OGUN FIBAN

OGUN FIBAN WELCOMES OGUN PILGRIMS BACK HOME, COMMENDS GOVERNMENT AND HAJJ OFFICIALS FOR SUCCESSFUL 2026 EXERCISE

The Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), Ogun State Chapter, warmly welcomes all Ogun State pilgrims who have successfully returned home after performing the 2026 Holy Hajj pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

We congratulate the 345 pilgrims in the first batch, comprising 151 males and 194 females, as well as all other pilgrims from Ogun State, for the successful completion of one of the most sacred obligations in Islam and for their safe return to Nigeria.

As an association committed to promoting responsible journalism, peaceful coexistence and societal development, we are delighted that this year’s Hajj exercise was conducted smoothly from departure to return, with Ogun State pilgrims distinguishing themselves as worthy ambassadors of our dear state throughout their stay in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

Ogun FIBAN particularly appreciates the Ogun State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for its unwavering commitment to the welfare, comfort and safety of the pilgrims before, during and after the pilgrimage. The successful direct arrival of the pilgrims at the Gateway International Airport, Ilisan-Iperu, marks another significant milestone that will remain a memorable chapter in the history of Hajj operations in Ogun State.

Equally deserving of commendation is the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for its efficient planning, seamless logistics and commitment to ensuring a hitch-free pilgrimage experience for all pilgrims.

As an association, we are proud that one of our committed members, Alhaji Saheed Amidu Adio (Imole Dee), served as a dependable point of contact and support to pilgrims throughout the exercise. His dedication, accessibility and commitment to service reflect the values of professionalism and selfless service that FIBAN represents, while also congratulating other colleagues in the media profession for the success. We welcome you all back home.

We urge all returning pilgrims to uphold the spiritual lessons, discipline, humility, patience and devotion acquired during the pilgrimage. The true essence of Hajj lies not only in the successful completion of the rites but also in allowing the experience to positively transform one’s character, relationships and contributions to society.

As the pilgrims reunite with their families and communities, we pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) accepts their Hajj as Hajj Mabrur, grants them abundant blessings and answers all prayers offered in the Holy Land. May Allah continue to bless Ogun State and Nigeria with peace, unity, prosperity and righteous leadership.

Once again, Ogun FIBAN welcomes all pilgrims home and celebrates the successful conclusion of the 2026 Hajj exercise.

Signed:
Chief Olalekan A. Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba)
Chairman,
Ogun FIBAN.

BIRTHDAY FELICITATION TO TAMPAN STATE SCRIBE, COMRADE ADESEGUN EMMANUEL ADESINA

The entire members of the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), Ogun State Chapter, heartily congratulate the General Secretary of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Ogun State Chapter, Comrade Adesegun Emmanuel Adesina, on the occasion of his birthday.

Today presents another opportunity to celebrate a committed cultural ambassador, an industrious administrator and a passionate advocate for the growth and development of the creative industry and civil society in Ogun State. Your dedication to the advancement of theatre arts and your unwavering service to TAMPAN have continued to earn you the respect and admiration of colleagues and stakeholders alike.

As you mark this special day, we pray that Almighty God grants you good health, greater wisdom, renewed strength and many more years of fruitful service to humanity and the creative sector.

Happy Birthday and many happy returns.

Signed:

Chief Olalekan Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba),
Chairman, Ogun FIBAN.

PRESS STATEMENT

AN ATTACK ON ONE JOURNALIST IS AN ATTACK ON THE ENTIRE MEDIA PROFESSION

The Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), Ogun State Chapter, joins the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, in strongly condemning the barbaric, reckless and unlawful assault on journalists carrying out their legitimate professional duties during an official enforcement exercise in the Ogun Guandong area of Igbesa, Ogun State.

The reported harassment and physical assault of Ogun State Television (OGTV) reporter, Mr. Taiwo Fabajo; Channels Television crew member, Mr. Bidemi Bello and journalist Mr. Gbenga Osinuga by private security operatives attached to a Chinese company is not only disgraceful but represents a direct attack on press freedom, the rule of law and the constitutional rights of media practitioners in Nigeria.

