An Evening of Honor: Remembering Dr. Aaze Tom Adaba in Houston
On August 17, 2025, family, friends, and admirers gathered in Houston, Texas, for An Evening of Honor, a moving tribute to the life and legacy of Ohi Dr. Aaze Thomas Adaba, a Nigerian veteran broadcaster who passed away on the 22nd of February 2025. Among those who spearheaded the commemoration was his son Mr. Onimisi Adaba, a media practitioner, and a member of the Tom Adaba Legacy Foundation Board. In a reflective interview, he shared the significance of the event, its highlights, and the enduring impact of the man whose life was being celebrated.
By Melody-Esther Soyemi
Photos by Ken Eke @kenin3dx
Mr. Austin Oniwon of the Oniwon Foundation, pays glowing tributes to the late Dr. Tom Adaba.
On August 17, 2025, family, friends, and admirers gathered in Houston, Texas, for An Evening of Honor, a moving tribute to the life and legacy of Ohi Dr. Aaze Thomas Adaba, a Nigerian veteran broadcaster who passed away on the 22nd of February 2025. Among those who spearheaded the commemoration was his son Mr. Onimisi Adaba, a media practitioner, and a member of the Tom Adaba Legacy Foundation Board. In a reflective interview, he shared the significance of the event, its highlights, and the enduring impact of the man whose life was being celebrated.
Honoring a Life Well Lived
Speaking on the purpose of the gathering, Mr. Onimisi explained that the evening was about much more than remembrance. “It was an evening to introduce my friends here in Houston to the man I would have loved for them to meet, and they would have loved to meet,” he said. “Since many of us could not attend the funeral, it was of importance to have something in his honor.” For him, the event was both personal and communal, a way of bridging distances and ensuring that Dr. Adaba’s values and story were shared across borders.
Storytelling Through Memories and Media
Unlike the traditional service of songs, the evening was video-driven. Carefully produced clips showcased different moments from Dr. Adaba’s life: the night of tributes, funeral, thanksgiving service, and personal tributes. Friends and family also shared heartfelt stories.
“Life is all about stories and how we tell those stories really matters,” Mr Onimisi reflected. Guests like Mr. Austin Oniwon, a long-standing family friend, as well as Mr. Michael Ozigi, Mrs. Mariam Yusuf, and Mrs. Josephine Odessa Idowu, all brought unique perspectives. Mrs. Margaret Adaba Soyemi, Dr. Adaba’s eldest daughter, also came all the way from Nigeria and was part of the event, adding her own presence and memories to the evening. Each tribute revealed another layer of the man described as a mentor, disciplinarian, friend, and humble leader. One attendee described the program as “something entirely different, something I have never experienced before and found deeply revealing and relatable.” For many, it felt like an intimate introduction to Dr. Adaba himself.
Building on His Legacy
Mr. Onimisi Adaba, Son of Dr. Tom Adaba speaks at the event
Mr Onimisi also spoke about the work of the Tom Adaba Legacy Foundation, which is focused on education, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation. He revealed that upcoming projects include initiatives for the girl child, mentorship for young men, and revival of the Ebira weaving industry, a traditional craft with international potential but lacking promotion and funding.
Linked to this effort is an agricultural project exploring cotton farming to support textile production, aiming not just to preserve heritage but also to create economic opportunities for local communities.
“Our goal,” Onimisi explained, “is to uphold values and moral standards while empowering young people to be productive and creative. This is how we carry forward what Dr. Adaba stood for.
A Father, Mentor, and Humble Leader
When asked what Dr. Adaba meant to him personally, Mr Onimisi’s voice carried both reverence and gratitude. “He was everything, a simple man who applied himself fully in every role, whether as a father, mentor, or leader. He shaped me in a way nobody else could. Looking back now, I thank God for this man. He did a great job.”
Mr Onimisi also reflected on Dr. Adaba’s writings and character: “His book, “But for God”, just caps it up. The title alone says it all. He was able to rise to the zenith of his career, be who he was, and yet remain down to earth with whoever came his way. Speaking of humility, he was humble. He played that balance quite well.”
Despite his towering achievements, Dr. Adaba’s humility and ability to make each person feel uniquely valued left a lasting impression. “He wasn’t a saint,” he admitted, “but he balanced life well. He had shortcomings, yet he always made everyone feel special.”
