The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has honoured the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Ademola Ojo, in recognition of their contributions to journalism and public service.
Oyelade received his award at the Ministry of Information in Ibadan on Thursday after he was unable to attend the NUJ Press Week event where the honour was initially presented.
The recognition comes as the Information Commissioner prepares to mark his 50th anniversary in journalism.
Receiving the award, Oyelade expressed appreciation to the union, describing the recognition as a significant honour. He recalled serving as Vice Chairman of the NUJ 41 years ago, adding that journalism had remained his lifelong profession.
He also commended the current leadership of the Oyo NUJ Council, led by Mr Akeem Abas, expressing confidence in its ability to advance the interests of the union.
Oyelade urged journalists to remain committed to their professional responsibilities and become more responsive in carrying out their duties.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Mr Taiwo Mustapha, also welcomed the recognition, saying he was pleased that the commissioner’s contributions to journalism had been acknowledged by the union.
Earlier, while presenting the award, the NUJ Oyo State Council Chairman, Akeem Abas, described Oyelade as a veteran journalist who had played significant roles in the growth and development of the profession in the state.
Abas said the council would continue to recognise individuals whose contributions had positively shaped journalism in Oyo State.
He described Oyelade as an experienced journalist and communication professional, an exceptional leader in information dissemination and a role model to younger practitioners.
The NUJ chairman also recalled the council’s 60th anniversary celebration held a week earlier, describing the Oyo Council as the pioneer NUJ council in Nigeria.
He said Oyelade’s support for veteran journalists and the union, as well as his contributions to the council over the years, informed the decision to honour him.
In a related development, the NUJ Oyo State Council also honoured the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Ademola Ojo, on Thursday.
The awards formed part of the council’s recognition of individuals whose contributions to journalism and public service have been considered worthy of commendation.
Kehinde Ayanboade
Kehinde Ayanboade is the Managing Editor and Publisher of Naija Metro News, with over eight years of experience covering Nigerian politics, crime, legislative proceedings and metropolitan affairs.
