Journalism Clinic celebrates Nigeria’s Media Elders
Bolaji Obabiyi (intern)
The Journalism Clinic on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 hosted scores of Nigerian veteran journalists in appreciation of their role in contributing to the media industry while still in active service.
Penpushing reports that the well packaged and colourful ceremony was held at the Sir Kessington Adebutu Media Resource Centre, Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Ogba, Lagos state.
The event tagged, ‘Appreciation Day’ include presentation of sovenuirs to the veterans who are 70 years above, while the veterans were able to reminiscence their active days in the journalism practice, as well as wining and dining, as well as music band to entertain them
Penpushing further reports that the founder of the Journalism Clinic Taiwo Obe, in his welcome speech said he was motivated by statement of Reuben Abati who on July 16, 2018, in a post, noted that journalists failed to celebrate themselves enough.
The communications expert explained that following this he was inspired to think of such an event, adding that the statement took him back to an earlier one written by Simbo Olorunfemi, hence, he began the process of celebrating media elders.
Penpushing also reports that Obe pointed out that when he decided that this was going to be a celebration of nostalgia, he would need to create an ambience of remembrance and a good old days’ feeling, just as he lamented the state of libraries in media houses, which he said are eyesores or have even fallen into ruin.
The event, which drew veteran editors, broadcasters, and communicators from across the country, was held to recognize and celebrate the enduring contributions of senior journalists who have shaped the nation’s media landscape.
Penpushing reports that the ceremony was supported by Lagos State Government, FCCPC, NNPC, Dangote Company, NCC, Fidelity Bank, NEMA, Mector Green Snails, RubyGold Incorporation and Archiving
The honorees include Ben Lawrence, Editor and former Managing Editor of Daily Times, who also celebrated his 89th birthday during the ceremony, alongside Tola Adeniyi, Eddy Aina, Toyin Willoughby, Lekan Alabi, Kola Animasaun, Soni Irabor, Fola Arogundade, Bisi Bakare, Alhaji Nojeem Jimoh and Bose Oyewole.
Penpushing also reports that others are Sam Amuka, Ogie Eboigbe, Bimbo Oloyede, Louis Odion, Muyiwa Adetiba, Segun, Ted Iwere, Oloruntola Sunday, Oloye Lekan Alabi, Mike Awoyinfa, Banji Ogundele, Bamiji Ojo, Kola Animashaun, Yakubu Mohammed, Biodun Oluwole, Sesan Ekisola, Dupe Ajayi-Gbadebo, Dr Bisi Olawunmi, Tunde Thompson and Dare Babarinsa, among others.
The former Managing Director of Daily Times Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, speaking at the occasion described the event as a rare and heartfelt gesture, and commended the organisers for the initiative.
Penpushing reports that Ogunbiyi, a renowned scholar and media icon, pointed out that celebrating journalists who have dedicated decades to informing, educating, and inspiring the Nigerian public was a welcome development.
“We work so hard for other people; nobody recognizes us or thanks us, But here we are today thanking ourselves for the work we’ve done. Next year, I want us to meet again in Ipara. We’ll celebrate ourselves once more, eat, dance, and remind one another how far we’ve come’, he added.
Penpushing further reports that Ogunbiyi expressed joy at reuniting with long-time colleagues, adding that such gatherings should be sustained to strengthen professional bonds and foster unity among journalists.
The former Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) boss Patrick Oke in his own remarks emphasized the eternal relevance of the journalism profession, describing it as a divine calling that shapes the conscience of society.
“Our profession is eternal. We must be careful what we write or say, because our words have the power to influence minds and shape generations. We owe it to the country to communicate truth, courage, and integrity.”
Penpushing also reports that Kayode Oyekanmi, journalist and public relations practitioner, commended the initiative, noting that it reflects the enduring legacy of mentorship and professionalism in Nigerian journalism.
“This Appreciation Day is profoundly symbolic. It reminds us that journalism is not just a career but a lifelong calling that demands integrity, fairness, and courage. Honoring our media elders is a celebration of history and an investment in our future.”
Penpushing further reports that Oyekanmi, lauded the honorees for chronicling Nigeria’s story and shaping its conscience, pledging continued collaboration between the media and the Lagos state government.
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