2025 NUJIC PRESS WEEK: Scholar Warns Against Over-Reliance on AI As NUJIC Honours Oyo HOS , Four Others With Meritorious Awards

Eminent personalities in various spheres of life converged on Thursday from far and near for the Grand Finale of a week- long celebration of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Information Chapel , tagged "2025 NUJIC PRESS WEEK”.

The epoch event, held at the Western Hall , House of Assembly,Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, featured a lecture themed "The Future of Media Professionals in the Age of Artificial Intelligence"delivered by the Public Relations Officer, The Polytechnic , Ibadan, Mogaji Soladoye Adewole , presentation of awards and certificates of recognition to individuals with exemplary achievements in chosen fields and immense contributions to journalism,  their societies,  Oyo State, and beyond.

Personalities bestowed with different awards by the Union were the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni; Dr. Babatunde Olawoore, Director of Comfort Eduserve Ltd.; Comrade Demola Babalola, Chairman of the Oyo State NUJ Council; Comrade Raji Oladimeji Ismail, Chairman of NUT, Oyo State Wing; and Dr. Olatunde Oladokun, Chairman of SEAP Ltd

Certificates of recognition were also presented to  Alhaja (Chief) Mrs. Iswat Ameringun, Iyaloja of Ibadanland; Major Adesagba Adekoya (RTD), Chairman of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority; Barrister Ayodele Adekanmbi, Director-General of Oyo State Agencies for Persons with Disabilities; Mr. Olagoke Adaramoye Dare, CEO of Trailblazer NGO; and Mrs. Adekitan Adeagbo, Director of Broadcast at the Ministry of Information.       

Speaking shortly after receiving the award, the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, recounts her days in the Information Ministry, saying the ministry played a pivotal role in the actualization of her dream and career.

She promised to continue to represent the ministry of information and the entire workforce of the state to the best of her ability at every point in time .

Olubunmi praised the leadership of NUJIC and members at large for finding her worthy of the award , which, she said, was the first to be bestowed on her since assuming the position of the head of service in the state .

The chief host, Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, in his goodwill message, reflected on the growth and future of journalism in Nigeria.

While admitting that the reality of old age in journalism may not be entirely pleasant, Prince Oyelade opined that there is still much to celebrate. 

The guest lecturer, Mogaji Soladoye, while speaking on the topic “The Future of Media Professionals in the Age of Artificial intelligence "

explained that long before modern artificial intelligence (AI), Africans had their version known as Sigidi" which  performed human tasks through spiritual power. He noted that although religion and colonial influence made many forget such traditions.

"Sigidi reflected early African creativity and knowledge similar to today’s AI"

Mogaji Adewole lamented  the tedious process of news writing in the past compared to the speed and convenience AI now provides.

 He urged journalists not to rely largely on AI in the discharge of their duties, saying this will make them relevant in the profession.

 In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary,  Ministry of Information, Mr. Rotimi Babalola,  appreciated the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, for his leadership style,  which  he described as second to none . He equally lauded the commissioner for his financial and moral support towards the success of  the 2025 NUJIC Press Week, the Head of Service, and others who contributed to the success of the annual event.

The Chairman of the Day, Chief Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, FCA, represented by General Manager , Solutions FM, Mrs. Funmi Chima ,  commended the Information Chapel for its consistent efforts in  effective and accurate dissemination of the Governor Seyi Makinde’s led  administration.

In their separate goodwill messages, Father of the Day, Chief Nureni Akanbi, the Iba of Ibadan,  Mother of the Day, Ambassador Romoke Ramat Ayinde, CEO of KAYROM LEE Limited, emphasized the need for journalists to uphold the ethics of journalism and embrace objective reportage at all times.

In his welcome address, NUJIC Chairman, Comrade Ismail Fasasi

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NUJ Information Chapel, Comrade Fasasi Ismail, described the Press Week as a period of reflection and renewal.

