Oluwaseni Saraki, a name resonating across diverse fields, has carved a remarkable trajectory marked by entrepreneurial ventures, cultural influence, and musical achievements. From the football pitch to the vibrant tapestry of the music industry, Saraki’s journey is a testament to his multifaceted talents and dedication. His recent Grammy win, a pinnacle of recognition in the music world, underscores his significant contributions to the global soundscape. This achievement, coupled with his entrepreneurial endeavors and cultural impact, paints a vivid picture of a dynamic individual making his mark on the world stage.
Saraki’s initial foray into the public sphere came through the world of sports. In 2015, he assumed the chairmanship of the Abubakar Bukola Saraki Football Club, a team competing in Nigeria’s National League. This appointment marked his entry into leadership and management, showcasing a commitment to fostering athletic talent within his community. Following this experience, he pursued academic excellence, culminating in his graduation from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science in 2017, after completing his law degree at the Nigerian Law School in Lagos. This academic foundation provided him with a strong intellectual base to navigate the complexities of the various industries he would later engage with.
Saraki’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited in 2016 with the co-founding of The Native, a Lagos-based music magazine. This platform, created alongside Teni ‘Teezee’ Zaccheaus, has become a significant voice in celebrating and promoting African music, culture, and art. The Native serves as a testament to Saraki’s passion for artistic expression and his dedication to amplifying the diverse creative talents emerging from the African continent. This venture laid the groundwork for his deeper involvement in the music industry, paving the path toward his Grammy-winning contribution.
Following the completion of his National Youth Service in Abuja in 2018, Saraki further cemented his connection to Nigerian culture through a collaboration with Nike in 2019. This partnership resulted in a special-edition jersey under the “Nike by The NATIVE” line, featuring a design inspired by Adire, a traditional Nigerian fabric. The jersey, incorporating Nigeria’s international dialing code and the Yoruba word for “home,” symbolized Saraki’s pride in his Nigerian heritage and his connection to the diaspora community. This initiative highlighted his ability to bridge cultural divides and leverage his platform to celebrate his roots.
Saraki’s musical journey gained significant momentum with his involvement in the 2022 Nigerian segment of the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. This project, featuring collaborations with prominent Nigerian artists such as Rema, Fireboy DML, Tems, and Burna Boy, garnered four Grammy nominations, further solidifying Saraki’s presence in the global music scene. This experience provided a platform to showcase the vibrant sounds of Nigerian music to an international audience and highlighted Saraki’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural collaborations.
The culmination of Saraki’s dedication to music arrived in 2025 with his first Grammy win for his contribution to the Bob Marley: One Love soundtrack, which won the award for Best Reggae Album. This soundtrack, featuring renditions of Bob Marley’s classics by a diverse array of artists, is a testament to the enduring power of Marley’s music and its global impact. Saraki’s involvement in this project underscores his commitment to music that transcends cultural boundaries and promotes unity. Furthermore, under the stage name Shane Chubbz, Saraki has released his own music, including tracks like “Hail Mary” and “Holiday / Where I’m From,” further solidifying his presence within the music industry. His journey from football club chairman to Grammy-winning contributor reflects a remarkable trajectory, marked by entrepreneurial vision, cultural influence, and a dedication to artistic excellence.
