Former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Africa Union of Journalists, Lanre Ogundipe, has celebrated veteran journalist and former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Gbenga Adefaye, on his 65th birthday, commending his contributions to journalism and professional development in Nigeria.
Ogundipe, in a goodwill message to mark Adefaye’s birthday, described his career as one defined by commitment to journalism, editorial excellence and the advancement of the media profession.
He recalled Adefaye’s years at Vanguard and his leadership roles in the Nigerian Guild of Editors, noting that he had remained actively involved in the growth and institutional development of Nigerian journalism.
Ogundipe described Adefaye’s appointment as Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) as significant, saying it provided an opportunity for him to advance journalism education, professional training and the intellectual development of media practitioners.
He said Adefaye understood that the future of journalism depended not only on the courage to report but also on sound education, professional competence and continuous development.
Ogundipe also described the celebrant as a prince of Ile-Ife who values his cultural heritage and understands the responsibilities associated with royal lineage.
He said Adefaye’s appreciation of tradition, intellectual depth and scholarship had earned him respect across generations of journalists.
“I have known Gbenga as a colleague and friend. His 65th birthday therefore offers me an opportunity not only to celebrate him, but also to acknowledge a life distinguished by professional service, cultural rootedness, intellectual appreciation and enduring friendships,” Ogundipe said.
He noted that Adefaye was approaching the biblical milestone of three score years and ten, describing the birthday as an opportunity to celebrate his achievements and wish him continued good health, fulfilment and meaningful service to humanity.
Ogundipe wished the celebrant many more rewarding years, expressing hope that Nigerian journalism would continue to benefit from his wisdom, experience and commitment to the profession.