A Legacy of Honor
The Houston event was more than a memorial; it was a storytelling evening that connected generations, preserved history, and set the stage for future impact. For those present, it was a chance to meet Dr. Adaba through the voices and memories of those who knew him best.
As Mr Onimisi concluded, “Let me introduce this man to my friends here in Houston who didn’t get the chance to meet him personally.” In doing so, he ensured that Dr. Aaze Tom Adaba’s legacy continues to inspire, teach, and shape lives far beyond his earthly years.
Leave a tribute for Dr. Tom Adaba here.
Photo Highlights
AAZE THOMAS ADABA, (OON, KSM, KSGG). Ohi Etohueyi of Ebiraland
Tributes | Life | Gallery | Stories
AAZE THOMAS ADABA, (OON, KSGG). Ohi Etohueyi of Ebiraland
Obituary: Aaze Tom Adaba
AAZE THOMAS ADABA, (OON, KSM, KSGG).
Ohi Etohueyi of Ebiraland
1941-2025
...an undeniable legacy
FUNERAL PROGRAM
(W.A. Time)
Christian Wake/Night of Tribute:
Thursday, 6 March 2025
4:30 pm
Catholic Church of the Archangels, Durumi, Gaduwa Road, Abuja
Lying in State:
Friday, 7 March 2025
8:30 - 9:30 am
45 Constitution Avenue, off Democracy Crescent, Gaduwa Estate, Abuja
Funeral Mass:
Friday, 7 March 2025
10:00 am
- Catholic Church of the Archangels, Durumi, Gaduwa Road, Abuja
- Christ The King Catholic Church, Okene.
Interment:
Friday, 7 March 2025
Immediately after Mass
Gudu Cemetery - Christian Section, Opposite Defence HMO, Apo, Abuja
#tomadabalegacy
Tributes | Life | Gallery | Stories
New Book, ‘A Samson In The Wild’, Reveals Rare Insights into Men’s Struggle
‘A Samson In The Wild’ aims to inspire and uplift the faith community and serves as a meaningful gift to Men in the Church from the renowned artiste Bright Andrew Igho, also known as B-Elect.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
A Samson In The Wild: Front Cover Design by Uchenna Ohagwu. Illustrated by Bright Igho. Published by Africa-Related
The book aims to inspire and uplift the faith community and serves as a meaningful gift to Men in the Church from the renowned artiste Bright Andrew Igho, also known as B-Elect.
'A Samson In The Wild' (2nd Edition). Narrated by Onimisi Adaba. Available in audiobook.
'A Samson In The Wild' (2nd Edition) was released posthumously on February 19, 2025 - what would have been the 57th birthday of the multifaceted artiste Bright Andrew Igho, who is better known by his artistic name, B-Elect.
The book delves deeply into years of struggles and ultimately explores the myriad downsides faced by a character named Adrian, who embarks on a tumultuous journey through a wilderness characterized by careless living, all while grappling with his faltering belief in Jesus as his Lord and savior. This tumultuous path ultimately leads him to a final and transformative submission to his true calling.
“B’s message and mission must continue, and I hope this book motivates someone, especially young men, to rethink very important life choices.”
‘A Samson In The Wild’ stands out as a powerful narrative rich in its portrayals, insightful character breakdowns, and intriguing stories that captivate the reader's attention. It serves as the author's profound testimony, guiding readers through emotional highs and devastating lows, which ultimately pave the way to redemption. Amidst the themes of defeat, shame, and weakness associated with the experience of ‘backsliding’, hope and optimism remain steadfast and ever-present constants throughout the journey.
“We revived the manuscript two years after his passing, and I made it my personal assignment to bring the book to life,” his widow, Mrs. Patricia N. Igho, said with a sense of purpose. “Imagining it on the shelves of bookstores and homes alike, his powerful message passed on to generations unborn, was my unwavering drive.” They were married for seven years before his untimely demise.
The 218-page turner is set in Nigeria and uses a variety of interesting characters and features, such as poetry, Bible verses, and music/poetry lyrics, to tell an engaging and life-changing story. It was first published in Nigeria by Worital Global and also invited collaborations from the author's friends and family. These include Verdant Zeal’s CEO, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi, who contributed the foreword, as well as Lagos-based visual artist Uchenna ‘Minista Busta’ Ohagwu, who designed the eye-catching book cover; and author/friend Maurice E. Okereke, who provided insightful commentary on the book. The audiobook was narrated by Onimisi Adaba.
