Celebrating Oga Bello at 65

In Nigeria, it is rare to find public officials who are truly approachable and caring. Many government workers often build barriers around themselves, making it hard for people to connect with them or work together.

Tunji Bello is not like that. He is a journalist, lawyer, and an experienced public servant. Currently, he is the executive vice-chairman and chief executive of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). He is known for being an excellent manager of both people and resources.

As Oga Bello's 65th birthday approaches on Wednesday, July 1, many of his colleagues have been sharing heartfelt tributes. Tunji Bello stands out because he is independent, warm, kind, and smart. Notably, a well-respected writer and his former colleague, Sam Omatseye, highlights that Bello is dedicated to “fighting for justice.” This quality connects me deeply with him.

Bello served as the spokesperson for the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) during Nigeria's tough military rule, especially during the dangerous Abacha years. Human rights advocacy is a big part of my work and research as a development communication scholar.

I decided that when I got the chance for a sabbatical leave, I would look for opportunities outside of academia. I believed that working beyond the university would enhance my learning and understanding of public life. After working with groups like CLO and the Centre for Free Speech (CFS), which I co-founded, it was time to explore the public sector.

I reached out to several federal agencies. Sadly, some ignored me while others stayed silent. One agency seemed interested at first but later treated my request with disrespect, which was disappointing. These experiences showed me that access to public institutions often depends more on their strict culture than on merit.

Tunji Bello changed everything for me.

Although we hadn’t seen each other in almost ten years before 2025, I decided to message him about finding a sabbatical placement. I had low expectations. Years apart and his busy schedule could have easily led to no response. But my hopes were met with a quick reply.

“We can fix it. Send in your papers,” he wrote back.

His response showed openness, kindness, and a willingness to look beyond the usual bureaucratic rules. He also gave me the freedom to choose when I wanted to start the assignment.

But I wondered if I should inform my Vice-Chancellor since he is her husband. Before my official request reached her, I quickly told her what I had done. Just like her husband, she congratulated me and wished me luck. There was no red tape, no resistance, and no hassle. The approval process moved smoothly.

It is important to say that Tunji Bello’s help was not about giving special treatment to friends or just helping “his people.” That idea could not be further from the truth.

When I began my role, Bello advised me to study the Commission carefully.

“The researcher that you are,” he said, “see how you can fill the noted gaps so we can appreciate you.” That advice was very meaningful. Instead of telling me what to do, he allowed me the freedom to explore and create.

To show my gratitude, I have tried to contribute positively to the Commission’s work. Thankfully, my efforts have been successful and have supported the goals of the FCCPC.

As a long-time human rights advocate who has had great international training, I have worked to combine the consumer protection focus of the FCCPC into my recent articles and public discussions. My aim is to not just promote the Commission’s work but also to help people understand their rights and responsibilities. I want to show that I am a unique scholar and practitioner who advocates for a wide range of rights, including basic human rights and socio-economic rights, which the FCCPC supports.

Since Tunji Bello became the head of the FCCPC, he has received praise for both the Commission and his leadership. Under his guidance, the FCCPC has become one of Nigeria’s most impactful regulatory bodies. Good leadership is key to the strength of any organization. Tunji Bello brings not just skill and experience but also the determination of a journalist and the attention to detail typical of good lawyers.

I have known Tunji Bello long before he became a respected public leader. He was an editor at Concord Press, where I worked as a senior writer. Even then, he stood out for his intelligence, professionalism, and friendly nature. It is a joy to work with him again after so many years.

Bello’s greatest strength is his relationship with people. His warmth attracts others to him like bees to honey. Many people from various fields share stories of his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help. He is celebrated not just for his high position but also because he has positively impacted many lives.

I am proud to have known him first as an editor and now as the chief executive of the FCCPC. I am grateful for the chance to work with him again.

So, happy 65th birthday to a man whose kindness is as impressive as his achievements. Cheers to you, sir.