LAGOS, Nigeria — Veteran journalist and public affairs analyst Dr. Reuben Abati and his wife, broadcaster Kikelomo Atanda-Owo Abati (popularly known as Kike), have launched their new joint podcast, titled Reuben and Kike Abati Podcast.
The event forms part of activities marking her 20 years in the media industry and the seventh anniversary of her flagship programme, Real Talk With Kike.
The podcast was unveiled on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at an anniversary event held at Eko Hotels and Suites on Victoria Island, Lagos. The gathering, themed “Beyond the Studio” (also referenced in some reports as focusing on “The Future of Nigeria: Where Leadership, Innovation, Culture and Media Converge to Shape Nation Building”), brought together government officials, business leaders, media professionals, and stakeholders from the cultural and creative industries.
According to reports, the new platform will feature thoughtful conversations on governance, relationships, family, the media industry, leadership, legacy, politics, culture, and other contemporary issues shaping Nigerian society. It aims to provide depth, balance, and authenticity, going beyond headlines to examine the stories and people behind policies and national developments. The podcast is expected to be available on Spotify and other major platforms.
Kikelomo Atanda-Owo Abati, host of Real Talk With Kike (a platform known for discussions on leadership, relationships, business, and culture), used the anniversary to reflect on the programme’s journey. She noted that over the past seven years, it has brought stakeholders, industry captains, and influencers together for critical conversations on issues affecting Nigeria.
The event featured panel discussions, including one moderated by Kikelomo on “Leadership: Fixing the System — Policy, Accountability and the Next 10 Years.” Panellists included Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa; Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission Abike Dabiri-Erewa; Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema; and Reuben Abati himself. Discussions centred on public institutions, policy implementation, accountability, productivity, employment, and the link between governance and private-sector growth.
Notable attendees included representatives of Lagos State Government (such as Secretary to the State Government Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, standing in for Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat), Sahara Group Managing Director Kola Adesina, Mandilas Group Managing Director Vlassis Liakouris, Ecobank Nigeria Board Chairman Bola Adesola, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Rise Network founder Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, and media personalities including Eugenia Abu, Shaffy Bello, and Chude Jideonwo. The event was compered by Yemi Shodimu and Riyah Abdul, with performances including by gospel musician Beejay Sax.
Dr. Reuben Abati, a seasoned journalist, former presidential spokesperson, and co-anchor on Arise TV’s The Morning Show, joins his wife in hosting the podcast, combining their decades of experience in journalism, broadcasting, governance analysis, communication, and human development.
The launch expands the couple’s media footprint into the digital audio space, offering audiences an additional platform for insightful dialogue amid Nigeria’s evolving media landscape. Early indications from the unveiling suggest the podcast will emphasise honest conversations and fresh perspectives on everyday issues, including marriage and relationships alongside public affairs.
The anniversary celebration highlighted Kikelomo’s contributions to broadcasting over more than two decades while signalling the couple’s continued commitment to meaningful national conversations.
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