Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has urged the media to continue playing its noble role — not as a tool for division, but as a beacon of accountability and civic education — helping citizens make informed choices and holding leaders to the highest standards of integrity.
Governor Makinde who was ably represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon Segun Ogunwuyi gave the charge on Monday at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, held at the Dapo Aderogba Hall, Iyaganku, Ibadan. He was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi.
The governor described the media as a trusted partner in the collective effort to build a better Oyo State — one founded on transparency, inclusion, and people-centered governance.
“As the Grand Patron of the NUJ, I reaffirm our administration’s commitment to maintaining a government that listens, engages, and works hand-in-hand with the media for the collective progress of our dear state,” Makinde said.
He commended the choice of the theme for the week, “Democracy and the Search for Quality Leadership in Nigeria Ahead of the 2027 General Election,” describing it as both timely and relevant.
“This theme speaks directly to the heart of our national challenge — how to strengthen democratic values and ensure that leadership at all levels truly serves the people,” the governor said.
“As we approach another election cycle, it is essential that the media continues to play its noble role — not as a tool for division, but as a beacon of accountability and civic education — helping citizens make informed choices and holding leaders to the highest standards of integrity.”
Governor Makinde also congratulated the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin, who was recognized as Outstanding Legislative Leader of the Year.
“This honour is well deserved and reflects the productive synergy between the Executive and the Legislature in advancing good governance in Oyo State,” he added.
He further applauded the outgoing NUJ Chairman, Comrade Ademola Babalola, and his executive team for their exemplary service and leadership as they round off their two-term tenure in December 2025.
“Over the past six years, they have demonstrated uncommon dedication, unity, and professionalism, leaving the Union stronger than they met it,” Makinde noted.
In his remarks, Speaker Ogundoyin thanked the NUJ for the recognition, saying the award would further inspire him to serve with renewed dedication. He also encouraged Nigerian youths to take active roles in leadership and governance, emphasizing that the younger generation possesses the vision and capacity to drive development.
“We must not feel inadequate or unqualified to lead. My example should inspire other young people to take up the mantle of leadership because leadership is taken through vision and action,” he said.
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Democracy and the Search for Quality Leadership in Nigeria,” Chief Adegboyega Adegoke described leadership as a call to service, inclusion, and commitment to the well-being of others.
He also disclosed his intention to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election, pledging to build on Governor Makinde’s achievements through what he termed incremental development — with emphasis on job creation, education, infrastructure, and power supply.
“I will not reinvent the wheel but build on the foundation already laid. My administration will prioritize job creation, quality education, and improved electricity to unlock Oyo State’s full potential,” Adegoke said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, NUJ Chairman, Alhaji Ademola Babalola, described the 2025 Press Week as symbolic, marking the completion of his six-year tenure as chairman.
He highlighted key achievements of his administration, including the establishment of an ICT Hall and the successful hosting of the NUJ National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Oyo State for the first time — made possible through the support of Governor Makinde.
Babalola expressed gratitude to members of the union for their cooperation, unity, and dedication to professional excellence, describing their teamwork as instrumental to the union’s successes.
The opening ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin; Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi; Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor; Hon. Bayo Titilola-Sodo, Special Adviser on Labour Matters; as well as other government officials and media practitioners.
