..as music and cultural icon champions men’s health awareness
Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo will headline the public presentation of 999, the latest memoir by iconic entertainer, social activist and television personality, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, at a special event in Lagos dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa.
Scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2026 at the Alliance Française de Lagos/Mike Adenuga Centre, Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, the event promises an unforgettable evening where legacy meets literature, storytelling inspires reflection and advocacy drives social impact.
The presentation, to be led by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, will honour the memory of Justice Oputa, whose unwavering commitment to justice, integrity and the rule of law left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s legal and democratic history. It will also celebrate the remarkable life journey of Charly Boy, an unconventional public figure whose fearless advocacy, artistic expression and unwavering commitment to social justice have influenced generations of Nigerians.
With the compelling tagline, “A Story. A Legacy. A Rebellion in Ink,” 999: The Memoir of Charly Boy offers an unfiltered account of a life defined by courage, controversy, creativity and conviction. It also offers readers an intimate and thought-provoking account of the author’s life, from his upbringing as the son of one of Nigeria’s most respected jurists to his emergence as one of the country’s most outspoken cultural figures. The memoir explores themes of identity, family, resilience, courage, rebellion and purpose, presenting a powerful narrative of a life lived on its own terms.
In 999: The Memoir of Charly Boy, Charles Oputa offers an unfiltered account of a life defined by courage, controversy, creativity and conviction. From challenging societal norms to championing the rights of ordinary Nigerians, the memoir chronicles the experiences that shaped one of Africa’s most unconventional and influential public figures.
Beyond its literary significance, the event will also support the Charly Boy Foundation, which is championing nationwide awareness of men’s health, with a particular focus on prostate cancer advocacy. Through sustained public education and awareness campaigns, the Foundation seeks to encourage regular screening, early detection and timely treatment, helping to improve health outcomes for men across Nigeria.
The event is expected to attract an array of distinguished personalities, including leaders from government, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, the private sector, civil society, academia, healthcare, media, and the creative industries, as well as literary enthusiasts and members of the public.
Speaking ahead of the memoir’s unveiling, the music icon said it is “more than a personal story.”
“This book is about truth, courage and the freedom to be yourself despite the odds. It is my tribute to my father, whose sense of justice shaped my worldview, and my gift to every Nigerian who has ever dared to be different. If it also encourages more men to pay attention to their health, then its mission extends far beyond literature.
“999 is not just about me. It is about courage, truth, legacy and survival. It is a reflection of where I come from, the values my father stood for, the battles I have fought and the hope that our stories can inspire others to live boldly, care for themselves and never give up,” Charly Boy said.
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