Wale Jagun & Mariam Akinloye
It was an endless but well deserved accolades and encomiums for the Publisher/Reporter- in – Chief of THE IMPACT newspaper, Kune Adelabu, as he added another year on Sunday, August 4.
The entire WhatApp platform of the community news medium was filled with goodwill messages from eminent personalities and others.
It was the same on the Facebook and other social media platforms of the community media outfit as hundreds of commentators and friends celebrated the young journalists who, according to the wellwishers, has made invaluable impact in the community journalism circle.
The accolades added to the special session organized for him by the Achievers’ Crew, a development, political and professional platform, at the Menzzo Bar & Car Wash, on Sunday evening, during which members of the group took time to shower accolades on him.
Some of the glittering birthday messages and wishes by the numerous eminent personalities that celebrated him on THE IMPACT platforms, are as follows:
Rep. Babajimi Benson, the representative of Ikorodu Federal Constituency, commended the publisher for providing leadership in Ikorodu community, while wishing him best wishes.
“Happy birthday, Kunle Adelabu, wishing you a day filled with joy and years ahead full of success and happiness. Thank you for your dedication and leadership in the community.
“May Eledumare continue to guide and guard you”, the three – term lawmaker prayed.
A former Special Adviser to the former Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Fashola, Otunba Fatai Olukoga, described him as a cerebral journalist.
“Happy birthday, Kunle. A celebral journalist of note.
“May your day be blessed, especially all the other days of your life, with good health”, he said.
The Executive Secretary, Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative Limited (IDPI) and a retired Clerk/Permanent Secretary, Lagos State House of Assembly, Otunba Ganiyu Olusegun Abiru, also celebrating the community journalist, described him as a respected media personality in he state, adding that he has performed greatly in promoting the noble profession.
“Glorious birthday celebration to one of our respected journalists, not only in lkorodu division, but in Lagos State.
“You have done so well in promoting journalism, and I pray God to continually expand your coast, bless you beyond your expectations and make you wise and prosperous throughout your life journey.
“You are indeed a good guy and I wish you well.
“Happy birthday and many happy returns”, Otunba Abiru said.
Mr Abbey Balogun, the General Secretary, IREP – Ikorodu Division Rebirth Foundation, a cultural renaissance group, speaking on behalf of the group which the celebrant happens to be its Co – Chairman, congratulated the publisher, stating that he is a great asset to Ikorodu.
“Happy Birthday, Scout Kunle Adelabu.
“You have proven to be a great asset to us at Ikorodu Division Renaissance Project (IREP). Your unweaving leadership to the foundation has helped us reawaken the consciousness of the division, to our cultural heritage and its economic prospects in tourism.
“We pray for more impactful years on earth for you and your family”, he said.
Former Chairman, Non – Academic Staff Union (NASU), LASUSTECH chapter, Comrade ….Fasasi, also congratulating Adelabu, said:
“Congratulations to an icon on his birthday. This LeoKing I have always loved and cherished. You shall live long to fulfill your destiny, Insha Allahu Bikhudirathullah. Waa gbo waa to, waa gbo karinkese lase Eledumare. Aamin Ase”.
Comrade Japheth Odeanya, the symbol of KOLUJO political movement and publisher of the rested Factor Newsmagazine, said that the celebrant is a versatile veteran.
“Versatile veteran, Comrade Kunle Adelabu. Happy birthday, darling brother. More grace. Ogbo ato e!”.
The convener of the Easygold Initiative, a mental awareness group, Mr Ekundayo Hassan, also commended the publisher for his incredible impacts and mentorship to the young ones.
“Dear Kunle Adelabu, wishing you a very happy birthday!
“On this special day, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation for the incredible influence you have had on my son’s journey in journalism. Your mentorship and guidance have been instrumental in shaping his career, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
“Moreover, your continuous support for the Easygold Initiative for Mental Health Awareness, has not gone unnoticed. Your commitment to this cause is truly commendable.
