‘Having practised theatre extensively in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, he revolutionized 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… he has remained consistent in his relentless efforts to restore the glory of live theatre in Nigeria’

THE Theatre world of Nigeria has risen in lavish celebration of one of their illustrious members, OLATEJU WASEE KAREEM, a fellow of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Practitioners, NANTAP, who clocked 60 on Sunday March 27, which by coincidence is International Theatre Day, ITD.

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.

From the Ijaiye quarters of Abeokuta in Ogun State, Kareem 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 his 50^th 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

TRIBUTES

Among notable practitioners who have paid tributes to the celebrant are:

Professor Sola Fosudo, Dept of Theatre and Music, Lagos State University, who wrote:

“Wazee Kareem, the quintessential and legendary designer of our century, I celebrate you my dear brother and friend as you add another year to your impactful life, a life of outstanding professional excellence. You’re very much appreciated Teju for everything you represent to our profession and to our relationship. I pray for you Wasee that Almighty Allah will preserve your life. You will live in health and continue to enjoy abundance of blessings. Amen. Affectionately, SF”

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Zik Zulu Okafor, theatre practitioner, moviemaker: “Happy birthday to my twin brother, a man who could bring smiles to gloomy faces with creative lighting, the aesthetic carpenter of my class of ’87, the tinker with a rare sense of embellishments , a lighting practitioner whose visage illuminates and accentuates the story of our quaint theatre and avante-garde life style.
“Happy birthday again, the man they call my brother, the one who deliberately garbs himself with an agbèro mien yet with a soft and seraphic smile and heart.
Teju my bro, the very portrait of humility, the 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.
“No doubt your journey has not been a dash, it is a marathon and you’ve run a good race and by God’s grace , you will end amazingly well.
“May the Most High God keep you going even stronger with age.
CONGRATULATIONS. ZZO 🙏🏿

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Dr Patrick Jude-Oteh, theatre director, founder Jos Reperatory Theatre, JRT: “HAPPY BIRTHDAY to one of our most decent, hard-working, amiable, GENEROUS, self-less, gentleman to the core and a truly wonderful friend always. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Haji Wasee Teju Kareem! A man with a very Noble heart! You are always appreciated! Happy Birthday Bro.”

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Prof. Sunnie Ododo, General Manager, National Theatre of Nigeria: “Happy birthday to a celebrity theatre technologist and entrepreneur. God grant you many more years of active service to the theatre industry and humanity. Enjoy your special day.🎁”

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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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Prof. Razinat Mohammed, head of adjudication, annual WSICE Essay contest: I first met Dr. Olateju Kareem, (otherwise known by many as Teju Kareem or simply, Alhaji) in July of 2013 during the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange programme (WSICE) in Lagos. I would like to believe that I am probably, the latest to have met this man of many parts considering that everyone that has spoken has known him back in their school days or have worked with him for over a decade.

In the last nine years of working closely with Alhaji, I have discovered a man of inexhaustible energy, a visionary, and an incredibly talented man who loves to pose creative challenges at those around him. Alhaji is a tireless worker who does not understand the meaning of the impossible. I cannot agree less with all who have spoken this evening and have focused on his humility. Here is a man who does not care whether he is drinking Garri with Peanuts in the presence of his workers or eating Caviar in polished company, he would not care to know if the former has a tendency to demean his personality or if the later would place him within a revered elite class. He simply, would not care/bother himself with such categorisation of life. Alhaji is such a free-spirited human being, the type that brings a breath of fresh air to the stage. In all of these, I know Alhaji to be a very unassuming man when serious matters are at hand and at the same time, a Hill-Top humorous man whose Azonto dance steps have made deep imprints on my mind. Every year, during the get-together for the visiting students of the Open Door Series to commemorate the birthday of Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Alhaji would dance with the students late into the night. I always wonder where he gets his energies from. Alhaji is such fun when you get your acts right. However, for those who do not take their work serious, Prof. Mabel Evhierhoma said a while ago “you would not want to see him angry.”

In our close group, behind him of course, I have nicknamed him Teju Thunder after the very talented, ARA THUNDER of our beloved, but now rested, African Drums Festivals. Alhaji Teju Kareem is an embodiment of generousity. I am not surprised that others have spoken of his charitable or philanthropic nature. The man, Olateju Wasee Kareem has evidently, drunk of the pot-of-milk of human kindness. Happy birthday Alhaji and May your days here on this earth be long and happy. Ameen.  

*Prof. Mohammed delivered this tribute for the Birthday celebration session hosted by the Kulture Train of the Spirit of Nigeria Radio.       