It is particularly disturbing that private security personnel, who have neither the authority nor legal mandate to obstruct journalists in the discharge of their duties, allegedly took the law into their own hands and descended on innocent professionals whose only offence was documenting an official government exercise. Such conduct is unacceptable, condemnable and must never be tolerated in any democratic society.

The media remains a critical pillar of democracy, serving as the eyes, ears and voice of the people. Any attempt to intimidate, harass, threaten or assault journalists is an attempt to suppress transparency, accountability and the public’s right to information. It is therefore alarming that individuals employed to provide security would exhibit such lawless behaviour and utter disregard for the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Ogun FIBAN demands an immediate, thorough and transparent investigation into this unfortunate incident. We call on the Nigeria Police Force and all relevant security agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute every individual involved in this assault, irrespective of status, affiliation or employer.

We further urge the management of the company whose operatives allegedly perpetrated this act to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies and publicly distance itself from such irresponsible conduct. Silence or inaction in this matter would amount to complicity.

Let it be clearly stated that journalists are not enemies of the state, nor are they adversaries of legitimate businesses. They are professionals carrying out a constitutional responsibility in the interest of society. Any attack on them is an attack on democracy itself.

We stand firmly with our colleagues, Taiwo Fabajo, Bidemi Bello and Gbenga Osinuga, and assure them of our unwavering solidarity. We also stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Council, in the pursuit of justice and accountability.

This matter must not be swept under the carpet. The perpetrators must be brought to book, and a clear message must be sent that Ogun State is not a safe haven for those who seek to intimidate or brutalize journalists.

Signed,
Chief Olalekan Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba),
Chairman,
Ogun FIBAN.

EID AL-ADHA MESSAGE TO THE MUSLIM UMMAH IN OGUN STATE

On behalf of the leadership and entire members of the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), Ogun State Chapter, I heartily felicitate with the Muslim Ummah across Ogun State and Nigeria at large on the joyous occasion of this year’s Eid al-Adha celebration.

As we commemorate this sacred festival of sacrifice, obedience and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, may the lessons of Eid strengthen our faith, deepen our love for humanity and renew our commitment to peace, unity and righteousness.

We specially celebrate our Muslim brothers and sisters who are fans, lovers and families of broadcast journalists across Ogun State. Your continuous support, prayers and encouragement remain invaluable to the growth and progress of the media profession. May Almighty Allah reward your kindness abundantly and grant peace, joy and fulfillment to every home.

We also extend our warm felicitations to Muslim administrators, management teams, broadcasters, media executives and critical stakeholders in all broadcast stations across Ogun State. Ogun FIBAN identifies with you all during this holy season and prays that Allah, in His infinite mercy, will continue to guide your leadership, strengthen your institutions and bless your noble contributions to societal development.

To all our esteemed Muslim members in Ogun FIBAN, this celebration is a reminder of the virtues of sacrifice, patience, humility and unwavering faith in Allah. May your acts of worship be accepted as Ibadah. May Allah answer your secret prayers, bless your families with divine protection, grant you sound health, long life and unlimited prosperity. May He elevate every struggling member, provide for every needy home, heal the sick and grant eternal rest to departed faithful souls.

As we celebrate, let us continue to uphold the values of peaceful coexistence, professional ethics and unity among media practitioners for the advancement of Ogun State and our dear nation.

May this Eid bring renewed hope, abundant blessings, divine favour and everlasting happiness to us all.

Eid Mubarak!

Signed:

Chief Olalekan Teslim Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba)
Chairman,
Ogun FIBAN.

ICYMI: HEALING IN ISLAM: ALLAH'S NATURAL REMEDIES FOR MANKIND

Watch renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Abdulfatai Raji As-Thaqofy (Baba ni Mushin) as he sheds light on the Islamic perspective of healing through the natural provisions created by Almighty Allah at the 2026 Ogun FIBAN Ramadan Lecture.

Discover the wisdom behind prophetic remedies, the power of faith and the blessings embedded in nature for the well-being of humanity.

A powerful and enlightening lecture for everyone seeking knowledge on health, spirituality, and the mercy of Allah.

HEALING THROUGH ALLAH'S CREATION Sheikh Abdulfatai Raji As-Thaqofy (Baba ni Mushin) explains how All...