“Thank you for all you do. May your birthday be filled with joy and your years ahead with continued success and happiness”, he said.
Hameed Olalekan Aroyewun (HOA), an aspirant for the Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA Chairmaship seat, congratulated the celebrant whom he described as a thoroughbred professional, while also commending him for his contributions to journalism in Ikorodu, Lagos State and at the national level.
“Happy birthday to a thorough-bred professional and a man of principle.
“Mr.Kunle Adelabu,your contribution to journalism in Ikorodu division and nationwide, is well appreciated.
“Your commitment in querying the establishment for good governance and community development, is top notch and with utmost sincerity.
“Even those who did not agree with you on local and national issues, know that you don’t joke with your name and integrity.
“Thanks for all you do to promote community journalism and development.
“May Eledumare continue to bless you, my dear brother and friend”, Aroyewun said.
The immediate past State Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Comrade Olalekan Biliamin Oba, in his own statement, described him as the custodian of the traditional journalism.
“I celebrate an iconic Custodian of the Traditional Journalism. The people’s activist and the voice of the common man.
“You have tirelessly and continuously worked and served the people to the best of your ability. Your pay day is very close”, he said.
Mr Titilope Balogun, Chief Executive Officer, Andus D’Great School and Chairman, Igbogbo Day Planning Committee, in his own congratulatory message, commended the celebrant as an inspiration to unborn generations in journalism.
“Happy birthday to a self-discovered entrepreneur of our generation.
“You are indeed an inspirational figure to the unborn generation.
“Happy birthday once again, Kunle”.
Achiever Gbenga Oduniyi, Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT), Achievers’ Crew and former President, Igbogbo Youth Coalition (IYC), in a statement celebrating Adelabu, described him as a journalist using his trade for community development and in pursuit of truth.
“Happy Birthday to my amazing friend who embodies the qualities of an astute journalist, a compassionate soul, a community activist, and a builder. Your dedication to truth, kindness, and creating a positive impact (as the name of your newspaper outfit implies) on the world is truly inspiring. Your storytelling skills and your commitment to shedding light on important issues make you not only a fantastic journalist, but also a source of enlightenment and understanding in our lives.
“Beyond your professional achievements, it’s your compassionate heart that truly shines. Your endless empathy and your willingness to help others, showcase the beautiful person you are.
“Your involvement in community projects and your drive to make a difference, made me incredibly proud and stands you out among others.
“As we celebrate another year of your life, I want you to know that you are not just one of the first to reckon with in Achievers crew, but you are the guiding light that inspires us all to strive for excellence.
“Your resilience, your wisdom, and your unwavering spirit make you a true inspiration for everyone lucky enough to have you in their lives.
“Wishing you a birthday filled with love, laughter, and all the joy in the world. Cheers to you, Impact the Impactful, Happy Birthday”, Oduniyi said.
The Principal, Lagos State University International School, Ojo, Alhaji Taiwo Odumbo, in his own congratulatory message, said:
“Happy birthday to a man with a golden pen. God bless your new age with more success, accomplishment and fulfillment of heart desires. Congratulations”.
Ikuesan Henry Olugbenga, another public commentator and activist, in his own congratulatory message, commended the publisher for upholding professionalism and ethics of journalism in his practice.
“Happy Birthday to a paragon of journalistic excellence, Mr. Kunle Adelabu!
“As the CEO of THE IMPACT Newspaper, you’ve consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to truth, integrity, and ethics. Your unshakeable resolve to uphold the highest standards of journalism, is a beacon of hope in an industry often tested by compromise.
“Your dedication to your craft and your unrelenting pursuit of fairness, accuracy, and balance, have earned you the respect and admiration of your peers, readers, and the nation at large.
“On this special day, we celebrate not only your remarkable achievements, but also the remarkable person you are – a man of unimpeachable character, principle, and conviction. May your birthday be filled with joy, love, and the knowledge that your work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals.
