In a heartfelt gesture that underscores the value of dedicated public service and professional integrity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Oloye Lekan Alabi, a distinguished veteran journalist and public relations expert, as he marks his 75th birthday on October 27, 2025. The President’s message, which highlights Alabi’s exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s media landscape and beyond, was conveyed through an official statement released on Sunday. Signed by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the communiqué not only celebrates a milestone in Alabi’s life but also pays homage to his enduring legacy as a beacon of professionalism in an often challenging field.
The statement from the Presidency paints a vivid picture of Oloye Alabi as a figure of rare accomplishment and unwavering principles. “President Bola Tinubu congratulates Oloye Lekan Alabi, a veteran journalist and public relations guru, on his 75th birthday on October 27, 2025,” it reads in part. The President went further to acknowledge the honoree’s illustrious career, commending the remarkable strides he has made in both journalism and public relations. These twin domains, often intertwined yet distinct in their demands, have been masterfully navigated by Alabi over decades, earning him widespread admiration and respect among peers, protégés, and the public alike.
Central to the President’s praise is Alabi’s extraordinary record of service in high-profile roles that required not just skill but an unassailable sense of duty. One of the most notable highlights of his career is his tenure as Chief Press Secretary to four consecutive governors in the old Oyo State—a feat that remains unparalleled in Nigerian political and media history. This role, which placed him at the nexus of government communication and public perception, demanded a delicate balance of transparency, tact, and tenacity. Alabi’s ability to serve under multiple administrations, each with its unique challenges and priorities, speaks volumes about his adaptability, reliability, and the trust he inspired in leadership circles. His subsequent years as Corporate Affairs Manager of the Odu’a Investment Company Limited further solidified his reputation as a consummate professional. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in shaping the corporate image of one of West Africa’s foremost conglomerates, demonstrating how effective public relations can drive organizational success and foster public goodwill.
President Tinubu’s message does not merely recount these achievements; it frames them as evidence of core virtues that define Oloye Alabi’s character. “Oloye Alabi’s rare privilege of serving as Chief Press Secretary to four governors in the old Oyo State, and his years of service as Corporate Affairs Manager of Odu’a Company, reflect his professionalism, integrity, hard work, tenacity, and reliability,” the statement asserts. These qualities—professionalism, integrity, hard work, tenacity, and reliability—are not abstract ideals but lived realities in Alabi’s journey. They have been the bedrock upon which he built a career that has spanned over five decades, influencing generations of communicators and setting standards that continue to inspire.
Beyond his official roles, Oloye Lekan Alabi holds significant cultural and traditional titles that reflect his deep roots in Yoruba heritage and his commitment to preserving Nigeria’s rich history. As the Abese-Olubadan of Ibadanland, he occupies a revered position within the traditional hierarchy of one of Nigeria’s most historic cities. This chieftaincy title is not merely honorary; it underscores his role as a custodian of Ibadan’s customs, a bridge between tradition and modernity, and a voice of wisdom in community affairs. Additionally, his appointment as Cultural Ambassador of the National Museum and Monuments in Ile-Ife—a city regarded as the spiritual cradle of Yoruba civilization—further cements his status as a cultural icon. In this role, Alabi has worked tirelessly to promote Nigeria’s archaeological and historical treasures, ensuring that the stories of the past are told with authenticity and pride.
Oloye Alabi’s journey into the world of media began humbly yet promisingly at the defunct Sketch Newspaper, a publication that once served as a training ground for some of Nigeria’s finest journalists. From there, he transitioned to the Western Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation, an entity that would later evolve into the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Ibadan. These early experiences in print and broadcast journalism honed his skills in storytelling, fact-checking, and audience engagement—skills that would define his later accomplishments. His move to Odu’a Investment Company Limited as Public Relations Manager marked a seamless pivot into corporate communications, where he applied the rigor of journalism to the strategic imperatives of public relations. Throughout these transitions, Alabi remained a steadfast advocate for ethical reporting and effective communication, principles that have become increasingly vital in an era of misinformation and digital disruption.
What sets Oloye Alabi apart is not just his professional longevity but his generosity of spirit. He is renowned as a mentor par excellence, having guided countless younger journalists through the intricacies of the profession. His willingness to share knowledge, offer counsel, and nurture talent has created a ripple effect, ensuring that his influence extends far beyond his direct contributions. Many of today’s media practitioners in Nigeria credit Alabi with instilling in them the values of accuracy, fairness, and courage—values that he himself embodied throughout his career. His authorship of several books further amplifies his voice, providing written legacies that delve into the art and science of communication, the history of Nigerian media, and the intersection of culture and public discourse.
The celebration of Oloye Alabi’s 75th birthday has been marked by a series of tributes, chief among them the recent launch of a festschrift in his honor in Ibadan. This commemorative volume, typically a collection of essays by admirers and colleagues, serves as a scholarly testament to his impact. Held in the heart of Oyo State, the event brought together media professionals, traditional leaders, academics, and well-wishers to reflect on Alabi’s life and work. Such an occasion is rare for a living figure, underscoring the depth of respect and affection he commands. The festschrift not only chronicles his achievements but also analyzes his methodologies, offering insights that will benefit future generations of communicators.
In his closing remarks, President Tinubu extended prayers for Oloye Alabi’s continued well-being: “President Tinubu prays for many more years of good health and renewed strength for the Abese-Olubadan.” This benediction resonates deeply, as it acknowledges that Alabi’s work is far from over. At 75, he remains active in cultural ambassadorship, mentorship, and public commentary, contributing to national conversations with the same vigor that characterized his younger years.
Oloye Lekan Alabi’s story is one of resilience, excellence, and service—a narrative that mirrors Nigeria’s own complex journey through independence, regional governance, and democratic evolution. From the newsrooms of Sketch and NTA to the corridors of gubernatorial power and corporate boardrooms, he has left an indelible mark. His life exemplifies how individual commitment can elevate professions and, by extension, society. As Nigeria grapples with the challenges of the 21st century, figures like Alabi remind us of the power of integrity in public life.
The President’s congratulations, therefore, are more than ceremonial; they are a national acknowledgment of a man who has dedicated his life to truth-telling, bridge-building, and cultural preservation. As Oloye Alabi enters this new chapter, the prayers for his health and strength are echoed by many. May his legacy continue to inspire, and may the seeds he has planted in journalism, public relations, and cultural stewardship bear fruit for generations to come. In celebrating him, Nigeria celebrates the best of its communicative and cultural heritage.
