Ogun NUJ Journaliganza Nite: Celebration of Excellence, Culture, and Impact
By Adenike Olowe
The Ogun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) turned the spotlight on Excellence, Culture, and Community Service at its grand event tagged “Asale Asa — Journaliganza Nite.”
The colourful ceremony, which marked the Grand Finale of the 2025 NUJ Press Week, brought together Journalists, Government Officials, Media Executives, and distinguished personalities across the State for a Night of Glamour, recognition, and Celebration of Journalistic Brilliance.
At the heart of the evening was the presentation of the Broadcast Journalist of the Year Award to Kazeem Olowe, a Senior Reporter with TVC News, in recognition of his outstanding reportage and dedication to telling impactful stories.
Olowe’s documentaries and special features — including “Ilara: A Border Community Sitting on Two Countries”, “Sawonjo – A Community Where Stealing is a Taboo”, and “The Plight of People Suffering from Mental Health Disorders” — have earned him respect among peers and accolades from media watchers.
The Journaliganza Nite also honoured several other journalists for their contributions to the profession, including Doyin Lasisi (OGBC), Yemi Dalemo (NTA), Ayo Oluwunmi (OGTV), Gift Oba (Daily Post), Femi Osipitan (Ogun State Ministry of Information), Sanni Ismail (Kaftan TV), and Idris Oderinde (News Life Online).
Beyond the media category, Awards of recognition were also presented to distinguished personalities who have made meaningful impacts in their respective fields.
Among the honorees were Brigadier General Alade Adedigba (Rtd), Commander of Ogun Amotekun Corps; Hon. Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka (GNI); Senator Shuaib Salisu; Chief Lai Labode, promoter of Egbaliganza; Chief (Mrs.) Florence Quadri of Oni Electronics; and Ogun Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who was also honoured for her exemplary public service.
In a symbolic moment, Senator Lekan Mustapha was decorated as Patron of the NUJ Ogun State Council.
The NUJ Chairman, Comrade Akinwale Olanrewaju, in his address, lauded the dedication of Journalists in Ogun State, appreciating the Government, sponsors, and stakeholders for their unwavering support.
He assured that under his leadership, the Council would continue to uphold professionalism, innovation, and ethical practice in Journalism.
The event also featured a traditional fashion parade, where Journalists showcased creatively styled attires under the Egbaliganza brand, celebrating the blend of culture and communication that defines the “Journaliganza” spirit.
Among the dignitaries present were the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, ably represented by The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Her Excellency, Alhaja Noimot Salako-Oyede, Head of Service in Ogun State, HMr. Kehinde Onasanyan, Senator Lekan Mustapha, Senator Salisu, Honourable Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka (GNI), Olu of Itori, Oba Fatai Akorede Akamo; Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele; Mr. Waheed Adeshina, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information; Otunba Dare Odufowokan, SA to the Governor; Dr. Wasiu Tejuoso HoD Mass Communications Department, MAPOLY; Mrs. Oluremi Olugbenro, GM of Paramount FM; Comrade Demola Babalola, Chairman, NUJ Oyo Council; Prince Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, founder of Penpushing Media to mention but a few.
In his closing remarks, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, Secretary of the Council, reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to sustaining Ogun’s legacy as the birthplace of Journalism in Nigeria, promising continuous innovation and professional excellence.
The Journaliganza Nite not only honoured individual achievements but also celebrated the enduring spirit of journalism, a profession that informs, inspires, and connects Communities.
