BHM founder, Ayeni Adekunle has used the occasion of the company’s 19th anniversary celebration to deliver a powerful message of faith in Nigeria and the African continent. 

The celebration, an exclusive whisky tasting event hosted by The Macallan on Friday, November 7, 2025, brought together friends and industry leaders to mark the near two-decade milestone of the international communications services company.

“I believe in Nigeria, and I believe in Africa. “The name Black House Media is from the Yoruba proverb that loosely translates to ‘it is from the black pot that the white pap is produced.’ Look at the pot, it looks dirty. Think of how they cook in the village with firewood and how messy and dirty the pot that makes pap is, and how pure and nourishing the pap is. That is how I see Nigeria and Africa, that so-called third world country and continent where I believe most of the people, ideas, platforms, and solutions that will transform the world will come from. My dream and vision for the company, for my friends and for my country is that we continue to do great things.”

This philosophy, which champions the idea that excellence and purity can emerge from seemingly challenging or humble origins, has been the driving force behind BHM’s journey. Founded in 2006, the company has grown from a small operation to a global entity with offices in Lagos, Edinburgh, and London, operations in Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana and the US; dedicated to building what Ayeni has often described as “the first truly international communications services company from Africa.”

The event itself was a testament to BHM’s standing, with The Macallan Brand Ambassador, Daniel Atteh, raising a toast with a 25-year-old sherry to Ayeni and BHM’s continued success. 

The gathering also served as a moment of collective reflection, with Ayeni asking guests to raise a glass in memory of the late Nigerian singer, Akiin Shuga, whose passing was announced earlier in the week.

Notable guests at the event included Ike Chioke,  Chude Jideonwo, Funso Aina, Chris Ihidero, Olumide Iyanda, Gboyega Akosile, Steve Ayorinde, Adebola Williams, Kehinde Daniel-Williams, and Bolanle Olukanni, as well as Yemi Adamolekun, Bisola Edun, Dayo Fagade, Ayo Animashaun, and Fatu Ogwuche, among others.

As BHM now prepares to enter its 20th year, the message is clear: the challenges facing Nigeria and Africa are the very pots from which world-class, nourishing ideas and institutions will emerge. The company’s 19-year journey is a powerful example of that proverb made real. 

With everyone’s help and support, I am confident that we can celebrate the 20th anniversary with more impact, Ayeni said.