By STRONGLY impressed upon to make a difference in the journalism profession for his colleagues, forthright humanist and entrepreneur, Mr Sola Adebayo, has established a Welfare Endowment/Welfare Fund for members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents Chapel, Delta State.
The veteran journalist and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Lawal Iyanda Farms Limited, speaking at the presentation ceremony on Tuesday evening, encouraged practising journalists to make friends through their work and sustain these relationships.
From left: Hon. Ben Etenabene, Hon. Donald Ojogo, RT. Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, Mr Asiwaju Sola Adebayo, Mrs Adebayo, Mr Victor Okpomor and Mr Churchill Oyowe.
The Oyo State-born trailblazer urged journalists to not only cultivate the spirit of hard work, but remain dedicated and always uphold the principles of the noble profession.
“As journalists, keep your friends. Journalism is a tool that brings you into contact with people; make friends and maintain these relationships,” he advised.
“Develop strong friendships, and don’t sacrifice long-term goals for short-term gains. I appeal to all of you to be responsible,” he said.
Adebayo recalled that the fundraising target for the project, which began on 1 October 2024, was initially set at N10 million.
However, he expressed joy that with the tacit support and goodwill of his business associates, they managed to raise N25 million, exceeding the initial target.
“I sincerely appreciate all my friends, associates, and well-wishers who contributed generously to this project. I am grateful we surpassed the target,” he enthused, glowingly.
Presenting the N25 million cheque on behalf of Adebayo, Rt Hon Thomas Ereyitomi, Member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, called on the public and individuals of goodwill to embrace the culture of giving and supporting others.
The lawmaker, visibly pleased, noted that positively impacting people’s lives is crucial, as it creates a lasting legacy.
“Sola has been a very good friend, and today’s event is significant as it concerns humanity. We should be mindful of our impact on others,” he admonished.
Chief Ereyitomi, however, urged members of the Chapel to use the fund, responsibly, to encourage donors.
“When we see this fund put to good use, we’ll feel encouraged to contribute more—not just for this profession alone, but for others committed to helping humanity,” he vowed.
Also speaking, Hon Ben Eteanabene, Member representing Okpe, Sapele, and Uvwie Federal Constituency, said the project was still a work in progress.
Eteanabene recalled his friendship with Adebayo from when he served as Chairman of PENGASSAN at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI).
He described Adebayo as a journalist who, while sometimes controversial, consistently demonstrates compassion, truth, and kindness.
“This is one way he is fulfilling his dream of impacting humanity. His career in journalism has brought us all together, and he has kept those relationships alive,” Eteanabene said.
He also advised NUJ members to use the funds judiciously, noting that money could bring joy but could also lead to issues if not managed properly.
He pointed out that government support for the media remains insufficient, despite the role of journalism in shaping society.
Hon Donald Ojogo, Member representing Ilaje/Ese Odo Federal Constituency of Ondo State and a journalist by profession, described journalism as a door opener.
Ojogo expressed gratitude to Adebayo for his gesture, encouraging members to uphold journalistic ethics at all times.
He shared, “It was a joy when Asiwaju called. Journalism opens doors; it gives you access to key figures and helps build important connections.”
The former South South Bureau Chief of the Nigerian Tribune observed that Warri operated almost like a state within a state.
He described the oil-rich city as a melting pot, bridging Nigeria’s South West, South East, and South South regions.
Mr Churchill Oyowe, Chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, urged members to ensure the funds benefit everyone genuinely in need, stressing that the fund should promote unity rather than division.
“Let this money benefit all of you, and please, let it not cause conflicts. I thank Asiwaju for rallying others for this noble cause,” he said.
In his opening remarks, Mr Victor Okpomor, Chairman of the NUJ Warri Correspondents Chapel, noted that the initiative began on 1 October 2024.
Okpomor, on behalf of the Chapel, expressed gratitude to Asiwaju Adebayo, calling him a guiding light who has helped transform journalism in Warri, Delta State, and Nigeria.
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