Olubadan Gives Royal Endorsement to Oladapo Summer’s NUJ Ambition

The ambition of journalist Oladapo Summer to lead the Oyo State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) received a strong boost following a visit to the residence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, where the monarch expressed confidence in Summer’s capacity, maturity, and vision for the union. The endorsement came when Summer, accompanied by his campaign director, formally presented his intention to the traditional ruler.

During the meeting, the Olubadan commended Summer’s track record and urged him to follow through on his manifesto — especially focusing on improving the welfare of union members. He emphasized that leadership contests for the NUJ should respect the union’s constitution and electoral rules, calling on all aspirants to maintain dignity and fairness throughout the process.

Summer responded with gratitude and assured the monarch of his commitment to transparent, welfare-oriented leadership if elected. He promised to prioritise capacity building, economic empowerment, and general wellbeing for all members, including launching cooperative ventures and revenue-generating projects to support journalists in Oyo State.

His campaign director echoed that sentiment, describing Summer as a leader of integrity and humility. He stressed that beyond credentials, what matters most is character and dedication to uplifting journalists’ welfare — qualities they believe set Summer apart.

Reactions among media professionals and civil society observers have been largely positive. For many, the royal endorsement offers hope for renewed energy within the state’s NUJ fold — a possibility for more robust welfare schemes, professional development initiatives, and improved solidarity among members.

Still, watchers caution that blessings count for little unless backed by effective action: once elected, delivering on promises will be critical to transform goodwill into real benefits for journalists in the state. The success of Summer’s ambition, they argue, depends not just on support but performance.

As the NUJ election approaches, all eyes will be on whether Summer’s candidacy — now bolstered by traditional approval — resonates widely among journalists, and whether his vision for a reinvigorated union becomes a reality.