Rufai Oseni biography reveals the Arise TV host’s journey from radio to becoming Nigeria’s most fearless journalist, known for tough political interviews.

Who is Rufai Oseni?

Rufai Oseni is a Nigerian television broadcaster, news anchor, radio presenter, author, and entrepreneur who has become one of the most recognisable faces in Nigerian journalism.

Born on 8 April 1980 in Odogbolu, Ogun State, the Rufai Oseni biography chronicles a remarkable career spanning over two decades in media. He currently serves as co-host of the Arise TV morning show, one of Nigeria’s most-watched prime-time political programmes.

Rufai is widely known for his fearless interviewing style and his habit of fact-checking politicians live on air. His incisive questioning and refusal to accept vague responses have made him both admired and controversial. He has interviewed numerous high-profile figures in Nigerian politics, business, and entertainment.

Beyond broadcasting, Rufai serves as Chief Executive Manager of NEO Media Group, a pan-African media organisation. He is also a global public speaker who has addressed audiences at Cambridge University and the University of Sussex. As a tech enthusiast and entrepreneur, he mentors African startups and has co-founded several successful business ventures.

At 44 years old (as of 2024), Rufai maintains a significant social media presence with over 700,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter) and 531,000 followers on Instagram, where he continues conversations started on television.

Rufai Oseni Profile Summary

Personal Information	Details
Full Name	Rufai Oseni
Date of Birth	8 April 1980
Age	44 years old (as of 2024)
Place of Birth	Odogbolu, Ogun State, Nigeria
State of Origin	Ogun State
Nationality	Nigerian
Tribe/Ethnicity	Yoruba
Religion	Christianity
Height	5 feet 6 inches (1.68 metres)
Weight	98 kg (after losing 23 kg)
Occupation	TV Broadcaster, Journalist, Author, Entrepreneur, Public Speaker
Current Position	Co-host, Arise TV Morning Show
Years Active	2000s–present
Education	B.Sc. Animal Anatomy & Physiology (FUNAAB); Certificate in Entrepreneurship Management (Lagos Business School)
Father	Mr. Oseni (deceased, August 2022)
Mother	Mrs. Oseni (deceased)
Marital Status	Private (conflicting reports)
Children	Private (possibly two)
Net Worth	Estimated $500,000–$700,000
Company	CEO, NEO Media Group
Social Media	@ruffydfire (X/Twitter), @rufaioseni (Instagram)
Notable Books	“Veritas: The Tale of a Sleeping Giant”, “Penkelemesi: Nigerian Peculiar Mess”

Early Life and Family Background

Rufai Oseni was born on 8 April 1980 in Odogbolu, Ogun State, Nigeria, into a Yoruba family. He spent his formative years between Lagos and his hometown of Odogbolu, experiencing both urban and traditional life.

Family and Childhood

Rufai’s early life was marked by significant loss. He lost his mother at a young age, an experience that profoundly shaped his resilience and determination. Despite this tragedy, his father, Mr. Oseni, remained a steadfast presence in his life.

In a touching Instagram tribute before his father’s death in August 2022, Rufai wrote:

“My dad has been more than a dad he has been a best friend, confidant, ally. He is the only one that truly understand me. I remember in secondary school I was in science class and he was never happy he wanted me to study arts and do languages because he knew my strength. Today with a degree in Animal physiology and reproductive anatomy, I am a journalist and he always says ‘I told you.'”

This relationship with his father was formative. His father recognised Rufai’s natural affinity for languages and communication, even when Rufai pursued science. This paternal wisdom proved prophetic when Rufai eventually became a journalist despite his scientific education.

Cultural Heritage

As a Yoruba from Odogbolu, Rufai’s cultural identity has been integral to his worldview. The Yoruba culture, with its rich oral traditions, emphasis on community, and respect for knowledge, influenced his approach to journalism and public discourse.

Growing up in Ogun State, known for its educational institutions and cultural heritage, provided Rufai with a strong foundation. The values instilled during his upbringing—resilience, hard work, and integrity—continue to guide his professional life.

Siblings and Extended Family

Rufai has siblings (brothers and sisters), though he maintains strict privacy about them. He rarely discusses his family publicly, preferring to keep these relationships away from media scrutiny.

Education Background

Primary and Secondary Education

Rufai attended Federal Government College in Odogbolu, Ogun State, for his secondary education. It was during these formative years that his passion for communication began to emerge.