Speaking on the theme, “The Future of Media Professionals in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” he emphasized the need for journalists to remain steadfast in truth, ethics, and professionalism despite technological disruption and the spread of misinformation.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to members’ welfare and called for collective support to provide essential tools and training. He congratulated all awardees, urging them to continue upholding journalism as a vital pillar of democracy.

OBA LADOJA ASSURES RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE IN IBADANLAND

 

His Imperial Majesty Oba (Senator ) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa1) has assured all and Sundry that there will not be religious crisis in Ibadanland 

The assurance was given during the courtesy visit paid to him by the delegates from the Redeem Christian Church of God (RCCG) at Olubadan Palace Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, on Thursday 

"There cannot be religious crisis in Ibadanland as there is no family compound without the adherents of the various religions particularly Christianity, Islam and African Traditional Religion " , the paramount ruler affirmed 

Any traditional ruler including Olubadan of Ibadanland is the father of all religions and such a traditional ruler should preach harmony and religious tolerance among all religious faithfuls, Olubadan  disclosed 

The monarch appreciated the delegates for their visit and enjoined them not to relent in their prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and our dear country Nigeria.

Earlier in his speech, the General Overseer of RCCG ,pastor Eunoch Adeboye congratulated Oba Ladoja for being enthroned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland 

Speaking through Pastor Sola Adeyeye, a member of Board of Trustee RCCG and National Coordinator  of Royal Fathers' Fellowship, pastor Adeboye pledged t he spiritual support for peace, harmony and success throughout the reign of Oba  Ladoja 

The General Overseer later prayed for the longevity of life for Olubadan, members of OLubadan In - Council ,  Ibadanland, Oyo State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Present at the occasion apart from the RCCG delegates were Oba ( Barr ) Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba (Sir ) Kolawole Adegbola the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland,Oba John Olubunmi Isioye  Osi  Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Biodun Kola Daisi the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland Designate , Oba Salawudeen Amidu Ajibade the Asipa Olubadan of Ibadanland Designate, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin the  Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland and Oba Muritala Adebayo Akande the Ekerin Olubadan of the

 Ibadanland Designate 

E - Signed

Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga 

The Chief Press Secretary to Olubadan of Ibadanland

LECAN Oyo Chapter , Installs Engr Aderemi Oseni as Patron.

All arrangements have been concluded  for The Licensed Electrical Contractors Association of Nigeria (LECAN), Oyo State Chapter,  to mark its anniversary celebration with a series of activities designed to promote professionalism and growth in Nigeria’s electrical industry. The three-day event is scheduled to hold from October 29 to 31, 2025.

According to a statement signed by the Chairman, Adeshola Sylvester Gbogi, the anniversary celebration will be a colourful and impactful occasion, reflecting the association’s continuous commitment to safety, innovation, and capacity development among electrical contractors across the state and beyond.

The highlight of the event will include a public lecture, an award ceremony to honour distinguished personalities, in which one of them is the Honourable representing Ibarapa East,/ Ido Federal Constituency in  Oyo State, Engineer Aderemi Abas Oseni as the Patron, Licensed  Electrical Contractors Association of Nigeria (LECAN), Oyo State Chapter and a fundraising drive for the construction of a befitting state secretariat and the procurement of an official operational bus for the association.

The anniversary lecture, themed “Building Capacity, Building the Future: The Next Chapter for Licensed Electrical Contractors,” will be delivered by a seasoned professional and public affairs expert. The lecture aims to shed light on the critical role licensed contractors play in nation-building and the need for continuous institutional strengthening in the sector.

According to the organisers, the paper presentation will also focus on the association’s role in Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape, particularly as the nation transitions toward sustainable and technology-driven power solutions.

As part of the celebration, LECAN Oyo will also honour individuals and professionals who have made notable contributions to the growth of the electrical industry, public service, and national development. The recognition, the statement noted, is a way of celebrating excellence and motivating others to uphold professional standards.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, including representatives of government agencies, captains of industry, community leaders, and key stakeholders in the power sector. Their presence, according to the organisers, underscores the importance of collaboration between the private sector and professional bodies in enhancing power service delivery.

