Mr Chris Isiguzo, President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, and Mrs Ladi Bala, President, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, alongside other well wishers have congratulated Dr. Yemi Kolapo, Publisher, The Point Newspaper as she clocked 50.
The leadership of the Media Union during an event organised by Kolapo’s family and friends in Abuja, described Kolapo as a professional, result oriented person whose hard work and diligence should be emulated by younger journalists.
Isiguzo described Kolapo as a professional who have always been while practicing on the field until becoming a publisher and a kindhearted person who has touched the lives of almost every Nigerian journalist.
He however prayed that God continue to bless and her keep her alive to mentor younger and spiring journalists.
“As a media entrepreneur, it speaks volume of who Yemi Kolapo is, meaning she carries on her a lot of media practitioners, with so many persons also reliant on her.
“She is a very professional person that takes her job with a lot of seriousness knowing how important the media is to the nation’s development.
“There are so many people that she has touched their lives and that is why whenever she organises any event, even though on a short notice, you will see journalists scamper to be a part of the event.
“At 50 Yemi Kolapo has attained a mile stone which so many people yearn for, which means she has achieved a lot.
“On this occasion, I thank God our paths crossed and I pray that her next 50th will even be more result oriented,” Isiguzo said.
Bala on behalf of NAWOJ congratulated Kolapo who she also described as an icon in the media industry with a humble personality.
The NAWOJ President said that as women continue to clamour for inclusion in governances, Kolapo has exhibited all the qualities that qualifies her to becoming a governor of her state, Ogun.
“Today, I want to celebrate this great woman who is a source of inspiration women journalists, and I commend her doggedness.
“I describe her as an inspiration to younger women journalists because she has succeeded in a terrain that most women find very challenging.
“I urge women journalists, especially the younger ones to emulate her virtues so that her kind will be replicated in the media industry.
“She has great qualities which qualifies her to becoming a governor in her state, Ogun very soon and we the women will be ready to throw all our weight around her,” Bala said.
Mr. Francis Kadiri, Head, FCT Bureau, The Point Newspaper also described Kolapo as a great teacher who is keen on the professional growth of her staff and the organisation as well as ensuring staff wellbeing.
Kadiri said that the publisher has been able to institute best practice in The Point Media Organisation.
He also noted that unlike the challenges encountered by colleagues in some organisations, Kolapo is not disposed to sacking of her staff but rather believes in grooming and teaching such persons to be the best.
“I am very proud and happy to have worked with Alhaja Oyeyemi Kolapo for nearly seven years, and I will boldly describe her as a courageous journalist, a great teacher and manager of people.
“She ensures the growth and progress of staff as well as the company. She is humane and rather than sack a staff, believe in correction and teachings,” Kadiri said.
Mr. Segun Sowumi, Chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, and gubernatorial flagbearer of Ogun described Kolapo as a professional, spiritual and morally upright woman.
Sowumi said that “the World and Nigeria needs more of Yemi Kolapo. And I pray God keep her alive to achieve more and do even more for people and the nation,” Sowumi said.
Kolapo appreciated family and friends for celebrating her, appreciating God almighty for his grace upon her, noting that the words of encouragement will continue to spur her to do even more.
“I pray we all find God’s favour in all we do and I appreciate you all a great deal for coming. God bless you all,” Kolapo said.
Kolapo clocked 50 and celebrated her Golden Jubilee on July 30