As his father noted, Rufai was placed in the science class despite his natural inclination towards arts and languages. This decision, whilst typical of many Nigerian parents who favour science, didn’t align with Rufai’s strengths.

University Education

Rufai proceeded to the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where he studied Animal Anatomy and Physiology. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in the mid-2000s.

During his university years, Rufai was actively involved in student activities. He served as Vice President of the Association of Nigerian University Students in Agriculture (ANUNSA) and participated in campus radio, laying early groundwork for his media career.

Professional Development

Recognising the importance of continuous learning, Rufai pursued executive education at Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University. In 2018, he obtained a Certificate in Entrepreneurship Management, where he served as class secretary for the CEM 42 class.

Between 2016 and 2017, Rufai attended the Institute of Change Management Nigeria, becoming a Change Management Practitioner. His training covered PRosci method, ADKAR modelling, organisational psychology, and interpersonal dynamics.

This diverse educational background—combining science, business, and change management—has informed his multifaceted career.

Media Career Journey

Early Radio Days

Rufai Oseni’s media career began in radio during the early 2000s. His journey took him through several stations:

JFM Radio, Warri: His first major radio role, where he honed his broadcasting skills.

Unique FM, Ilesa: Further developed his on-air personality and audience engagement.

Gold FM Radio, Ilesa: Continued building his reputation as a skilled broadcaster.

Ogun State Radio: Worked as a presenter, connecting with audiences in his home state.

Inspiration FM: Refined his craft before transitioning to television.

These radio years were crucial in developing his distinctive voice, interviewing techniques, and ability to discuss complex issues in accessible ways.

Transition to Television

Rufai’s transition from radio to television was gradual. He worked with:

Ogun State Television (OGTV): Served as a sports commentator between 2010 and 2013, expanding his television experience.

TV Continental (TVC): Became an analyst on small business and economy in 2017, establishing his credentials in business journalism.

His television work demonstrated versatility, covering sports, business, and eventually politics.

Arise TV and National Recognition

Rufai joined Arise TV in 2019, a move that would define his career. As co-host of the Arise News Good Morning Show, he works alongside distinguished colleagues including Dr. Reuben Abati, Ojy Okpe, and Ayo Mairo-Ese on weekdays.

The Arise TV morning show is one of Nigeria’s most-watched political programmes, broadcast during prime time when politicians, business leaders, and policymakers are most likely to make significant statements.

Signature Interviewing Style

What sets Rufai apart is his confrontational yet informed interviewing approach. He is known for:

Live Fact-Checking: Correcting guests with data in real-time when they make questionable claims.

Tough Questions: Refusing to accept evasive answers from politicians and public officials.

Holding Power Accountable: Challenging government policies and demanding explanations for failures.

This style has made him both admired by viewers who appreciate accountability journalism and criticised by those who view his methods as disrespectful.

International Recognition

Beyond Nigerian television, Rufai serves as a BBC Bristol Analyst on African Issues (since 2014). This role positions him as an interpreter of African affairs for international audiences.

Notable Interviews and Controversies

The Jesutega Onokpasa Clash (2023)

One of Rufai’s most memorable interviews occurred in October 2023 with lawyer Jesutega Onokpasa. During a heated discussion about fuel subsidy removal, tensions escalated dramatically.

Onokpasa, frustrated with Rufai’s questioning, retorted: “Listen Rufai! This is not animal psychology… if you want to be a journalist, you can be a journalist.”

This was a direct jab at Rufai’s lack of formal journalism education. Onokpasa also accused him of practising sensationalism and being rude. At one point, Onokpasa threatened to walk out, and Rufai responded that he was free to do so—a moment that sparked debate about interview ethics.

The exchange highlighted criticisms of Rufai’s confrontational style. Some argued he was unnecessarily aggressive, whilst supporters praised his refusal to let guests evade accountability.

Daniel Bwala Confrontation (February 2025)

In February 2025, Rufai had another heated on-air clash, this time with Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu. The interview became so tense that Bwala threatened to walk out, demonstrating Rufai’s willingness to challenge even close allies of the president.

David Umahi Clash (October 2025)

On 6 October 2025, Rufai had a particularly explosive interview with Minister David Umahi over the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.

