A Tribute to Josy Ajiboye: Africa’s Cartoon Treasure

In the world of cartoons and caricatures, few names shine as brightly as Josy Ajiboye’s. This quintessential gentleman of arts and culture has left an indelible mark on the industry, delighting readers with his intellectual yet hilarious cartoons in the Daily Times and its sister editions. I still remember wayback in the 80s while growing up in Ibadan, how my father would ask us to get his dailies from Baba Okon the vendor at Fatimah Bus Stop in Odo – Ona.

Daily Times was Nigeria’s most important daily then, well circulated. One could not be amazed on getting to Baba Okon, the vendor’s stand besieged with crowd, patrons and newspapers analysts in one debate or the other. The little us, would crawl between the giants to get Baba Okon’s attention for the dailies. The first thing we always looked out for, is Josy Ajiboye’s cartoon series. So infectious. We would go through it before running home to deliver the newspapers to our father.

A Legacy of Laughter and Insight
For decades, Josy Ajiboye’s cartoons have been a staple of Nigerian and African media, offering biting satire and witty commentary on the human condition. His work has transcended generations, with readers of all ages finding humour and insight in his cleverly crafted cartoons.

Simplicity is everything.
Despite his towering reputation, Josy Ajiboye remains a humble and unassuming individual. A visit to his cozy home in Ilasamaja, Lagos, reveals a man who is as warm and welcoming as his cartoons are engaging. His loving family, including his adorable wife and children, add to the warmth and charm of his home. The visit was part of the scheduled recordings for Studio 5, a television magazine show.

He is so Inspiring!
As an octogenarian, Josy Ajiboye has lived through and contributed to the evolution of cartooning and visual arts in Africa. His legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring cartoonists and artists, demonstrating the power of creativity and perseverance.
Josy Ajiboye’s impact on African cartooning cannot be overstated. He is a treasure trove of creativity, humour, and insight, and his work continues to delight and educate readers to this day. As a testament to his enduring legacy, we celebrate Josy Ajiboye as Africa’s cartoon treasure, a true master of his craft.

In honouring Josy Ajiboye, we recognise the significant contributions he has made to the world of cartoons, visual arts and beyond. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and entertain generations to come which is one.of the reasons his exhibition – Going Places is one exhibition that reshaped our hearts.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Photographs/Josy Ajiboye’s archives/ Josy Ajiboye’s Going Places.