Nigeria, April 6 -- I'm sure that once Amaka Modebe (nee Obiofuma) settles down in Heaven, she will make a reservation for us at Olive Gardens. Despite all my efforts, we did not get the chance to visit that restaurant in New York City, but she will ensure it happens in Heaven. Yes, Amaka and I have come a long way.

I first met Amaka Obiofuma in the 1990s when I was walking up and down Ikeja, Lagos, looking for a job in journalism. Ok. Scratch that. I did not meet her. She did not know who I was. Nobody at Hints knew me or invited me. I went on a job hunter's equivalent of cold calling. Like many other jobseekers, I sat at the Hints magazine reception area several times, hoping to get an opportunity to meet someone who would interview me...