Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, delivered an insightful address today at the launch of “Reporterl”, a book authored by veteran journalist Alhaji Bolaji Kareem. The event, held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Iyaganku, Ibadan, brought together media professionals, government officials, and literary enthusiasts to celebrate Kareem’s contributions to journalism and public service, :
In his speech, Prince Oyelade reflected on his 43-year professional relationship with Kareem, tracing their shared history back to the early 1980s. He recalled how both men began their careers at the Television Service of Oyo State in March 1982, though Kareem initially chose to remain at the Nigerian Tribune. Their paths crossed again in 1985 when they were elected to the executive of the NUJ Oyo State Branch, with Oyelade serving as Vice-Chairman and Kareem as Secretary.
Oyelade praised Kareem’s dedication and loyalty during his tenure as NUJ Secretary, noting that he made the Press Centre his “second home.” He highlighted Kareem’s pivotal role in the successes achieved under the leadership of two NUJ chairmen, Kanmi Ogunyemi and Sehinde Dagunduro. Kareem’s efforts, Oyelade said, were instrumental in establishing the NUJ chapel at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) and expanding the union’s influence to include the Ministry of Information.
The Commissioner also reminisced about the NUJ’s achievements during that era, including negotiating better salary structures for journalists at Daily Sketch and Nigerian Tribune. He pointed out that the construction of the Dapo Aderogba Hall, where the book launch took place, began in 1992 during Kareem’s tenure as Oyo State Commissioner for Works and Transport.
Oyelade expressed personal admiration for the title of Kareem’s book, Reporter, noting that it resonated deeply with him as someone who began his career as a reporter at the age of 25. “I take pride in being referred to as a reporter,” he said, adding that he hopes to end his life as one. He commended Kareem for his contributions to journalism and public service, wishing him continued productivity and peace.
The event concluded with a warm round of applause for both the author and the Commissioner, as attendees eagerly anticipated delving into the pages of Reporter, a testament to Bolaji Kareem’s enduring legacy in journalism and public service.
