Prince Dotun Oyelade stands today as one of the most recognisable pillars of modern journalism in Oyo State, an accomplished broadcaster, a respected writer, and a mentor whose influence has shaped an entire generation of media professionals. His career, spanning decades of rigorous newsroom practice and public communication leadership, reflects a life built on integrity, balance, and service.
Long before his appointment as Commissioner for Information under Governor Seyi Makinde, Oyelade had already secured his place as a distinguished journalist. His years at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and other media institutions were marked by a rare blend of courage and clarity. He told the truth even when it was unpopular, simplified complex issues when others hid behind ambiguity, and upheld a standard of professionalism that set him apart.
During Governor Seyi Makinde first term, Prince Dotun Oyelade was appointed as the Chairman of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS). In that role, he was tasked with repositioning BCOS to meet the modern communication needs of the state.
Predictably, he did not only excel in the given task, the BCOS for the first time in her history also won the BEST PARASTATAL award given by the Office of the Head of service during the yearly Productivity Merit Award.
Due to the outstanding achievements of Prince Dotun Oyelade, the BCOS won the award consecutively between 2020 and 2021.
Recall that Prince earlier in 2010 when he was the Private Secretary to Gov Lam Adesina doubled as the Chief Executive Officer of the BCOS
Yet, perhaps his most enduring legacy is not found in his titles but in the countless journalists who proudly call him a father. His mentorship style — firm yet compassionate, disciplined yet encouraging — has shaped many of Oyo State’s brightest media talents. Across newsrooms and press circles, his name consistently emerges as a reference point for excellence, ethics, and narrative strength.
When Governor Makinde later appointed him Commissioner for Information, the media landscape of Oyo State entered a new chapter. Under his stewardship, government communication became clearer, more coordinated, and more accessible. Instead of confrontation between journalists and the government, he fostered a healthier relationship built on mutual respect, transparency, and a shared obligation to inform the public. Prince Dotun Oyelade championed the belief that journalism and governance need not be adversaries; rather, both must collaborate to strengthen democracy.
Through his leadership, press briefings became more open, information flows more structured, and government narratives more professionally managed. He restored trust, elevated standards, and demonstrated how information management should function in a modern democratic society.
Prince Dotun Oyelade remains, above all, a bridge — between journalists and government, between the past and the future, and between the ideals of truthful reporting and the demands of public service. His life is living proof that one can be both a devoted journalist and a father to journalists; both a public servant and a guardian of truth.
His story reminds us that true leadership is not merely about holding authority but about influence, character, and the legacy one leaves in the minds, values, and craft of others.
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Comr. *Toheeb Alade*
_S.A on media to Ogbomosho north_
Aguodo/Masifa (Ward 3)
