Tosin Synapses Jide, And Love Kisses Wisdom

You truly get to know someone when you work and interact with them. A person’s words often serve as windows into their mind, revealing their character over time. As the saying goes, “A fool is known by his words.” The more a person speaks, the more they unveil their true self.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to interact with Jide more frequently than with Tosin. I still remember watching the final match of the 1993 Japan Cadet (U17) football tournament—where Nigeria triumphed—at Jide’s family home on Musa Adewokun Street, Ojota. Despite not being particularly passionate about sports, Jide once defeated me in a game of chess—a game I was obsessed with in those days.

Tosin Michael Idowu, on the other hand, was born into a Muslim family. His father later converted to Christianity and became a clergyman in the Christ Apostolic Mission Church. From my interactions with Tosin and observations of his family, it is clear his father was a highly intelligent man. This is reflected in the accomplishments of his children. I recall visiting Tosin’s house years ago, where his older brother—then an HSC student at Baptist Academy, Obanikoro—would engage me in conversations brimming with literary references, like quotes from Julius Caesar. While I could only listen in awe, today, that same brother is a professor who has overcome numerous challenges to reach his current heights.

Tosin himself has made remarkable strides in intellectual and personal achievements. Despite his successes, he remains remarkably humble—a quality that endears him to many. I vividly remember Jide’s reaction when Tosin went out of his way to visit him in the UK from another country. Jide was deeply touched by this gesture, a testament to the depth of their long-standing relationship.

In recent years, working and interacting with Tosin has given me greater insight into his character. He is genuinely committed to the well-being of the Magical 88 set of OSSO. His love for the association is evident in his dedication and selfless contributions. When Tosin chose to step down as president, it disappointed members like Adeoye, who deeply admired him. Even during last year’s reunion, Obafemi Solesi strongly opposed Tosin’s decision to relinquish his position. However, true to his humble nature, Tosin orchestrated what could only be described as a “coup against himself” during the election process, gracefully bowing out despite overwhelming support for his nomination.

Jide’s life, too, offers lessons in resilience and providence. His faith and reliance on divine guidance have shaped his journey. Rising steadily in the IT industry, Jide has built a wealth of knowledge and experience, coupled with international exposure. His accomplishments reflect a life marked by hard work, challenges, and growth. He has consistently shown integrity and reliability, as evidenced by his attendance at my father-in-law’s commendation service last month—a promise he kept without fail.

Jide’s reserved demeanor is one of wisdom. His rare but timely contributions on platforms like this often carry weight. As someone once said, “It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.” Jide embodies the principle of choosing words carefully and speaking with purpose.

In life, I have sought two virtues from God: love and wisdom. Love is the foundation of a meaningful existence, and wisdom guides its expression. Tosin’s advice to ensure the outcome of the nomination process was clearly communicated reflects this balance—a demonstration of responsibility born out of love for others.

As Jide takes on the mantle of leadership within the Magical 88 set, my prayer is that he continues to express heartfelt love guided by wisdom, propelling the group to even greater heights in the years ahead.

Uwem Sampson