ASABA, December 25, 2025 – Sir Festus Ahon, Chief Press Secretary to Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended heartfelt congratulations to veteran journalist and businessman Asiwaju Sola Adebayo on the occasion of his birth anniversary.
In a statement released on Thursday, Ahon hailed Adebayo as an iconic figure in Nigerian journalism, whose illustrious career has profoundly shaped the profession and left lasting legacies, particularly in the Niger Delta region.
Ahon praised the celebrant for his exceptional dedication to the welfare of journalists and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), emphasizing how Adebayo's professionalism, ethical standards, and entrepreneurial spirit have significantly advanced the growth of media practice in Delta State and beyond.
"Asiwaju Sola Adebayo stands as a beacon of excellence in journalism," Ahon stated. "His outstanding contributions to the wellbeing of practitioners and the NUJ have been invaluable. Through his commitment to ethical reporting and mentorship, he has inspired generations of younger journalists, fostering a culture of integrity and responsibility in the media landscape."
Adebayo, a former correspondent for major national newspapers including The PUNCH in the Niger Delta, transitioned successfully into agribusiness, becoming the Chief Executive Officer of Lawal Iyanda Farms Limited. Despite his business pursuits, he remains deeply committed to supporting the journalism community. In November 2024, he demonstrated this philanthropy by inaugurating a N25 million Welfare Endowment Fund for members of the NUJ Warri Correspondents Chapel, an initiative that exceeded its initial target and drew widespread acclaim from colleagues and stakeholders.
The fund, presented through representatives including Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, Member of the House of Representatives for Warri Federal Constituency, was described by NUJ leaders as a transformative gesture. Chairman of the Warri Correspondents Chapel, Victor Okpomor, lauded Adebayo as a "leading light" who has revolutionized journalism in Warri, Delta State, and Nigeria at large. Delta State NUJ Chairman, Churchill Oyowe, urged prudent management of the revolving fund to benefit all members without division.
Ahon's tribute also highlighted Adebayo's role in mentorship, noting that his guidance continues to motivate emerging media professionals nationwide. "His legacy of ethical journalism serves as a guiding compass for the industry," the CPS added.
The statement further commended Adebayo's entrepreneurial drive, which has not only created opportunities in agribusiness but also allowed him to give back generously to his professional roots. Colleagues recall his emphasis on building and sustaining relationships, a principle he shared during the endowment fund launch, advising active journalists to cultivate networks that endure beyond the newsroom.
In extending birthday wishes, Ahon prayed for Adebayo's continued good health, fulfillment, and relevance. "We wish Asiwaju Sola Adebayo many more years of robust health and prosperity. May his vast experience remain a fountain of inspiration for the media industry and society," he concluded.
The felicitation underscores the mutual respect between government communicators like Ahon—a former Vanguard correspondent appointed CPS in 2023—and veteran practitioners like Adebayo, reflecting the interconnected fabric of Nigeria's media and public service sectors.
Adebayo's contributions extend beyond welfare initiatives. In September 2024, he advocated for celebrating parents while alive, drawing from the lavish 90th birthday event he organized for his mother, Alhaja Rafatu Anike Ibiladun Adebayo, attended by prominent figures including Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
As Nigeria's journalism community navigates evolving challenges, figures like Adebayo exemplify resilience, transitioning from frontline reporting to impactful philanthropy while upholding professional ideals.
