PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has felicitated the Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, on his 60th birthday on Tuesday, June 2.
Other political heavyweights, elder statesmen and prominent leaders across the country also showered encomiums on the multiple-award-winning journalist and political strategist, recalling his decades of dedication to democracy, media excellence and the progressive movement.
In a statement by his Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga, congratulating Ajanaku on his diamond jubilee, Tinubu rejoiced with Ajanaku, commending his courage, vibrancy and unwavering dedication to journalism over many decades.
The President acknowledged Ajanaku’s immense contributions to democracy and good governance in Nigeria, recalling his “valiant efforts against tyranny” during the dark days of military rule and commitment to strengthening the progressive movement in the Southwest.
Tinubu highlighted Ajanaku’s stellar track record, noting his impactful service as senior special assistant on Public Affairs, and later special adviser on Information and Strategy in Lagos State, before going to lead the media campaign of the late former governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu.
The Preident further commended the commissioner for deploying his vast media experience and network to project the milestones of both national and state governments, effectively bridging the communication gap to foster a deeper understanding of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
In the same vein, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adesuyan, described the attainment of age 60 as a remarkable milestone that calls for deep gratitude to God and reflection on a life of purpose and impactful service.
According to him: “Ajanaku has distinguished himself as a seasoned communications professional and committed public servant whose wealth of experience continues to add immense value to the governance process in Ondo State.
“Since assuming office as commissioner, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening the state’s information management architecture and deepening government-citizen engagement through effective and strategic communication.”
Aiyedatiwa also acknowledged Ajanaku’s steadfast commitment to the progressive cause in the state, wishing him continued good health, wisdom and more years of happiness and service to humanity.
Elder statesman and former interim national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bisi Akande, eulogised Ajanaku for his integrity.
In his goodwill message, the former Osun State governor wrote: “Idowu, you have used journalism as a tool to shape and help the people, and you have served with dignity and integrity.”
Former Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi, recalled Ajanaku’s fearless role in the enthronement of democracy and contributions at The Guardian newspaper during the NADECO era, particularly the struggle to actualise the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election mandate won by the late M.K.O. Abiola.
Fayemi also praised his robust reporting and tactical support during the legal battle to retrieve the progressive mandate in Ekiti State.
Similarly, secretary general of Afenifere and NADECO during the pro-democracy struggle, Ayo Opadokun, commended Ajanaku’s lifelong bravery and commitment to the progressive path and contributions to the ruling party.
The APC-USA National Leader, Dele Alade, reminisced with nostalgia, their joint involvement in Egbe Omo Yoruba conferences in Atlanta, Georgia and Texas, United States (US), where Ajanaku used his media prowess to promote the progressive struggle.
Alade recalled that the commissioner’s part of the official delegation that represented the then national leader, Bola Tinubu, at the historic inauguration of the APC-USA chapter in 2014 in Virginia, alongside Senator Ajayi Borofice, marking the foundational phase of the APC, which has now successfully held the reins of governance at the centre for 11 years.
Published:
Related articles
Recent articles
