From Boarding School Shows to National Stardom
Though music has always been his passion, Baba Fryo's journey began in a humble setting. He recalls his formative years in boarding school, where every Friday, he would put on performances for his friends.
“I used to entertain my friends every Friday. I just kept that day for myself and them. That’s how the name Friday and entertainment became linked for me,” he said, smiling at the memory.
His decision to pursue music was solidified when a friend named Murphy recorded a couple of tracks that impressed him deeply. Encouraged, Fryo took the plunge—and surprisingly found the spotlight before his friend.
An Athlete at Heart, But a Musician by Choice
Before music took full control of his life, Fryo had a promising start in athletics.
“I was a very good sprinter,” he recalls. “I ran for Christ the King School and later at Creek High School. I even won some competitions.”
Despite his athletic prowess, a professional sports career was never on his radar.
“Music was always the goal. Sports were just for school.”
A Love for the Ring: Combat Sports Enthusiast
Baba Fryo is quick to confess that while he doesn’t follow every sport, combat sports hold a special place in his heart. Boxing and wrestling top his list, and he’s especially drawn to the showmanship and skill of old-school fighters.
“Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali are my favourites. They brought flair and excitement to boxing. Ali, especially, with his movement and confidence—‘float like a butterfly, sting like a bee’—that man was pure talent.”
Among Nigerian boxers, Fryo singles out Hogan Bassey as his top pick, but also appreciates the contributions of Bash Ali, Samuel Peter, Dick Tiger, and Jeremiah Okorodudu.
As for Anthony Joshua?
“He’s done well. Winning world titles twice is no small feat. But I’d like to see more from him—to reclaim the title a third time and hold onto it. That would seal his legacy.”
The Super Eagles and National Pride
Despite not being a die-hard football fan, Fryo’s patriotism shines through when the Nigerian national team is on the pitch.
“I’m not really into football. But when the Super Eagles play, I watch—not because I love the game, but because I love Nigeria.”
When asked if the Super Eagles have what it takes to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) again or succeed on the world stage, his response is measured but hopeful.
“They can win, but only if politics is kept out of the camp. Football teams sometimes play the same politics as government. If they’re real and honest in their selection and coaching, then we can dream big.”
Would You Let Your Kids Go Into Combat Sports?
The artist has no reservations about his children pursuing sports, even if it’s as physically demanding as boxing.
“As long as they’re mature and it’s their choice, I’ll support them. I followed my passion, and I want them to have that same freedom.”
On Nigeria's Investment in Sports and Entertainment
Fryo pulls no punches when discussing the lack of government support for sports and the creative industry in Nigeria.
“The government is not investing in anything—sports or entertainment. It’s all lip service. And now, the politicians aren’t even listening anymore. They do what they want.”
But despite the apathy from the top, he believes in continued advocacy.
“We must keep talking, and hopefully, one day, we’ll reach the right ears.”
A Dream Lunch With a Nigerian Legend
If he had the chance to sit down with any sports personality, it would be none other than Nigeria’s football maestro, Jay-Jay Okocha.
“He’s one of our greatest. I’d love to have lunch and just talk about his time in Germany and learn from his experiences.”
From his love for boxing to his dedication to Nigerian music, Baba Fryo remains an outspoken and thoughtful figure—one who continues to carry the torch for passion, purpose, and patriotism in a country still searching for its rhythm in both sports and entertainment.