The Association of Independent Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (AINPN) has honoured several prominent Nigerians for their contributions to national development while calling for deeper economic and security integration across the South-West to drive regional prosperity.
The recognition took place during the 2026 Southwest Leadership Icon Lecture and Award, themed “Fostering Regional Prosperity: Economic and Security Integration in Southwest Nigeria.” The event brought together government officials, traditional rulers, academics, business leaders, media practitioners and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for sustainable development in the region.
Speaking at the event, AINPN President, Olaseeni Oyesusi, said the gathering was designed not only to celebrate excellence but also to encourage meaningful dialogue on the future of the South-West.
According to him, stronger economic collaboration among the six South-West states would enhance trade, agriculture, industrialisation and infrastructure development, while improved security cooperation would help protect lives, businesses and major transport routes through intelligence sharing and coordinated operations.
He stressed that regional collaboration remains essential for unlocking the area’s economic potential and ensuring lasting peace.
Oyesusi also paid tribute to the chairman of the occasion, Chief Adeniyi Michael Akintola (SAN), describing him as an accomplished legal practitioner and statesman whose contributions to justice and regional development have earned national recognition.
The keynote lecture was delivered by former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Emilolorun Ambrose Ayelari, who highlighted economic cooperation and coordinated security efforts as key drivers of sustainable growth in the South-West.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of Leadership Icon Awards to distinguished Nigerians for their outstanding contributions in various sectors.
Among the recipients were legal icon and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), honoured for his impact on legal practice and higher education; Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; founder of Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, recognised for his achievements in broadcasting and humanitarian service; and the President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Oyo State Chapter, Comrade Ayobami Olusegun Adeogun, who was celebrated for his commitment to workers’ welfare and grassroots development.
Other award recipients included Tisco Nig. Ltd. Chief Executive Officer, Chief Isaac Sunday Tapere; University of Ibadan Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Oyebode; media entrepreneur, Dr. Ezekiel Akande; industrialist, Dr. Oluwasegun Alade Musa; Chief Lateef Akande Bakare; Prof. Bayo Ilawole; and philanthropist, Prince Oladotun Sarajudeen Ajilesoro, among others.
The ceremony also featured the launch of the ₦200 million AINPN Southwest Secretariat Project, aimed at establishing a permanent operational headquarters for independent newspaper publishers in the region.
Appealing for support towards the project, Oyesusi expressed confidence that the proposed secretariat would strengthen independent journalism and promote professionalism within the media industry.
He also commended members of the association for their resilience and dedication to independent journalism, describing them as the voice of the people.
The AINPN president concluded by urging political leaders, business organisations and civil society groups to work together in building a more prosperous, peaceful and united South-West.
