By Adedotun Ajayi

The vital role being played by Owena Press Limited, publisher of The Hope titles in promoting the governor’s image and serving the people of the state cannot be quantified.

This is the reason the State government will ensure that the mission and vision of the leadership of the company is supported and achieved.

Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Wale Akinlosotu, who was accompanied by the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Lanre Akarakiri and other directors, declared this on Monday while playing host to the management of the company led by the Chairman/Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Kayode Fasua.

He assured that Governor Aiyedatiwa is fully aware of the company’s efforts as well as its challenges which he said will be addressed soon.

“Owena Press is a significant asset to Ondo State. The governor is fully aware of its challenges and is committed to ensuring its survival and success,” Akinlosotu assured.

On the vision of giving the newspaper a national outlook, the commissioner said it is in tandem with the vision of the governor.

“We aim to expand regionally across the South-West before going national. The governor supports this initiative, and with the new administration, we will prioritise Owena Press’ needs,” he said.

On the subvention to the company, Mr. Akinlosotu assured the team that the government is reviewing the situation.

“The increase in subvention is necessary, especially with the new minimum wage. I will appeal to the governor during the next budget preparation,” he assured.

Earlier, the Chairman/Editor-in-Chief of the organisation, Fasua, had noted that The Hope, the only state-owned newspaper in the South-West, is making spirited efforts to attain greatness.

Fasua also congratulated the commissioner on the governor’s victory in the recent gubernatorial election and expressed optimism about the newspaper’s future under the new administration.

“This meeting goes beyond familiarisation; it’s about reclaiming The Hope’s position as a leading newspaper.

“Our vision is to make The Hope a major revenue earner for the state, but financial constraints have hampered our progress.

“We want to go national, but first, we need the tools to grow into a daily newspaper that generates income through advertisements and other channels.

“We need official vehicles, distribution vans, other tools, and an increased monthly subvention to address our challenges, effectively,” he added.

Fasua also appealed to the state government to avail The Hope of facilities at the Ondo State Printing Press premises, for ease of operations.

On the team of the chairman during the visit were the Editor, Mr. Akin Adubuola; Admin Manager, Mr. Kole Akinjeji; Internal Auditor, Mr.Charles Olayemi; Advertisement Manager, Mrs. Ronke Elegbe; Manager, Debt Recovery/Risk Management, Mrs. Abosede Owoyemi, and the Chief Accountant, Mrs. Folasade Omoleye.