During the interview, Rufai accused Umahi of reporting him to President Tinubu for asking tough questions. Umahi denied this and dismissed Rufai as “insignificant”. The argument escalated, with Umahi defending his engineering expertise and dismissing Rufai’s knowledge of the project.

The exchange went viral, reigniting debates about Rufai’s journalistic approach and the sensitivity of government officials to scrutiny.

The Peter Obi Funeral Controversy (August 2023)

In August 2023, political commentator Reno Omokri accused Peter Obi, Labour Party’s presidential candidate, of financially supporting Rufai’s father’s funeral in August 2022. Omokri insinuated this influenced Rufai’s favourable coverage of Obi.

Peter Obi publicly denied the allegations, calling them “malicious and cheap blackmail”. Obi praised Rufai as “one of Nigeria’s best TV presenters” who had even challenged him on occasions.

This controversy highlighted the scrutiny Rufai faces regarding his political neutrality and the accusation of bias that follows his work.

The BRT Lane Incident (August 2022)

In August 2022, Rufai was charged in court for driving in a Lagos Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lane, a restricted traffic lane reserved for public buses. He was found guilty and fined ₦70,000.

This incident was particularly embarrassing because Rufai regularly criticised government officials for breaking laws. Critics seized on the hypocrisy, though Rufai publicly accepted responsibility and paid the fine.

Books, Writing and Intellectual Contributions

Beyond broadcasting, Rufai is an accomplished author. His literary works delve into Nigerian leadership, politics, and societal challenges.

Published Books

“Veritas: The Tale of a Sleeping Giant”: This book examines Nigeria’s potential and the factors preventing the nation from realising it. The title references truth (Veritas in Latin) and Nigeria as a giant capable of greatness but currently dormant.

“Nigerians: The Shelf-Organizing People”: A work exploring Nigerian character, resilience, and societal organisation.

“Penkelemesi: Nigerian Peculiar Mess”: A critical examination of Nigeria’s unique challenges and contradictions. The title uses pidgin English to describe Nigeria’s peculiar problems.

“Eureka”: Another publication showcasing his perspectives on discovery and innovation.

His books are available on Amazon and in select Nigerian bookstores. They reflect his analytical mind and commitment to intellectual discourse beyond television.

Entrepreneurship and Business Ventures

NEO Media Group

Rufai serves as Director and CEO of NEO Media Group, an emerging pan-African media organisation. NEO Media Group aims to shape narratives and drive conversations across the continent, positioning itself as a modern media entity for Africa’s digital age.

Edupear Education Innovation

In 2016, Rufai co-founded Edupear Education Innovation Learning Hub. This initiative leverages technology to improve educational outcomes and support educational institutions across Africa.

Edupear focuses on making quality education accessible through technological innovations, addressing gaps in traditional educational systems.

Startup Mentorship

Rufai has mentored hundreds of small businesses that have become successful. Companies he has supported include:

He has worked closely with the federal government’s incubator hub, Ideas Hub, helping entrepreneurs raise capital and develop sustainable business models.

Technology Advisory

As a tech enthusiast, Rufai serves on advisory boards for various technology companies in Nigeria and Africa. His interest in technology extends to its potential for societal transformation, and he actively promotes tech adoption and innovation.

Investment Activities

Beyond mentorship, Rufai is an active investor in the tech and e-commerce space, though specific investments remain private.

Public Speaking and Global Recognition

International Engagements

Rufai is a sought-after keynote speaker who has addressed audiences at prestigious institutions worldwide:

Judge Business School, Cambridge University: Delivered lectures on African business and development.

University of Sussex, Brighton: Spoke on politics and electioneering in Africa.

TED Conferences: Participated as a speaker, sharing insights on media and African affairs.

His global speaking engagements position him as an authority on African issues, entrepreneurship, and media.

Facilitation and Moderation

Rufai has facilitated and moderated numerous high-level events:

Corporate Event Hosting

As a skilled toastmaster, Rufai has hosted premium events for major organisations:

His precision, timing, and command of language make him ideal for high-profile events.

Awards and Recognition

Rufai’s contributions to journalism have earned him significant recognition:

Major Awards

Social Media Awards (2023): Most Engaging Journalist on Social Media

Igbere TV Leadership Awards: Most Courageous TV Host of the Year

Nigeria Media Nite-Out Awards (NMNA) 2022: On-Air Personality of the Year (16th edition)

Honours and Appointments

Chairman, Sportsville Special Recognition Awards (2025 edition)

Member, Lagos State Disability Management Think Tank (Office of the Special Adviser on Disability, 2015-2017): Worked to improve care for persons with disabilities in Lagos.

