By SIMBO OLORUNFEMI
Monday was for my Brother and friend, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, fondly called BKO.
That was the day those who matter set everything aside to celebrate the maestro.
It was heart-warming to see Abuja press the pause button to celebrate and honour a man truly deserving of it.
The day started with a Book Launch that had the Who-is-Who in Nigeria’s political circles in attendance. It was not a question of who was there but of who was not there.
As one who has repeatedly argued that we (especially Journalists) do not celebrate ourselves enough, advocating for people to be celebrated while here, it gladdened my heart to no end to see Babajide so roundly celebrated.
It was a joy for me to see professional Seniors like Mr Bayo Onanuga, Mr Dapo Olorunyomi and Mr Idowu Obasa on hand to celebrate him. Along with Senator Babafemi Ojudu and Mr Kunle Ajibade, these men were critical at the foundational stage in forging the man BKO has become today – a fearless, dogged and diligent professional journalist, sound and well-rounded, with top-notch delivery from the field, in the studio and as an Administrator.
I might have made the point once, but it bears restating. Not many Journalists have successfully made the crossover from print media to broadcast Journalism to the point of distinguishing themselves in both sectors like Babajide has done.
Beyond the call of duty, Babajide is a generous and reliable friend, never once to place any other interest above friendship. He is not one to think of what is in it for him in anything.
Having risen to the top with The News/PM News as Editor, crossing over to TVC to again make a huge mark as a top Journalist and analyst is deserving of accolades. Journalists Hangout and TVC have stood out on account of the professionalism and dedication of BKO.
Beyond the call of duty, Babajide is a generous and reliable friend, never once to place any other interest above friendship. He is not one to think of what is in it for him in anything. It’s always about professional fulfilment and assistance to friends, where he is able to do so, without compromising on his cherished values of integrity and fidelity to truth, no matter whose ox is gored.
Monday was fun. The Book Launch was well attended, with the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima leading a long list of Governors to honour BKO.
The evening reception was the icing on the cake. It was good to see Babajide dance. I imagine how joyful and fulfilling it must have been for his parents, HRH Kolade Otitoju, Olori Otitoju, BKO’s wife and children to witness the occasion.
They would have seen that the huge sacrifice Babajide has made travelling all around the country and spending long hours on the job has not been in vain. It was good to see that so many people appreciate BKO and so many were at hand to celebrate a man truly deserving of celebration.
Happy Birthday, BKO!
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