Abuja: The Management of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday announced a female successor to the agency’s outgoing Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Mufutau Ojo. The NAN Managing Director, Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, appointed Managing Editor, Hajiya Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu, as Ojo’s successor at a valedictory session organized for him by the editorial management staff of the agency.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mohammed-Aliyu has demonstrated commitment, thoroughness, and strong work ethics over the years without using personal challenges or gender as an excuse for poor performance. The managing director stated that the choice of Mohammed-Aliyu as Ojo’s successor was based on several factors, including leadership qualities, experience, work ethics, and familiarity with newsroom operations.
Ali praised the outgoing editor-in-chief for his exceptional performance, noting that Ojo’s knowledge, proficiency, experience, and leadership qualities qualified him for the top position. He emphasized that Ojo demonstrated professional competence and leadership throughout his tenure, with his literary skills reflecting an understanding of contemporary politics, economics, and broader issues.
Some members of staff of the agency also commended Ojo for his good performance. Managing Editor, Mr. Ismail Abdulaziz, highlighted Ojo’s dedication to duties since his early years at NAN, recalling his promptness in taking up assignments since joining the agency in 2007. Abdulaziz described Ojo as a man with a good heart and a listening ear, with relationships extending beyond the workplace.
Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Adewale Sadeeq, shared lessons learned from Ojo’s patience and high sense of understanding, describing him as someone who took colleagues under his wings and was always ready to help. Sadeeq noted that Ojo’s appearance often concealed a compassionate disposition.
In her acceptance speech, Mohammed-Aliyu thanked the managing director for her appointment and urged all NAN staff to collaborate in taking the agency to greater heights. She described Ojo as supportive and patient, with his advice and support leaving a lasting impact on her.
Responding, Ojo attributed his career progression to God’s guidance, acknowledging significant developments in his professional journey that occurred without elaborate personal planning. He recalled joining NAN after concerns about maintaining editorial independence elsewhere, eventually becoming a Control Editor and working on the agency’s National Desk. Ojo expressed gratitude to the managing director for entrusting him with NAN’s editorial leadership, attributing his achievements to strong institutional backing and collective efforts.