The Chief Executive Officer of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mallam Ali Muhammed Ali, has commended the Oyo State Government for what he described as its fairness, respect, and understanding over a land issue concerning the Agency.
He also commended the state government for its deference for journalism.
Ali made this remarks on Thursday, October 30, during a courtesy visit to the Oyo State Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Akin-Fumilayo Williams, at the ministry’s conference room.
The NAN boss, also a renowned journalist, said he was particularly impressed by the state government’s prompt and positive response to the agency’s appeal to preserve NAN’s Iyaganku property allocated to it decades ago, rather than demolish it to pave way for new development projects.
He noted that the government’s gesture reflected its respect for institutional heritage and cordial relationship with the media.
“The purpose of our visit is to express appreciation to the Oyo State Government for this kind gesture, which should not go unnoticed,” Ali said.
He also praised Governor Seyi Makinde for leading an administration that listens to the people, promotes fairness and understanding in governance, even as he maintains unequalled strides in Infrastructural development.
The NAN chief also highlighted the agency’s role as Africa’s leading news content provider, known for professionalism and accuracy.
He urged the Oyo State Government to leverage NAN’s platforms to amplify its developmental achievements and counter misinformation.
According to Mallam Ali, the NAN is comfortable to collaborate with the government also because of the presence of a ‘Doyen of journalism and senior colleague, Prince Dotun Oyelade in his cabinet.
The NAN CEO also lauded Hon. Williams for his openness and humility, describing those attributes as vital for building trust and fostering collaboration.
Responding, the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development explained that the government considered NAN’s appeal because of the professional and respectful manner with which the agency presented its case.
According to him, “the Oyo State Government is always open to reasonable compromises on matters involving federal agencies, in the interest of mutual understanding and public good.”
Speaking further, Hon. Williams clarified issues surrounding the recent demolition exercise in the state, explaining that the affected sites have been abandoned for over 40 years and have become hideouts for criminal elements.
He said the demolitions were carried out in the interest of public safety and development, assuring that the ministry would continue to work harmoniously with federal ministries, departments, and agencies to promote good governance and effective service delivery.
On his part, the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, commended the agency for its consistent professionalism and factual reporting over the decades.
Oyelade recalled his over 40-year professional relationship with NAN, noting that the agency has remained a cornerstone of credible grassroots news dissemination in Nigeria.
He assured that the Oyo State Government would continue to partner with NAN in promoting transparency and public enlightenment on the state’s developmental initiatives.
