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For the record:
At the Grand Finale of the 30th Anniversary of the Oronna Ilaro Festival held at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion in Ilaro on November 18, 2023, Chief AbuSatar Idowu Hamed, the Otun Baaroyin of Ilaro-Yewa, was honoured with a Merit Award by HRM Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle MFR, Asade Agunloye IV, the Olu of Ilaro & Paramount Ruler of Yewaland.
The award recognized his exceptional service to humanity, notably his pivotal role as the former Chairman of the Oronna (Ilaro) Day Central Planning Committee (ODCPC) from 2003 to 2005.
AbuSatar Hamed’s contributions to the community have left an indelible mark, establishing him as a revered figure and a beacon of hope for those aspiring to make a positive impact.
This acknowledgment added to his previous accolade of being appointed as the Otun Baaroyin of Ilaro-Yewa by HRM Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle in May 2022, affirming his significant role in the community.
Appointed by HRM Oba Samuel Adekanmbi Tella, the late Olu of Ilaro & Paramount Ruler of Yewaland in 2003, AbuSatar Idowu Hamed’s leadership as the Chairman of the Oronna (Ilaro) Day Central Planning Committee (ODCPC) during the festival’s crucial years showcased his dedication to the development and success of this vital Ilaro-Yewa event.
His leadership during his three-year tenure as ODCPC Chairman (2003-2005) reshaped the Oronna (Ilaro) Day Celebration, propelling it to unprecedented heights.
AbuSatar Idowu Hamed’s diligence and dedication were instrumental in hosting eminent personalities annually, involving significant financial investments without external aid.
Under his stewardship, the event expanded its horizons, reaching prestigious venues like Aso Rock in Abuja, where he bestowed the Presidential Award for Excellence upon former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2003. His efforts were acknowledged and appreciated by the former President himself.
Throughout his tenure, AbuSatar facilitated the participation of prominent figures, including Sir Ken Nnamani, the former No 3 man in Nigeria and Senate President, and the Ogun State Government led by Alhaja Salmot Badru, the former Deputy Governor, in 2004 and 2005, respectively.
These achievements, amidst various challenges, were made possible through the facilitation of distinguished Senator Iyabo Anisulowo who brought Sir Ken Nnamani and other distinguished Senators to the event in 2005.
AbuSatar’s success was a testament to his leadership, garnering praise and commendations for his outstanding community service and leaving an enduring legacy in the Oronna (Ilaro) Day Celebration.
The seasoned Journalist and Media Expert’s journey began in humble beginnings in Ilaro, where his potential for greatness was evident.
Motivated by the quest for a brighter future, he ventured to Ibadan in the early 70s and continued his education. He embraced a pursuit of knowledge by enrolling in extramural classes at the distinguished Seven-Day Adventist Evening Class in Oke-Bola, Ibadan. His dedication resulted in the attainment of a remarkable General Certificate of Education.
Thereafter, AbuSatar’s talent was recognized at City Press Ltd., Ibadan. His career’s trajectory took a remarkable turn when the esteemed Caxton Press (WA) Ltd., led by the MacQuorqurdale Family of England, identified his potential.
Excelling as a Lithographer, his exceptional performance at Caxton Press Ltd. earned him recognition and an incredible opportunity. AbuSatar was awarded a scholarship to Beckles, England, the birthplace of his employers, the people who founded printing in the world, for an advanced three-year course in General Printing.
AbuSatar Idowu Hamed’s career trajectory took a remarkable turn when the esteemed Caxton Press (WA) Ltd., led by the MacQuorqurdale Family of England, identified his potential.
Returning to Nigeria, AbuSatar Idowu Hamed radiated a profound transformation in his personal and professional life.
Sketch Press Ltd., Ibadan, the now rested company owned by Oyo, Ondo, Ogun, and Ekiti States, acknowledged his talents and welcomed him in 1976, appointing him as Senior Lithographer.
In 1996, he pursued further education, undertaking the Post-Graduate Diploma Certificate Examination in Journalism at the renowned Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ), achieving remarkable results.
The late Mr. Kayode Awe, the Editor of Sunday Sketch at that time, recognized AbuSatar’s exceptional writing prowess, granting him an opportunity to shine.
Beginning as a reporter, AbuSatar ascended to hold a permanent column in the Daily Sketch Newspapers, establishing himself as an authority and authored Entertainment/Society columns.
His role connected him with influential figures in Nigeria and internationally, enabling him to write about and endorse renowned personalities in the music and social scene.
AbuSatar’s impactful columns in Daily Sketch and Evening Sketch newspapers, encompassing “Highlife”, “So-Cheers”, “Pop Life”, “Celebrities In the Mix”, “Entertainment Today”, and “Who’s Who”, propelled him to widespread recognition and fame.
Renowned for his unwavering dedication at Sketch, AbuSatar’s work ethic was tireless. Producing seven pages weekly, he remained committed, driven by his firm belief in the success of his endeavours.