In addition to celebrating achievements, the association will use the occasion to launch a fundraising campaign for two major projects — the construction of a modern secretariat and the acquisition of an operational bus to aid coordination and logistics.

Gbogi called on all members of the association, friends, and well-meaning Nigerians to support the initiative, stressing that the projects are vital to effective administration, continuous training, and improved service delivery across the state.

The reception for the event is slated for Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Mingles Hotel Place, Agric Bus Stop, Monatan Iyana Church Area, Iwo Road, Ibadan.

The association said the occasion will also provide an avenue for networking and renewed commitment to the advancement of the electrical contracting profession.

Agbakoba Calls for Devolution to Strengthen Nigeria’s Democracy

Abuja, Nigeria – Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, has called for the urgent decentralisation of Nigeria’s governance structure, warning that the country’s democracy will continue to struggle unless power is devolved from the federal government to states and local councils.

In a policy paper titled “Devolution is the Solution – Foundational Reform Agenda for Nigeria’s Transformation”, Agbakoba criticised the 1999 Constitution for failing to empower local governments, citing lack of financial autonomy and over-dependence on the federal and state governments as key issues.

“The structure of our Constitution does not empower local governments to perform,” he stated. “They are financially handicapped and politically subjugated. Without fiscal autonomy, no meaningful development can happen at the grassroots.”

Agbakoba argued that the current system of government overly centralises authority in Abuja, leaving state and local governments with limited control over their own affairs. He said this has hindered innovation, weakened regional competitiveness, and contributed to the country’s ongoing economic and security challenges.

“To make democracy work for Nigerians, we must devolve power closer to the people,” he said. “Each level of government should have clear constitutional roles and financial independence to deliver on their mandates. Devolution will not only deepen democracy but also strengthen accountability and national integration.”

The legal expert urged the National Assembly to prioritise comprehensive constitutional reforms that would address what he described as a fundamental imbalance in Nigeria’s power structure.

He concluded that true federalism—characterised by inclusivity, efficiency, and equitable resource control—is essential for Nigeria’s long-term stability and development.

Adron Homes Leads the Way as TMnews Summit 2025 Celebrates Excellence in Lagos

By Seyifunmi Odunuga 

The 12th Annual TMnews Summit and Awards 2025 was successfully held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, bringing together top government officials, security chiefs, corporate leaders, and humanitarian advocates for a night of inspiration, dialogue and recognition of excellence.

With the theme “Securing the Future: A Collaborative Approach to Community Safety,” this year’s edition provided a platform for constructive engagement on national security, community partnership and sustainable development.

The event’s Chief Host, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Adron Group, received widespread commendation for his leadership and unwavering commitment to national development. Aare's pivotal role in this year’s edition was hailed as a clear testament to Adron Homes’ position as Nigeria’s leading real estate brand, dedicated to providing affordable housing and helping Nigerians achieve their dreams of home ownership.

In his remarks, Temidayo Babalola, Publisher and CEO of TMnews Magazine, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Adron Group, CWAY Group, Zmirage Multimedia, AIG Adegoke Fayoade and all partners, dignitaries and awardees for their invaluable contributions. He reaffirmed TMnews’ mission to foster dialogue, inspire leadership and celebrate excellence across sectors.

The event also featured the TMnews Humanitarian Awards, where 24 distinguished individuals and organizations were honoured for their remarkable contributions to humanitarian service, corporate responsibility and community impact. Guests were treated to captivating performances and an atmosphere of celebration, unity and purpose.

As TMnews marks another successful edition, it reaffirms its commitment to building stronger networks, promoting corporate responsibility and driving positive change for a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.

Oyo State Advisory Council Congratulates Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN on His Birthday

 

 Members of the Oyo State Advisory Council on Wednesday celebrated their Chairman,  Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN, OFR, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a statement issued and signed by the members of the council in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital said  "We, the members of the Oyo State Advisory Council, extend our heartfelt congratulations and warmest wishes to our indefatigable Chairman as he celebrates another year of life and achievements.

