The South West Guild of Online Publishers, SWEGOP, has honoured Prince Dotun Oyelade with the Media Legendary Award.
Prince Oyelade who has continued to make his mark in the media industry for almost five decades and currently the Commissioner for Information, Oyo State, was celebrated at the 9th Anniversary of SWEGOP
Reiterating the significance of the duty of Journalists to the sustenance of Democracy in Nigeria, a Nigerian poet, dramatist and recipient of numerous global awards, Emeritus Prof. Niyi Osundare and a former Editor-in-chief, Nigeria Tribune, Mr. Biodun Oduwole, applauded the impacts of the illustrious career of Prince Oyelade to journalism and governance over the years.
Recalling a number of landmark reportorial achievements of Prince Oyelade, the two eminent Nigerians said many Journalists must learn a lot from Prince Dotun Oyelade in their chosen career.
In his keynote address at the event, the Guest speaker, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, appreciated the role of online publishers in nation building.
Alhaji Dangote who was represented by Mr Francis Awowole-Brown assured of a stronger partnership between Dangote Group and SWEGOP.
Delivering the Anniversary lecture, titled: Governance, citizen expectations and breaking barriers: lessons for 2027 elections, the Guest lecturer, Prof. Adeolu Akande, represented by Dr. Idowu Johnson charged journalists, online publishers and other civil society organisations to always hold the government and public officeholders accountable at all times.
Addressing the online publishers, the Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Yemi Farounbi, acknowledged online publishers as a necessary change agent for the mass media.
He charged them to amplify diverse voices, foster inclusive democratic dialogue, tackle misinformation and promote media literacy among the public.
Earlier in his welcome address, the SWEGOP Chairman, Pastor Bisi Oladele, said SWEGOP has established its roots across the Southwest.
He said the association is elevating digital journalism across the Southwest, promoting ethical journalism, and defending press freedom among others.
The event was attended by the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Oyo State Council, Comrade Demola Babalola, the Chief Press Secretary to Oyo State Governor, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, among other dignitaries.