Emeka Ejiofor in Nigeria praised the book, saying, "I just read the book and found it interesting with many lessons. I'll recommend it to anyone struggling with moral issues, as it clearly shows the physical and spiritual consequences of those actions.”
B-The Artiste
The Author Bright Andrew Igho a.k.a B-Elect (Photo by Uchenna Ohagwu)
Early ‘Naija Hip Hop’ heads will forever remember ‘B’ as a foundational father of the Hip Hop genre in Nigeria, with the group “Thorobreds”and their award-winning debut track “Street Hop”. The six-pack comprise Elajoe, Tobechukwu ‘Ilbliss’ Ejiofor, Obiora ‘Obiwon’ Nwokolobiagu, Amaka 'Da Chief Rocka’ Nwosu, Bright ‘B-Elect’ Igho and Ikenna ‘MGB’ Ezenriyoha.
His previous materials include “Beats Rhymes and Theology” (2006) and the ground-breaking album "Hard Listeners” (2011).
In seeming preparedness for his eternal departure, Igho delivers a complete package with the thoughtful completion of this book in 2016. That same year, he made a return to the music scene with a fresh, new sound and concept EP titled “The Gospel Truf" (2016), which he described as "a surreal, sporadic, elect-trical flow on sparse piano chords and boombap traditional drums." The material was inspired by profound Biblical insights, his rededication to faith, and served as a prelude to this book, ‘A Samson In the Wild’.
The captivating cover art features characters from the book - two pieces of striking visual paintings taken from the author’s art collection that beautifully accompany the written work.
The 2nd edition of ‘A Samson In the Wild’ is available online from February 19, 2025, in ebook, audiobook and paperback versions. New York production house Africa-Related is tagged to produce a screen adaptation of the book in 2026.
About the Author
Bright Andrew Igho a.k.a B-Elect (February 19, 1968 - June 8, 2019) left a significant impact on the Nigerian art and music scene through his multifaceted talents as a prolific writer, poet, rap enthusiast and visual artist. He attained critical success with his unique writing style and thought-provoking lyrics. His previous materials include “Beats Rhymes and Theology” (2006) and the ground-breaking album "Hard Listeners” (2011). He returned with a fresh new sound and concept EP “The Gospel Truf" (2016). His first published book, ‘A Samson In The Wild’, was released posthumously on June 12, 2024. His legacy and influence continue to be felt in global creative space, through his work and wife Mrs. Patricia Ndidi Igho.
About the Publisher
Africa-Related Inc., is the 2nd edition publisher, and is a dynamic media content production house that operates in both Nigeria and the United States. The production house is dedicated to sharing and highlighting stories from an authentic African perspective. Africa-Related consistently delivers on excellence at every stage of the process, from concept to final distribution. Author Contact
Photos: B-Elect Legacy
MESSENGERS
Learn more about B-Elect featured in Season 4 of the TV series MESSENGERS. Coming in Q2 2025. Subscribe to @africarelatedinc for notifications.
Calls for Congressional Hearing Over Religious Killings in Nigeria
Days before Christmas, hundreds of Christians were killed in Nigeria, along with their Pastor. This is just the latest example of deadly violence against religious communities in Nigeria. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) Calls for Congressional Hearing after State Department Fails to Designate Nigeria and India as Countries of Particular Concern (CPC).
AfricA-Related, New York
Days before Christmas, hundreds of Christians were killed in Nigeria, along with their Pastor. This is just the latest example of deadly violence against religious communities in Nigeria. (Photo: Screenshot)
PRESS RELEASE
January 4, 2024
USCIRF Calls for Congressional Hearing after State Department Fails to Designate Nigeria and India as Countries of Particular Concern (CPC), while Azerbaijan is Added to State Department’s Special Watch List
Washington, DC – The United States
Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) calls for a congressional hearing after reiterating its extreme disappointment that the U.S. Department of State yet again failed to designate Nigeria and India as Countries of Particular Concern (CPC), despite both countries repeatedly meeting the legal standard. Despite this disappointment, USCIRF welcomed the State Department’s decision to include Azerbaijan on its Special Watch List (SWL) for committing or tolerating severe violations of religious freedom pursuant to the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA).
“There is no justification as to why the State Department did not designate Nigeria or India as a Country of Particular Concern, despite its own reporting and statements. USCIRF calls on Congress to convene a public hearing on the failure of the State Department to follow our recommendations,” said USCIRF Chair Abraham Cooper and Vice Chair Frederick A. Davie.
