Lagos-based visionary fosters young talents, restoring purpose and passion in gospel music
In a bustling corner of Lagos, Nigeria, a vision has come to life. Babatayo Ezekiel Olayimika, widely known by his stage name Olayimika Babs ATABATUBU, is making a mark in the music industry with a mission that’s as bold as it is inspiring. Driven by a passion to nurture and uplift emerging musicians, particularly those in the gospel genre, ATABATUBU established TENI Studio – a multifunctional creative space where young, upcoming artistes can hone their talents, discover themselves, and follow the path to success.
A Multifaceted Talent with a Purpose
ATABATUBU isn’t just a studio owner; he’s a multi-talented entertainer and mentor. His abilities stretch across several domains in the entertainment world: he’s a singer, instrumentalist, studio engineer, presenter, music and media consultant, and event anchor. In every role he plays, his mission is consistent – to empower and guide the next generation of artistes in a manner grounded in both faith and patience.
In his words, young artistes should not “run faster than their shadow.” Drawing from the biblical passage in Habakkuk, ATABATUBU urges them to “wait for the appointed time.” He cautions that it takes patience and divine timing to reach the heights of established icons like King Sunny Ade and Evangelist Tope Alabi, whose journey in the industry unfolded with dedication and faith over time.
A Journey Rooted in Faith and Divine Direction
Reflecting on his own journey, ATABATUBU shared that he was drawn to music and ministry from a young age, describing it as a “divine order.” He reminisces how, as a child, he would often hide behind his mother to watch musicians perform, captivated by their dedication to their craft. This early inspiration was more than just a spark – it was a calling.
His spiritual path became even clearer in 1989, during a life-changing experience he had while walking through a pathway in his hometown. He vividly recalls encountering an angel who shared revelations with him, many of which he says are unfolding in his life today. For ATABATUBU, his journey is guided by the teachings in Galatians 1:12, which have become his foundation and “secret” to success.
TENI Studio: A Hub for Aspiring Gospel Artistes
At the heart of ATABATUBU’s mission is TENI Media Network, a versatile studio located in the Isheri area of Lagos. TENI Studio is not only equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for musical audio mixing and recording, but also offers an online radio platform and a photo studio. It’s a creative sanctuary where young musicians, especially gospel artistes, can explore their talents and make their voices heard.
Through TENI Studio, ATABATUBU aims to re-establish the spiritual power that once defined gospel music. He laments what he sees as a decline in the soul and purpose of gospel music today. “Back in the day,” he notes, “ministrations would bring about miracles and prophetic experiences.” His goal for TENI Studio is to restore that essence, creating an environment where gospel music not only entertains but also heals, uplifts, and connects people with the divine.
Building a Legacy Through Service
Aside from his work with TENI Studio, ATABATUBU also wears many other hats. He is a TV host on Orisun Television and serves as the Managing Director and CEO of KING TENI WORLD LTD, as well as the Director at ATABATUBU Music Organization International (AMOI). But even with his professional achievements, he maintains a grounded perspective, viewing his success not as personal gain but as a way to help others.
“I am not here for the mundane things,” he says. Instead, he’s focused on following God’s instructions, believing that his life and career are a testament to a divine plan. ATABATUBU’s greatest joy, he shares, comes from supporting and uplifting “the unknown” – young artistes who are filled with potential but lack the platform to shine.
Through TENI Studio, Olayimika Babs ATABATUBU has not only built a hub for creativity and collaboration but also a beacon of hope for aspiring musicians in Nigeria and beyond. As he continues to follow his divine calling, ATABATUBU is fostering a community of artistes who are not only skilled but are also inspired to wait for their time and trust in the journey ahead.
