Oseni Rufai Biography: Wikipedia, Tribe, Wife, Parents, News, State of Origin

Oseni Rufai (often styled Rufai Oseni) is one of Nigeria’s more talked-about media personalities. Known for sharp interviews, bold commentary, and an unflinching style, he has become a prominent name on Nigerian television and radio.

In this comprehensive biography, you will learn about his roots, education, career trajectory, controversies, awards, and what the future holds.

Early Life & Background

Name and Birth: Rufai Oseni was born on April 8, 1980.

Place & Ethnicity: He is of Yoruba descent, originally from Odogbolu in Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria.

Childhood & Family: Though his ethnic roots trace to Ogun State, Rufai was raised in Lagos. His upbringing was shaped by extended family and the dynamics of urban life. His mother passed away when he was younger; his father passed in August 2022.

Education

Undergraduate Studies
He attended the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where he studied Animal Anatomy & Physiology.

Further / Executive Education
He also attended Lagos Business School (Pan-Atlantic University) to study entrepreneurship/management.

It’s worth noting that despite his success in media, Rufai does not have a formal degree in journalism or mass communication. Some critics point this out in debates about journalistic training.

Career Journey

Radio Beginnings

Rufai’s media journey began in radio, where he honed his voice and interviewing skills:

• JFM Radio, Warri
• Unique FM, Ilesa
• Gold FM, Ilesa
• Ogun State Radio / Television roles (presenting, commentary)

Transition to Television & Media Influence

He moved into television and broader media commentary, working with Arise TV as a co-host, news anchor, and talk show host. On Arise TV, he became known for putting public officials under pressure, fact-checking live, and asking strong questions.

He has also been a small business and economy analyst on TV Continental, and an African affairs analyst for the BBC (Bristol) on African issues. He is also an entrepreneur: co-founding enterprises like Edupear Education Innovation and Loyal Bonus, and acting as CEO / director in media ventures (e.g. NEO Media Group). He has facilitated conferences, executive training, and spoken at universities abroad (e.g. Cambridge, University of Sussex).

Style & Reputation

Rufai is known for a confrontational and uncompromising interviewing style. He often presses guests on details, challenges public narratives, and does not shy away from ideological debates. That style earns both respect and criticism. Some see him as courageous, others see overreach or lack of adherence to journalistic norms.

One oft-cited episode: In 2023, during a discussion on fuel subsidy removal, a guest (Jesutega Onokpasa) retorted:
“Listen Rufai!! This is not animal psychology … if you want to be a journalist, you can be a journalist.”
This was a reference to his non-journalism academic background.

Controversies & Legal Matters

• In August 2022, he was charged and fined ₦70,000 for driving in a Lagos BRT lane, and later apologized publicly (on live TV).
• His style, interviewing tone, and public criticisms have drawn strong pushback from politicians and critics.
• Some critics argue that he lacks formal journalistic training and that his style is too brash.

Achievements & Awards

• On-Air Personality of the Year (NMNA)
• Social Media Awards, “Most Engaging Journalist on Social Media” (2023)
• “Most Courageous TV Host of the Year” (Igbere TV Leadership Awards, 2023)
• Chairman, Sportsville Special Recognition Awards (2025 edition)

Personal Life & Character

Rufai keeps his romantic life largely private — there is limited public verifiable information about his marital status or children. He also maintains a presence in educational and developmental causes (e.g. mentoring, public speaking, supporting learning initiatives). In public commentary, he frequently engages social, political, and economic issues, often through the lens of accountability and reform.

Legacy & Future Outlook

Rufai Oseni is a polarizing but undeniably influential media figure in Nigeria. His willingness to confront powerful voices on national TV has earned him a place as a voice of scrutiny. Whether that continues to succeed depends on evolving media norms, public reception, and his capacity to balance bold questioning with accuracy and fairness.

Given his entrepreneurial inclinations, it is plausible he will expand his media footprint, possibly launching new platforms or into digital media innovations. His trajectory suggests a blend of journalism, activism, and public engagement.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Is Oseni Rufai a trained journalist?

A: No. He studied Animal Anatomy / Physiology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, not journalism or communication.

Q2: What is his role at Arise TV?

A: He is a co-host, news anchor, and talk show host for Arise TV.

Q3: Has he won awards for his media work?

A: Yes. Among others, he won On-Air Personality of the Year (NMNA), Social Media Awards (Most Engaging Journalist), and Most Courageous TV Host.

Q4: What controversies has he been involved in?

A: He was fined in 2022 for driving in a Lagos BRT lane and has faced criticism over his bold interviewing style and lack of formal journalism education.

Q5: Does he run any businesses?

A: Yes. He co-founded media and education enterprises (e.g. Edupear), and is involved in NEO Media Group.

Conclusion

Oseni Rufai stands as a compelling figure in Nigeria’s media space: part interviewer, part provocateur, part entrepreneur. Though he lacks formal journalism training, he wields influence through a style that challenges power, demands accountability, and pushes boundaries. Whether one admires or criticizes him, it is undeniable that he has shaped public discourse and made a distinct mark. As Nigeria’s media landscape evolves, his future will be watched closely by fans, critics, and media watchers alike.