The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos Information Chapel, on Wednesday held a special congress to celebrate its retiring members, while also staging a novelty football match in honour of the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye.
The event commenced with a special congress at the NUT Hall, Agidingbi Primary School, Ikeja, where members of the chapel paid glowing tributes to the retirees for their years of dedicated service to the Lagos State Government and their immense contributions to the growth of the Ministry of Information and Strategy.
Speakers described the retirees as exemplary public servants whose professionalism, commitment, and invaluable contributions have left a lasting legacy within the ministry and the journalism profession.
Following the congress, members proceeded to the football pitch for a novelty match organised exclusively in honour of Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, in recognition of his remarkable service and leadership as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Strategy.
The keenly contested encounter featured Team Omotoso against Team Bajulaiye, with Team Omotoso taking an early lead in the opening minutes of the game to the delight of supporters. Team Bajulaiye responded strongly, scoring the equaliser to level the contest and keep the game alive.
With both teams unable to secure a winning goal during regulation time, the match was decided through a penalty shootout. Team Bajulaiye displayed composure from the spot, defeating Team Omotoso 4–2 to emerge winners of the friendly encounter.
The match was played in an atmosphere of excitement, friendship, and sportsmanship, reflecting the unity and strong bond among members of the Lagos Information Chapel.
A major highlight of the event was the official unveiling of branded football jerseys donated by former Chairman of the NUJ Lagos Information Chapel, Comrade Wale Akodu, in support of the chapel’s sporting activities and future novelty football engagements.
Members applauded the organisers for successfully combining a befitting farewell celebration with recreational activities that strengthened fellowship among journalists, while paying special tribute to Mr. Bajulaiye for his outstanding leadership, dedication, and unwavering support for the Information Chapel throughout his tenure.
The celebration concluded with goodwill messages, photographs, and heartfelt wishes as colleagues, friends, and well-wishers prayed for Mr. Bajulaiye and the other retirees to enjoy fulfilling and rewarding years in retirement.