Renowned journalist and Chief Executive Officer of The Crest Online, Shola Osunkeye, marked his 70th birthday with a colloquium and book launch held at the Sir Kesington Adebutu Media Resource Centre of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos, on April 23, 2026.
- +Shola Osunkeye marks 70th birthday with colloquium, book launch
The event, themed “The Decline of Human Interest Journalism in Nigeria,” drew prominent figures from the media and political space.
The event, themed “The Decline of Human Interest Journalism in Nigeria,” drew prominent figures from the media and political space. Former Ogun State governor, Olusegun Osoba, served as chairman on the occasion, while the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Haastrup, was the Royal Father of the Day. Chairman of Ovation Media Group, Dele Momodu, delivered the keynote address.
The programme opened with remarks by former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to late President Muhammadu Buhari, Femi Adesina, who reflected on his longstanding relationship with Osunkeye.
Also, Deputy Editor of Weekend Titles at Punch Newspapers, Tessy Igomu, read the citation of the keynote speaker before Momodu took the stage.
In his keynote address, Momodu underscored the importance of human-interest journalism, drawing from his extensive experience in the profession.
“There was a time when journalism was not confined to the mere reporting of events. It was about people, content, and meaning. Stories were told not just to inform, but to connect, move, and inspire. The human being was always at the centre of the narrative,” he said.
He further noted that human-interest journalism remains foundational to the profession.
“It is not a departure from serious journalism; in many ways, it is its foundation. It enables journalists to see beyond the surface, connect personal stories to broader societal patterns, and interpret events with depth. It humanises power, dignifies the ordinary, and fosters empathy and understanding within society,” he added.
A panel session followed, featuring stakeholders including Maureen Chigbo, Richard Akinola, Dotun Ladipo, Mayor Akinpelu, and Tony Onyima, who examined the evolution of human-interest reporting in the digital age and explored ways to integrate traditional storytelling methods into modern journalism.
Ahead of the official unveiling, the book was reviewed by Lasisi Olagunju, after which goodwill messages were delivered in honour of Osunkeye.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Gani Adams, alongside media practitioners, associates, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate Osunkeye’s legacy and contributions to journalism.
