Sanwo-Olu congratulates Adewale Akodu on his election as Lagos NUJ chairman and urges him to promote unity and responsible journalism
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Adewale Akodu on his emergence as Chairman of the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, urging him to promote unity, professionalism and journalists’ welfare.
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Akodu emerged winner of the election on Monday, November 9, 2026, polling 465 votes to defeat his opponent, Innocent Anaba, who secured 21 votes. He succeeds Adeleye Ajayi, who completed two terms in office.
Sanwo-Olu conveyed his congratulations in a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile.
The governor described Akodu’s election as recognition of his experience, professional competence and longstanding commitment to journalism and public service.
He noted that Akodu had spent more than two decades in the Lagos State Public Service, particularly contributing to the work of the Ministry of Information and Strategy.
Sanwo-Olu also highlighted his previous leadership of the Lagos State Information Chapel of the NUJ, saying the experience had exposed him to union administration, consensus-building and the interests of journalists.
According to the governor, Akodu’s background in public information management, strategic communication and media relations provides relevant experience for his new responsibilities.
He expressed optimism that the new chairman would strengthen relations between the government and the media, promote responsible journalism and encourage constructive engagement and accountability.
The governor also commended Akodu’s stated commitment to professionalism, journalists’ welfare and capacity development, as outlined in his 10-point agenda.
He urged the new chairman to embrace inclusive leadership, transparency and unity by carrying all members along, regardless of their affiliations during the election.
Sanwo-Olu further encouraged the new NUJ leadership to use the union’s platform to promote credible information and combat misinformation.
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He assured journalists that his administration would continue to recognise the media as an important partner in good governance, transparency and sustainable development.
