The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has inaugurated a Central Planning Committee to coordinate activities for its 60th anniversary celebration, appointing veteran journalist and Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, Wale Ojo-Lanre, as chairman.
The inauguration, held in Ibadan, officially kick-started preparations for the Diamond Jubilee of the council, widely regarded as one of the oldest and most influential NUJ state councils in Nigeria.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Chairman of the Oyo State Council, Comrade Akeem Abass, described the council as a trailblazer in the journalism profession, stressing the need to sustain its leadership position. He praised former chairmen and past executives for laying the foundation that has made the council a respected institution over the past six decades.
Abass explained that the anniversary would go beyond celebrating the union’s longevity, saying it would focus on preserving the council’s history and creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
He disclosed that Ojo-Lanre emerged as chairman of the planning committee following consultations with former leaders of the council, citing his vast experience and commitment to journalism. He also revealed that the NUJ National President and other key stakeholders in the media industry had indicated their readiness to participate in the anniversary events.
In his acceptance speech, Ojo-Lanre described the appointment as “a call from home,” expressing gratitude to the council’s leadership and members for the confidence reposed in him.
He noted that the Oyo NUJ played a significant role in shaping his journalism career and said it was a privilege to serve the union during such a historic occasion.
According to him, the Diamond Jubilee should serve as an opportunity to document the council’s rich history, honour pioneers and veterans, inspire younger journalists, and reflect on the future of the profession.
“The Oyo State Council has produced distinguished reporters, editors, broadcasters, media administrators, scholars and defenders of truth who have made remarkable contributions to journalism and national development,” he said.
To achieve the committee’s objectives, Ojo-Lanre unveiled seven guiding pillars: history, honour, professionalism, welfare, publicity, partnership and legacy.
He urged committee members to carry out their responsibilities with dedication, transparency and unity, while appealing to former leaders and veterans to provide historical records, photographs and other materials that would aid documentation of the council’s six-decade journey.
Ojo-Lanre also encouraged younger journalists to actively participate in the anniversary activities, expressing confidence that the celebration would become a benchmark for future NUJ anniversaries nationwide.
Also speaking, former NUJ National Secretary Gbenga Bamidele commended the Oyo State Council for its achievements over the years and described the inauguration of the planning committee as a major step toward a successful celebration. He called on members, past leaders and stakeholders to support the committee.
Similarly, Seye Ojo, a member of the NUJ Board of Trustees, described the committee’s composition as well thought out, saying the appointment of Ojo-Lanre and other members reflected the union’s confidence in individuals with proven integrity and competence.
Other members of the Central Planning Committee include Mrs. Bummi Olalere, Morenike Tony Esan, Kemi Olaitan, Olusola Oladapo, Fabian Ojo, and Bukola Owolabi.
The committee is expected to oversee activities marking the Oyo NUJ’s 60th anniversary, with emphasis on preserving the council’s heritage, celebrating its achievements and advancing the future of journalism in the state.
