The Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Comrade Bunmi Adigun has congratulated veteran broadcaster and sports journalist, Hakeem Akintunde, on his well-deserved recognition by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) at its Diamond Jubilee (SWAN @ 60) celebration.

In a statement issued in Abeokuta, the NUJ Secretary described Akintunde as “a journalist personified, a mentor, and a torchbearer whose career embodies the finest traditions of truth, dedication, and professionalism in journalism.” He noted that the honour conferred on Akintunde by SWAN National is not only timely but richly deserved, coming after decades of selfless service to sports reporting and the media industry in Nigeria.

He further expressed deep personal gratitude to Akintunde, acknowledging him as a teacher, mentor, and guiding light whose influence and discipline helped shape his professional journey. “I owe much of what I am today to his steady guidance, his insistence on ethics, and his unwavering belief that journalism is a calling, not just a career,” he said.

Describing Akintunde as a man who “lives and breathes journalism,” the NUJ Secretary highlighted his humility, integrity, and commitment to nurturing younger journalists. “He has given himself wholly to the growth of the profession — always leading by example, always reminding us that credibility is the cornerstone of journalism,” he added.

He concluded by saying that the SWAN honour is just the beginning of greater recognitions ahead. “Mr. Hakeem Akintunde deserves this and more. His name is already etched in the history of sports journalism in Nigeria, and we, in Ogun NUJ, celebrate him with pride. The future will yet unveil more honours for a man who has given so much to the profession he loves.”