The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, on Thursday eulogised Mrs Toro Oladapo, the outgoing Director, Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy for her professionalism while in active service.
Oladapo, a former national President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) retires from the public service of the state on Thursday after attaining 60 years.
The chairman of the Council, Dr Qasim Akinreti, in a statement he issued in Lagos, described Oladapo as a mother, a mentor, a union leader and professional extra-ordinary.
Akinreti said: “The joy of every public servant or civil servant is a graceful retirement either by age or length of service.
A cerebral, hand-working and loving senior colleague is bowing out when the ovation is loudest for her.
“She was a delightful editor at the Lagos Office of the News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) for many years.
“She was also a good mentor to young journalists at NAN before she transferred her service to the Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy.’’
Akinreti said that journalists, especially at NAN, had continued to praise Oladapo for her editing skills, good diction, guidance, and admirable feminine touch in everything she does.
He said that many still appreciated the professional discipline of “Madam Toro Oladapo’’.
“Truly, seeing is believing, she (Oladapo) is quite accommodating, warming, and cheerfully smiling always. No dull moments with her.
“Professionally, she is a top brand in journalism. She speaks the Queen’s English flawlessly and her carriage is always welcoming.
“I benefited immensely from her professional guidance and loving spirits more during the elections into the Lagos State Council of the NUJ, twice,’’ he said.
He commended Oladapo for her forthrightness, assuring her that he would not disappoint her and others.
According to him, for every laudable achievement by his administration, the counseling and push from Oladapo are remarkable.
“I appreciate her submissions on the ‘Remodeling of the NUJ Building at Iyalla’ and her acceptance to serve on the inter-ministerial committee of the council.
“While, I can easily make phone calls for counseling and guidance at will, I will miss the admirable smiles in your office,’’ Akinreti said.