The statement continued. "Your exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the betterment of Oyo State have not only inspired those around you but also left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of many.

Your role as the Chairman of the Oyo State Advisory Council is a testament to your commitment to steering this great State toward progress, prosperity, and development"

"The responsibilities you shoulder are considerable, yet your ability to navigate complex legal and political landscapes with grace and wisdom exemplifies the true spirit of leadership. Through your work, you have empowered countless individuals, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among the diverse communities in Oyo State".

The statement added further that Chief Bolaji Ayorinde tenure as the Chairman of the Oyo State Advisory Council has been marked by strategic initiatives that have positively transformed the fabric of governance in the State. 

"Under your guidance, the Council has taken strides towards inclusive policy- making that prioritises the needs and aspirations of the State's citizens and residents"

The statement hinted that the proactive measures Chief Bolaji Ayorinde have implemented showcase dedication that fostering dialogue and collaboration among various stakeholders, ensuring that the voices of the people are not only heard but valued.

"As we look toward the future, may this new chapter in your life be filled with abundant opportunities for personal growth and continued service. I hope you find joy in the little moments, contentment in the relationships you cherish, and fulfilment in the impacts you have yet to create. There is no doubt that your journey is far from over; in fact, the best is yet to come. The challenges that lie ahead may be formidable. Still, with your resilience, intellect, and dedication to the public good, there is no doubt that you will navigate them with the same grace as you have exemplified throughout your career.

"We once again wish you a very happy birthday, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN, OFR.  Happy birthday".

                     Signed

Senator Monsurat Jumoke Sunmonu - Member

Senator Gbenga Babablola, PhD - Member

Barr. Michael F. Lana - Member

Hon Babatunde Oduyoye - Member

Alhaji Bashir Ajibade - Member

Senator Kamarudeen Adedibu - Member

Chief Adewale Atanda - Member

Dr. Aderemi Ayodele - Member

 Hon. Abiola Ajaja - Member

 Alhaji Rasak Gbadegesin - Member

 Pastor Akinade Alamu - Member

 Mr. Babatunde Giwa

Ogbomoso Carnival Aligns with Makinde’s Tourism Policy— Oyelade

 

The Oyo State Government has expressed support for the annual Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, describing the celebration as a perfect reflection of Governor Seyi Makinde’s tourism  agenda to boost the state’s economy through cultural promotion.

The Commissioner for Information who is also the  Chairman of the Media Committee for the ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, Prince Dotun Oyelade, stated this at a press conference held on Friday at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland.

Oyelade said that the world should expect a better carnival this December, as deliberate efforts have been put in place to for improvement. 

He added that the media committee is poised to enlarge its coast of information dissemination across the globe.

According to him, the media sub committee, through its activities, is already attracting more interest from black communities  not only from Europe and the United States of America but also from Latin America and the Oriental.

The Commissioner for Information assured that the state government is in full support of the Cradles Carnival, considering its alignment with the administration’s policy to drive economic growth through tourism.

Speaking at the press conference, the Chairman of the Planning Committee and three-term mHouse of Representatives member, Hon. Segun Dokun Odebunmi, described the carnival as one of the flagship initiatives of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, under the monarch’s 25-year development agenda for Ogbomosoland.

According to Odebunmi, the carnival was conceived to promote Ogbomoso’s rich cultural heritage, foster unity among its people, and project the city’s uniqueness to the world.

“Last year’s success inspired several communities across Oyo State. It also attracted the establishment of a campus of the Nigerian Academy for Cultural Studies (NACUS) and secured inclusion in both the state and federal cultural calendars,” Odebunmi noted.

Hon. Odebunmi assured that adequate security measures have been put in place, with a team of serving and retired experts overseeing surveillance and crowd management. He added that hotels and restaurants across the city have been adequately prepared to ensure comfort and safety for visitors.