“Here’s to many more years of impactful storytelling, truth-telling, and inspiring a new generation of journalists to do good and do more”.
The National President, Oriwu College Old Students’ Association of Nigeria (OCOSAN), Alhaji MBS Arole, in his own statement, said:
“Happy & Prosperous Birthday to my great aburo…
“May the Good Lord contn’u to bless and grants you more knowledge and wisdom with sound health in the land of the living”, he said.
The Igbogbo Students’ Union (ISU), also congratulating THE IMPACT publisher, acknowledged him as a mentor who is always ready to serve.
The goodwill message was contained in a statement signed by Comr. Tijani Abdulsalam, President, Igbogbo Students’ Union.
“Happy birthday to an exponential scholar, mentor, intellectual, sagacious, ever ready to serve, a distinguished exemplary leader, Mr. Kunle Adelabu (IMPACT NEWS).
“Executives-in-Council and entire members of Igbogbo Students’ Union celebrate and rejoice with our own exponent leader, journalist, mentor, adviser and role model to young minds.
“Once again, happy birthday to a true icon and wonderful mentor! Your vibrancy, intellectual prowess, and exemplary leadership have inspired countless individuals. Your remarkable journey has paved the way for others to follow in your footsteps. May this special day be filled with joy, love and celebration, and may your future be bright and filled with continued success.
“May this day be a symphony of gratitude, a chorus of admiration, and a tribute to the indelible mark you have left on the hearts of many. As you blow out the candles on your cake, may you be surrounded by the love and respect of all who have been touched by your presence. Here’s to you, dear comrade, a true embodiment of grace, dignity and honor.
“May the year ahead be filled with blessings, joy and continued opportunities to inspire and lead with unwavering excellence.
“We wish you long life and prosperity in good health and wealth by the grace of God, and we pray Almighty God bless you in all ramifications of life. Greater heights by the grace of God, Sir.
“We love you Sir! Happy Birthday Celebration! “, the statement said.
Comrade Abubakri Asoro, the Vice Chairman, NYCN Lagos East, commended the celebrant for his professional handling of his community journalism practice.
“Happy birthday, Egbon. Thank you for blending professionalism with community journalism. May God Almighty continue to bless you more than you have been a blessing to humanity. Cheers ???? to many more prosperous years, sir”, he said.
Yusuf Ibrahim, a youth leader in Igbogbo, also acknowledged the journalism of the journalist.
“Happy birthday to a journalist who has captured our attention with his powerful storytelling. Your ability to weave together complex issues with sensitivity and nuance, has made a lasting impact. May your special day be as memorable as the stories you have brought to life.
“May your days be long more than Methuselah. E last bi Olumo rock, igba odun, odun kan ni sir”, he prayed.
The celebrant’s sister, Kenny Adelabu who is an educationist, in her own goodwill message on THE IMPACT platform, said.
“You are an amazing, reputable, selfless, confident & strong journalist, a smooth pen pusher and grassroots mobiliser. Your sincere love & passion for your work is what sets you apart from so many of your colleagues.
“Today, I honour both your special day & your extraordinary contributions towards raising the standards of journalism in Lagos state & Ikorodu in particular.
“I wish & pray for you this day that God should give you all the things that you have worked for & truly deserves. May you confidently surmount all pressures of life as you strive to achieve the best in life.
“Here’s to a blessed, healthy, fruitful, peaceful & eventful year ahead”, she also prayed.
Another Achiever, Mr Toyyib Oke (Bako), in his own goodwill message, said that the celebrant is an incredible journalist with great skill expression.
“The impactful Impact @Adelabu Kunle, you are indeed an incredible person with such an amazing growth mindset, golden reasoning, as well as hoopla skill that always ginger everybody to listen to your expression, and carefully read your publication.
“Thank you for walking the journey of life with people like myself; it is a rare privilege.
“On this auspicious day of your existence, I join you to wish you all your heart desires. And I pray that may The Elédùmarè continue to bless your ways.
“Remain blessed sir”, he said.
