Featured, Media
By Anthony Isibor
IT was a gathering of friends and well-wishers on Tuesday in Lagos to celebrate a broadcast Icon and former director general of the Voice of Nigeria, VON, Aremo Taiwo Allimi, as he marked his 80th birthday.
Nicknamed “The Headmaster”, Allimi has been described as a dedicated and committed hard worker, who never stops to speak truth to power.
The celebration also coincided with the launch of his book Foothprints in Broadcasting, a professional Odyssey of Aremo Taiwo Allimi written by Qasim Akinreti, a Deputy Director at VON and former Chairman of the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists,
Reviewing the book, which centred on Allimi’s journey in broadcasting, Prof Saheed Timihin of the Lagos State University, described Alimmi as a titan in the industry and urged readers to view it as a social conscience rather than an academic material.
He said that the book was a huge resource for students of mass communication even as it is meant for media professionals, particularly broadcast journalists.
“It will also serve as a motivational volume for managers, who seek inspiration, particularly in the areas of networking, policy formulation, talent hunting and self-discipline,” he said.
Unveiling the book, the Minister of information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, described Allimi as a man who has contributed positively to the growth of the nation’s broadcast industry.
According to Idris, who was represented by Ahmed Yalwa, Director (Northern-Region), Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, “A lot needs to be learnt from the book because it contains the challenges and solutions in broadcasting.”
“I know that experiences shared in this book will help us solve the challenges facing broadcasting and other media platforms,” he said.
Idris also urged media organisations to avoid bias or influenced reporting and be more committed to the development of the industry.
The former Governor of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel, described Alimi as an elder statesman and journalism icon and noted that his successful journey in the world of broadcasting remained a source of inspiration to many.
“I have no doubt that you have written your name with an indelible ink in the annals of broadcasting.
Similarly, Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Ogun State Governor, said that Alimi served diligently as a commissioner in Ogun state.
Akinmade said that the former director-general of VON demonstrated a high level of professionalism, initiating the village square meeting concept to enhance participatory governance.
“His administrative acumen remains unmatched given the task associated with the sensitive agencies he administered,” he said.
In his remarks, Jibrin Ndace, Director-General of VON, said that the celebrant had continued to inspire the younger generation with his passion for broadcasting and that Allimi gave valuable insights into the challenges and growth experienced by VON before, during and after his tenure as the director-general.
“His dedication to the mission and vision of VON is evident in the indelible mark he has on the media industry in Nigeria and Africa.
“Allimi’s legacy serves as a shining example of commitment and excellence in broadcasting.
“His influence continues to inspire future generations of media professionals, his impact will be felt for years to come,” he added.
Responding, Allimi noted that broadcasting and other media platforms are weapons for tackling insecurity and other challenges in Nigeria and called on media professionals to remain committed to the profession, which according to him, is a vital part of broadcasting.
A.I
Dec. 17, 2024
Tags: Aremo Taiwo Allimi