These awards acknowledge his excellence in journalism, his courage in holding power accountable, and his impact on Nigerian public discourse.

Personal Life: Wife, Children and Family

The Privacy Question

Rufai Oseni maintains extraordinary privacy regarding his personal life. Unlike many public figures who share family moments on social media, Rufai keeps this aspect of his life almost completely hidden.

Marital Status: Conflicting Reports

There are conflicting reports about Rufai’s marital status:

Some sources claim he is married to a woman named Aisha Rufai, described as a lawyer and devout Muslim. These sources state they have been married for over 10 years and have two children. They allegedly met through mutual friends and had both traditional and white weddings.

Other sources, including his own Facebook profile (according to older reports), indicated he was single.

Most recent sources state his marital status and details about any wife or children remain private, with no public confirmation.

Given Rufai’s consistent privacy on this matter, the truth remains unclear. He has never publicly discussed a wife or confirmed having children.

Possible Children

Some sources mention he has two children, whilst others state this is unconfirmed. Rufai occasionally posts pictures with young children (nieces and nephews), which some have speculated might include his own children, but this is unverified.

Why the Secrecy?

Rufai’s decision to keep his family life private is deliberate. Given the controversial nature of his work and the enemies he makes through tough journalism, protecting his family from public scrutiny and potential threats is understandable.

Health Journey and Weight Loss

Health Challenges

Rufai faced significant health challenges that led to dramatic weight loss. At his heaviest, he weighed 121 kg. Health issues prompted him to take his wellbeing seriously.

Transformation

Through lifestyle changes, diet, and exercise, Rufai lost 23 kg, bringing his weight down to 98 kg. This transformation was visible to viewers and became a topic of conversation.

His weight loss journey inspired many Nigerians dealing with similar health challenges. He occasionally discusses health and wellness on his platform, encouraging others to prioritise their health.

Current Health Status

As of 2024, Rufai appears healthy and maintains his weight through consistent lifestyle management. His health journey demonstrates his discipline and commitment to personal wellbeing alongside professional excellence.

Net Worth and Financial Standing

As of 2024, Rufai Oseni’s net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $700,000 (approximately ₦350-490 million at current exchange rates).

Income Sources

His wealth derives from multiple streams:

Lifestyle

Whilst Rufai maintains privacy about his assets, he lives comfortably in Lagos. He owns property and vehicles, though he doesn’t flaunt wealth on social media—consistent with his preference for privacy.

Rufai Oseni Biography: Criticism and Professional Debates

The “Not a Real Journalist” Argument

One persistent criticism of Rufai stems from his educational background. Critics, including Jesutega Onokpasa and columnist Dele Elempe, argue that his lack of formal journalism training shows in his confrontational style.

Dele Elempe, writing in Premium Times (November 2023), argued that Rufai lacks fundamental journalistic skills:

Defenders’ Perspective

Supporters counter that:

The Objectivity Question

Rufai is frequently accused of political bias, particularly favouring the Labour Party’s Peter Obi. Critics cite his tough questioning of government officials whilst allegedly going easier on opposition figures.

Rufai maintains he challenges all politicians equally and that his role is to ask difficult questions regardless of party affiliation.

Social Media Presence and Influence

X (Twitter): @ruffydfire

With over 700,000 followers on X, Rufai maintains an active presence. He:

His X account is where conversations from Arise TV continue, often sparking viral debates.

Instagram: @rufaioseni

With 531,000 followers and over 8,560 posts, his Instagram presence is substantial. Content includes:

Facebook

He maintains a Facebook page where he shares longer-form content and engages with a different demographic of followers.

Digital Influence

Rufai’s social media presence extends his reach beyond television. His posts frequently trend, and his opinions shape public discourse on national issues.

Legacy and Impact on Nigerian Journalism

Redefining Political Journalism

Rufai represents a shift in Nigerian political journalism. Before figures like him, many journalists were perceived as overly deferential to politicians. His confrontational approach signals a new era where journalists demand accountability.

Inspiring Young Journalists

Many young Nigerians pursuing journalism cite Rufai as inspiration. He demonstrates that asking tough questions and challenging power can build a successful career, despite risks.

