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By Oscar Okhifo
Four years after the death of Nigerian music icon, Olanrewaju Fasasi, popularly known as Sound Sultan, friends, family, and fans gathered on Thursday to honour his memory with a tribute basketball match and a series of legacy-driven initiatives.
The commemorative match, held at the Sprite Basketball Court in Festac Town, Lagos, featured a spirited face-off between the Festac Basketball Foundation Veterans and the Recovery House Team.
The event drew admirers from the entertainment and sports communities, highlighting the late singer’s enduring influence on youth development and grassroots sports.
Beyond the court, Sound Sultan’s creative collective, “Naija Ninjas”, announced a slate of legacy projects to be rolled out in the coming months.
These initiatives aim to uphold the artist’s lifelong passion for nurturing emerging talents across music, film, fashion, sports, and stage performance.
Naija Ninjas spokesperson , Kunle Smart, said Sound Sultan’s life mission continues to resonate through the work he began.
“Even as we continue to grieve the irreparable loss, we take comfort in his enduring legacy. Sound Sultan was more than just a musician; he was a visionary. His legacy continues to inspire and empower a new wave of creatives.”
Widely revered for his socially conscious lyrics and cultural impact, Sound Sultan left behind a catalogue of timeless hits like Jagbajantis and Naija, which tackled national issues and inspired patriotism.
His unique blend of music, activism, and mentorship earned him the moniker “prophet with a mic” among fans and peers.
In an emotional tribute, Farida Fasasi, wife of the late singer, reflected on his lasting impact.
“It’s been 4 years, but it still feels like yesterday. The silence you left behind is loud, but your legacy echoes even more deafening.
“Sound Sultan wasn’t just a music icon , he was a prophet with a mic, a visionary who used his voice to challenge, inspire, uplift, and unite.”
Sound Sultan passed away on July 11, 2021, after a battle with throat cancer. Thursday’s events marked not just a memorial, but a continuation of his mission to inspire, uplift, and unify through creativity and community engagement.