnected having admired you long distance all those years ago at the theatre at the University of Ibadan. My admiration then has proven to be well placed and well deserved and i am so thankful that i now know you as a friend and big brother. Thank you for your counsel, wise talk, straight forwardness and commitment to all you hold dear. As you turn 60 it is my prayer that God will refresh you for the next mountains. He will have you conquer and continue to locate you in the centre of His will. Happy birthday Uncle Z. I am so happy for you!
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Akin Akinbamidele, MD/CEO, First stage Communication company: “To our own Teju Kareem, happy birthday to a creative genius, most resourceful and very humble personality. It’s been rewarding knowing you on a personal and professional level these past 20 years!! Bring on the the lights…💥🎉 Happy birthday bro
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John Osinaike , CEO, Glabos Nigeria Limited: “I celebrate a legend, a mentor and a father to many… Thank you for teaching and showing us the way per excellence. The little time I spent with you sir was worth it. Learning from you at a high level of professionalism has shown and brought a part of you in me. Thank you so much for everything you do. I really appreciate 🙏 Happy birthday 🎊🎁🎈🎉🎂 sir… long life in sound health and abundance. 60 looks good on you sir”
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Friday Ndubusi Robert, CEO, Domonion organization: “Away from the source of the mankind ife OSun state…in the palace of HIM ooni Adeyeye enitan babatunde ogunwusi ojaja 2….from all of us in DOMINION event planner and ushers the Royal event planner of the source..we join the world to celebrate a leader with a large heart HBD igba odun odun kan sir…enjoy your new age with love and mercy of the Lord…u are bless and highly favoured sir….
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Yemi Aareola, CEO, AareAmoke Ventures: “A milestone with an achiever, is a celebration, more of adorning diamonds on velvet… Kudos bro. When beggars win, there is no comet seen, but heavens themselves blaze forth d victory of Princes.
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Bunmi Adeyemi: Happy birthday Alhaji Teju Kareem, I hope I have the wisdom and energy you have at sixty! Thanks for being an incredible bro and a wonderful friend. You deserve so much happiness and joy in life, and I hope that the coming years ahead are full of many blessings for you. Happy belated birthday.”
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Jide Odusolu, MD/CEO, Octo5: “Holdings Wishing one of the finest coolest youngest old men, I know a awesome 60th birthday”
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Funmilayo Osha: “He is such an exceptional man…..I loved the caption tested in theatre, bold in business, generous in giving. The little I know about him makes me align my self with his friend Zik Zulu Okafor that describes him as “a hidden billionaire that eats happily in a mama-put and feels at home in a bukka. I dare say your brand is uncommon, you are, succinctly, a fetching symbol of how to keep life less complicated”. He also has a good sense of humor. He accompanied me all the way to Bucks…..He gave himself……from the depth of my heart….my spirit prays for him “God bless him and all that concerns him”.
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Dominic Botoku, Graphics Artist- Abuja: “No one can truly do justice in describing how much you have done in the creative industry. All your unflinching love and zeal to promote art in general is beyond any human description.”
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Yomi Layinka, Communication guru-Ibadan: “You’re heartily welcome onto the Diamond Stage of your very eventful life. May the Lord continue to bless and keep you in good health until the fulfillment of destiny. Congratulations, my very dear aburo of whom I am very proud.”
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Mike Abiola, Publisher African Voice-UK: A big congratulations to you Alhaji Wasee Karim. May you celebrate many more fulfilling years in radiant health and prosperity. Igba odun, odun kan
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Dr kukoyi, MD, Medicare Clinic: “There’s no doubt that Zmirage brought style and panache to the entertainment theatre industry. You literally infused energy and passion into the business. I salute your doggedness, prowess and pioneering courage. Happy birthday, as I wish you greater achievements in the future.”
******* Waheed Lawal, New York: “He gives not only to the artists but to all his friends both old and young. He raised many from bottom of rivers and ditches. And he has continued to give with iota of respect regardless of people religion, ethnicity or language. He’s our own Asiwaju and Jagaban and a jolly fellow. May Almighty Allah continue to bless and guide you and your family. You’re always my benefactor. Thank you Alhaji Doctor, Asiwaju Abdul Wasiu Olateju Kareem. You’re the best. Long life brother and keep the flag flying.”