OGUN FIBAN JOINS OGUN NUJ TO CELEBRATE DISTINGUISHED MEDIA VETERANS ON RETIREMENT

The leadership and members of the Ogun State chapter of the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), under the leadership of Chief Olalekan Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba), have joined the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, led by the Chairman of Chairmen, Comrade ‘Wale Olanrewaju, in celebrating two distinguished veterans of the media profession, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya and Mr. Tunde Kassim, as they transition into a fulfilling life after retirement from active service.

The historic and colourful event, held on Wednesday, 20th May, 2026, marked yet another milestone in the annals of journalism practice in Ogun State, as the Ogun NUJ honoured the remarkable legacies and invaluable contributions of the two eminent media administrators whose commitment to professionalism, excellence and service remains exemplary.

Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, notably recognized as the first journalist to attain the prestigious office of Head of Service in Ogun State, alongside former General Manager of Ogun State Television (OGTV), Mr. Tunde Kassim, were celebrated amidst a gathering of media professionals, administrators, labour leaders, permanent secretaries, veterans and stakeholders from within and outside Ogun State.

The event further gained national prominence with the presence of the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, who journeyed from Abuja to personally witness and participate in the celebration of excellence and service.

Speaking on behalf of Ogun FIBAN, Chief Olalekan Shoyinka described the event as a laudable initiative by the Comrade ‘Wale Olanrewaju-led administration, noting that honouring veterans while alive is a culture worthy of commendation and emulation.

According to him, Ogun FIBAN is proud to be associated with the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Council, on such a remarkable gathering that brought together active and retired media professionals, administrators and journalism stakeholders across states to celebrate selfless service and enduring legacies.

He further prayed for the celebrants to enjoy good health, peace of mind and fulfilment in retirement, while urging younger professionals in the media industry to draw inspiration from the discipline, resilience and professional excellence exemplified by the honourees.

The decoration of Mr. Kehinde Onasanya as a Fellow of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (FNUJ), alongside the goodwill gestures extended to both celebrants, underscored the significance of the occasion as not merely a retirement celebration, but a tribute to integrity, dedication and humanity.

Ogun FIBAN wishes Mr. Kehinde Onasanya and Mr. Tunde Kassim a joyful, peaceful and rewarding post-service life, filled with abundant blessings and continued relevance to society.

Signed:
Comrade Moses Okunlola,
General Secretary, Ogun FIBAN.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO A LEADER AND MENTOR — DR. ADEYINKA ADEGBITE (MR. GGG “OMO BABA TISA”)

On behalf of all members of the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), Ogun State Chapter, I heartily celebrate a broadcaster per excellence, a dependable leader, mentor to many and a committed pillar of our great association, Dr. Adeyinka Adegbite, popularly known as Omo Baba Tisa, as he marks another glorious birthday today.

Your unwavering dedication to the growth and progress of FIBAN remains highly commendable. As a former State Vice Chairman and one of the respected leaders of our association, your continuous support, wise counsel, encouragement and commitment to our administration since we assumed office have been invaluable and deeply appreciated.

You have consistently demonstrated uncommon leadership, humility, professionalism and passion for the broadcasting profession. Through your works and personal sacrifices, you have inspired and mentored countless broadcasters and young professionals who continue to look up to you as a role model.

As you celebrate this special day, we pray that Almighty God grants you more wisdom, sound health, peace of mind, greater accomplishments and long life in abundance. May your days be filled with joy, divine favour, renewed strength and continuous success in all your endeavours. May you never know sorrow and may your impact continue to shine brightly across generations.

Thank you for always standing firmly with FIBAN and for your unrelenting contributions toward the advancement of our noble association and society at large.

Happy Birthday, Sir!
Wishing you many more prosperous and fulfilling years ahead.

Signed:

Chief Olalekan A. Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba)
Chairman, Ogun FIBAN

BIRTHDAY FELICITATION TO AMBASSADOR ABDRASHEED OLABAMIJI AKANNI SIKUOLA (AAN) — “IMONA NLA”

On behalf of all members of the Ogun State chapter of the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), we heartily celebrate a distinguished personality, an outstanding media figure, respected Islamic scholar and fearless advocate for truth and justice, Ambassador AbdRasheed Olabamiji Akanni Sikuola (AAN), popularly known as “Imona Nla,” as he marks another glorious birthday anniversary today.

