Speech delivered by Ayodele Ologunola, Publisher of The Focus Magazine during the 17thanniversary of the magazine

Speech delivered by Ayodele Ologunola, the publisher of The Focus Magazine during her 17th anniversary held on 22nd of July, 2923 at NUJ Press Centre, behind Adegbemile Cultural Centre, Akure,

All protocols were dully observed.

Kayode Akinmade, loses father An High Chief, Moses Ade Akinmade, the Obamoluwa of Idanre Kingdom is dead. The late Obamoluwa is the father of the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, and former Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Kayode Akinmade. The media guru announced he passing of the nonagenarian in a statement issued on behalf of the Akinmade family of Idanre, Ondo State, on Tuesday. Hon. Akinmade, who served as Special Adviser on Media to the then Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole, stated that the sad event took place on Monday evening. The statement said that even though the family has been hard hit by the demise of the agriculturist and culture enthusiast, it finds solace in the fact that the deceased lived a highly distinguished life. The veteran journalist and two-time Commissioner for Information in Ondo State described the deceased as a great community leader, cocoa merchant, and socialite. The nonagenarian is survived by his wives and children.

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Honor and privilege fill the air today as we gather here to celebrate the 17th anniversary of The Focus Magazine and at the same time celebrate those who have contributed immensely to their chosen career and the development of humanity.

The Focus Magazine was established seventeen years ago to be the avenue to disseminate information to the grassroots. At its inception, the magazine faced a lot of challenges but we thank the almighty God for seeing us through. In whatever we are into, we have to determine and be focused. We should not listen to the market noise because it will bring distraction.
Let’s say we listened to the distraction of the people, I don’t believe we can be where we are today. A lot of us that started the newspaper business together were no more. Some are into another business, while some have left the publishing business due to its capital intensive.
But I thank God that we do not lose our focus on Him. Here we are today.

Firstly, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my readers, colleagues, friends, and family for their immense support in times of need, I say a big thanks to you all.

The theme lecture for this anniversary is “Curbing the rate of out-of-school children in Nigeria “.
This topic was selected to denounce the rate at which our children no more show interest in going to school.
This can be linked to parents’ attitudes towards educating their children. Some parents don’t have time for their wards, because businesses have taken over.

I will not talk much about it because our guest lecturer will talk better about it.

Also, congratulations to all the nominees and recipients of today. This ceremony serves as a testament to your talent, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Each of you has traversed the path of hard work, overcoming obstacles, and embracing challenges. Your achievements have not only inspired us all but have also left an indelible mark on the landscape of your respective fields.

Today, we honor more than just your accomplishments. We pay homage to your unwavering determination, your unwavering belief in your dreams, and your unwavering commitment to your craft. Behind every success story lies countless hours of sacrifice, unwavering discipline, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. It is this unwavering spirit that brings us all here today, bound together by our shared love for the pursuit of greatness.

As we celebrate your feats, let us not forget the profound impact your achievements have on society as a whole. Through your work, you inspire others to reach for the stars, push boundaries, and dream even bigger. Your brilliance lights a spark of inspiration within the hearts of those who witness your achievements, igniting a passion for greatness that transcends all limitations.

But amidst all this celebration, let us not lose sight of the foundation upon which success is truly built. Success is not just the result; it is a journey of growth, perseverance, and character. It is about rising above failure and learning from setbacks. It is about nurturing relationships, collaborating with others, and embracing diversity. It is about embodying integrity, compassion, and humility.

Today, we not only celebrate the recipients of these prestigious awards; we also acknowledge the countless individuals who have supported them throughout their journey. To all the mentors, teachers, friends, family, and loved ones, who have selflessly stood by their side through thick and thin, thank you. You are the pillars of strength upon which their achievements are built.

In closing, let today serve as a reminder that success is not just a solitary pursuit but a collective triumph. Your accomplishments reverberate far beyond the boundaries of this room, inspiring generations to come. As we applaud your achievements, stand tall, knowing that your dedication and passion have shaped the world we live in.

There’s no doubt in our minds that you shall all contribute generously to the launch of the project and unveiling of the magazine.

Let me end this address by thanking you and may you continue to be the shining beacons of inspiration that you are.

Thanks.

Signed: Ayodele Ologunola, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, The Focus Magazine.