80 Years of Excellence: Veteran Journalist Ganny Awobajo Celebrates Milestone Birthday in Ikorodu

Veteran journalist, community leader, and publisher of Ikorodu News, Prince Ganny Awobajo, popularly known as the Agba Akin of Odonla Kingdom, has celebrated his 80th birthday anniversary amidst tributes, admiration, and appreciation for a lifetime dedicated to journalism and community service.

The colourful celebration, held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at his residence in Odonla, Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), attracted family members, friends, media practitioners, traditional rulers, community leaders, associates, and well-wishers from across Ikorodu Division and beyond.

The event served not only as a celebration of longevity but also as a recognition of Prince Awobajo’s enduring contributions to grassroots journalism, community development, and the preservation of local history.

Widely regarded as one of the pioneers of community journalism in Ikorodu, Prince Awobajo is the founder of Ikorodu News, the division’s oldest community-based newspaper. Established in August 1983, the publication has spent more than four decades chronicling the stories, people, culture, and developmental milestones of communities across Ikorodu Division.

Over the years, Ikorodu News has become an important historical archive and a trusted source of information for residents, documenting key political, social, economic, and traditional events within the region.

The birthday celebration featured the ceremonial cutting of an 80th birthday cake, goodwill messages, tributes, musical performances, and cultural displays that reflected the rich heritage of the community.

Guests took turns to celebrate the veteran publisher, describing him as a trailblazer whose dedication to factual reporting and community engagement helped shape local journalism in Ikorodu.

Many speakers noted that beyond journalism, Prince Awobajo has consistently championed causes that promote community growth, social cohesion, and cultural preservation.

One of the most memorable moments of the event came when the octogenarian joined his grandchildren on the dance floor, drawing loud applause and cheers from guests. The touching scene symbolized the warmth, family values, and joy that defined the celebration.

In his remarks, Prince Awobajo expressed profound gratitude to God for the gift of life and thanked everyone who attended the event, as well as those who sent prayers, messages, and goodwill wishes.

He described attaining the age of 80 as a special blessing and reflected on a lifetime of experiences, friendships, and service to humanity.

“I am grateful to God for His faithfulness over the years and thankful to everyone who has been part of my journey. Reaching this age is a privilege, and I do not take it for granted,” he said.

As the celebration drew to a close, guests reflected on the remarkable legacy of a man whose name has become synonymous with community journalism in Ikorodu.

For many attendees, Prince Ganny Awobajo’s 80th birthday was more than a personal milestone—it was a celebration of resilience, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to informing, educating, and advancing the community he has faithfully served for more than four decades.