The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Union requested that all 36 States Councils of the Union, along with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), open books of condolence in tribute to Mr Jola Ogunlusi.
It has also asked that a seven-day period of mourning be observed, with effect from tomorrow, April 19, 2025, allowing all members to reflect on the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the advancement of journalism and the welfare of journalists.
The National President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, made the call in a statement reacting to the death of a former National Secretary, Mr Jola Ogunlusi, after a brief illness at the age of 91.
In a statement by the National President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, eulogized Mr Ogunlusi saying his legacy within the NUJ is indelible, and his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.
” Mr Ogunlusi occupied a unique and distinguished place in our history as the very first individual to be appointed National Secretary of the Union in 1977, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of a new era in our organisation’s evolution”.
According to the statement, Prior to his appointment, the position of National Secretary was filled through election, and Mr Ogunlusi’s appointment set a precedent that would shape the direction of the Union for years to follow.
Yahya explained further, ” As the inaugural National Secretary, he undertook the task of establishing the Union’s National Secretariat from the ground up, laying a solid foundation upon which the organisation continues to thrive.
” His commitment to the values and mission of the NUJ was unwavering, and he devoted countless hours to mentoring younger officers, preparing them to carry the torch of journalism and Union leadership in their future endeavours” Yahya
He stated that, his dedication to nurturing talent and his belief in the power of the next generation are legacies we carry forward.
Throughout his life, even in the face of ill health and the passage of time, Mr Ogunlusi was a tireless advocate for the NUJ—a Union that he held dear to his heart- he said
“He was an unsung hero, one who shunned the limelight and accolades, choosing instead to focus on delivering the best outcomes for his colleagues and the wider media community. His work ethic, integrity, and passion for journalism were evident in all that he did.- Yahya
The NUJ President prayed that, May Almighty God, in His infinite mercy, grant strength to Mr Ogunlusi immediate family as they navigate the profound loss.
The Union extend its heartfelt condolences to the broader media fraternity during this time of mourning.  ” Let us all unite in remembering a leader whose impact and spirit will continue to inspire us”.
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