The Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor A. S. Bamire, has described veteran journalist and publisher, Dele Momodu, as a doyen of Nigerian journalism whose influence continues to shape national discourse and inspire generations.
Bamire made the remark on Wednesday during the 2026 Library Week of the Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library, where Momodu was invested as Distinguished Ambassador of the Library Excellence Award at a ceremony held at Oduduwa Hall.
The Vice-Chancellor said the honour recognises Momodu’s enduring contributions to media, scholarship, and nation-building.
“Chief Dele Momodu represents the very best of Nigerian journalism courage, intellect, and consistency,” Bamire said. “He is a doyen whose body of work has not only elevated the profession but has also projected Nigeria positively on the global stage. His contributions to public discourse, democracy, and the mentoring of young journalists are immeasurable.”
Also speaking, a former journalist now serving in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office delivered an emotional tribute, describing Momodu as a towering figure whose influence has shaped both careers and convictions.
“Chief Dele Momodu is not just a journalist; he is a movement, a school, and an enduring reference point for excellence,” he said. “As a young reporter, he was one of those I looked up to with deep admiration. I had the rare privilege of interviewing him a couple of times on the field, and each encounter was a masterclass — his depth, clarity, and command of issues were simply unmatched.”
He added that Momodu’s impact transcends professional success. “He has contributed immensely to Nigeria’s story — projecting our culture, shaping public opinion, and elevating journalism into a platform of power and purpose. For many of us, he is not just an icon; he is proof that excellence, resilience, and vision can redefine a nation’s narrative.
”The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) also sent goodwill messages, describing Momodu as “a towering figure in Nigerian journalism whose contributions have strengthened the profession and elevated its global relevance.”
In her remarks, Dr. Adeagbo described the recognition as well deserved, noting that Momodu’s career reflects the power of media as a tool for national development
“We are celebrating not just a journalist, but an institution in himself,” Adeagbo said. “Chief Momodu has consistently used the media space to inform, educate, and positively influence society. His contributions to Nigeria’s intellectual, cultural, and democratic development are profound.”
The event also featured the inauguration of the H.O. Library Club, with Momodu serving as Guest Reader, as part of activities marking the 2026 Library Week themed “Building a Knowledge Society: Library and Information as Variables in Academia-Industry Performance.”
Chief Dele Momodu’s portrait, displayed prominently at the venue, underscored a career that has come to symbolise excellence, resilience, and enduring impact in Nigerian journalism.