Mass burials taking place in Plateau State. (Photo by Kim Masara / AFPTV / AFP)
“Days before Christmas, hundreds of Christians were killed in Nigeria, along with their Pastor. This is just the latest example of deadly violence against religious communities in Nigeria that even the State Department has condemned. The majority of Commissioners have travelled to Nigeria and noted the threats to freedom of religion or belief and the deadly implications to religious communities,” stated USCIRF Chair Cooper and Vice Chair Davie. “In India, in addition to perpetrating egregious religious freedom violations within its borders, the government has increased its transnational repression activities targeting religious minorities abroad and those advocating on their behalf.”
“USCIRF rejects the State Department’s decision to omit Nigeria and India as CPCs. We met with the State Department on many occasions to sound the alarm about these countries, but not all of our recommendations have not been followed. We will not be deterred and will continue our role as a congressionally mandated watchdog to ensure the U.S. government prioritizes religious freedom as a key component of U.S. foreign policy,” they added.
The State Department re-designated 12 countries as CPCs—Burma, China, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, Nicaragua, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Furthermore, the State Department again issued waivers on sanctions for Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. In its 2023 Annual Report, USCIRF recommended the re-designation of those 12 countries without any waivers and also recommended CPC designation for Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, Syria, and Vietnam.
The State Department placed Algeria, Azerbaijan, the Central African Republic (CAR), Comoros, and Vietnam on its SWL. USCIRF recommended in its 2023 Annual Report that Algeria, Azerbaijan, and CAR be placed on the SWL, in addition to Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.
“USCIRF acknowledges the State Department accepted our recommendation to include Azerbaijan on its SWL. At the same time, USCIRF is disappointed that the State Department did not include our other recommendations for CPC or SWL. Though Vietnam is included on its Special Watch List, USCIRF strongly believes Vietnam should be designated a CPC based on the State Department’s own reporting on the government’s religious freedom violations,” said USCIRF Chair Cooper and Vice Chair Davie. “USCIRF formally requests a detailed justification by the State Department as to why our policy recommendations were not fully implemented, including the waivers.”
The State Department also designated eight EPCs, which are non-state actors that engage in particularly severe violations of religious freedom pursuant to IRFA. USCIRF recommended the redesignation of seven of these actors in its 2023 Annual Report: al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Houthis, ISIS-Sahel (formerly known as Islamic State in the Greater Sahara or ISGS), Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP, also referred to as ISIS-West Africa), and Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM).
Since the issuance of its 2023 Annual Report, USCIRF has consistently shared its recommendations with the U.S. Department of State and Congress. In early December 2023, USCIRF met with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken to reiterate those recommendations. USCIRF released publications on India’s State-Level Anti-Conversion Laws, Ethnonationalism and Religious Freedom in Nigeria, and State Control of Religion in Azerbaijan, and many others. In 2023, USCIRF held hearings on Iran, Burma, Russia, Cuba, Tajikistan, Vietnam, India, and Iraq.
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The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze, and report on religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion and belief. To interview a Commissioner, please contact USCIRF at media@uscirf.gov.
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LUX TERRA TRAINING: An Interfaith Approach To Transforming Nigeria
Lux Terra Foundation played host to 50 administrative and academic staff of the Academy, for a two-day training program on skill acquisition, mechanisms and strategies for Intensifying the Campaign for Integrity among Secondary School students.
By Oyiza Adaba | Africa-Related New York
“What we want to do is to try and see if we can get more voices involved, in countering corruption.”
Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, E.D LTLF hosts The International Islamic Academy, Madalla
In an era of religious intolerance and heightened sensitivities, it is always refreshing to witness collaborations across creeds. Such was the case on August 29-30, 2022, when Abuja-based Lux Terra Leadership Foundation headed by Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, hosted a training program for staff of International Islamic Academy, Madalla, Niger State.
The Foundation’s Apo location played host to 50 administrative and academic staff of the Academy, for a two-day training program on skills acquisition, mechanisms and strategies for intensifying the Campaign for Integrity among Secondary School students, and more.
The Islamic Academy is one of the four Secondary Schools across the North Central zone of Nigeria that Lux Terra is accompanying very closely in its MacArthur supported Integrity Campaign in the country.
Other elements of this ongoing Lux Terra integrity campaign project include the close accompanying of an Islamic religious community in Niger State, and a Christian religious community in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
Lear more about the Integrity Campaign and other training programs at Lux Terra