By Oyewale Oyelola
The Mass Communication Alumni of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree (MAOS) on Friday December 21, 2024 converged at NUJ Press Center, Iyaganku in Ibadan, Oyo State for its 10th Annual General Meeting/Reunion. The AGM was attended by members from different chapters across Nigeria and Diaspora.
The event started for networking and bonding of old friends and course mates who graduated from the Department of Mass Communication, Osun State Polytechnic Iree at different times. MAOS members were in high spirit and free to relate with one another inline with the association motto: ‘Fellowship and Progress’.
Thereafter, the AGM Seminar commenced with lecture by Guest Speaker: the Publisher Parrot Magazine and Former Chief Press Secretary to Oyo State Governor, Mr. Yinka Agboola on the theme: Harnessing Digital Media Opportunities for Sustainability and Profitability.
Mr. Yinka Agboola advised participants to explore opportunities in digital media to be self-reliant and create job opportunities for others.
According to him, digital media and new trends in the industry come with a lot of opportunities for creative minds who can see business potentials.
He said digital media such as Online news publishing, content creation, blogging among others require consistency, innovation and dedication. He advised media practitioners to acquire digital skills in order to stay relevant in the industry.
The Head of Mass Communication Department, Osun Polytechnic Iree, Dr Idowu Akinrosoye in his remarks appreciated MAOS for giving back to their alma mater since its establishment.
Akinrosoye however called for more support for the department and graduates from the institution. His words: “I am happy to be here today. We appreciate what you are doing for us in the department. Just like Oliver Twist, we want to do more. The department needs solar-power for administrative and practical activities. I want you to consider this request, God bless you all.”
Six prominent personalities namely; Chairman Top Success Group, Dr Odetayo Temitope, CEO Living Proof Bakery and Supermarket, Mr. Solomon Adekola Ademoroti, Publisher Parrot Xtra, Chief Yinka Agboola, Oyo NUJ Chairman, Chief Ademola Babalola and Dr. Fashola Mutahir (Innocenty) were given award of recognition for their contribution towards community and national development.
MAOS National President, Adekunle Sikiru in speech applauded members for their large turnout at the AGM in spite of the challenging economic situation in the country.
Adekunle said his administration achievements include presentation of cash prize to six students under Late Adetoye Adeleke Scholarship, inauguration of Ogun Chapter, hosting of Webinar Programme for new graduates, facilitation of N500,000 welfare package for members and increased membership drive.
The Coordinator of host chapter (Oyo Chapter), Adewale Adeyemo thanked members for turning out in large numbers for the annual general meeting in Ibadan. He also used the opportunity to appreciate local organising committee and Oyo Chapter members for their sacrifices to make the event colourful.
Highlight of the occasion was the quiz competition where Osun Chapter represented by Mrs Helen Olulade emerged winner with Komolafe Grace of Lagos Chapter as second and Joke Batisen of Oyo Chapter clinched the third position.
Osun Chapter also won the hosting right for 2025 AGM after competitive bidding with Lagos and Oyo Chapters.
