The Association of Ondo Media Practitioners has conferred on Hon. Ifeoluwa Babajide Ehindero, the title of Grand Patron, in recognition of his contributions to the growth and welfare of journalists from Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.
Ifeoluwa, a member representing Akoko North East/North West Federal Constituency of Ondo State, received the title in Abuja during AOMP’s annual end-of-year corporate event, themed “Ondo State Economic Development: Role of Media,”
In his acceptance speech, Hon. Ehindero who expressed gratitude for the honour bestowed on him emphasize the importance of health and well-being among media professionals.
He urged journalists to prioritize their physical and mental health, despite the demanding nature of their work.
He called on journalists across the country to give more attention to their health.
“Our media practitioners are indispensable to the progress of our society, but we must remember that health is wealth. I encourage you to take regular breaks, undergo routine medical check-ups, and adopt practices that promote both mental and physical well-being.”
He said because of the tasking nature of the media job, a lot of journalists take their health for granted.
Hon. Ehindero announced educational scholarship for the daughter of the late journalist, Mr John Olasunkanmi Oba, a member of AOMP who passed away recently.
Ehindero described the deceased as a dedicated professional who left a significant mark on the media landscape.
“This scholarship is a tribute to the legacy of Mr. John Oba, a man who gave so much to the media industry. I hope that his daughter will achieve her dreams and carry forward the values he stood for.”
Well thanking the lawmaker for his gestures, the chairman of AOMP, Mr Timothy Sola Akingboye regretted the death of Oba.
He confirmed that the lawmaker had since taken charge of the late journalist’s daughter’s wellbeing and had been supportive to the family.
Akingboye said Ifeoluwa is already in the university and has since continued his education courtesy of Hon. Ehindero’s scholarship.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, represented by Chief Obinna Nwaka, acknowledged the remarkable contributions of media practitioners and underscored the crucial role media plays in shaping democracy and society.
“Hon. Ifeoluwa Babajide’s conferment as Grand Patron is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the growth and development of the media industry,” Olawande stated. “On behalf of the Ministry of Youth Development, I congratulate Hon. Babajide and commend his advocacy for the health and well-being of journalists, a message that resonates deeply with our ongoing efforts to promote a healthier and more productive society.”
The AOMP also honoured Grace Ike, the newly elected NUJ Chairman.
