…Receives Award of Excellence in Journalism
By Omobolanle Jamiu
An Osun-based journalist and publisher of CityMirror News, Ayobami Agboola, has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to journalism, earning the Award of Excellence at the 2024 Osun Youth Ambassador Awards (OYAA).
The prestigious event, organized by the Youth Reform Initiative, took place on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at the Oasis Event Center in Osogbo, the Osun State capital. The 9th edition of the awards honored 16 outstanding youths for their contributions to the state’s development across various fields.
Delivering the welcome address, Aminat Ajibola, founder of the Osun Youth Reformers Initiative, expressed gratitude to attendees, acknowledging the presence of distinguished guests, including royal fathers, scholars, and dignitaries.
The annual event celebrates excellence, creativity, and achievements, recognizing individuals and groups who have made significant impacts in their respective domains.
Hailing from Eripa in Boluwaduro Local Government Area, Ayobami Agboola is a graduate of Mass Communication from Osun State Polytechnic, Iree.
With over 14 years of experience in journalism, he has carved a niche in investigative reporting, news transcription, proofreading, and market research.
As the founder and CEO of CityMirror News, Ayobami is a vibrant and resourceful journalist who has demonstrated unwavering commitment to factual reporting and accountability in journalism.
His recognition at the awards was witnessed by members of the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA), led by Chairman Mukhtar Ajelogbon, alongside family, friends, and well-wishers.
The awards ceremony was graced by notable figures, including:
Oba Abdulazeez Olatunbosun Adebamiji, Akire of Ikire-Ile (Royal Father of the Day).
Oba Adekunle Oyelude Makama, Olowu of Kuta Kingdom.
Olori Adegboyin Oyetunji, wife of the Ataoja of Osogboland.
Dr. Yusuf Abduganiyu Aderemi, Coordinator, Department of Language and Linguistics, Fountain University.
Dr. Yusuf, who served as the guest speaker, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on “Mental Health Awareness: Breaking the Stigma Among Youth.”
He identified key causes of depression, such as academic pressure, unemployment, social media toxicity, and cyberbullying.
He also outlined actionable steps for addressing mental health challenges, including; Encouraging open conversations.
Supporting peers in need.
Introducing mental health education in school curricula.
Avoiding stigmatization and labels.
The event recognized exceptional youth in various fields. Awardees included:
Ayobami Agboola – Excellence in Journalism
Ademola Olawoyin – Youth Development
Durotoye Tirimisiyu Abiodun – Culture
Ridwan Abiodun – Humanitarian Service
Adepeju Adegbite Deborah – Mass Communication
Adebimpe Fagbohun – Entrepreneurship
Oyebanji Adekunle Abdulfatai – Entertainment
Samson Ajao – Education
Sunday O. Oladepo – New Media
Asafa Oluwatoyin Badru – Social Empowerment
Maruf Taiwo Hassan – Education
Kujembola Esther Oluwabunmi – Community Development
Adeniyi Adekemi Grace – Social Empowerment
Shittu Jabiru Opeyemi – Religious Promotion
Akinola Yusroh – Charity and Generosity
Adeniyi Ismail Oluwatosin – Youth Agriculture