The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has extended its sincere congratulations to the Olubadan-designate, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on his elevation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

In a communiqué issued at the conclusion of its monthly congress held at the Press Centre, Iyaganku Quarters, Ibadan, and presided over by its chairman, Ademola Babalola, the union described Oba Ladoja as a “round peg in a round hole.” It prayed for his successful reign, which it expressed hope would bring further development to Ibadanland, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large.

The communiqué was signed by the drafting committee led by Comrade Abiodun Atilola (Chairman), Comrade Khalid Imran (Secretary), and Comrade Iyabo Adebisi (Member).

The congress also discussed several issues affecting the state and the country. It praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for the peaceful conduct of the Ibadan North by-election, in which Hon. Fola Oyekunle of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was declared the winner. However, the union voiced concern about voter apathy and called on citizens to be more active in their civic duties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

On governance, the NUJ commended the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde for its ongoing infrastructural projects across the state, but urged the government to extend road rehabilitation to smaller towns and communities.

The union also sympathised with the management of Fresh FM, Ibadan, and Ajayi Crowther FM, Oyo, over recent fire incidents. It commended stakeholders who rallied around the affected stations and offered support during the crises.

On the welfare of media workers, the congress discussed the situation at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), where freelancers were recently converted to contract staff with a subsequent salary increase.

It hailed the government’s improved subvention to the station while urging further interventions to boost staff performance.

At the national level, the NUJ appreciated its President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, for appointing the Oyo State Council’s Vice-Chairman, Mr. Seye Ojo, as a member of the National Trustee of the union.

Meanwhile, the congress ratified the nomination of a five-man Screening/Credentials Committee for the forthcoming NUJ Oyo State Council elections, as well as the Press Week Committee, both expected to play pivotal roles in the union’s activities this year.