Emmanuel Agboola

The Calm in the Chaos: A Story About Femi Agboola

Femi Agboola is one of those rare friends who has been there through it all. From the carefree days of primary school, through the challenges of high school, and into the unpredictable twists of life after, Femi and I have shared more memories than I can count. Our bond isn’t just a product of time, but of countless shared experiences, quiet moments of understanding, and a friendship that has weathered every storm.

Femi has always been a bit of an enigma to me. While I have a tendency to plan ahead, sometimes to the point of obsession, Femi is different. He has a unique way of handling life that I both envy and admire. I used to joke with him about his last-minute planning, urging him to prepare more, to think ahead. But deep down, I know that this trait—his calmness in the face of chaos—is one of his greatest strengths.

There is one night in particular that stands out in my mind. We were hosting a game night at our flat, something that had become a bit of a tradition. I had spent days organising every detail, while Femi, as usual, seemed relaxed, almost too relaxed. But when things inevitably went off-script—a last-minute cancellation, a game malfunction, a forgotten snack—Femi was there, calm and collected, with solutions to problems I hadn’t even anticipated. Watching him in action, I realised that his ability to stay grounded in the midst of chaos is something I could never fully grasp, but it is something I deeply respected.

Our flat, thanks in no small part to Femi’s laid-back nature, became a hub for our friends. Those game nights turned into the building blocks of so many friendships, connections that blossomed and grew, creating a close-knit circle of people who are there for each other through thick and thin. If it hadn’t been for Femi’s ability to roll with the punches and make everyone feel welcome, I doubt our place would have become the social center that it did.

Femi is more than just a friend; he is a catalyst. He has this quiet way of making things happen, of bringing people together without forcing it. He was my flatmate and my fellow games planner.

As we watch him today, giving his speech at our wedding, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much he meant to me. He has been a constant in my life, someone I can always count on, not just to be there, but to be there with love, kindness, and an unwavering sense of loyalty.

Femi Agboola you aren’t just an old friend; you are a testament to the power of genuine friendship. In your quiet, unassuming way, you have shaped our lives in more ways than we could ever express. And for that, we would always be grateful.