By Our Correspondent

Former federal lawmaker and Pro-Chancellor of Achievers University, Owo, Professor Bode Ayorinde, has described former Registrar of the institution, Rev. Canon Samuel Bayode Oladimeji, as a trusted friend and exemplary leader, deserving of celebration at 70.

Professor Ayorinde made the remarks during the 70th birthday celebration of the cleric, noting that their friendship spans over four decades. In a tribute titled “Samlad – A Friend for Over 45 Years,” he reflected on their enduring bond:

“We never attended the same school, but we became close as street friends in Igboroko, Owo. From our shared involvement in the Peace Makers Club between 1980 and 1982, our relationship grew stronger. We have defied the notion that friendships formed in youth cannot endure. Ours has lasted over 45 years, and still counting. Through mutual understanding, tolerance, and shared values, we have remained steadfast companions.”

He further described Oladimeji as “a reference point in honesty, simplicity, faithfulness, and godliness,” expressing confidence that his legacy would continue to inspire generations.

In a touching tribute, the Ag.Vice-Chancellor of Achievers University, Professor Oyesoji Aremu, commended Oladimeji’s legacy of service and leadership:

“Your seven decades of life have been marked by unwavering service, steadfast faith, and exemplary leadership. During your distinguished tenure as Registrar, you embodied integrity, diligence, and a deep commitment to the core values of our institution. You guided the Registry with grace, strengthened our administrative processes, and mentored countless staff and students with wisdom and humility.”

Also speaking, the Registrar of Achievers University, Mr. Adebayo Olagunji, praised the celebrant’s exemplary service as the institution’s third Registrar. He highlighted Oladimeji’s unwavering commitment to integrity, due process, and transparency:

“Rev. Oladimeji distinguished himself by upholding the highest standards of integrity. His leadership was defined by openness and fairness. He listened attentively, yet remained firmly guided by due process. For him, any action without proper approval was simply unacceptable.”

Head of the Department of Mass Communication at the university, Dr. Chike Walter Duru, described the celebrant as “humble, unassuming, and a positive role model,” whose life offers valuable lessons for younger generations.

In an emotional tribute, Mrs. Temi Oladimeji, the celebrant’s wife, described him as a pillar of strength and a devoted servant of God:

“You have been a man of integrity and unwavering faith, impacting countless lives. Your wisdom, patience, and dedication to family and ministry inspire all who know you. I am grateful for our shared journey – years filled with love, sacrifice, growth, and divine blessings. You are not just a husband, but a friend, confidant, and spiritual leader.”

Their son, Olakunle Oladimeji, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication at Achievers University, expressed deep appreciation for his father’s influence:

“You have been more than a parent – you are a mentor, a role model, and a foundation upon which we continue to build. Your sacrifices and guidance have shaped our growth, and for that, I remain profoundly grateful.”

Other tributes poured in from associates, including Ven. and Mrs. Ayoola Ayo-Adedeji of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, Ode-Irele (Anglican Communion), who described Oladimeji as “a diligent, faithful, and trustworthy man of prayer, with a deep love for hymns.”

The well-attended event, held at the Federal Medical Centre Auditorium in Owo, Ondo State, drew dignitaries from across sectors, including senior academics, clergy, public office holders, and community leaders.

Highlights of the celebration included goodwill messages, cultural performances, presentation of gifts, and special prayers in honour of the celebrant.

Rev. Canon Oladimeji’s 70th birthday was widely regarded as a celebration of a life marked by service, integrity, and enduring impact.

By David Owei,Bayelsa

The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria, through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub joins the global community in commemorating World Press Freedom Day 2026, under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace.” This year’s theme underscores the critical role of a free, independent, and responsible media in fostering peace, strengthening democratic governance, and promoting social cohesion across nations.

Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, World Press Freedom Day is celebrated around the world on May 3 every year as a reminder to governments of the need for them to respect their commitment to press freedom and create a safe and conducive environment for journalism and media practice.