The Accountability Conversation

Whether one agrees with his methods or not, Rufai has forced a national conversation about media’s role in democracy. His work raises important questions: How aggressive should journalists be? Where is the line between holding power accountable and disrespecting guests?

Pan-African Media Vision

Through NEO Media Group and his pan-African speaking engagements, Rufai is contributing to shaping African narratives beyond Nigeria. His work demonstrates that African journalists can gain international recognition whilst remaining rooted in African issues.

Conclusion

The Rufai Oseni biography is a story of unconventional success. From a young man who lost his mother early and studied animal physiology to becoming one of Nigeria’s most influential journalists, his journey defies typical career paths.

At 44 years old, Rufai has built a multifaceted career as broadcaster, entrepreneur, author, mentor, and public speaker. His Arise TV morning show remains essential viewing for Nigerians interested in political affairs. Whether people love or hate his style, they cannot ignore him.

His commitment to asking tough questions—even at the cost of personal popularity and despite threats—represents a certain courage in Nigerian journalism. In a society where many fear speaking truth to power, Rufai’s willingness to challenge presidents, ministers, and powerful figures stands out.

Beyond journalism, his entrepreneurial ventures, especially mentoring startups and co-founding Edupear, demonstrate commitment to Africa’s development. His global speaking engagements elevate African voices in international forums.

Rufai Oseni biography also reveals contradictions. A man who demands transparency from politicians whilst maintaining extreme personal privacy. A broadcaster without journalism training who has redefined political journalism. A critic of lawbreakers who himself broke traffic laws.

These contradictions make him human and relatable. They remind us that imperfect messengers can still deliver important messages. As Nigeria continues evolving, Rufai Oseni remains a significant voice shaping public discourse, for better or worse.

Whether future generations remember him as a courageous journalist who held power accountable or as a confrontational broadcaster who prioritised drama over diplomacy will depend on how Nigerian journalism evolves. For now, he remains unmistakably relevant, undeniably controversial, and unquestionably influential.

FAQs About Rufai Oseni Biography

Q1: How old is Rufai Oseni?
Rufai Oseni was born on 8 April 1980, making him 44 years old as of 2024. He will turn 45 in April 2025.

Q2: What is Rufai Oseni’s net worth?
Rufai Oseni’s net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $700,000 (approximately ₦350-490 million) as of 2024, derived from his broadcasting career, business ventures, and investments.

Q3: Is Rufai Oseni married?
Rufai Oseni maintains strict privacy about his marital status. Some sources claim he is married with children, whilst others state this information remains unconfirmed. He has never publicly discussed a wife or family.

Q4: What did Rufai Oseni study in university?
Rufai studied Animal Anatomy and Physiology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), graduating with a B.Sc. (Honours). He later obtained a Certificate in Entrepreneurship Management from Lagos Business School.

Q5: Does Rufai Oseni have a journalism degree?
No, Rufai does not have a formal journalism degree. He studied Animal Science in university. This has been used by critics to question his journalistic credentials, though supporters argue formal training isn’t essential for effective journalism.

Q6: What books has Rufai Oseni written?
Rufai has authored several books including “Veritas: The Tale of a Sleeping Giant”, “Penkelemesi: Nigerian Peculiar Mess”, “Nigerians: The Shelf-Organizing People”, and “Eureka”. His books examine Nigerian politics, leadership, and societal issues.

Q7: What is Rufai Oseni’s tribe and state of origin?
Rufai Oseni is Yoruba from Odogbolu in Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria. He was born and raised in this area before moving to Lagos.

Q8: How did Rufai Oseni lose weight?
Rufai lost 23 kg (going from 121 kg to 98 kg) through lifestyle changes, diet modifications, and exercise after facing health challenges. His transformation inspired many Nigerians dealing with similar health issues.

Q9: What controversies has Rufai Oseni been involved in?
Major controversies include: heated on-air clashes with guests like Jesutega Onokpasa (2023) and Minister David Umahi (2025); allegations of political bias towards Peter Obi; and being found guilty of driving in a BRT lane in Lagos (2022) and fined ₦70,000.

Q10: What is NEO Media Group?
NEO Media Group is a pan-African media organisation where Rufai serves as Director and CEO. It focuses on shaping narratives and driving conversations across the African continent, positioning itself as a modern media entity for Africa’s digital age.