…Says Oyebamiji will prioritise journalists’ welfare if elected
The Executive Director, Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Engr. Olalekan Badmus, has commended journalists in Osun State for their commitment to upholding democratic values and promoting responsible journalism.
Badmus gave the commendation at the weekend after facilitating the repainting of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel in Osogbo as part of efforts to strengthen the media’s operational environment.
He noted that journalists in the state have continued to demonstrate professionalism and dedication to their duties despite challenges and pressures associated with the profession.
Describing the media as a critical pillar of democracy, Badmus said the role of journalists in promoting accountability, transparency and informed public discourse cannot be overstated.
“Journalists, especially members of the Correspondents’ Chapel in Osun State, have consistently demonstrated professionalism and responsibility in the discharge of their duties, contributing meaningfully to good governance and socio-economic development,” he said.
Badmus also praised the conduct of journalists during the recent controversy surrounding the local government crisis in the state.
“At the height of the misinformation surrounding the local government crisis, journalists maintained professionalism and dignity by reporting all sides of the story until the Supreme Court affirmed the All Progressives Congress (APC) members as the authentic executives,” he added.
He expressed confidence that the governorship candidate of the APC in the 2026 Osun election, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), would prioritise the welfare of journalists if elected.
“I want to assure journalists that by the grace of God, when our candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, emerges as governor of Osun State, he will address many of the concerns of the media through an inclusive style of governance. He will ensure that journalists truly function as the fourth estate of the realm,” Badmus said.
He noted that Oyebamiji had recently received a media-friendly award during his tenure as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), expressing confidence that such disposition toward the media would continue if he becomes governor.
Badmus urged journalists in the state to continue to uphold the ethics of the profession, avoid sensationalism and remain committed to factual and balanced reporting, particularly as the state approaches the 2026 governorship election.
“Investing in journalism infrastructure is an investment in democracy and national development,” he said.
Responding on behalf of members, the Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Shina Abubakar, appreciated the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful.
He, however, appealed for further support to enhance the operational efficiency of journalists in the chapel.
“We are Oliver Twist and would appreciate additional support to make our operations more seamless. We need solar inverters, laptops and improved internet facilities,” Abubakar said.
He also disclosed that the chapel is working towards building its own secretariat around the Ola-Iya area of Osogbo.
“We have been pursuing this project for years and are calling on well-meaning Nigerians who have the capacity to partner with us to make this dream a reality. It will boost our morale and help us train and encourage younger generations to embrace the journalism profession,” he added.