Bolaji Obabiyi (intern)
The Oniroyin Support Initiative (OSI) on Thursday provided financial support and free medical check-ups, which was the second edition of empowerment programmes for those within the journalism community.
Penpushing reports that the foundation which is the initiative of late convener, Comrade Ambassador Tunde Oladunjoye, was held in Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital and brought together media professionals, government officials, stakeholders, and beneficiaries to celebrate the legacy of the late journalist while addressing welfare challenges within the profession.
The Chairman, Board of Trustees of the foundation Deaconess Olufunke Fadugba in her welcome address, described the programme as a significant step towards sustaining the vision of Oladunjoye, whom she portrayed as a compassionate advocate for journalists’ welfare.
Penpushing further reports that she pointed out that April 30 was deliberately chosen to honour the late convener, whose passion for supporting journalists especially those facing health and financial challenges remains the driving force behind the initiative.
“We are not just mourning his absence; we are celebrating his presence through our actions. This initiative is designed to support ailing journalists and provide relief for families of deceased colleagues, ensuring they are not forgotten’, she added.
Penpushing also reports that Fadugba who doubles as Chairman, Editorial Board of Penpushing Media, owner of online newspapers and television expressed appreciation to donors and partners, including Nurse Oyinlola Talabi, who sponsored the medical outreach, describing their contributions as proof that humanity still thrives.
The Chairman of the occasion, Ambassador (Dr) Babatunde Adeyemo, in his remarks stressed the urgent need to prioritise journalists’ welfare, describing it as a matter of justice rather than charity.
Penpushing reports that Adeyemo, who is the founder of Oko Opo Foundation, highlighted the harsh realities faced by media professionals, including poor remuneration, health risks, and lack of insurance.
“The welfare of journalists the living, the ailing, and the departed can no longer be an afterthought. If we celebrate press freedom, we must also be prepared to fund press welfare,” he said.
Penpushing further reports that he called on media organisations to improve working conditions, ensure prompt payment of salaries and pensions, and provide life insurance for journalists.
The journalist turned real estate practitioner equally urged the government to include journalists in health insurance schemes and establish compensation frameworks for those affected in the line of duty.
Penpushing also reports that Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Media, Hon Kayode Akinmade, in his keynote address described the initiative as a reflection of Oladunjoye’s compassion and commitment to humanity.
The veteran media practitioner emphasized that, the empowerment programme goes beyond charity, serving as an investment in the dignity and integrity of the journalism profession.
“By supporting journalists, we are strengthening the entire media ecosystem and ensuring that practitioners remain objective and courageous,” Akinmade stated.
Penpushing reports that, Rhaimat Oladunjoye, daughter of the late convener, in an emotional tribute recounted her father’s dedication to supporting widows and vulnerable journalists, even during his illness.
“My father believed no widow of a journalist should feel forgotten. Though he is gone, his legacy lives on through this initiative,” she said.
Penpushing further reports that Nurse Oyinlola Talabi, in her contributions emphasised the importance of preventive healthcare, urging journalists to prioritise their health despite the demands of their profession.
The United States of America (USA) based nurse warned against the dangers of untreated conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, describing them as silent killers, and encouraged regular medical check-ups, healthy diets, exercise, and stress management.
Penpushing also reports that the programme featured medical support to the beneficiaries, who underwent screenings aimed at promoting early detection and prevention of chronic illnesses.
Meanwhile, other dignitaries at the event include Prince Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, Founder Penpushing Media, Doyin Lasisi, Director of News, Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation(OGBC), Chairperson National Association of Women Journalists(NAWOJ), Ogun State, Toyin Adegoke among others
