Abeokuta: A former Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr. Dele Akinsola, has emerged as the pioneer chairman of the League of Veteran Journalists, Ogun State Chapter. Akinsola was elected during the league’s election held on Friday at the Iwe Irohin Hall, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat, Abeokuta.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the election, monitored by the executive committee of the NUJ, Ogun Council, marked the formal emergence of democratic leadership for veteran journalists in the state. The Chairman of the NUJ in Ogun, Mr. Wale Olanrewaju, while inaugurating the executive, assured members of the council’s support and cooperation. Olanrewaju noted that the veterans had much to contribute to the continued growth and development of journalism in the state and beyond. He highlighted that their wealth of experience would serve as a source of inspiration and encouragement to upcoming journalists.
NAN reports that other elected officers include Mr. Austin Elewodalu as Secretary, Mrs. Stella Sawyerr as Treasurer, Mr. Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji as Welfare Officer, and Mr. Yemi Akintunde as Auditor. In his acceptance speech, Akinsola thanked members for their support and pledged commitment to the welfare and advancement of the league. The new chairman unveiled a six-point agenda centered on members’ welfare, health insurance enrollment, and preservation of the state’s media heritage.
He also pledged to promote mentorship by engaging veteran journalists as voluntary instructors for Mass Communication students in tertiary institutions across Ogun. Akinsola further proposed the establishment of a National Museum for Iwe Irohin to preserve the rich history of journalism in the state and Nigeria.