A journalist and entrepreneur, Mr Sola Adebayo has established a Endowment/Welfare Fund to support members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the Warri Correspondents Chapel, Delta State.
During the presentation ceremony recently in Warri, Adebayo encouraged journalists to build and maintain friendships throughout their careers, seeing these connections as valuable assets in the field.
Adebayo advised journalists to stay dedicated and uphold professional principles as they go about their work conscientiously.
“As journalists, keep your friends.Journalism brings you into contact with people; make friends and sustain those relationships,” he said.
He urged journalists not to sacrifice long-term goals for short-term gains, emphasising the importance of responsibility in their conduct.
He recalled that the fundraising initiative, which began on October 1, 2024, initially aimed to raise N10 million. However, he was thrilled to announce that the amount had reached N25 million.
“I sincerely appreciate my friends, especially Hon Thomas Ereyitomi. When we set the target at N10 million, I thought about increasing it, but others advised me. I’m grateful to Chief Ereyitomi and everyone who contributed,” Adebayo added
Presenting the N25 million dummy cheque on Adebayo’s behalf, Hon. Ereyitomi, representing Warri federal constituency in the House of Representatives, urged members of the public to adopt a spirit of generosity and support for others.
Ereyitomi expressed delight in the achievement, noting that the ability to positively impact lives would be remembered as a lasting legacy.
He also encouraged the NUJ members to use the fund responsibly, as proper management will inspire continued support from donors.
Hon Ben Eteanabene, representing Okpe, Sapele and Uvwie federal constituency, praised the initiative as a work in progress and a testament to Adebayo’s commitment to truth and compassion.
Hon Donald Ojogo, representing Ilaje/Ese Odo federal constituency, echoed this sentiment, describing journalism as a profession that opens doors and builds connections.
Chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, Mr Churchill Oyowe, advised members to ensure the fund benefits all genuinely in need, cautioning against conflicts over its distribution.
In his opening remarks, chairman of Warri Correspondents Chapel, Mr Victor Okpomor expressed gratitude to Adebayo, describing him as a guiding light in journalism across Delta State and Nigeria.
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