LASODA HONOURS VISUALLY-IMPAIRED VETERAN BROADCASTER, RICHARD OLAJIDE IDOWU
The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has recognised the immense contributions of the visually-impaired ace broadcaster, Mr. Richard Olajide Idowu, popularly known as ‘Gbelegbo’, for exemplifying hope and resilience for Persons Living With Disabilities (PWDs) despite his disability status.
As a way of giving him the deserved recognition for his immense contributions as a distinguished broadcaster, the State Government through LASODA presented him with a cheque of N2 Million.
Speaking at the event held in honour of Mr. Idowu at the Conference Room of Lagos State House of Assembly, the House Committee Chairman on Social Development, Honourable Olanrewaju Oshun congratulated the ace broadcaster, saying that disability is not akin to lack of ability.
He affirmed that Mr. Idowu has demonstrated his determination to excel to everyone through his immense contributions to the broadcast industry despite his disability status.
In his words: “Mr. Idowu is a ray of hope to PWDs and their parents. His contributions to the broadcast industry have revealed that PWDs can do great things if only they have self-belief and pursue their dreams with utmost determination”.
“I hereby urge PWDs to see beyond their disabilities and develop their potential instead. I must also urge the parents to nurture PWDs with the right education and attitude to be the best version of themselves”, he added.
Also speaking, the General Manager of LASODA, Mr. Oluwadamilare Ogundairo informed that the special recognition of Mr Idowu reaffirms the commitment of the State Government to the plight of persons living with disabilities.
According to him, the present administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is poised to encourage physically challenged persons to continue to strive for excellence regardless of their disabilities.
He said: “The essence of this award is to recognise Chief Idowu’s exceptional services and dedication as well as encourage persons with disability and their parents not to ever give up on their dreams. Through this special recognition award, LASODA is sending a message to PWDs to continue to give their best in their chosen fields”.
Ogundairo added that it is high time everyone realised that disability is not a barrier to a successful and fulfilling career, saying that with doggedness and dedication, PWDs can also succeed and do exploits.
He applauded the fact that Mr. Idowu, a well-educated individual, did not let his disability discourage him from pursuing his dreams, noting that through determination and hunger for excellence, children with disabilities can also be celebrated in future.
Appreciating the management of LASODA for the special recognition award, Mr. Idowu said, “I am very happy to be receiving this special recognition award. I am glad that I am alive to receive this honour and thank everyone who made this possible”.
Mr. Richard Olajide Morakinyo Idowu born on the 24th of February, 1955 in Ibadan, Oyo State, has produced and anchored many programmes on NTA Channel 7 now known as Channel 10, MITV and Radio Lagos where he produced and anchored ‘Gbelegbo’ from 1981 till date. He has to his credit numerous awards for his contributions to the broadcast industry.
EA/TMS/KO
CAPTIONS
PIX 1: The Chairman of the House Committee on Social Development, Honourable Olanrewaju Oshun presenting the special recognition award to Mr. Morakinyo flanked by the General Manager of LASODA, Mr. Oluwadamilare Ogundairo alongside some Directors of the Agency
PIX 2: Honourable Olanrewaju Oshun; Mr. Oluwadamilare Ogundairo, Daughter of the Awardee, Mrs. Ifeoluwa Lasisi and Mr. Richard O. M. Idowu.
PIX 3: Cross-section of people at the event
PIX 4: Mr. Richard Olajide Morakinyo Idowu, the Awardee
