Come September 2024, the ongoing construction of the Sir Kessington Adebutu Media Resource Centre at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Lagos will be completed.
Sir Kessington, otherwise known as Baba Ijebu, represented by Aare Kola Oyefeso disclosed this at the sod-turning of the ‘building’ on Monday.
Aare Oyefeso affirmed the significance of the project to the institution, noting that it will improve learning and promote the image of the institution.
He heaped praises on the management for its commitment in ensuring that the project comes to live – and restated that the 350 seater auditorium will be commissioned in September.
In his address, Chairman of NIJ Governing Council, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, who was represented by Mr. Lanre Ogundipe expressed gratitude to Sir Kessington explaining that not everyone that makes promises fulfil them.
“Many people will give promise but won’t fulfil it. We can’t thank him enough. Today, we have someone who is donating to us 350 seater hall at no cost, it is an added advantage for the profession of journalism and I must commend the provost and his team for ensuring this is achieved,” Mr. Ogundipe stated.
The former National President of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) stressed the need for the improvement of journalism in Nigeria – and tasked NIJ to lead the path.
“NIJ should lead, not only by example but in the practical aspect of journalism and that is why the board under Aremo Olusegun Osoba is working relentlessly to ensure that this institution moves from the present status to a bigger institution. I am assuring you that in the next couple of months, you will see that change and we are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that it is achieved.”
Ogundipe also congratulated the students – and advised them to be proud of where they have found themselves.
The Provost of NIJ, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye in his remarks commended the philanthropist for the donation, maintaining that he is the reason for the gathering.
Mr. Adefaye said: “He didn’t just promise, he is doing it and we all can see. We are particularly glad that you said it will be completed in four months. So, this is not just about having an abandoned project. We will be here in September by God’s grace for the commissioning.”
He also lauded the efforts of Aare Oyefeso in the ongoing project stressing that he has always been supporting him and NIJ.
“NIJ can’t thank you enough, the media can’t thank you enough. Years ago, when people thought I will not meet my goals for NIJ, you helped me to achieve my goals for the institution,” the former Editor-in-Chief of Vanguard Newspaper revealed.
He further hailed the governing council/management of the school and media for their usual support.
In the same vein, the President of NIJ Alumni, Dr. Olusanya Awosan, who also doubles as a member of NIJ governing council revealed that every area of education in Nigeria need improvement.
“We need to bring back the old glory of our institutions, especially the public institutions,” Dr. Awosan said.
He enjoined the government and successful Nigerians alike to invest in education stating that “the greatest legacy that can be given to anyone is education.”
When asked about the impact of the ongoing project on the students of NIJ, the Alumni president said: “It is the beginning of so many things that will happen in this school. Very soon, this institution will become a degree awarding one.
“The project is a great impact to the students, to education and generally Nigeria.”
In appreciation to the ‘donor’, the students, led by the President of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC), Oluwatosin Awelewa presented him with a picture frame.
Awelewa mentioned that the project will be of great benefit to the students, and the institution as a whole.