Mr Boye Ajayi, a Senior Editor with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Wednesday, bowed out of service after attaining the mandatory 60 years retirement age.
Ajayi, who retired in Ibadan Zonal Office of the agency, was described by his family, associates and staff members as a motivator, gentle man and core professional.
The NAN Zonal Manager, Ibadan zonal office, Mr Mufutau Ojo, described Ajayi as a friend in the profession, who had worked in several media organizations, with a demonstration of hard work, commitment and diligence.
“I have known Mr Ajayi for the last five years in the agency; he had worked in several media organizations, such as PM News, The Republic and Thisday before joining NAN.
“There is no doubt about his professional and academic backgrounds, which have served him well on the job, especially his rise to the position of senior editor in NAN.
“He has demonstrated capacity for hard work, diligence and commitment. I can say without any equivocation that I have no regret working with him,” Ojo said.
Ojo wished the celebrator the best as he started a new phase in his life’s journey.
In his remarks, Ajayi expressed appreciation to the NAN management for the opportunity given to him to serve the agency.
He particularly commended the management for creating an enabling environment for him to unleash his potentials in the day-to-day performance of his duties, a situation which, he said, had exposed him to the outside world.
“I remember vividly that anytime I went to cover international events and introduced myself as representing NAN, I was usually given special treatment.
“This is as a result of the high regard which people have for the agency as the flagship of wire agency, not only in Nigeria but also, in the whole of Africa.
“Notwithstanding the challenges currently being faced by the agency, like other government parastatals, NAN is a wonderful place to work and associate with,” he said.
Ajayi advised his junior colleagues in the journalism profession to develop a passion for the job, rather than seeking personal gratification.
“Do not limit yourselves to the level of mere gratification seekers. Rather, use the NAN platform to make yourselves global journalists,” he said.
Also speaking, the Wife of the celebrator, Mrs Mary Ajayi, noted that it was not easy to marry a journalist, especially a highly committed media professional like her husband.
She, however, said that wholeheartedly supported her husband with prayers, while taking very good care of the home front, all of which, she said, contributed immensely to his success.