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There have also been congratulatory messages from Kareem’s other communities:

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Barrister Taiwo Adeoluwa, former Secretary (SSG) to the Ogun State Government, OGSG: “Happy Diamond Jubilee Thanksgiving. Today, we thank God for our brother, Alhaji Teju Kareem, aka Zmirage. We bless the Maker of Heavens and Earth for your physical, mental and emotional health and well-being. We thank God for a well garlanded life dotted with trail blazing and significant accomplishments particularly in your chosen profession. We thank God for your children and grandchildren. We appreciate your love, kindness of soul and spirit, genuine friendship and brotherliness. On this your Diamond Jubilee, we pray that the Heavens shall be merciful unto you. Your odyssey of a well garlanded life, beautiful inside and outside, is just unfolding. We celebrate this special gift from the throne of Grace. Happy 60th birthday to you sir. Greetings to your household. From all of us: The Adeoluwas.”

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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, extolling and the encomiums showered on you by the larger community on 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, that I’ll not leave 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.”

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Tunbosun Kola-Daisi,  Chairman  Mobile screen and sound Ltd: “Hearty congratulations my big Egbon and mentor in the industry. It was you/Zmirage that opened my eyes and encouraged me to birth Mobile Screens and Sound ltd after our several partnerships during the Femi Kuti Shows in late 90s the early 2000s. And shortly thereafter, we had an ongoing partnership working on your amazing and unique set designs for KORA awards, AFRIMA, Drum festivals to mention a few.You are a core professional that has a spectacular eye for details. On the occasion of your 60th anniversary, I wish you longer life in good health and sound mind. I also urge you to continue to mentor the upcoming in the industry as your wealth of experience must not go to waste. Cheers to 60 cheers”

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Gbenga Okegbenro, journalist: “Hearty congratulations to a most accomplished creative and technical(s) genius.”

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Victory Ashaka, Performance Poet, Climate Change advocate: “I felicitate and wish you many more years of impact. You are an exact blueprint of a man with an impeccable character. Thanks for setting the pace and being an example of a whole man. May your years ahead be laced with ecstatic explorations and may sweet glories rush upon your sight as a proof that you are rare and one in 7.9 billion. I wish you all of life’s pleasant treasures and may your feet continually be on the rock to stay. Cheers to many more years of breathtaking exploits and remarkable impact. I love you dearly Sir!❤️

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Ayo Gbeleyi, Chairman, Board of Directors, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, FMBN: I warmly felicitate with you on the joyous milestone occasion of your Diamond Jubilee Birthday. May The Lord continue to order your path in all spheres of life.  Wishing you many splendid returns in robust health, divine fulfillment and more selfless service to humanity.

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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 comtinue to locate you in the center 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, Dominion 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: “Happy Birthday to a great man with creative mind, goal driven, an achiever with no impossibilities, my Father and my guardian all the way.. 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.”

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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.”

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Femi Osude: Alhaji Teju Kareem is the true definition of Liberal and the phrase ‘Live & Let Live’ because he goes about his business without judging anyone. A generous and selfless being. Gentle, kind, great sense of humor, funny, level-headed, full of wisdom, peaceful, free-spirited and never a dull moment around him. Mr Kareem (as we fondly him in our house) works hard & plays hard. A workaholic but loving every task he finds himself doing and does it wholeheartedly. The only one I know in the world of entertainment that is not a party/owambe fan, Lol. I cannot tell my story of coming to England without you in it. I will forever be grateful to you sir. May the good Lord continue to shower his blessings on you and your family. May your light continually shine. May your path be bigger & more successful and may God grant you many more years in good health and prosperity. Happy 60th birthday sir. Many happy returns!!”

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Ayo Aladekomo, aka, ADUKE, musician, actress, member of the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE) family: “Alhaji Teju Kareem, you are a leader and father to so many. An enigma in your chosen field. I am happy to celebrate you as you clock 60 years. I pray this milestone year brings you so much goodness, peace and joy. Thank you for all you do for the arts and those around you. Happy birthday sir. Many Happy returns.”

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Seemore Badejo, MD/CEO, Concrete Communications: “My dear friend and brother, happy birthday. May the rest of your long life be the best part of your life.”

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Akai Imoh, Animation artist, associate member of the ZMirage Multimedia Company, ZMC: “Happy Birthday My boss, my master, my godfather, my world of art. I wish u all the best sir. May u continue to live long cos u owe us more lessons.”

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Raheem Bolacash: “Knowing you is one of the greatest things that ever happened to me. So much to pick and learn when Alhaji Kareem talks and so much more to pick and learn when he’s silent. I join others to wish you happy birthday and many more healthful and prosperous years ahead.”

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Babatunde Odede: “Happy Diamond celebration Alhaji Teju Wasee Kareem, my boss and mentor. The pioneer and quintessential techical support service practioner . I do wish you long live, love and happiness.”

