Osun Guber: Oyebamiji pledges enhanced welfare for Journalists if elected — NPA ED

Engr. Olalekan Badmus, the Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has lauded Osun State journalists for their unwavering commitment to democratic values and responsible reportage.

Speaking during the unveiling of the newly repainted Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel in Osogbo, a project he facilitated to bolster the media’s operational capacity—Badmus noted that local newsmen have maintained professionalism despite facing various challenges. He described the media as a critical pillar of democracy, essential for promoting accountability, transparency, and informed public discourse.

“Journalists in Osun, particularly the Correspondents’ Chapel, have consistently demonstrated responsibility in their duties, contributing meaningfully to good governance and socio-economic development,” Badmus stated.

He specifically commended the press for its conduct during the state’s local government crisis, asserting that journalists remained unbiased in the face of government misinformation until the Supreme Court affirmed the All Progressives Congress (APC) members as the authentic executives.

Looking ahead to the upcoming election, Badmus assured media practitioners that the APC candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), would prioritize their interests.

“When AMBO emerges as the Governor of Osun State, he will address the yearnings of the press through inclusive governance. Having recently received a ‘media-friendly’ award as the Managing Director of NIWA, he is prepared to replicate that support at the state level. I urge you to use your professional skills to support his agenda for Osun,” Badmus added.

He emphasized that investing in journalism infrastructure is an investment in national development. As the 2026 gubernatorial election approaches, he encouraged reporters to uphold professional ethics and avoid sensationalism.

Responding to the gesture, Comrade Shina Abubakar, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, thanked Badmus for the renovation but noted that more support is needed to modernize their operations. Abubakar appealed for assistance in acquiring solar inverters, laptops, and internet facilities.

The Chairman also highlighted the union’s long-standing ambition to build a permanent secretariat near the Ola-Iya area in Osogbo.

He called on well-meaning Nigerians to partner with the union to bring this project to fruition, noting that a dedicated facility would boost morale and help train the next generation of journalists.