Doctor by Day, Musician by Night: Rokanmi Samuel's Dual Pursuits

Rokanmi Samuel, widely recognized by his stage name Ibuara, is forging a unique path as both a medical professional and a musician in Nigeria. Currently undergoing residency training in neurocardiology with aspirations of becoming a consultant, Samuel also dedicates himself to his passion for music, having released two studio albums and several singles.

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Yes, becoming a musician had been my dream for a very long time. I thank God that I have been able to pursue and achieve it despite many challenges, rough roads and seemingly impossible situations. Through God’s grace, I remain more than a conqueror.

Samuel's musical journey began in childhood, but he professionally pursued it starting in 2005. However, his academic commitments, including studying Medicine and Surgery and later Zoology at the University of Ilorin, and subsequent medical training, meant he could only fully devote attention to music after completing his housemanship in 2016. His debut album, 'Afunrugbin,' was released in 2021, followed by his second album, 'Unfathomable Grace,' in 2024. He has also released six singles, some dedicated to specific individuals.

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This is one of the mysteries surrounding my style of music. I cannot explain how my voice came to sound like that of the late Roland Olubukola Olomola, popularly known as Baba Ara. All I can say is that I have seen him in my dreams three times since his passing. May his soul continue to rest in peace.

His vocal style has often been compared to that of the late Nigerian musician Roland Olubukola Olomola, famously known as Baba Ara. Samuel acknowledges this resemblance as a mystery, stating he cannot explain the similarity but has reportedly seen Baba Ara in dreams since the artist's passing.

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It has not been easy, but with God’s help and sufficient grace, I keep moving forward. I have faced rejection, envy, financial difficulties and many other challenges. However, I believe I will get to my destination with God’s help.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection, envy, and financial difficulties, Samuel remains determined to achieve his goals. He describes his music as "sacred music that touches the human heart and connects," suggesting a spiritual or deeply emotional dimension to his artistry. He celebrates his 44th birthday on May 29th, marking another year of balancing his demanding medical career with his enduring love for music.

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I play sacred music that touches the human heart and connects