*The late Sir Ademola Adetula.
The Nigerian Institute of Journalism Alumni Association (NIJAA) has paid tribute to the late Sir Ademola Adetula, a distinguished alumnus of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) and former President of the Institute’s Students’ Union Government (SUG).
A statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the alumni association, Comrade Mark Eje-Ehi Akhuette said the deceased belonged to a generation of Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ)-trained professionals.
The statement pointed out Adetula’s careers contributed significantly to the development of journalism and the media industry in Nigeria, describing the departed leader as a builder, a voice, and a torchbearer
The alumni association said the late Adetula was a seasoned journalist and community leader, and was Editor of the defunct The Republic Newspaper and Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of The Hope Newspaper.
The statement added that the Muyiwa Akintunde led association is being represented at the two-day funeral programmes by several members, adding that at the lying-in-state ceremony held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Akure, Ondo State on Friday, one of Adetula’s classmate at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) between 1983 and 1985, Ayodele Emmanuel Oni, who is based in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, delivered a tribute on behalf of the association
The alumni association celebrated Ademola’s leadership, professional accomplishments, service and enduring contribution to the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) community.
The statement stated that the President of the alumni association recalled that, during Adetula’s tenure as President of the students’ community, he led with courage, humility and a rare sense of service.
“At a time when student leadership demanded both conviction and wisdom, Sir Ademola stood firm. He defended the welfare of students, promoted the dignity of the journalism profession, and set the standard for what it means to lead with integrity at NIJ’, the statement read.
“He believed that journalism was more than a career — it was a calling to speak the truth, to hold power accountable, and to serve the people. That belief shaped his leadership and continues to inspire generations of NIJ students who came after him”, it added
“Even after leaving office, Sir Ademola remained deeply connected to NIJAA, mentoring young journalists, and carrying the spirit of the Institute with him into every room he entered”, the alumni said.
The presence of the alumni association at the funeral reflects the association’s commitment to standing with its alumni and the wider Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) family in moments of celebration and grief, while ensuring that the contributions of distinguished members of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) community are remembered and honoured.
The statement equally pointed out that representing the alumni association at the funeral ceremonies was Prince Moboluwade Diesel Ajijo, while other alumni are also participated in the remaining programmes.