Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
Chairman/CEO of Fresh FM Nigeria, Dr. Yinka Ayefele, MON, has described the demolition of his radio station by the late Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, as a “blessing in disguise,” saying the incident became a major turning point in his broadcasting journey.
Ayefele made the declaration on Wednesday during a press conference held in Ibadan to officially flag off a week-long celebration marking the 10th anniversary of Fresh FM Nigeria — one of the country’s most successful and influential privately owned radio networks.
The gospel singer-turned-media entrepreneur reflected on his decade-long journey in broadcasting, describing it as one built on perseverance, innovation, and divine grace.
“I am so happy for a day like this,” he said. “I never knew I could one day stand before many Nigerians, before smart and versatile journalists, and veterans in the industry.”
Speaking on one of the most defining moments of his career, Ayefele recounted how the 2018 demolition of his Music House in Ibadan — which housed Fresh FM — initially appeared as a setback but later became the platform for his global recognition.
“Late Governor Ajimobi was a catalyst to my triumph,” Ayefele said. “The demolition exercise carried out on my station by his administration was a blessing in disguise. And besides, it’s not today that governments carry out demolition exercises — but why did mine draw the attention of the whole world?”
He continued: “BBC London and CNN called me for interviews on the matter. My name and my company’s name travelled across the world. What surprised me most was that the late Governor Ajimobi later rebuilt the station. That incident took me to where I am today — maybe I might not have been where I am now if it had not happened.”
Among the dignitaries in attendance at the press conference were the representative of the Oyo State Governor, Pastor Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, Chief Comrade Ademola Babalola, a representative of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Alhaja Sherifat Muhammed, and the Group General Manager of Fresh FM Nigeria, Alhaji Abolade Salami, among many others.
Ayefele’s remarks drew admiration from journalists and guests present at the event, many of whom praised his resilience and ability to transform adversity into opportunity.
Reflecting on his humble beginnings, Ayefele recalled how his career started with radio jingle production before he ventured into full broadcasting and eventually established Fresh FM — a network that now operates across several Nigerian cities.
“I started as a jingle producer at FRCN. From there, I grew to become a broadcaster and later a station owner,” he said. “Today, we have Fresh FM stations in Ibadan, Abeokuta, Ado-Ekiti, Lagos, and other states. I thank God for how far He has brought us.”
The 10th anniversary celebration, which continues throughout the week, will feature thanksgiving services, public lectures, and live concerts, all dedicated to appreciating God’s faithfulness and the loyal listeners who have supported the Fresh FM brand over the years.
As Fresh FM marks a decade of impactful broadcasting, Dr. Yinka Ayefele’s story stands as a living testimony of how faith, resilience, and vision can turn pain into purpose — and challenges into enduring succes