His resourcefulness and dedication earned him multiple opportunities for various courses and training, both domestically and internationally, including courses on Supervisory & Instructional Skills by International Training Fund (ITF) and First Aid programmes organized by the Nigerian Red Cross.
AbuSatar Idowu Hamed’s extensive career showcased his diverse talents and unwavering dedication. His journey encompassed pivotal roles and contributions across various sectors.
He played crucial roles within unions and associations, serving as the Secretary and later Chairman of the Printing & Publishing Workers Union (Sketch Chapel). Also, he actively participated in the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Chapter, and the National League of Veteran Journalists, Oyo State Chapter, and later NUJ, Ogun State Chapter.
After 23 years of commendable service at Sketch Press Ltd., AbuSatar transitioned to significant editorial positions. He assumed the role of Nigerian Editor at the prestigious London-based magazine “Nigerian Video,” which gained international acclaim for its coverage of the Nollywood industry.
Subsequently, he became the City Editor (Lagos) for “The Hope,” a reputable newspaper owned by the Ondo State government, known for its commitment to truth and accuracy.
His impact expanded into the educational sphere as the Director of Media, Protocol & Strategy for the Presidents Inter-Secondary School Debate, a Nigeria’s Federal Government-approved educational programme that traversed the country’s six geopolitical zones.
His exceptional skills were recognized and appreciated by principals, teachers, and students, acknowledging his unparalleled interaction with them.
After a tenure as Managing Editor at the Lagos-based bi-monthly soft-sell magazine – “GlobalNews”, AbuSatar, an experienced journalist, ventured into entrepreneurship. He founded StarTrend Int’l, & online (www.startrendinternational.com), a soft-sell magazine where he serves as Publisher/Editor-in-Chief.
The magazine, published by Gangan Media Co. Ltd., delves into Publishing, Media Consultancy, Adverts, and Events Management, with AbuSatar at the helm as President/Chief Executive.
His visionary approach and humanitarian spirit shine through in his active engagement with readers, advocating for unity and community-driven progress through his publication, StarTrend Int’l magazine and online platform.
AbuSatar Idowu Hamed is recognized not just for his professional accomplishments, but also for his personal qualities.
Renowned as a reliable and trustworthy friend, he possesses the unique ability to share problems, spread joy, and bring smiles to the faces of those around him.
His remarkable service to humanity has garnered numerous accolades and awards, including a Letter of Commendation during Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s passing, “Best Entertainment Writer of the Year 1991”, “Sketch Management Award, Certificate of Merit” from Publishers of Akede Islam, “Recognition Award” from School II Club of Ilaro-Yewa, and the distinction of being the “Patron” of Celebrity Journal Publishers Association of Nigeria (CJPAN) and induction into CJPAN Hall of Fame, among others.
AbuSatar Idowu Hamed’s commitment to advocating for the values and aspirations of his community is evident in his founding of the League of Yewa-Awori Media Practitioners (LOYAMP) and the Ogun West Economic Summit (OWES), where he serves as the National Coordinator.
It’s evident from historical records that in 2010, AbuSatar Hamed led members of LOYAMP to meet with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and other prominent Ogun State indigines.
This meeting aimed to advocate for Ogun West’s consideration for the governorship position, a significant pursuit since the state’s inception in 1979.
At Chief Obasanjo’s residence, the former President graciously allocated ample time for AbuSatar Hamed and his team to articulate why and how Ogun West could rightfully assume the governorship role.
Baba Obasanjo expressed surprise and admiration for the group, comprised of Publishers and Editor-in-Chiefs of various publications, noting their impressive accomplishments without any government backing.
Both Obasanjo and his guest that day, former President AbdulSalam Abubakar, encouraged LOYAMP not to lose hope. Instead, they urged the group to persist in utilizing their media platforms to advocate for the development of their community, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole.
This counsel emphasized the importance of continuing their efforts towards progress and positive change in their community.
AbuSatar’s dedication extends to various clubs and associations, including roles like Vice President at the Yewa Metropolitan Club, Ilaro, membership in the Recreation Club Ilaro, and serving as the Director of Media & Strategy and also at Kontakt Klub of Nigeria, BimTable Social Club, Yewa-Awori Concern Professionals, among others.
His past leadership as the former Chairman of the Federated Chapel of the Ogun State NUJ Council reflects his commitment to professional excellence.
Apart from his professional engagements and community involvement, AbuSatar finds solace and joy in his personal life.
A devout Muslim, he enjoys a fulfilling family life, relishing the blessings of a happy marriage, and cherishing moments with children and grandchildren.
His leisure pursuits encompass a wide spectrum, from engaging in table tennis, playing draft game, Ayo Olopon, indulging in reading books, and exploring through travel to social activities like making friends, dancing, and savoring good music.
