Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
The wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Mrs. Bola Obasanjo, has expressed confidence that the launch of the Oniroyin Support Initiative (OSI) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, will help lift widows of deceased journalists out of poverty.
OSI, an initiative founded by veteran journalist Tunde Oladunjoye, aims to provide financial assistance to widows of late journalists in the state and support members facing severe health conditions.
Speaking at the inaugural edition of the OSI Empowerment Programme for Journalists on Thursday, Mrs. Obasanjo described the initiative as a beacon of hope, particularly in the face of economic hardship.
“This initiative will provide much-needed support for the widows of late journalists, helping them cater to their children’s education and daily needs while also strengthening their businesses to improve their standard of living,” she said.
She called on well-meaning Nigerians to emulate Oladunjoye’s gesture by supporting widows nationwide, emphasizing that kindness towards them never goes unnoticed by God.
Addressing the widows, Mrs. Obasanjo urged them to remain resilient in the face of challenges, assuring them that divine support would always be available.
“As we gather here today to support Mr. Oladunjoye’s commendable efforts, there is no doubt that his initiative has reawakened hope in those who felt abandoned,” she stated.
“I must commend his passion, dedication, and generosity in uplifting women and the less privileged. I also urge well-meaning Nigerians to embrace a culture of helping others, especially widows, as it contributes to poverty eradication, gender equality, and economic growth.”
Encouraging the widows, she added, “Be strong, put your hope in God, and continue to pray. Stand firm for your children. When you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine. Always remember that God is a defender of widows.”
Journalists Deserve Better Welfare – Ogun Head of Service
The Head of Service in Ogun State, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, who represented Governor Dapo Abiodun at the event, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to journalists’ welfare.
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He lamented the challenges faced by media professionals, particularly poor remuneration from media organizations.
“Journalism is a noble profession, but it comes with significant challenges. Journalists often face threats, harassment, censorship, persecution, mental and emotional strain, and even death,” Onasanya said.
“When these unfortunate incidents occur, we must take bold steps to address their welfare and support their families.”
Convener Calls for More Support for Journalists
Earlier, the convener of OSI, Mr. Oladunjoye, said the initiative was his way of giving back to the journalism profession and supporting the families of late journalists and those battling serious health conditions.
“We need to show more empathy, be each other’s keepers, and create solid support programs like insurance to give hope to the hopeless,” he stated.
Chairman of the occasion, veteran journalist Richard Akinnola, praised the initiative, saying it would provide much-needed relief to widows and children of late journalists in Ogun State.