Adeleke celebrates Shola Oshunkeye at 70, praising the veteran journalist’s outstanding contributions to Nigeria and African journalism
Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke on Monday in Osogbo congratulated veteran journalist Shola Oshunkeye on his 70th birthday, describing him as an illustrious son of Osun State who has brought honour to Nigeria and Africa through his outstanding career.
Also read: Jonathan hits back at Atiku over presidency criticism
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Governor Ademola Adeleke said the Adeleke celebrates Shola Oshunkeye milestone reflects a life of service, sacrifice and journalistic excellence spanning several decades.
The governor praised Shola Oshunkeye as an international journalist whose work has consistently highlighted critical national and humanitarian issues across Africa and beyond.
He recalled Oshunkeye’s contributions to the democratic struggle in Nigeria, including his involvement in advocacy linked to the June 12, 1993 presidential mandate and the country’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
Governor Adeleke also highlighted Oshunkeye’s 2005 reporting trip to Niger Republic, where he documented a severe humanitarian crisis caused by drought and famine that affected thousands of lives.
The report, published in TELL magazine under the title Niger’s Graveyard of the Living, earned Shola Oshunkeye the prestigious CNN/Multichoice African Journalist of the Year Award in 2006.
Born in Ilesa, Osun State, on April 20, 1956, Shola Oshunkeye began his journalism career after earlier service in the civil service, joining Concord Press in 1989.
He later rose through the ranks at Weekend Concord, where he worked under renowned editor Mike Awoyinfa before succeeding him as editor of the publication.
His career also included a distinguished tenure at TELL magazine, where he served as a senior investigative journalist and later as Abuja Bureau Chief and State House Correspondent.
Governor Adeleke described him as a disciplined and committed professional whose work has contributed significantly to national development and media excellence.
Also read: APC imposes controversial ₦100m presidential fee
He extended warm congratulations to Oshunkeye’s family, wishing him continued health, strength and divine preservation as he marks the significant milestone.
