The President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Musiliu “MC Oluomo” Akinsanya, has reflected on his rise from a bus conductor to one of Nigeria’s most influential transport union leaders.

MC Oluomo spoke at the 50th golden jubilee birthday celebration of Islamic singer Hafsat Adegoke and the unveiling of her new album, which Fuji musician Saheed Osupa attended.

The transport union leader, who has repeatedly faced public ridicule over his spoken English and educational background, said practical experience had given him a greater understanding than many people with university degrees.

MC Oluomo also pointed to his children’s achievements as proof that his lack of formal schooling did not stop him from prioritising education, revealing that they have become a doctor, a lawyer and an engineer.

He said at the event held in Alausa, Lagos State, on Sunday: “It’s not about being proud, I’ve been spending money since I was 13 years old. I worked as a conductor from 12pm to 6pm. I would go to Danjuma Cinema to watch Indian movies with my own money, and in turn, I would go home to give my mother money for her food.