For his continuous support for journalists and the development of journalism in the Niger Delta region, veteran journalist and media consultant, Asiwaju Sola Adebayo, has been honoured by the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists with an award of excellence.
Adebayo, a former bureau chief of the Vanguard, Punch, and National Mirror Newspapers for over three decades, was presented with the prestigious NUJ Award during the State Congress held at the Government House Annex in Edjeba, Warri.
The award was presented on behalf of the Union by the State Council Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe.
Comrade Oyowe, flanked by other state officials, commended the veteran journalist for his active participation in Union activities as well as matters that pertain to the wellbeing of his professional colleagues.
He also lauded Adebayo’s contribution to the development of journalism in the state and the Niger Delta region.
While noting that the award was well deserved and overwhelmingly supported by chapels and members of the Delta Council, Comrade Oyowe praised Adebayo for supporting the union’s projects even after his retirement from active practice.
He further disclosed that the media guru also offered to sponsor the feeding of journalists across the state who attended the first-rotational congress of the Union in Warri in line with his campaign promises to members.
Meanwhile, Asiwaju Adebayo has described the award of excellence as a surprise gift from the union, noting that his support for the profession, where he spent over 30 years, was to encourage his colleagues to do better in their duties.
While making further donations to an upcoming project of the Union, Adebayo charged journalists in the state to remain committed to the ethics of the job and be resilient in delivering their duties to the public.
He further counseled media practitioners to employ modern-day journalistic tools to remain relevant in their profession.
The prolific award-winning writer commended the Oyowe-led Delta NUJ Council and all journalists in the state for their unity and promised to continue to support future activities of the Union.
Adebayo has been offering philanthropic gestures to retired and practicing journalists in the state who are in need and facing health challenges.
The presentation of the award was witnessed by NUJ leaders, veteran journalists, and members of the Union drawn from across the state.
