The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, honoured outstanding media practitioners and public office holders during its 2025 Press Week Gala and Awards Night, held on Friday in Ikeja.
Thank you for visiting The Vestigator, don't forget to share!
Welcoming guests, the Chairman of the Lagos NUJ Council, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, set the tone for the evening with a warm and thoughtful address.
He described the annual event as one of the union’s most cherished traditions—a night meant to celebrate excellence, professionalism, and the resilience that defines Nigerian journalism. He noted that the Press Week had provided an opportunity for journalists to reflect on their work, renew their commitment to ethical reporting, and reaffirm the values guiding the profession.
Ajayi urged journalists to stand firm in the face of misinformation and the fast pace of the digital age, emphasising the importance of accuracy, fairness, and balance.
“Our work shapes national conversations, influences public policies, and helps build a stronger democracy,” he said. He also called on public officials to uphold principles of transparency and accountability, stressing that good governance thrives when leaders engage constructively with the media.
The evening featured goodwill messages from several distinguished guests, including representatives of NAWOJ, the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, and other media stakeholders.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of Awards of Excellence to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to journalism and public service.
Among the honourees was Mr. Olusina Thorpe, former Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, who was recognised for his long-standing support of the NUJ. In his remarks, Thorpe expressed gratitude for the honour and pledged to continue supporting the union.
Also honoured was Mr. Lanre Bajulaiye, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, who described his award as an encouragement to keep striving for excellence. He urged colleagues to remain dedicated to their roles, noting that hard work never goes unnoticed.
Dr. (Mrs.) Abimbola Oyetunde, Deputy President of the NUJ, was also celebrated for her service and dedication to the union. She reiterated her strong support for the Lagos Council and emphasised the NUJ’s ongoing commitment to protecting journalists from harassment while carrying out their lawful duties.
Other notable award recipients included Mr. Olatunji Bello, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), and Mr. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
The Chairman of the NUJ Press Week Committee, Mr. Wale Akodu, closed the evening by thanking guests for their support and expressing appreciation to Dangote Group and Lotus Bank for sponsoring the event.
