The Chief Press Secretary to the Ondo State Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, was honoured with two prestigious awards during the Dinner and Award Night of the Department of Mass Communication, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), held at Beninma Hotel and Suites as part of the department’s Press Week activities.
The event, themed “One Story, Four Lenses: How Broadcasting, Advertising, Public Relations and Print Frame the Same Event,” brought together students, lecturers, alumni and media professionals to celebrate excellence in communication and journalism.
Prince Adeniyan received the Icon of Impact Award and the Distinguished Pillar of Support Award in recognition of his contributions to media development and his continuous support for students and the department.
Speaking at the event, Adeniyan commended the leadership of the department and the students for organizing what was described as the first Dinner and Award Night Named after him.
In a gesture that drew applause from attendees, the governor’s spokesman rewarded participants and winners of the Late Shola Ilesanmi Media Exhibition, recognizing their creativity and commitment to excellence.
He also honoured outstanding students across various academic levels by presenting tablets to the best-performing student in each class, noting that the devices would enhance their learning experience, research capacity and overall productivity.
To further support the growth of the department, Prince Adeniyan announced a donation of ₦1 million toward efforts aimed at upgrading the Department of Mass Communication into a full-fledged faculty.
He equally assured students that he would consider other requests presented by the departmental association, promising to engage relevant stakeholders and provide support for learning materials and facilities that would make the academic environment more conducive.
Adeniyan encouraged the students to remain focused on their studies and professional development, assuring them of his continued support.
“I will always support the students and the department in every way I can. By God’s grace, next year’s dinner will be bigger and better than this year’s event,” he said.
The award night served as a fitting climax to the department’s Press Week celebration, highlighting academic excellence, innovation and the importance of sustained collaboration between industry professionals and future media practitioners.