Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Adewale Akodu on his emergence as Chairman of the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Mr Akodu emerged winner of the council’s election held on Monday, 9 November 2026, polling 465 votes to defeat his opponent, Innocent Anaba, who secured 21 votes.

He succeeds Adeleye Ajayi, who completed two terms in office.

Mr Sanwo-Olu conveyed his congratulatory message in a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile.

The governor expressed confidence in Mr Akodu’s ability to provide purposeful leadership and described his emergence as recognition of his professional experience, competence and longstanding commitment to journalism and public service.

Experience and leadership

Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that Mr Akodu’s more than two decades of experience in the Lagos State Public Service, particularly his contributions to the Ministry of Information and Strategy, had prepared him for the new responsibility.

He also highlighted Mr Akodu’s previous leadership of the Lagos State Information Chapel of the NUJ, saying it demonstrated his ability to build consensus and advance the interests of journalists.

According to the governor, Mr Akodu’s experience in public information management, strategic communication, media relations and union administration places him in a strong position to lead the council.

Call for unity and professionalism

The governor expressed optimism that the new chairman would strengthen relations between government and the media, promote responsible journalism and encourage constructive engagement and accountability.

He also commended Mr Akodu’s commitment to journalists’ welfare, professionalism and capacity development, as outlined in his 10-point agenda.

Mr Sanwo-Olu urged him to embrace inclusive leadership, transparency and unity by carrying all members along, regardless of their affiliations during the election.

He further encouraged the new executive to use the union’s platform to promote credible information and combat misinformation.

The governor assured journalists that his administration would continue to recognise the media as an indispensable partner in good governance, transparency and sustainable development.