Mr. Sola Adebayo, a distinguished journalist and CEO of Lawal Iyanda Farms Limited, has inaugurated a Welfare Endowment Fund for the members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents Chapel. The initiative, which began on October 1, 2024, has raised an impressive N25 million, surpassing its initial target of N10 million.
The formal presentation of the fund took place on Tuesday evening, with Adebayo expressing his gratitude for the overwhelming support from his friends, associates, and well-wishers who contributed to the success of the project. Speaking at the event, Adebayo urged journalists to build and sustain strong relationships throughout their careers.
“As journalists, keep your friends. Journalism is a tool that connects you with people, so develop meaningful relationships and never sacrifice the long-term for short-term gains,” Adebayo emphasized. He further called on journalists to uphold the ethical standards of their profession and maintain their dedication to the truth.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Rt. Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, the Member of the House of Representatives representing Warri Federal Constituency. Ereyitomi, who presented the N25 million dummy cheque on behalf of Adebayo, praised the initiative as an exemplary demonstration of service to humanity.
He encouraged others to follow suit, emphasizing the importance of leaving a positive legacy through acts of kindness and support for the community.
“Service to humanity is key. One day, we will all leave this planet, and what will people say about us? Let’s strive to impact others positively,” Ereyitomi said, urging the NUJ members to ensure the fund is used judiciously.
Hon. Ben Eteanabene, Member of the House of Representatives for Okpe, Sapele, and Uvwie Federal Constituency, also spoke at the event. Eteanabene, who has had a longstanding relationship with Adebayo, described him as a compassionate and principled journalist committed to making a difference. He reminded the audience that the fund is a work in progress and should be managed responsibly.
“This is just one step in Sola’s journey of impacting humanity. Ensure this fund is used wisely, as it will encourage more contributions in the future,” Eteanabene urged.
Hon. Donald Ojogo, Member of the House of Representatives for Ilaje/Ese Odo Federal Constituency in Ondo State, highlighted the role of journalism in opening doors and creating opportunities. Ojogo, a former journalist, praised Adebayo for his continued commitment to the profession and his efforts to support fellow journalists.
In his address, Mr. Churchill Oyowe, Chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, cautioned that the funds should not lead to division among members but should be used for the collective good. He encouraged members to ensure the money is shared for genuine reasons and remains revolving for the benefit of all.
Mr. Victor Okpomor, Chairman of the NUJ Warri Correspondents Chapel, also expressed his appreciation for Adebayo’s generous gesture. He described Adebayo as a transformative figure in journalism, whose efforts have significantly impacted both the profession and the local community.
The N25 million endowment fund is set to provide financial support and welfare assistance to members of the NUJ Warri Correspondents Chapel, ensuring their well-being and furthering the development of journalism in the region.
The formal presentation of the fund took place on Tuesday evening, with Adebayo expressing his gratitude for the overwhelming support from his friends, associates, and well-wishers who contributed to the success of the project. Speaking at the event, Adebayo urged journalists to build and sustain strong relationships throughout their careers.
“As journalists, keep your friends. Journalism is a tool that connects you with people, so develop meaningful relationships and never sacrifice the long-term for short-term gains,” Adebayo emphasized. He further called on journalists to uphold the ethical standards of their profession and maintain their dedication to the truth.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Rt. Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, the Member of the House of Representatives representing Warri Federal Constituency. Ereyitomi, who presented the N25 million dummy cheque on behalf of Adebayo, praised the initiative as an exemplary demonstration of service to humanity.
He encouraged others to follow suit, emphasizing the importance of leaving a positive legacy through acts of kindness and support for the community.
“Service to humanity is key. One day, we will all leave this planet, and what will people say about us? Let’s strive to impact others positively,” Ereyitomi said, urging the NUJ members to ensure the fund is used judiciously.
Hon. Ben Eteanabene, Member of the House of Representatives for Okpe, Sapele, and Uvwie Federal Constituency, also spoke at the event. Eteanabene, who has had a longstanding relationship with Adebayo, described him as a compassionate and principled journalist committed to making a difference. He reminded the audience that the fund is a work in progress and should be managed responsibly.
“This is just one step in Sola’s journey of impacting humanity. Ensure this fund is used wisely, as it will encourage more contributions in the future,” Eteanabene urged.
Hon. Donald Ojogo, Member of the House of Representatives for Ilaje/Ese Odo Federal Constituency in Ondo State, highlighted the role of journalism in opening doors and creating opportunities. Ojogo, a former journalist, praised Adebayo for his continued commitment to the profession and his efforts to support fellow journalists.
In his address, Mr. Churchill Oyowe, Chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, cautioned that the funds should not lead to division among members but should be used for the collective good. He encouraged members to ensure the money is shared for genuine reasons and remains revolving for the benefit of all.
Mr. Victor Okpomor, Chairman of the NUJ Warri Correspondents Chapel, also expressed his appreciation for Adebayo’s generous gesture. He described Adebayo as a transformative figure in journalism, whose efforts have significantly impacted both the profession and the local community.
The N25 million endowment fund is set to provide financial support and welfare assistance to members of the NUJ Warri Correspondents Chapel, ensuring their well-being and furthering the development of journalism in the region.
