Ondo Federal Lawmaker conferred grand patron, advises journalists on regular health checks

The Association of Ondo Media Practitioners (AOMP) has conferred the esteemed title of Grand Patron on Hon. Ifeoluwa Babajide Ehindero, recognizing his exemplary contributions to the growth and welfare of journalists from Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

Ifeoluwa Ehindero is the member representing Akoko North East/North West Federal Constituency of Ondo State.

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The conferment took place in Abuja during AOMP’s annual end-of-year corporate event, themed “Ondo State Economic Development: Role of Media,” which combined celebration and advocacy.

AOMP’s end-of-year celebration not only honoured Hon. Ehindero’s contributions but also reinforced the importance of health, welfare, and education within the media industry, setting a hopeful tone for the year ahead.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Ehindero expressed heartfelt gratitude for the honour and took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of health and well-being among media professionals. He urged journalists to prioritize their physical and mental health, despite the demanding nature of their work.

He called on journalists across the country to give more attention to their health.

“Our media practitioners are indispensable to the progress of our society, but we must remember that health is wealth. I encourage you to take regular breaks, undergo routine medical check-ups, and adopt practices that promote both mental and physical well-being,” Hon. Babajide Ehindero stated.

He said because of the tasking nature of the media job, a lot of journalists take their health for granted.

A particularly touching moment during the event was Hon. Ehindero’s announcement of an educational scholarship for the daughter of the late journalist, Mr John Olasunkanmi Oba, a valued member of AOMP who passed away too soon. Ehindero described the deceased as a dedicated professional who left a significant mark on the media landscape.

“This scholarship is a tribute to the legacy of Mr. John Oba, a man who gave so much to the media industry. I hope that his daughter will achieve her dreams and carry forward the values he stood for,” Hon. Babajide said, receiving a standing ovation.

Confirming the promise, the chairman of AOMP, Mr Timothy Sola Akingboye, said having heard about the death of John Oba when the unfortunate incident happened, the lawmaker had since taken charge of the late journalist’s daughter’s journalists as a way of supporting the way of family.

Akingboye said Ifeoluwa is already in the university and has since continued his education courtesy of Hon. Ehindero’s scholarship.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, represented by Chief Obinna Nwaka, acknowledged the remarkable contributions of media practitioners and underscored the crucial role media plays in shaping democracy and society.

“Hon. Ifeoluwa Babajide’s conferment as Grand Patron is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the growth and development of the media industry,” Olawande stated. “On behalf of the Ministry of Youth Development, I congratulate Hon. Babajide and commend his advocacy for the health and well-being of journalists, a message that resonates deeply with our ongoing efforts to promote a healthier and more productive society.”

AOMP President, Mr. Shola Timothy Akingboye, also echoed Hon. Babajide’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for collective action to safeguard journalists’ well-being.

“Our members often work in high-pressure environments that can take a toll on their health.

Hon. Ehindero’s message serves as a timely reminder for all of us to prioritize self-care while fulfilling our professional duties,” Mr. Timothy remarked.

The evening celebrated distinguished members of the National Assembly and Ministers who are indigenes of Ondo State and are considered to have added value to the progress of the Sun Shine state in various capacities.

Another significant AOMP excellence award of the day was presented to outstanding media practitioner Grace Ike, the newly elected NUJ Chairman.

Attendees enjoyed engaging in discussions and networking opportunities, while Hon. Ifeoluwa pledged continued support for initiatives that promote the welfare of media practitioners and the sustainability of the profession.

The event concluded on a high note, with attendees expressing appreciation for Hon. Ehindero’s generosity and advocacy. The scholarship announcement and his call for enhanced health awareness highlighted his deep commitment to the media community and its future.