Your immense contributions to the growth and progress of Ogun FIBAN remain highly appreciated and deeply valued. Through your inspiring programmes, wise counsel and unwavering commitment to justice, fairness and societal development, you have continued to impact countless lives positively and champion causes that promote peace, morality and humanity.

As a spiritual leader and voice of reason in society, your dedication to speaking for the oppressed, defending the truth and promoting righteousness through the media stands as a source of inspiration to many within and beyond the broadcasting profession.

On this special occasion, we pray that Almighty Allah grants you continued good health, divine wisdom, greater strength, abundant blessings, long life and many more fruitful years in service to humanity and the cause of truth.

May your new age usher in greater accomplishments, peace, happiness and fulfilment in all your endeavours.

Happy Birthday and many happy returns, Sir.

Signed:
Chief Olalekan A. Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba)
Chairman,
Ogun FIBAN

A TRIBUTE TO TWO BROADCAST LEGENDS:
PRINCE ELIJAH ADEGBENGA ADEBOYE & ALHAJI CHIEF TOBA OPALEYE

Today, 30th April, stands as a solemn yet profoundly significant date in the annals of broadcasting history in Nigeria. It is a day that reminds us not only of loss, but of legacy — a legacy etched in voices that once commanded the airwaves and shaped the very foundation upon which many of us now stand.

Twenty-three years ago, the curtain fell on the remarkable life of Prince Elijah Adegbenga Adeboye, a man whose voice, wit and uncommon creativity redefined entertainment broadcasting. Three years later, on this same date, fate again called home another giant — Alhaji Chief Toba Opaleye (Oppy Baba) — a broadcaster of immense depth cultural richness and commanding presence.

These two icons were not just contemporaries; they were twin pillars of a golden era in Nigerian broadcasting. Together, they set the pace, defined standards and dominated the airwaves with a rare blend of professionalism, originality and cultural intelligence. Their voices were not merely heard — they were felt. Their words did not just entertain — they educated, inspired and united.

As Chairman of Ogun State FIBAN — an association whose roots and vision are deeply connected to the pioneering spirit of Adeboye and Opaleye — I speak not just from a place of leadership, but from a place of personal gratitude and historical responsibility.

Funwontan was more than a legend to many of us; he was a pathfinder. He possessed a rare gift for discovering and nurturing talent. I am a living testament to that grace. At a time when many overlooked potential, he saw possibility. Where there was uncertainty, he instilled confidence. He did not just build a career — he built people. His influence continues to echo in the voices, styles and courage of broadcasters across generations.

In the same breath, we remember Oppy Baba — a master craftsman of the microphone, whose depth of knowledge, cultural pride and commanding delivery made him a household name. He stood shoulder to shoulder with Adeboye in shaping a broadcast era that remains unmatched in authenticity and impact. Together, they were the standard. Together, they were the voice of the people.

Their departures left a void, but their legacies filled it with purpose. Today, as practitioners in this noble profession, we are beneficiaries of their sacrifices, their innovations and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

On this day of remembrance, we do not mourn as those without hope; we celebrate as those privileged to have witnessed greatness. We reflect on lives well lived, voices well used and legacies that time cannot erase.

To Prince Elijah Adegbenga Adeboye (Funwontan) — thank you for seeing light in others and giving it room to shine.

To Alhaji Chief Toba Opaleye (Oppy Baba) — thank you for defining excellence and preserving the soul of our culture through the airwaves.

You both may be gone from our sight, but never from our story.

May your souls continue to rest in perfect peace, while your legacies continue to guide, inspire and lead us.

Signed,
Chief Olalekan A. Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba)
Chairman, Ogun State FIBAN

Happy Birthday to Our Minister for Enjoyments!

All members of Ogun FIBAN joyfully celebrate one of our ever-consistent comrades, Comrade Abimbola Abolade — fondly known as “Minister for Enjoyments.”

Your lively spirit and camaraderie are truly appreciated. You remain a valued member of our great association. As you mark this special day, we wish you abundant happiness, sound health and many more fulfilling years ahead.

Congratulations and happy birthday!

Signed,
Chief Olalekan Shoyinka
(Ayinla Egba),
Chairman, Ogun FIBAN