Veteran journalist – turned real estate practitioner, Ambassador (Dr) Babatunde Adeyemo, has passionately called for urgent reforms to improve the welfare of media professionals in Nigeria, warning that continued neglect of journalists could undermine their capacity to fight and defend democracy.
Adeyemo made the call while chairing the second empowerment programme organised by the Oniroyin Support Initiative in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
He stressed that the sacrifices of journalists should no longer be met with poor remuneration, indifference, and weak support systems.
The event, held at Basic Trust International, Oke-Ilewo, brought together journalists, families of deceased media workers, and industry stakeholders to address growing concerns over practitioners’ wellbeing.
Adeyemo, who is also into philanthropy through Oko Opo Widow Foundation, a not – for – profit charity organisation that caters to the widows, children and the downtrodden members of society, commended the initiative for sustaining the vision of its late founder, describing it as a critical support system for journalists and their families.
No fewer than 20 beneficiaries received cheques of ₦50,000 each to support their immediate needs and reinforce welfare efforts within the profession.
Founded by late journalist and former Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Tunde Oladunjoye, the initiative provides assistance to journalists facing health challenges and offers support to families of deceased practitioners.
Reflecting on the realities of the profession, Adeyemo highlighted challenges such as long working hours, exposure to trauma, and health risks. He noted that many journalists battling conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and post-traumatic stress disorder lack access to insurance and institutional care.
“We cannot celebrate a free press while those who make it possible are left to suffer in silence. The welfare of journalists is not charity—it is justice,” he said.
He also criticised media organisations for failing to meet obligations to their workforce, citing delayed salaries, unpaid pensions, and absence of life insurance.
He urged media owners to prioritise staff welfare, while calling on government to include journalists in health insurance schemes and establish compensation frameworks for those injured or killed in the line of duty.
Adeyemo further charged the Nigeria Union of Journalists to strengthen internal support systems, including cooperative societies and welfare funds, while advising journalists to prioritise their health and safety.
“Life matters more than any headline,” he cautioned.
Earlier, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the initiative, Olufunke Fadugba, said the programme was designed to sustain the founder’s legacy of compassion and solidarity within the journalism community. She noted that April 30, 2026, was chosen to honour a man devoted to service and humanity.
A representative of the founder’s family, Roimot Olamide Oladunjoye, described her late father as a firm believer in dignity and support, expressing appreciation to the Board for preserving his legacy.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to journalists’ welfare, particularly in the area of healthcare.
The event featured free medical checks and distribution of drugs to participants.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude, noting that the support would go a long way in easing their immediate challenges.
