His Royal Majesty, the Olowu of Kuta, Oba Dr. Hammed Adekunle Oyelude Makama, Tegbosun III, hosted the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Osun State Council, at his palace in Kuta on October 31, 2026.
The delegation was led by the Osun NUJ Chairman, Dr. Adeyemi Aboderin, and the visit was part of activities marking the union’s Press Week. The palace reception has now become a tradition, as this year’s visit is the fourth year in a row that the monarch has welcomed journalists during Press Week.
Dr. Aboderin thanked the royal father for standing consistently with the union. He said Oba Makama holds a unique place in the history of the council as the first Life Patron of the OSBC Chapel, a distinction never before conferred in the council. He added that the Olowu is also the first recipient of the council’s newly introduced Press Week Royal Award, in recognition of his outstanding support for journalism and community development.
According to Aboderin, the monarch’s steady support for the ideals of the NUJ and for press freedom has been of immense value to the growth of the profession in Osun State.
Also speaking, the Zonal Secretary of the NUJ, Razaq Alege, who represented the National President, reflected on his early encounter with the monarch before his coronation. He said the visit brought hope to the people of Kuta. He recalled witnessing a cousin’s visit to former Military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, during which a congratulatory letter from the former leader was delivered to the Oba, an indication of the influence the Olowu would bring to his domain.
Alege said the expectation has been justified by the transformation he observed in Kuta upon his arrival, and he lauded the monarch for his developmental strides and dedication to his people.
Responding, Oba Makama said he was honoured to receive the council for the fourth consecutive time and assured the journalists of his continued support. He said he believes strongly in the capacity of the media to positively shape society and promised to sustain his partnership with the NUJ in advancing ethical journalism, good governance and community development.
The visit featured entertainment and refreshments. The guests enjoyed choice meals while fast rising entertainer Rasheed Apala, who was also at the palace at the time, thrilled the audience with his performance. In a lively end to the occasion, the monarch danced joyfully with his guests.
