Former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the African Union of Journalists (AUJ), Lanre Ogundipe, has celebrated veteran journalist and media administrator, Gbenga Adefaye, on his 65th birthday, describing him as a professional with an impeccable record whose contributions to journalism will remain indelible.
Ogundipe, in a congratulatory message marking Adefaye’s 65th birthday, commended his longstanding commitment to editorial excellence, professional development and the advancement of journalism in Nigeria.
He noted that Adefaye’s professional journey reflected a lifetime of dedication to the media industry, particularly through his years at Vanguard newspaper and his leadership roles in the Nigerian Guild of Editors.
According to him, Adefaye has consistently contributed to the growth and institutional development of Nigerian journalism, earning recognition for his professional competence, experience and commitment to the ideals of the profession.
Ogundipe described Adefaye’s appointment as Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) as a significant milestone, noting that it provided an opportunity for him to advance his longstanding commitment to quality journalism education and professional training.
He stressed that the future of journalism depended not only on the courage to report events but also on sound education, professional competence and continuous development.
The former NUJ and AUJ president said Adefaye understood the importance of ensuring that journalism education and the intellectual capacity of Nigerian media practitioners measured up to international standards.
He added that strengthening professional training remained essential to preparing journalists to meet the evolving demands of the media industry.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ogundipe also acknowledged Adefaye’s cultural heritage as a prince of Ile-Ife, noting that he remained conscious of the responsibilities associated with his royal lineage.
According to him, Adefaye understands that royalty goes beyond ancestry and titles, encompassing dignity, cultural appreciation and respect for tradition.
Ogundipe described the celebrant as an individual who embodies these values with humility and without unnecessary display.
He further praised Adefaye for his appreciation of intellectual depth, scholarship and excellence, noting that his respect for substance and brilliant minds had earned him admiration across generations.
He said Adefaye’s ability to recognise and appreciate both established and emerging talents had strengthened his relationships with senior colleagues and younger practitioners who continue to draw inspiration from his experience.
Reflecting on their relationship, Ogundipe said he had known Adefaye as both a colleague and a friend, adding that the milestone birthday offered an opportunity to celebrate not only his professional accomplishments but also his cultural roots, intellectual disposition and enduring friendships.
At 65, Ogundipe observed, Adefaye was approaching the biblical milestone of three score years and ten, describing the occasion as an appropriate moment to reflect on his achievements and anticipate greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
He wished the celebrant good health, fulfilment, continued intellectual engagement and many more years of meaningful service to humanity.
“Happy birthday, dear Gbenga. May the years ahead be rewarding, and may Nigerian journalism continue to benefit from your wisdom, experience and commitment to the profession,” Ogundipe said.
He expressed confidence that Adefaye’s wealth of experience and dedication would continue to contribute to the growth and development of journalism in Nigeria.
