Nostalgic Moments at FAJ@60 Birthday celebrations
By Rose Onda
Dr. Reuben Abati, former presidential media adviser, has recalled nostalgic moments during his secondary school days with veteran journalist Femi Akintunde-Johnson, (FAJ).
Abati and Pastor (Dr.) Babatunde Bakare, another alumnus of Lisabi Grammar School, Abeokuta, joined other dignitaries to fete FAJ at his 60th birthday held virtually on Saturday, October 30. Bakare, who stood as ‘Father Of The Day’ eulogized virtues the birthday host espouses. Same for Mr. Segun Oloketuyi, the immediate past Managing Director/CEO of Wema Bank PLC, who was the chairman of the event.
Speakers at the occasion attested to FAJ’s tenacity of purpose, professional dedication, and contentment, among other virtues. Bimbo Ashiru, businessman and former commissioner in Ogun State, shared some testimonies on FAJ; while Chief Tony Okorogi, COSON chair; renowned artist Lemi Ghariokwu, singer and administrator, Gloria Rhodes-Nash, and former DVC of UNILAG, Prof. Duro Oni recounted their different encounters with FAJ that spanned several decades.
On the other hand, senior veteran journalists, Ben Tomoloju and Lanre Idowu focused on the theme of the coloquy: “Did Anything Good Come Out of The 60s?”, sharing from their extensive repertoires and experiences.
Other dignitaries that graced the online event include Evang. Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, Amb. Korede Willoughby, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Amb. Debo Adesina, Pa Emma Ogosi, Dr. & Dr. (Mrs.) Omidire, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, Mr. Ademola Osinubi (GMD of Punch), Lekan Ogunbanwo, Dayo Olomu, Ademola Adedoyin, Abiola Segun-Williams, Joe Dudun, Jude Arijaje, Lilian Amah-Aluko, Pastor Peace Toluwade, Deji Adeagbo, Apostle Harrison Bayagbon, Mr. & Mrs. Adeola Lanihun, Mr. & Mrs. Bode Fabiyi, Prince Adeyemi Aseperi, Babatunde Suleiman, ?eun Oloketuyi, among many others. Performances were by Yinka Davies and UK-based Lookman Sanusi.
FAJ used the occasion to launch four books; two of which are works of fiction that culture journalist and promoter, Mr. Anote Ajeluorou reviewed; while the two memoirs were expertly handled by Abati.
The “engine room” of the lively Zoom event was coordinated from a small but tasteful Studio Party held inside Abiodun Oshinibosi’s Abelinis Hub in Ogbà, Lagos, with Gbenga Adeyinka and Azuh Arinze as masters of ceremonies.
Signed:
Folarin Ademosu Jnr.