The Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, has called on veteran journalists in the state to document their professional experiences and lessons for the younger generation, describing such an effort as a valuable contribution to the growth of journalism.
Oyelade made the call during the 2025 Press Week and Award Presentation of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Information Chapel grand finale held at the Western Hall, Oyo State House of Assembly Complex, Ibadan.
The Commissioner, who was the Chief Host at the event, recalled his recent engagement with the League of Veteran Journalists at the Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, where discussions focused on the future of journalism, the welfare of practitioners after retirement and the debate over whether journalism has second-hand value
According to him, retirement from journalism at old age should not automatically translate into poverty and encouraged them to document their unique experiences in a collective book as way of making money creatively and legitimately.
He said the donation of one million naira from his personal account is to support the veterans to compile their decades of professional knowledge into a book project that could be launched during next year’s Veterans Day.
Prince Oyelade also admonished the younger journalists who are still in active service not to be complacent and to interprete every challenge as radar to better their future.
In her goodwill message, the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni mni, expressed deep appreciation to the Ministry of Information, describing it as the foundation of her professional growth.
She recalled that her first-ever career recognition came through the Ministry after it recommended her for an award by the Oyo State Council of the NUJ.
The chairman oyo state League of Veterans, Mr Banji Ogundele commended Prince oyelade for his thoughtfulness in suggesting ways to assist Veterans and following through with the donation of one million naira for the book project.
He promised that the money will be deployed for the actualization of the project while thanking the Head of Service Mrs Olubunmi Oni for supporting with two hundred thousand naira.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, in his remarks, appreciated the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, for the cordial relationship he has fostered within the Ministry and for his support towards the success of the programme.
He also informed the public that the Ministry of Information and Orientation is now officially known as the Ministry of Information, urging staff to always introduce themselves accordingly.
Mr. Babalola expressed gratitude to one of his mentors, Alhaji Amusat who was the Director of Information when he joined the Oyo State Civil Service at the age of 25. He recalled that during the first two weeks of his career, he worked directly under Alhaji Amusat, describing him as a wonderful personality who tutored, guided, and supported him.
The Chairman of the Day, Chief Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, FCA, represented by Mrs. Funmi Chima commended the Information Chapel for its consistent efforts in supporting government programmes and effectively disseminating accurate information about the activities of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.
In his lecture titled “The Future of Media Professionals in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” guest speaker Mogaji Soladoye Adewole drew a parallel between modern Artificial Intelligence and Africa’s ancient “Sigidi” concept wooden or clay figures believed to perform human-like tasks through spiritual power.
He explained that while technology now drives media operations, journalists must retain their sense of humanity and creativity, noting that “AI may be fast and efficient, but it lacks emotion and moral judgment values journalism must never lose.”
Earlier, the Director-General of the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Barrister Ayodele Adekanmbi, who was honoured with the Inclusive Award, expressed appreciation to the Information Chapel for recognizing his advocacy efforts.
“Without journalists giving us a voice, we wouldn’t have achieved this much progress,” he said. “We’ve moved from begging for help to being those who help others.”
The Chairman of the NUJ Information Chapel, Comrade Fasasi Ismail, welcomed guests to the event and described the Press Week as a moment of reflection and recommitment to professionalism and truth.
He assured members that his administration remains focused on welfare and training, urging journalists to embrace technological change without compromising ethics.
Several distinguished individuals were honoured at the event for their outstanding contributions to journalism and community development.
Awardees include Mrs. Olubunmi Ojo (mni), Oyo State Head of Service; Dr. Babatunde Olawoore, Director, Comfort Eduserve Ltd; Comrade Demola Babalola, Chairman, Oyo State NUJ Council; Comrade Raji Oladimeji Ismail, Chairman, NUT Oyo State Wing; Dr. Olatunde Oladokun, Chairman, SEAP Ltd; Alhaja (Chief) Mrs. Iswat Ameringun, Iyaloja of Ibadanland; Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd), Chairman, OYRTMA; Barrister Ayodele Adekanmbi, DG, Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities; Mr. Olagoke Adaramoye Dare, CEO, Trailblazer NGO; and Mrs. Adekitan Adeagbo, Director of Broadcast, Ministry of Information.
