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Sat, Aug 16, 2025
The Newsroom Ng
Tribute to Dele Momodu at 65
By folu OLAMITI (FNGE)
Dele Momodu and Folu Olamiti
I never knew Dele Momodu until the early 1980s. At the time, I was the Editor of the Sunday Tribune, then rated the second-largest circulating newspaper in Nigeria by the Audit Bureau of Circulation (ABC).
One afternoon, during a routine editorial review with my senior editors—Messrs. Adegbite and Ayo Akinyemi—two well-dressed young men walked unannounced into my office. They looked slightly troubled. Initially, I paid them little attention and continued with our discussions. But after a few minutes of them standing respectfully, I looked up and acknowledged their greetings.
It was Dele Momodu who spoke first. “Sir, we are here to brief you on something important and would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you in private,” he said. I asked my two editors to step out.
Dele, more outspoken than his soft-spoken companion, Kunle Ajibade, introduced themselves as students of the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife). He said they were members of the Writers’ Club with a deep passion for journalism. They had just written a critical article and travelled to Lagos to have it published. However, every editor they met turned them down—not for lack of quality, but due to moral and political sensitivities.
I asked to see the article. Dele promptly brought it out from a brown envelope. I read it carefully and told them I would publish it. They were visibly stunned—disbelief written all over their faces—until they saw it in print in the Sunday Tribune a few days later.
That publication was their first in any newspaper, and it made an instant impact. Dele and Kunle became overnight celebrities.
From then on, Dele began writing regularly for Sunday Tribune, sharpening his craft and developing the distinctive style he is now known for. By the time he graduated, the Lagos media scene was already waiting for him.
Today, Dele Momodu is a globally recognised figure. His powerful pen has opened doors far beyond journalism—into politics, social advocacy, and global media entrepreneurship. Despite his fame and success, he has never forgotten where he started. He has remained in touch with me over the years in ways that speak volumes about his humility and gratitude.
Dele is a man undoubtedly favoured by God. Some call him controversial; others see him as a determined visionary—pushing boundaries where others dared not tread. He remains true to his roots, recently completing a multimillion-naira country home in Ihievbe, Owan West LGA of Edo State.
Driven by his passion for good leadership, he established the Dele Momodu Leadership Foundation Centre in Ibadan—a platform committed to grooming future leaders.
At 65, Dele Momodu is not just marking years; he is building a lasting legacy. He continues to cultivate friendships across every segment of society—within Nigeria and beyond.
As you mark your 65th birthday with landmark achievements, Dele, may the Almighty continue to preserve you, prosper you, and make you ever relevant in the journey of life. May your heart’s desires be answered as you march forward in the land of the living.
Happy 65th birthday, Chief Dele Momodu.
Your story is still unfolding—and it is one worth telling for generations to come.
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Copyright 2025, Thenewsroom.ng
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