…Fasoranti, Ade Ojo, Makinde, Farounbi, others hail veteran broadcaster on milestone

By Ayodele Popoola

The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has extolled the virtues of veteran broadcaster, Chief Sanya Oyinsan, describing him as a role model with remarkable leadership qualities.

Governor Aiyedatiwa made these remarks on Thursday during the 80th birthday celebration and presentation of Chief Oyinsan’s biography, titled “Born to Pioneer”, held at the commodious International Culture and Events Centre, The Dome, Akure, Ondo State capital.

The Governor, who was represented by the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, praised Chief Oyinsan’s illustrious career spanning almost 50 years in broadcasting.

He said: “Pa Oyinsan’s contributions to the media profession have not only been patriotic but also exemplified professionalism and adherence to the ethics of the trade. He led the path for many in the profession.”

In his goodwill message, the father of the day and National Leader of Afenifere, Pa. Reuben Fasoranti, represented by Chief Femi Aluko, celebrated the celebrant for his immeasurable contributions to human development, describing him as a successful man.

Also speaking at the event, a member of the House of Representatives, Abiola Makinde, representing Ondo East/Ondo West Federal Constituency, who was the Chief Launcher of the book, commended Chief Oyinsan for his impact on his personal development as a politician, particularly during the Labour Party era in the State.

The lawmaker said: “Chief Oyinsan’s life has been one of service, and his mentorship has been instrumental to my political growth. His humility and simple life are qualities one must emulate.”

Chief Yemi Farounbi, a former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines and the book reviewer, described the biography as a “must-read” for aspiring journalists, emphasising the valuable lessons and messages it contains.

“This book holds essential teachings for those who wish to understand the media landscape and the values that Chief Oyinsan has consistently upheld throughout his career,” Farounbi, who also wrote the foreword of the book, remarked.

Chief Ade Ojo, Chairman of Elizade Motors and Elizade University, also praised Chief Oyinsan’s exemplary lifestyle and urged him to continue sharing his wealth of experience with younger generations in the journalism field.

Chief Ojo, who was the Chairman of the event and represented by the Registrar of Elizade University, Dr. Omololu Adegbenro, unveiled the book to the public.

Dr. Mohammed Bulama, the Director General of Radio Nigeria, represented by the Zonal Director of Radio Nigeria, Ibadan Zonal Station, Mr. Dominic Mokikan, highlighted Chief Oyinsan’s pioneering role at Radio Nigeria, especially as the first General Manager of the station in Akure.

“His innovation and marketing prowess have significantly contributed to the growth of Radio Nigeria’s training school and stations across the country,” Bulama stated.

Other dignitaries at the colourful event included the Bishop of Akure Anglican Diocese, Dr. Simeon Borokini, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, Chief Korede Duyile, the Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe, and several others.

The event featured the cutting of the birthday cake, the launching of the book, among other side attractions.