The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, has described its Chairman, Comrade Akinwale Alade Olanrewaju, as a divine gift whose leadership has restored unity, professionalism, and public trust within the Union as he clocks 50 years.
In a goodwill message, the Secretary of the Council, Bunmi Adigun, said the golden jubilee of Comrade Olanrewaju provides an opportunity to reflect on the historic role of Ogun State as the cradle of journalism in Nigeria, tracing its roots to Iwe Iroyin, and to celebrate a leader who has rekindled that proud legacy.
According to him, the Ogun NUJ once enjoyed a period of remarkable growth marked by capacity building, professional solidarity, institutional respect, and public confidence before internal crises plunged the Union into a dark chapter characterised by division, bickering, and loss of morale.
“That painful era left deep scars, cost lives, and forced many promising journalists into premature retirement,” Adigun noted.
He explained that the turning point came with a democratic election that ushered in Comrade Olanrewaju, whom he described as a leader divinely mandated to heal wounds, rebuild trust, and reposition the Union.
Since assuming office, Adigun said, the NUJ chairman has provided purposeful and inclusive leadership that has steadily restored the Union’s lost glory.
“Under his watch, smiles have returned to the faces of members, confidence has been renewed, and camaraderie has replaced suspicion. The Union once again feels like home,” he stated.
He listed key achievements of the Olanrewaju-led administration to include reconciliation among aggrieved members, strengthened welfare structures, improved engagement with government and stakeholders, renewed professional training initiatives, and the restoration of the Union’s dignity and public standing.
Beyond the Union, Adigun said Olanrewaju’s influence has helped reposition the media as a responsible partner in development, committed to ethical journalism and balanced reporting.
As he marks his 50th birthday, the Secretary said Comrade Olanrewaju exemplifies service, sacrifice, and stewardship, adding that his leadership journey remains a testament to what vision and grace can achieve.
He prayed for renewed strength, wisdom, and greater accomplishments for the NUJ chairman as the Union continues its march towards unity and purpose.
Bunmi Adigun writes from Iwe-Iroyin, Abeokuta. He is the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Council.
