Funmi, Uloko, Osagie & Udofia mourn the exit of a Media Event Icon
The Nigerian media community is in mourning following the passing of veteran event / Award and media icon, Sola Solkem Olugbemiro . For decades, Solkem stood as a towering figure in journalism and events world  — a mentor, a standard-bearer, and a voice that shaped public discourse in Nigeria.
As tributes continue to pour in, some of his closest colleagues and proteges have spoken on his impact, his discipline, and the legacy he leaves behind. Below are individual tributes from media icons Chief mrs Funmi , Joshua Uloko Mike Cerutti Osagie and Udofia Cornell
Chief Mrs Olowosegun Funmi Publisher , Buzznews Magazine/ Buzznews.com.ng
President, Celebrity journal publishers associate of Nigeria. ( CJPAN)
“Sola Solkem was a trailblazer and a father in the newsroom. He opened doors for many of us, especially women in media, at a time it was not easy. He taught us discipline, integrity, and how to tell the Nigerian story with truth and dignity. His voice was strong, his counsel was wise, and his legacy will live on. We have lost a rare gem.”
Joshua Uloko
“For me, Sola was a journalist’s journalist. It was never about noise with him, it was always about facts and nation-building. He carried the media industry on his shoulders and mentored a whole generation of us. The professionalism, the standard, the commitment he stood for — that was Sola. His exit leaves a big vacuum that will be hard to fill.”
Kop Chief Mike Cerutti
“Chief Sola Solkem was principled to the core. He gave freely of his knowledge and time, and he believed in raising people, not pulling them down. He was patriotic, passionate, and he set the bar very high for broadcasting in Nigeria. The industry will miss his voice, his wisdom, and his presence. May his soul rest in peace.”
AMB of peace Dr Cornell
“Sola Solkem was more than a broadcaster or event man, he was an institution. He was generous with guidance and tough on excellence. Every time you spoke with him, you left better and wiser. He represented the best of Nigerian journalism — courage, clarity, and service. His legacy will continue to inspire us. Rest well, boss.”
Wake holds Thursday 3 September in his Oregun home, The Cerutti & his friends urges all close by to attend
More details later
