NUJ DAAR mourns Shola Aiyebola, veteran producer of AIT’s Kakaaki

The leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), DAAR Communications Plc, have expressed deep sorrow over the death of Mr. Shola Aiyebola, one of Nigeria’s longest-serving television programme producers.

Mr. Aiyebola passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that spanned over two decades in Nigerian broadcast journalism.

In a condolence statement signed by the NUJ DAAR Chairman, Patrick Abulu, the union described the late Aiyebola as a silent force behind the success of AIT’s flagship breakfast magazine programme, Kakaaki, which he produced from 1997.

According to the statement, Aiyebola initially joined Kakaaki as the producer of a segment titled “Healthy Living”, before eventually becoming the main producer of the programme — a role he held with exceptional dedication for nearly 25 years.

Fondly called “Egberefu” by colleagues for his humour in the newsroom, his voice, jokes and presence will be sorely missed. The NUJ also recalled his signature style — the flowing long-robe kaftan and his one-sided petite black cap — which became his trademark throughout his years at DAAR Communications.

The union praised Aiyebola’s uncommon work ethic, noting that he consistently sacrificed sleep and personal comfort, working Sunday through Thursday, week after week, to ensure Kakaaki aired flawlessly each morning, regardless of challenges.

Popularly called “Sholly” by colleagues, he was credited with mentoring and moulding several generations of presenters — both young and experienced — many of whom have gone on to excel within Nigeria and internationally.

Except for a brief period when he served in a political appointment for about four years, Aiyebola remained a constant presence at DAAR’s Alagbado office in Lagos and later at the DAAR Communications Complex, Kpaduma Hills, Abuja, almost every working day.

The NUJ DAAR further described him as a compassionate professional who never hesitated to pause intense editorial work to listen to colleagues, regardless of rank. When unable to resolve issues directly, he willingly referred them to other senior professionals.

“As NUJ DAAR joins millions of Kakaaki viewers — even though he worked behind the scenes — to mourn Shola Aiyebola, we call on the Board and Management of DAAR Communications Plc to honour and celebrate his memory in a befitting manner, in recognition of his many years of sacrifice and service,” the statement said.

The union also prayed for divine strength and comfort for his widow and children, asking God to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.