MR. OLANIYI THEVOICE ABODEDELE

Publisher/Ceo Nigerian Voice Newspaper, Founder/Chairman Nigerian Community Excellence Awards, and former Gauteng Chairman, Nigeria Union South Africa.

In the vibrant tapestry of the Nigerian community in South Africa, one name resonates with passion and purpose: Mr Olaniyi Abodedele, affectionately known as "Thevoice." A graduate of Business Management, Olaniyi also boasts a Diploma in Graphics Design, Photography, and Multimedia, showcasing his creative flair and business acumen.

He hails from the historic city of Abeokuta in Ogun State, Nigeria, Olaniyi carries a royal lineage through his mother, connecting him to the esteemed Ajose/Adeniji-Adele Fadipe Royal Family of Lagos. This rich heritage fuels his commitment to community service and leadership.

As a Community Engagement Strategist, publisher, and the former Gauteng Chairman of the Nigerian Union in South Africa, Olaniyi is a dynamic force. He and other Community leaders founded the Nigerian Community Task Force in February 2023, an initiative that has successfully curbed violence and extortion within the Nigerian community, creating a safer environment for all.

Since moving to South Africa on February 24, 2005, Olaniyi has immersed himself in various Nigerian organizations and initiatives, gaining invaluable insights into the community’s needs. With over a decade of experience in media and community development, he has become a bridge-builder, tirelessly working to break new ground for his fellow Nigerians.

His dedication has earned him respect and recognition from the Nigerian Diplomatic Missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg. Olaniyi had the honour of interviewing four former Nigerian Presidents, including an exclusive session with His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari during his visit to the African Union Summit in 2015. He also played a pivotal role in the media team for the Forum for China-Africa Conference (FOCAC) 2017.

His commitment to the Nigerian community extends to his role as the founder and publisher of The Nigerian Voice Newspaper South Africa, launched in 2010. This platform aims to empower and inform Nigerians about the positive contributions of their fellow citizens, countering the often negative narratives that dominate the media.

Olaniyi is also the visionary behind the annual Nigeria Community Excellence Awards, the most prestigious event celebrating outstanding Nigerians, in South Africa. This initiative not only honours excellence but, also seeks to reshape the narrative around Nigeria and its people.

With a keen ear for the concerns of his community, Olaniyi initiated the Nigeria Community Conference, providing a platform to address pressing issues such as security, legal rights, and business opportunities. His online radio program, “NAIJA HOUR WITH THEVOICE,” was a pioneering effort to amplify Nigerian voices, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Believing in the power of collaboration, Olaniyi advocates for networking and teamwork to break down barriers within the Nigerian community. His commitment has garnered the trust of multinational corporations, including MTN, Old Mutual, and Mama Money, where he served as a Brand Ambassador for Nigeria from 2018 to 2022.

Mr. Olaniyi "Thevoice" Abodedele is not just a name; he is a beacon of hope, a champion for his community, and a relentless advocate for positive change. With his unwavering dedication, he continues to inspire and uplift the Nigerian diaspora, proving together they can achieve greatness.