Tunji Bamishigbin: A Rare Example of Kindness -By Dapo Olaniyan 

A lawyer and filmmaker par excellence, Barrister Tunji Bamishigbin is truly a rare breed. He may not boast the financial clout of the likes of Aliko Dangote or Femi Otedola, but his kindness and generosity of spirit tower above many I have had the privilege of knowing.

 

His kindness isn’t measured by cash handouts or lavish gifts, but by his unwavering commitment to impacting lives—myself included.

 

I recall vividly when I built my first house in Ota, Ogun State, about two decades ago. He was the very first person to visit, joyfully offering prayers over the property. At the time, he hadn’t even started building his own home. Of course, the difference in scale between my modest kiosk and his future mansion is obvious(shoe get size)—but that didn’t matter to him. He was genuinely excited, as if I were his blood relative. That’s who he is—always spreading warmth and support to the younger people around him.

 

If you have a legitimate project and need sound advice—often for free—he is there, offering his insights as if your matter were his own. I’ve seen him help structure businesses and prepare professional documents for people just starting out. I remember a friend who needed a contact point on the mainland in Lagos. Without hesitation, Uncle T, as we fondly call him, gave him full access to his office in Ikeja to help get his business off the ground.

 

One experience stands out from my time as a reporter in 1998. I visited Mr. Bamishigbin’s office on Awoyokun Street, Onipanu, Lagos, to deliver an invitation from my boss, Mr. Afolabi Odeyemi. While waiting at the reception, I overheard two young actors sharing their experiences from various film sets. One, a student at Lagos State University, lamented how he had worked on a film, received poor treatment, borrowed money to get there, missed a week of classes—and still wasn’t paid. But when they spoke of Bamishigbin, the tone changed entirely. They both praised his integrity. The student shared how, despite not being a ‘star,’ he was treated to a near 4-star experience on one of Bamishigbin’s sets and was even paid enough to clear his school fees. They were there that day to collect scripts for a new project—with full confidence that their payment was assured.

 

One thing is clear: Mr. Bamishigbin does not discriminate. He relates freely with people—within and outside the industry—with humility and warmth. What amazes me most is his spartan lifestyle. Despite having powerful friends and connections, he stays focused on his passion rather than chasing government contracts.

 

I once heard a well-heeled politician jest, “Tunji, you won’t even ask for favors or contracts. You’re too attached to your TV production.” That’s just who he is—principled, grounded, and focused.

 

Through my work, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many influential figures, but few have left the kind of impression that Barrister Tunji Bamishigbin has. His character draws people in—like metal to a magnet.

 

I’ve been fortunate to work under excellent people. However, Mr. Kunle Bakare, remains a major influence on my career, though, I never had the opportunity to work for him—a story for another day.

 

But today, I write to express my deep gratitude. Gratitude to God, and to a man who consistently looks out for others, even in challenging times. To borrow Shakespeare’s words: “Ingratitude is worse than a traitor’s arm.”

 

So, to Barrister Tunji Bamishigbin—and to all those who quietly support and uplift others—thank you. Your kindness makes the world a better place.

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