Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Adewale Akodu on his emergence as Chairman of the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), describing his election as a recognition of his professional experience and longstanding contributions to public communication.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gb boyega Akosile, the governor said Akodu’s experience in public information management, strategic communication, media relations and union administration placed him in a strong position to lead the Lagos NUJ.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the new chairman had spent more than two decades in the Lagos State Public Service, particularly contributing to the activities of the Ministry of Information and Strategy.
He also highlighted Akodu’s previous leadership of the Lagos State Information Chapel of the NUJ, saying his record demonstrated an ability to build consensus, manage institutional responsibilities and advance the interests of journalists.
The governor expressed confidence that Akodu would use his understanding of the media landscape to strengthen professional relationships between government and the press, promote responsible journalism and encourage constructive engagement on issues of public interest.
He particularly welcomed the new chairman’s stated commitment to professionalism, journalists’ welfare and capacity development, as outlined in his ten-point agenda.
According to Sanwo-Olu, prioritising the dignity, safety and professional advancement of journalists would be essential to strengthening the union and ensuring that its members could discharge their responsibilities effectively.
He urged Akodu to adopt an inclusive leadership approach by carrying all members along, regardless of their affiliations during the election, while building on the achievements of the outgoing administration.
The governor also called on the new executive to strengthen the NUJ’s contribution to governance and democratic development by promoting credible information, challenging misinformation and improving public understanding of government policies and programmes.
He reaffirmed his administration’s recognition of the media as an important partner in promoting transparency, accountability and sustainable development, noting that an independent and responsible press remained essential to democratic governance.
Sanwo-Olu wished Akodu and members of the newly inaugurated executive council a successful tenure, urging them to make journalists’ welfare, professional excellence and unity central to their administration.