IPC-SPJ Hub in 2025 documented not less than twenty-three (23) cases of attacks involving twenty-eight (28) journalists and two (2) media organisations. The attacks vary from threat to life, forceful invasion and closure, abduction, unlawful arrest and closure, intimidation and harassment, physical assault, murder, etc. In terms of gender disaggregation, twenty-three (23) male, three (3) female and two (2) not mentioned were recorded. For medium disaggregation, the online medium recorded the highest attacks with sixteen (16), broadcast recorded ten (10), while print recorded one (1).

Commenting on the theme for WPFD 2026 – “Shaping a Future at Peace”, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director, the International Press Centre said, “At a time when the world continues to grapple with conflicts, misinformation, political instability, and growing threats to civic space, the role of the media as a pillar of truth and accountability cannot be overstated. Journalism remains an essential force in amplifying marginalized voices, countering disinformation, and facilitating informed public discourse—key ingredients for sustainable peace and development.”

Mr. Arogundade further stated that, “However, the increasing risks faced by journalists and media professionals globally remain a serious concern. From harassment and unlawful detention to violent attacks and killings, these threats undermine not only press freedom but also the collective right of citizens to access credible information. The safety of journalists must therefore be prioritized by governments, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders.”

The International Press Centre is therefore calling for renewed commitment to upholding constitutional guarantees of press freedom, strengthening legal protections for journalists, and promoting accountability for crimes against media professionals.

Furthermore, IPC emphasizes the importance of ethical journalism and media responsibility in conflict-sensitive reporting. As information ecosystems evolve, media practitioners must continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy, and fairness, while leveraging innovation to combat misinformation and hate speech.

As we mark World Press Freedom Day 2026, IPC urges all stakeholders—government institutions, civil society organizations, media owners, and the international community—to work collaboratively towards building a media landscape that supports peace, justice, and inclusive development.

In further commemorating World Press Freedom Day and promoting press freedom in Nigeria, International Press Centre with support from the International Freedom of Expression Exchange launches a publication titled – “The Unseen Enablers” https://www.ipcng.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UnseenEnablersReportV-NEW.pdf

The publication speaks to the subject of non-state actors as threats to safety of journalists and press freedom in Nigeria.

The publication highlights the roles of non-sate actors, otherwise referred to as ‘Unseen Enablers’, in undermining access to information and dissemination of news as well as the consequential impact on press freedom.

The publication https://www.ipcng.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UnseenEnablersReportV-NEW.pdf seeks to stimulate attention and promote better understanding for collaborative engagement around the challenges posed by the activities of non-state actors in undermining the environment conducive for the practice of journalism and press freedom in Nigeria.

A peaceful future is only possible where the press is free, voices are heard, and truth prevails.

By David Owei,Bayelsa
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‎On Friday May 8, the grand finale of the Prosperity Cup, Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football tournament will be rounded off at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State, capital.
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‎Excitement is building across Bayelsa as the Prosperity Cup, Nigeria’s most celebrated grassroots football tournament, inches close to its grand finale. On Friday, May 8, 2026, the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa will host the climax of a competition that has become a beacon of youth engagement, talent discovery, and community pride.
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‎Since its inception in 2015, the tournament grew from 110 participating teams to a record-breaking 231 teams in 2025, attracting scouts from Europe, Africa, and Australia.
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‎Over the years, it has produced stars now playing in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and abroad, including Benjamin Precious, who dazzled at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations before signing for German Bundesliga side, TSG Hoffenheim.
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‎The 2026 edition carries added significance: it coincides with the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State and the sixth anniversary of Governor Douye Diri’s Prosperity Administration. Champions in the male category will walk away with the sum of ₦30 million, while female winners will earn ₦10 million.
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‎Beyond the competition, this year’s finale will welcome officials from FC Barcelona, who are expected to organize a scouting programme as wells as discuss plans for a world-class football academy in Bayelsa. The partnership promises to deepen grassroots development, train coaches, and create pathways for young talents to shine on the global stage.
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‎As the countdown to the grand finale begins, anticipation is high. For Bayelsa, the Prosperity Cup is more than just football—it is a movement of hope, unity, and opportunity.