By Olanrewaju Agiri
Dr. Azeez Adebayo, a PhD holder, and Barrister Oguntayo Olalekan, a legal practitioner, were among the graduating students of the Royal Sky Media Academy’s maiden convocation ceremony. Both candidates expressed joy in holding a microphone because they were curious about broadcasting.
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, a large gathering of media professionals, scholars, and stakeholders gathered at Yinka Ayefele Music House, Fresh FM Challenge, Ibadan, for an event that was characterized by its grandeur and style.
In an emotional welcoming address, Royal Sky Media Academy’s proprietor, Asiwaju Enitan Olusegun Bamidele, emphasized the academy’s goal of encouraging professional excellence and educating the public about factual information. He underlined how crucial media literacy is in the current digital world.
Dr. Gbade Akinteye, Rector of Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, delivered a thought-provoking convocation lecture titled “Media Literacy in the Age of Misinformation.” He stressed the need for broadcasters and information personnel to verify and fact-check sources to combat the spread of misinformation. Dr. Akinteye also noted the challenges posed by new media and citizen journalism.
Several dignitaries, including Ambassador Yemi Faroumbi, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, Dr. Olusoji Olatunji, and Dr. Olayinka Joel Ayefele, delivered goodwill messages, praising the academy’s efforts to promote media excellence.
The highlight of the event was the award of proficiency certificates in broadcast management to graduating students. The best students in each of the four sets were also recognized, with Gbolahan Oni emerging as the overall best student. Oni received a special award, including a refund of half his school fees and a plot of land worth over ₦1.5M, courtesy of Footy Homes and Properties.
In a special gesture, Asiwaju Enitan Olusegun Bamidele presented awards of recognition to four distinguished media gurus who have played invaluable roles in his professional career at different times in his life. The awardees were Ambassador Yemi Faroumbi, former Nigeria Ambassador to the Philippines; Dr. Wasiu Adewale Olatunbosun, Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Oyo State; Dr. Olayinka Joel Ayefele, successful private radio owner and boss; and Dr. Gbade Akinteye, Rector, Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic.
This recognition, according to the Dean of the academic program, Royal Sky Media Academy, Olufemi Timothy Ogunyejo, was a testament to the academy’s commitment to honoring excellence and fostering meaningful relationships within the media community.
