Abuja: Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr Ali M. Ali, has commended the agency’s outgoing Editor-in-Chief, Mr Mufutau Ojo, for his diligence and commitment to the journalism profession. Ali gave the commendation at a send-off ceremony organised in honour of Ojo at the NAN headquarters.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ali described Ojo as a dedicated professional who had contributed significantly to putting the agency in the limelight without seeking personal attention. The managing director said working with Ojo for almost three years had taught him important lessons about commitment, diligence, and professional journalism.
Ali noted Ojo’s editorial experience and professional skills made him a natural leader in the newsroom. He highlighted the demanding nature of an editor’s job, emphasizing the pressure editors face in ensuring stories are accurate and properly presented. Ojo’s ability to respond to calls and messages even at odd hours was cited as a testament to his commitment to the agency.
Ali also acknowledged the support of Ojo’s wife, Mrs Yetunde Ojo, which he said enabled Ojo to excel in his career. He described the outgoing editor-in-chief’s retirement as ‘see you later,’ rather than goodbye, while wishing him fulfilment in the next chapter of his life.
He urged staff members, particularly younger journalists, to learn from Ojo’s professionalism and to maintain positive attitudes toward the agency and its management. Responding, Ojo expressed appreciation to the management and staff members of NAN for their support throughout his career.
Ojo, who served as Editor-in-Chief for almost a year, thanked Ali for his support and confidence. He also thanked editorial staff across the nation for their support and gestures during his tenure and retirement. He appealed to staff to extend the same support to his successor, Hajiya Hadiza Aliyu, describing her as a strong-willed woman.
Ojo advised newly recruited staff to take advantage of the supportive environment provided by management to develop their careers. He urged them to learn from senior colleagues, emphasizing the importance of professional development. Ojo also appreciated his wife for supporting him throughout his career.
In a goodwill message, Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, praised Ojo’s career as marked by professionalism, intellectual depth, and high standards of news reporting. Ebienfa highlighted Ojo’s contribution to accurate, balanced, and timely reporting that supported informed public discourse and Nigeria’s image both domestically and internationally.
The ceremony was attended by NAN management, staff members, media partners, friends, family members, and other stakeholders.