By Oluwadamilola Akinduro

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A once-aspiring Catholic priest who ended up in a cement factory has now become one of Ekiti’s most promising cultural music ambassadors.

Daramola Felix Olaniyi, who now goes by the stage name Olaniyi Enudunjiyo, is carving a name for himself in Nigeria’s music scene with a unique blend of indigenous rhythm and deep-rooted storytelling. But the road to recognition wasn’t paved with glamour.

Born and bred in Ijan-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Olaniyi’s early life followed the path of modest beginnings.

He attended St James’s Catholic Primary School and later Ijanmodu Comprehensive High School, both in his hometown. A strong influence from the Catholic Church, where he was raised by a priest, initially stirred his desire to become a reverend father.

However, destiny had other plans.

“The love for music took over my soul. I couldn’t resist it anymore,” Olaniyi told Friday Extravaganza. “One day, I left home without telling anyone. I just knew I had to pursue something bigger.”

That decision led him to Ewekoro, Ogun State, where he worked at Lafarge Cement, producers of Elephant Cement. There, among the grinding machines and endless shifts, his dream of becoming a cultural musician only grew stronger.

Years later, he returned to Ekiti with a renewed sense of purpose, to promote and preserve the state’s cultural identity through music. In 2021, he released his debut album, UGBA MI, which featured the breakout track “Oni kée lowo oraré úyajé,” a song that resonated widely and brought him into public consciousness.

The song’s success attracted the attention of the Ekiti State Government, and in 2024, Olaniyi was honoured with the title of Music Ambassador for his role in promoting cultural heritage through music.

That same year, he released his second album titled ERUN LÉBO, cementing his position as a cultural force. His music, which is now available on platforms such as Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, Audiomack, TikTok, and Facebook, continues to draw attention from lovers of traditional sound across Nigeria and beyond.

With a staggering 153 songs already penned in his notebook, Olaniyi says he remains committed to delivering more indigenous content. “I’m just getting started. I pray for strength and support to bring all these songs to life.”

From seminary dreams to factory work and now to the stage, Olaniyi Enudunjiyo’s story is one of resilience, cultural pride and an unshakable faith in the power of music.