It was a day of double celebration for Omoba Peju Akinyemi as he marked his 50th birthday on Saturday 23rd November, and launched his highly anticipated book, “From Dreams to Reality”, a chronicle of his remarkable journey spanning over two decades in community media practice.

Lekan Ogunbanwo, former Permanent Secretary of Lagos Television, represented by Olayinka Adagun pioneer General Manager of Lagos Traffic Radio emphasized the crucial role community radio plays in promoting national security, tourism development, and cultural renaissance in Nigeria.

Speaking as the keynote speaker marking Nigeria’s first online community radio and the celebration of the founder’s golden age Omoba Peju Akinyemi, Ogunbanwo highlighted the importance of community radio in addressing local issues, providing training and capacity building opportunities, and fostering community engagement and participation in development activities.

Community radio, Ogunbanwo noted, is an essential medium for communities to express their concerns and issues in their own languages. It plays a vital role in promoting national security by disseminating critical information on security issues and prevention measures.

Furthermore, community radio contributes to tourism development and cultural renaissance by promoting local cultures, traditions, and languages. Ogunbanwo cited the example of Senegal, where community radio offers a third model of radio broadcasting, distinct from commercial and public broadcasting.

In Nigeria, community radio faces challenges, including the high cost of establishing a radio station and the expansion of the digital divide. However, Ogunbanwo emphasized that community radio can thrive in Nigeria, citing the example of a three-bedroom flat running a radio station.

The Chairman of Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative (IDPIL), Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya, represented by Otunba Ganiyu Abiru, the Executive Secretary of IDPIL, unveiled the book titled “From Dreams to Reality” by Omoba Peju Akinyemi.

During the unveiling ceremony, Otunba Abiru commended Omoba Akinyemi for his outstanding contributions to community journalism and the development of the community. He praised Akinyemi’s dedication to telling the stories of the community and promoting its interests.

Otunba Abiru also used the opportunity to advocate for support for journalists. He noted that many journalists are poorly paid, with some going without salaries for months. This, he said, can lead to unethical practices, such as the acceptance of “brown envelopes” (bribes).

“The practice of good journalism is essential for a sane society, an accountable democracy, and a transparent Government,” Otunba Abiru said. “However, we can only achieve this if employers of journalists pay them commensurate salaries that reflect the risks they take in their profession.”

The unveiling of “From Dreams to Reality” was a significant event in the literary and journalism communities, and it highlighted the importance of supporting journalists and promoting good journalism practices.

Omoba Peju Akinyemi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to attendees and shared the inspiring story behind his book, which chronicles the remarkable journey of Ikorodu Oga Radio since its establishment in 2016.

According to Akinyemi, the book highlights the transformative power of community-focused media in shaping societies. “This book showcases the impact of grassroots media on societal transformation,” he emphasized. “It’s a testament to the vision, resilience, and influence of community voices.”

Akinyemi also launched a lecture series, titled “The Impact of Community Radio in Tourism Development, Security Development, and Cultural Renaissance.” This initiative aims to educate stakeholders on the vital role of grassroots media in addressing local challenges and preserving cultural heritage.Dignitaries in attendance were Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Rep. Babajimi Benson, Otunba Saheed Ibikunle, former Ag Commissioner for Tourism in Lagos State, Hon Adebimpe Akinsola, Otunba Fatai Olukoga, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina, Mr Taiwo Salami Awolaru, Director of Administration, IDPIL and Com. Kehinde Okeowo and husband, Dr. T.A.G Okeowo also graced the event.

Dignitaries in attendance were Senator Tokunbo Abiru represented by his Media Aide, Enitan Olukotun, Rep. Babajimi Benson represented by Mr. Aregbe Rashedd, Otunba Saheed Ibikunle, former Ag Commissioner for Tourism in Lagos State, Hon Adebimpe Akinsola, Otunba Fatai Olukoga, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina, Mr Taiwo Salami Awolaru, Director of Administration IDPIL, Comr. Kehinde Okeowo and husband, Dr. T.A.G Okeowo also graced the event.

Olotu-General of Anoko-Ogbonyari Royal Family of Ikorodu, Om’oba Jokotade Ogunbiyi led other Akarigbo Royal bloods to the event.