Fashola, Dikko, Enoh Honour Mumini Alao at Autobiography Launch
The crème de la crème of Nigeria’s sports journalism and sporting industry gathered on Sunday, August 10, to celebrate erudite and frontline journalist, Dr. Mumini Alao, at the public presentation of his autobiography.
The well-attended ceremony took place at the Tayo Aderinokun Lecture Theatre, University of Lagos. Popular SuperSport presenter Moses Praiz anchored the elaborate event.
Former Lagos State Governor and ex-Nigeria’s Minister of Works and Housing, His Excellency Babatunde Raji Fashola, also honoured Dr. Alao with his presence and delivery of an compelling lecture titled “Re-Thinking the Current Football Business Model in Nigeria as a Catalyst for Sports Development”.
Former Sports Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh — now Minister of State for Industry — and former Super Eagles captain Nwankwo Kanu wrote the foreword for the book.
The book was reviewed by Dr Bolu John Folayan, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro.
Shehu Dikko’s Tribute to Alao
Chairman of the event, Mallam Shehu Dikko, who also chairs the National Sports Commission (NSC), described Alao as a man of impeccable character who has contributed immensely to the growth of sports journalism in Nigeria.
Dikko recalled that his relationship with the popular journalist began a few years ago.
“Mumini Alao published my response to an article he wrote on his popular ‘Soccer Talk’ page, which made me popular back then. I got recognised because of that, and it was one of the reasons why I was appointed League Management Company (LMC) Chairman and where I am today,” Dikko began.
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“We met only a few years ago. He has never asked me for any favour until he requested me to be the chairman of this occasion. That shows his character and credibility. The only time he calls me is when he wants to advise me or suggest how to get things done better.”
Dikko believes the book will serve as a reference point for young and aspiring journalists as well as entrepreneurs.
“The book will be eternal; people will read it long after we have left. They will read and make reference to it. It will guide them on how to run the business of sports writing or publishing, and other sectors. It should not end here. I hope you will write many other books that will give us more insights into how things are done properly.”
Enoh Praises Alao’s Integrity and Expertise
In his remarks, the Chief Guest of Honour, Senator Enoh, also had kind words for Alao.
The former university professor said Alao played a pivotal role in making his time as Sports Minister a success.
“When I was made Minister of Sports, I tapped into the experience of somebody like Dr Alao to guide and navigate through the job,” he said.
“I found in him a very upright, dependable, and highly experienced individual. This book is a remarkable insight into his journey as a journalist and his success stories.”
Alao Expresses Gratitude
In his vote of thanks, Alao expressed gratitude to everyone who came out to honour him.
“I don’t know where to start because I’m completely overwhelmed by what has happened today. I’m seeing the faces of my loved ones. I want to thank you all for your show of love for me,” he remarked.
He profusely thanked all the companies, organisations and individuals that played various roles in making his autobiography launch a huge success.
Dr. also publicly thanked his wife, Medina Alao for being a solid pillar all his life and the late Chairman of Complete Communications Limited – publishers of Complete Sports and other titles, Dr. Emmanuel Sunny Ojeagbase, for giving him his dream job in sports journalism.
Notable Guests in Attendance
Among the dignitaries at the event were former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Amaju Pinnick, current NFF President Ibrahim Gusau (represented by Nigeria National League Chairman George Aluo), former NFF Vice President Seyi Akinwunmi, and Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye.
Ex-internationals Segun Odegbami, Dominic Iorfa, Alloy Agu, Etim Esin, Mutiu Adepoju, Wasiu Ipaye, Joseph Yobo, and Desire Oparanozie also attended.
Top journalists from different parts of the country graced the occasion.
By Adeboye Amosu
Photos by Ganiyu Yusuf
