The race for the Oyo League of Veteran Journalists chairmanship has narrowed to a two-horse race as Mr Victor Oluwadamilare and Alhaji Kola Animasaun prepare for a high-stakes Ibadan media election.
Following the close of nominations last Thursday, the two media titans have emerged as the sole contestants for the prestigious seat. This significant vote, which holds significant weight within the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) community, is scheduled to take place at the League House, NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku GRA, on Thursday, 28 May 2026.
Two Titans of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ)
The upcoming election represents a significant moment in the history of the state chapter of the league. The two candidates bring formidable resumes to the table, representing different eras and sectors of the industry.
Mr Victor Oluwadamilare is a former chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State branch, known for his firm stance on labour rights and unionism. His rival, Alhaji Kola Animasaun, is no stranger to the role, having already served as a two-term chairman of the Oyo League of Veteran Journalists.
Their professional backgrounds further highlight the diversity of the competition. While Victor Oluwadamilare built his career as a print journalist with the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc (publishers of the Tribune titles), Kola Animasaun represents the broadcast sector, having served as a veteran broadcaster with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Ibadan National Station.
Stakes Rise in the Ibadan Media Election
As the campaign hots up, the election has generated immense interest across various sectors of the state. Members now face a clear choice: they can opt for a dogged unionist and former Special Assistant (Media) to a former Minister of Communications, or return to the leadership of a seasoned broadcaster and two-term incumbent.
The Electoral Committee has confirmed that, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the Ibadan media election will proceed at the League House on 28 May. The atmosphere remains charged as both camps reach out to the “senior citizens” of the media profession to secure their mandate.
Oluwadamilare Unveils “MISSION 2026”
In a bid to sway the electorate, Mr Victor Oluwadamilare has officially launched his campaign for the Oyo League of Veteran Journalists chairmanship. Flagging off his bid on Wednesday, the former media aide promised a robust support package for the membership under the banner of “MISSION 2026.”
According to the him, the name represents resilience and a readiness to serve the community better.
Addressing his supporters, Oluwadamilare outlined his vision: “What we are bringing to the table are refreshing sustainable development, improved welfare and inclusive administration.” He continued, “The League, which is populated by senior citizens, deserves a new leadership with clarity and purpose.”
Enhancing Welfare for the Oyo League of Veteran Journalists
The core of the MISSION 2026 platform focuses on the physical and social well-being of the members. Oluwadamilare, known for his history with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), noted that the group is a vital repository of experience that remains under-utilised.
The League, as a bastion of experienced retired senior journalists and media managers, boasts of immense potential but needs a contemporary leadership focused on improving members’ welfare,” he disclosed.
He further argued that adopting MISSION 2026 was about “choosing dynamism, competence, proven leadership and a future that works for all. Adopting a moral distancing at a time like this leaves a vacuum, a precarious vacuum for that matter.”
His proposed welfare package is comprehensive. We shall embark on an enhanced welfare package, which includes annual basic medical check-up, health insurance scheme, regular health talks, and provision of a drug bank, among others,” Oluwadamilare added.
