*Adebutu Kesington Donates 350-capacity Media Resource Centre To NIJ*
FG lauds gesture
Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu, the Nigerian philanthropist and business mogul, has donated a 350-capacity media resource centre to the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Lagos.
The Ogun State-born billionaire commissioned the project at the epoch-making event held last Wednesday.
The event brought together a host of veteran media owners, practitioners and communication scholars including Uncle Sam Amuka, Ray Ekpu, Bisi Olatilo, Prof. Ralph Akinfeleye, Hon. Olufemi Oguntoyinbo, Aware Kolawole Oyefeso, Dr (Mrs). Lizzy Ikem (former Provost).
Also present at the event was *HE* Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former Ogun state governor and chairman, NIJ council; Wale Edun, the minister of finance, and Ladi Adebutu, the ex-lawmaker.
Speaking at the ceremony, Edun lauded the contributions of Adebutu on the growth of education in Nigeria.
He said the 89-year-old’s gesture aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision.
Edun described Adebutu as “a notable philanthropist who has proven himself as a pillar in our society”.
“Access to education is the first pillar, education curriculum is the second pillar, and then infrastructure is the third crucial pillar. This project exemplifies the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to make quality education accessible,” he said.
“It is only possible with partners like Sir Adebutu, who stepped in to bridge gaps in education. Seeing this remarkable transformation from bare land to an impressive facility is a testament to the vision and capability of a successful man.”
Edun also appreciated the billionaire’s gesture in creating a centre that is invaluable to students of NIJ and the public.
“This centre will be of tremendous value to all who use it at NIJ and beyond, contributing significantly to the growth of journalism in Nigeria. On behalf of the government and all stakeholders, we thank Sir Adebutu for his commitment to Nigeria’s educational advancement,” he added.
Ladi, who spoke on behalf of Adebutu, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to expand their family heritage through the Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation (KAAF).
He also commended Osoba and the entire NIJ council for their support in bringing the multi-million naira project to life.
“This unique project will undoubtedly enhance journalism in Nigeria. I am proud to be associated with an initiative that resonates with my foundation’s commitment to give back to society without regard for clan, religion, or political affiliations,” he said.
Adebutu said the resource center will be “a vital asset in advancing the role of the media as the fourth estate of the realm”.
On his part, Osoba also praised Adebutu for his extensive philanthropic contributions across sectors, including healthcare and education.
In his remarks, Gbenga Adefaye, NIJ provost, while appreciating Adebutu said the donation sets a high standard for private-sector involvement in public education.
He maintained that NIJ will remain committed to maximising the facility’s potential for the benefit of the Nigerian media and the country at large.
