BURDENS BEHIND THE MIC BY UMAR FARUQ DAH BEST

People often see journalism, especially radio presenting, as a pathway to wealth. The moment you’re on air, you’re seen as a millionaire. The fame and recognition that come with radio make many assume you’re financially comfortable. Listeners call you to hail and praise your work, and after all the admiration, some end the conversation with, “Please, can you help me with any amount, sir.”

What they don’t realize is that sometimes, the same radio presenter they’re calling doesn’t even know how he’ll feed his own family that day. Imagine receiving such a call when you’re literally trying to figure out how to get home because you can’t afford transport. And because these are your fans, you can’t insult or dismiss them, you try to respond with love and humility.

But being a radio presenter doesn’t mean we have a money printing machine at home.

I remember one particular day after finishing a program at a terrestrial radio station where I worked then. I had just a little money barely enough to get home. Then I received a call.
“Please, am I speaking with DAH BEST?”
I said yes.
The person began hyping me: “Oluaye Radio, we dey gbadun you”

Then came the request: “Yes sir, I never chop since morning, abeg shey you fit do me 5k?”
I replied respectfully, “Ma, I’m not financially okay at the moment, please give me some time.”

She snapped: “Are you not the one who did the radio program this afternoon?”
I said yes.
Then she said: “Just say you don’t want to help, not that you don’t have money. E jé ma se òré (be helping people)

That day was tough for me. I was so depressed. That experience humbled me deeply.

To all our listeners and fans, we appreciate your love and support more than you know. But please remember, we’re also human. We go through hard times too. We have families, responsibilities, and our own struggles.

Being a voice on radio doesn’t always mean we’re rich, it just means we love what we do, and we’re doing our best to serve, entertain, and inform you.

God bless all radio lovers. Thank you for being there for us.