More than 90 retired journalists in Bayelsa State were celebrated for their lifelong contributions to the profession during a vibrant ceremony at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.
The event organised by Arise News correspondent Ovieteme George and generously supported by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, honoured veterans from radio, television, print, and photo journalism with cash awards, plaques, and a novelty football match that kicked off the festivities.
High Chief Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services (represented by Administrative Manager Daisy Jaja), commended journalists for amplifying the voiceless and driving societal progress.
He praised George’s innovative approach to honouring the living rather than waiting for posthumous tributes and encouraged emerging journalists to uphold professionalism in emulation of their predecessors.
Apostle David Wale Feso of Charismatic Renaissance International Church described the event as timely, emphasising the importance of rewarding service during one’s lifetime.
He commended George and his sponsors for the thoughtful gesture.
Bayelsa NUJ Chairman Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha affirmed the union’s commitment to celebrating excellence and impact in journalism.
He hailed the programme as a reminder for media practitioners to recognise their own contributions to humanity and called on governments, individuals, and organisations to support the media, describing it as “a new era” for Bayelsa journalists.
Convener Ovieteme George, in an interview, explained that the event aimed to honour the living while they could still appreciate it.
He shared his childhood aspiration to become a journalist and expressed gratitude to God for fulfilling that dream.
George urged colleagues to uphold truth and work toward societal progress, extending appreciation to key supporters including Tantita MD High Chief Kestin Pondi, Chairman Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), and the wife of the Bayelsa State Governor, Mrs. Patience Ama Zuofa-Diri.
Awardees, including Mrs. Timiebi Sam-Ebiye, Mr. Eddie Emessiri, and retired Director of Information Mr. Chris Odi, expressed deep appreciation to George and Tantita for the recognition.
They urged state and federal governments to adopt similar initiatives nationwide, praising George for setting a commendable standard in Bayelsa and beyond.
The celebration featured friendly football matches, award presentations, and cash gifts: ₦1,000,000 dummy cheques to each of the over 90 honourees, with an additional ₦5,000,000 awarded to five octogenarians among them.
The event underscored a growing call to value and reward media veterans while they remain active witnesses to their legacy.
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