Lanre Shonubi, affectionately known as ‘The Radio God,’ has carved a significant niche for himself in the radio industry through his passion and dedication. His journey began in childhood, where an interest in radio was ignited while participating in church-related activities. The early days were filled with recordings of his own shows using his father’s desktop computer, and this love for broadcasting naturally transitioned into university, where he took his first steps into professional radio at Hebron FM. Lanre’s decision to forge a career in this industry ultimately stemmed from having a platform to showcase his talent, making it a path he felt compelled to pursue without hesitation.
His family’s support played a crucial role in shaping his career. Initially, his father had reservations about a radio career, urging him to think of it as a side pursuit while he considered a more conventional path, like medicine. However, upon realizing Lanre’s dedication and passion for radio, his father became instrumental in helping him land his first job at a reputable radio station. This support framework provided Lanre with not only the necessary foundation but also the encouragement to develop his craft further, leading to longer tenure at iconic stations like HotFM and the BBC.
Among the accolades and recognition Lanre has received, the Nigerian Teen Choice Award for Outstanding Teen Media and Entertainment stands out prominently. Winning this award three consecutive times in 2014 marked a significant milestone in his career. Although he has accumulated several nominations, the excitement of winning his first award remains unmatched, showcasing the importance of recognition in motivating young talents. Lanre also shared that his interest in sports was relatively minimal during his school days, with a brief stint in school football ending due to a painful incident; however, he found a way to engage with sports through video games, particularly FIFA on the PlayStation 5.
In reflecting on his upbringing, Lanre describes a family environment that loved sports, particularly during major international tournaments like the World Cup and the African Cup of Nations. The emotional echoes of significant matches, such as Nigeria’s clash with Tunisia in 2004, remain vivid memories for him. When discussing the greatest Nigerian footballer of all time, Osaze Odemwingie holds a special place in his heart, primarily due to his name, but he considers Jay-Jay Okocha superior based on skill level and prominence on the field. Lanre’s admiration extends beyond historical figures, as he expressed a desire to date U.S. sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson and dream of interviewing the legendary Muhammad Ali for a deep dive into his charismatic persona.
As an On-Air Personality (OAP), Lanre thrives on the emotional connections forged with listeners, relishing the vulnerability and honesty people often display during conversations on his shows. Turning to the Super Eagles, he acknowledges their potential for growth and believes there is room for improvement in their strategies to achieve success in future competitions. Additionally, his allegiance to Arsenal Football Club fills him with optimism about the season ahead. Lanre is enthusiastic about the team’s prospects, particularly praising players like Bukayo Saka and the possibility of securing multiple trophies, including the Premier League and the FA Cup.
Looking ahead, Lanre expresses a willingness to encourage his children to pursue sports, even introducing them to football at a young age. However, he believes in allowing them the autonomy to choose their path, particularly if they become talented enough to draw comparisons to players like Bukayo Saka. His approach would hinge on guiding them to consider which country might offer better opportunities within systems available to them at that time, reflecting his understanding that personal career decisions ultimately rest with the individual. Overall, Lanre’s journey offers insights into the intersection of passion, family support, and the complexities of identity in sports, highlighting both the trials and triumphs that shape a successful career in the media landscape.
