By: Shafihi Abdulrasheed, anipr
In many parts of Nigeria, especially in Yoruba circles, the word “Gbọ́ṣà!” is more than a shout. It is an audible expression of honour, appreciation, and celebration. It is what people say when someone deserves public recognition. One “Gbọ́ṣà” may be enough for an ordinary achievement. Two or three may celebrate an exceptional effort. But for a man whose life has become a blessing to many, counting the number of Gbọ́ṣà becomes almost impossible.
That is why, as Francis Tosin Shoga marks another birthday, one question naturally comes to mind: How many Gbọ́ṣà should we give him?
The first thing anyone notices about Shoga is not his title. It is his humility. Despite having a successful career in public service and serving as the Director General of the City Boy Movement, one of West Africa’s foremost youth-led socio-political groups, he relates with everyone without creating barriers. Titles never define his relationship with people. Whether you are meeting him for the first time or you have known him for years, he gives you the same attention, respect, and listening ear.
Then comes his smile. It is difficult to separate Francis Tosin Shoga from the joy he carries on his face. Even in demanding moments, he wears a calm expression that reassures people around him. His cheerful disposition makes difficult conversations easier and challenging situations less burdensome. His positive energy is contagious, and that explains why many people naturally feel comfortable around him.
Should I tell you Shoga is also a natural unifier? He believes success is sweeter when everyone is carried along. Rather than seeking personal applause, he is more interested in ensuring that every member of his team has a place, a voice, and an opportunity to contribute. Even when it requires him to bear the heavier responsibility, he does so without complaints. For him, leadership is about lifting others, not standing above them.
Another top quality that continues to distinguish him is his willingness to solve problems. Many people know that they can approach him with an idea that is still taking shape. He listens patiently, asks the right questions, and helps refine that idea into something practical and valuable. He has an uncommon ability to see possibilities where others only see limitations. This has made him a trusted adviser to many young people, political associates, and friends.
His loyalty is another story worth telling. Many people measure commitment by personal reward. Francis Tosin Shoga has remained remarkably different. He is among the few young political leaders who have continued to make sacrifices in support of the Renewed Hope agenda without seeking immediate patronage or personal gain. His commitment has remained steady because he believes in the cause more than the comfort.
As a young politician, Shoga has continued to work tirelessly for the continuity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision. He is firm in his convictions, straightforward in his dealings, and consistent in his support. Those who work closely with him understand that his commitment is not seasonal. It is built on conviction.
At this point, you may pause to ask why people willingly go the extra mile for Shoga. Friendship, for Shoga, is not based on convenience. He remains accessible, dependable, and genuinely interested in others’ progress. Many have benefited from his encouragement, guidance and quiet acts of kindness that rarely make headlines. His impact is often seen in the success of people around him rather than in personal publicity.
Francis Tosin Shoga has continued to build bridges, encourage young people, strengthen political participation and inspire confidence through service. His influence is growing because it rests on character, consistency and genuine concern for people.
So, as family, friends, associates and admirers celebrate him today, the question remains. How many Gbọ́ṣà should we give Francis Tosin Shoga?
The answer is simple. There may never be enough. For a man who gives his strength to others, carries burdens that are not always his, works day and night for the comfort of his people, and remains committed to service without expecting applause, one Gbọ́ṣà is not enough.
Today, Francis Tosin Shoga deserves unlimited Gbọ́ṣà.
Happy Birthday, my Chairman. You are a bridge builder, a dependable friend, a committed political leader, and a man whose greatest achievement is the number of lives he continues to inspire.
Gbosa! Gbosa!! Gbosa!!!
Shafihi Abdulrasheed, anipr is a PR practitioner and corporate communication expert. He writes from FCT and can be reached via sharvee2@gmail.com