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Baliki Audu: “On your Bbirthday, I’d like to say thank-you for the right skills and knowledge that you’ve given me and other future leaders. Thank you for caring about my career and well-being. You have always been eager to help no matter what I needed, I brainstorm. With you and get the best results, thank you so much sir for your time and patience. May Allah continue to bless you.”

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Aladesanmi Adeyemi: Happy birthday sir …. you existence has brought many to light and your light will continue to shine to bring More others. Thanks for all you do happy birthday once again sir.”

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Bakare Daniel: “Congratulations on adding another year into your life sir! I hope that you’ll receive many warm blessings and wishes that can help you to start another phase of your life. I’m wishing nothing but happiness for you today and always. Happy birthday sir!”

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Prince Adebowale Adesida: I have known this amiable gentleman for a few years of my corporeal existence. He has been proven to be consistent in character and thought. As you begin another stage on the 6th floor. May the Lord bless and keep you always.”

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Sicco Awolaru: “Glory be to God for bringing you this far. God will continue to enlarge your coasts and grant you long life in good health. Never relent in impacting people’s lives positively. Have fun, Sir.”

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Saidat Kareem, Member ZMirage Multimedia Company family: “Happy birthday Sir. May all your heart desires be granted. May your year(s) be filled with more grace, blessings, abundance and peace. Have an amazing year.”

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Folasade Adesope: “Happy birthday to you sir. Thank you for all you have done for the society and those that are close to you. God Almighty will continue to uphold you. Long life in good health and wealth.”

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Seyi Sotubo: “Nice to know that I didn’t only attend same school with this theater technology guru in our teens but was also his first premier actor in a play titled ABIKU, a medley of Wọlé Soyinka and Pepper Clark’s poems. Hugest cheers to you for placing your name in global pedestal Hearty congratulations to you.”

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Abiodun Akinboyede Esq: Happy 60th birthday to my first oga and leader, a relentless professional par excellence. Your graceful yet detailed outlook to life and work has been the platform upon which many like me have leveraged on and excelled. May your days be like fine wine that only gets better as it ages. Many more fulfilling years I wish you sir. Stay great always.

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Kabir Yakub, President -Muslim Teachers College, Randle Avenue Surulere: Since graduating from secondary school in 1981, I had never seen Alh. Teju Kareem until early 2000, just before the new millennium, when he came to Port Harcourt as the mastermind behind the much-publicised wedding ceremony of the daughter of the state’s then governor, Dr. Peter Odili.

I had no idea Teju was interested in art, entertainment, or anything remotely related to acting. When I arrived at the site, I was astounded to be welcomed by artistry magic I had never seen before. “Good soup Na Money Kill am,” Nigerians would undoubtedly say. But keep in mind that developing such a masterclass organisation requires a good intellect with remarkable and unsurpassed aesthetics.

I always proudly told my pals, “Na my friend do am,” as I departed the party location with my shoulder lifted up. Teju returned to Port Harcourt soon after the wedding ceremony for another huge musical celebration. He brought Yclef, Lucky Dube, Tee Mac, and other world-class musicians to Port Harcourt for another great musical spectacle on his own. Since then, it’s been one musical success story after another. Felabration 1 was followed by Felabration 2 and so on. The Ogun State Drum Festival, the Wole Soyinka series of events, and similar others are examples of this.

These initiatives bring together enowned professional artists, academia, and others from all around the world, with Teju at the heart. His dexterity and sensitivity in his work are enthralling, and he will always leave a lot of work for researchers and academia.

When it comes to the MUTECO FAMILY, Teju’s work has always set a high bar for everyone. I remember telling the Co-Chairman Events Planning Committee not to be concerned about the difficulty in reaching Teju, probably because he was far away in the UK, on the last expedition. I promised her that an hour with Teju would result in 10 persons being produced in two weeks.

Teju’s Midas touch was evident across the board on our 40th anniversary, much to her surprise. All that transpired during the occasion was the razzmataz, glitz, the glamour, and the tense mood. What are your thoughts on our 35th anniversary, which was a media sensation in and of itself? All I have to say is that God Almighty deserves all honour and praise for creating such a unique species of human.

I’m not surprised, though, that his colleagues and followers in the arts and theater have heaped praise on him during an online symposium in honour of our Dear Teju on his 60th birthday by KULTURE TRAIN (www.spiritofnigeriaradio.com). That was another eye-opening event for me as a person. All these can’t be achieved overnight. It’s a result of hardwork, dedication and hunger to continuously improve in what you are known for.
Go on sóun, my Egbón, my mentor. The sky cannot hold you by His grace.

…A man for all seasons

HAVING practised theatre extensively in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, he revolutionized 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.

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.