By Salif Atojoko
PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu on Saturday wrote a personal letter congratulating Chief Jola Ogunlusi on his 90th birthday.
Chief Ogunlusi is the pioneer National Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
“It gives me immense pleasure to write this letter and congratulate you on reaching 90 on Sept. 25.
“Attaining this age is an important milestone, which has come as an icing on your remarkable career as a veteran journalist and a reputable unionist.
“You were the pioneer National Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the Secretary of the Nigeria Press Organisation, and a member of the Nigeria Institute of Journalism Board,” wrote the president.
He said Ogunlusi discharged himself creditably in all these capacities: “describing you as an exemplary professional journalist who lives and breathes journalism is obvious.
“You served the NUJ resolutely and ensured it catered to the interests of its members.
“As the first NUJ National Secretary, you steered the association through the turbulent period, stabilising it and making sure the union reached the enviable status it has achieved today.”
Tinubu said Ogunlusi’s invaluable contributions to the Fourth Estate of the realm and, by extension, to the country were well documented and appreciated.
“Today’s journalists can learn a lot from you about maintaining integrity, honesty, and a commitment to journalism excellence.
“Your influence on the next generation of journalists is immeasurable.
“You are also a shining example to our budding unionists because, as NUJ Secretary, you demonstrated that union leadership should not be a money-making venture,” said Tinubu.
He thanked Ogunlusi for his services to the media profession and the country.
The president said that Ogunlusi’s leadership had been instrumental in shaping the profession and ensuring its integrity.
“Please continue to guide the younger generation and ensure that the NUJ remains virile and can whip into line media practitioners who veer off the path of professionalism.
“I pray that God Almighty will grant you good health and strength even at this advanced age,” said the president. (NAN)
