I dream of becoming presidential adviser on comedy -Stainless

A bit about your background I am a graduate of Psychology from Imo State University. I am a family man by fate. I am an aspiring youngest millionaire. I am also an enterprising comedian, very faithful one at that. I am equally an award winning artiste and also a child of God. More about your […]

A bit about your background

I am a graduate of Psychology from Imo State University. I am a family man by fate. I am an aspiring youngest millionaire. I am also an enterprising comedian, very faithful one at that. I am equally an award winning artiste and also a child of God.

More about your educational background…

I attended my elementary, primary and secondary schools in Lagos. A bit of it in Abuja and also went to school in the east. Now, I am doing what destiny has ordained for me.

Are comedians really an unserious lot as many people tend to think?

It is a general perception, I agree, but not necessarily true. To me, it is a professional job. If you are in this business you do not play with it. I was once called for a job trial and the person asked me to give him a joke. Thank God, a senior colleague, Ali Baba was with me and he asked the person, ‘If you are interviewing a boxer would you tell him or give him an opportunity to box you?’ No, you cannot do that! People feel that because we act and behave funny we are unserious. That is not true. When money is involved we are serious people.

How will you assess the comedy business in Nigeria; Is it progressing or declining in fortunes?

It is lucrative. The way comedy business is going now I see us getting more lucrative government appointments like some of us are currently getting. I once dreamt they gave me the job of adviser to the president on comedy issues. It is a lucrative job for learned people. 70 per cent of Nigerian comedians are learned. It is a source of income for people who have vision. To make people happy is not easy. For comedians to eat and dress well shows the business is booming.

Why do Abuja show organizers prefer to ‘import’ comedians from Lagos rather than make use of the talents here in the FCT?

Image is important in entertainment business. If people want to do a show they look for a brand, a ready-made brand. And these can be found easily in places like Lagos. Some people may not know us but people who know us make use of us. That is how the business is structured. It equally depends on the kind of event. If they want a stronger and more experienced hand they prefer to go to Lagos where they abound. We do have such brands here in Abuja but you will agree with me that those in Lagos are more popular. They are everywhere: the radio, TV, newspapers and magazines. That is the people they see every time. But we are currently building a body called Abuja Body of Comedians that will address some of these issues and others. Anytime you want to do an event you will be able to liaise with Abuja comedians through the association.

How has the reaction of your immediate family affected your career?

It wasn’t funny telling them after school that I wanted to go into comedy. They were expecting me to tow the line of other graduates looking for non-existing jobs. My parents never believed in me. When money started coming in I guess they changed their minds. They never called me my name ‘Stainless’ because they didn’t like the job I am doing. When money started coming in they started praising me. Now, I am a pride and light in my family today. I meet important people in the society today. The job has turned out to be an open door to me. I believed in the decision I took and never deviated from it.

What particular stage performance has stood out prominently for you all through your career?

‘Abuja Laughter on the Loose’ was for me the best. It was held at Xmas 2008. It was one of the happiest days I really find hard to forget. Also my birthday bash in which about 3 senators attended was equally a bright day for me.

Some people find comedians repulsive through their brand of insultive jokes. Do you think people are being over-sensitive?

We have different kinds of comedians. We have different styles. What people usually call insults are actually ‘yabs,’ not insults. Reactions depend on the persons involved. Others take it kind-heartedly while others are very sensitive. Others too dey take things serious. People should not take such things too personal. It is just to elicit a reaction and create a measure of fun for everyone. Oga, how are you, see your face like bottle, is just a joke and not really insultive. It is called yabis and not insult. As a professional and learned comedian I have my own style which principally deals with the elite who really understand comedy business.

What differentiates you from your colleagues?

My style is unique and equally my delivery. I do comedy strictly for the learned people. I perform for students and also in churches. You will not see me in general shows. I don’t do things because others are doing them. I choose an edge for myself. My belief, decision and calling are different from others. Comedy is just to keep the body and soul together. I am actually a religious man.

How did your name ‘Stainless’ originate?

I got that name from a doctor in London, according to my father. My mother’s delivery of me was miraculous. While other women were in travail for several days in the hospital, my pregnant mother arrived at the hospital and delivered me within a few minutes. This amazed the doctor on duty. The doctor then called me ‘Stainless.’ That engendered the name though I initially changed it to Stanley a few years ago. But today I have accepted it due to its originality.

Have comedians in Nigeria gotten their due so far from the society?

Ali Baba has opened doors for us. We now have a comedian who is a special assistant to the Imo State governor, Okey Bakassi. We have another one in Delta State. We also have Akpos, a commissioner in Benin. We have great openings. Most of us in Abuja have special stuff we are doing in government circles. We believe it will take time but we will get there someday. Nothing good comes easy. Comedians are getting their rightful due so far.

What motivates you?

I believe in doing the right thing at the right time. I am not easily influenced. I follow my dream to its logical conclusion. I believe too on my instincts which I believe in. I am cautious on where I go, what I do and whom I associate with. I thank all my fans for being there for me and allowing me achieve my God-given dreams and aspirations in life.