By Adeola Shittu
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| RAHEEM AKINGBOLU |
Every profession is defined by a few exceptional individuals whose influence extends far beyond their achievements. They inspire confidence, nurture careers and create opportunities that shape the lives of others. Today, July 11, I celebrate one of those remarkable personalities—Raheem Akingbolu, popularly known as RHM—a man whose impact reaches far beyond the newsroom.
A lawyer, accomplished journalist, respected media strategist and one of Nigeria's foremost brand journalists, RHM has earned his place as a trusted voice in brand communications and corporate journalism. While many know him for his professional accomplishments, I have had the privilege of knowing another side of him—a mentor whose belief in people has transformed lives, including mine.
My journey with RHM began more than a decade ago during my days as a reporter with City People Magazine. Like every young journalist, I was eager to break stories and make a name for myself. One of the defining moments of that period was a feature I wrote titled "Meet 50 Ekiti Big Boys Rocking the Party Scene." In the story, I listed RHM among Ekiti State's influential personalities—a decision that sparked conversations across media circles and drew questions from some senior journalists about the criteria I used in compiling the list. Looking back today, I remain convinced that the recognition was well deserved.
I also remember being privileged to cover the burial of his late father in Aramoko Ekiti, an experience that gave me a deeper appreciation of the humility, relationships and family values that define the man many simply call RHM.
Years later, our professional paths crossed again after I returned to Lagos. What began as a working relationship gradually became one of mentorship. One statement he made has remained with me ever since: "Adeola, grow more. This is how we were groomed." Those simple words became a constant reminder that growth in journalism requires discipline, consistency and a willingness to keep learning.
One of RHM's greatest contributions to my career has been the confidence he placed in me. He believed I could handle assignments in brand journalism and corporate communications, often entrusting me with important stories and responsibilities. Many of those assignments challenged me to think beyond conventional reporting. They pushed me to research more deeply, ask better questions and pay attention to the details that distinguish a good story from an excellent one.
Every correction he made refined my writing. Every assignment strengthened my confidence. Every opportunity reminded me that excellence is a habit, not an accident.
Today, whenever I write stories on branding, corporate communications or strategic storytelling, I recognise the influence his mentorship has had on my work. He taught me that behind every successful brand is a story worth telling—and that telling it well requires accuracy, creativity and integrity.
His support has not been limited to my personal growth. As the Publisher of Event Diary Lifestyle, I have witnessed his unwavering commitment to seeing my platform succeed. Beyond encouraging me, he has consistently introduced me to individuals and organisations that could support the growth of the publication. His willingness to connect me with decision-makers, corporate personalities and industry leaders has opened doors that might otherwise have remained closed.
The same generosity has extended to the Young Child in School Initiative, my flagship project dedicated to empowering children through education and mentorship. On several occasions, RHM has readily introduced me to personalities, brands and organisations capable of supporting the initiative. He understands that meaningful change is driven by collaboration, and he has never hesitated to connect people with opportunities to make a difference.
That is the kind of leader he is.
He does not simply celebrate the success of others; he helps create it.
There have also been moments when I needed support for my own projects. More often than not, all it took was a simple message before he responded with encouragement or practical assistance. Those acts of kindness, though rarely spoken about publicly, reveal the depth of his character.
For me, RHM is more than a respected journalist or media strategist. He is a teacher who shares knowledge without reservation, a leader who creates opportunities for others, and a mentor who believes in people long before they fully believe in themselves.
As he marks another birthday, I celebrate not only his remarkable career but also the countless lives he has touched through his generosity, wisdom and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Happy Birthday, Boss.
Thank you for believing in my dreams, sharpening my craft, supporting Event Diary Lifestyle, standing behind the Young Child in School Initiative, and continually opening doors for me and many others.
Your greatest legacy will not only be the stories you have written, but the people whose stories you have helped shape.
May God continue to bless you with good health, renewed strength and many more years of purposeful impact.
Happy Birthday, RHM.