Industry stalwarts celebrate media icon at 60
By Oghale Mafuru
It was a glamourous event as industry stalwarts, captains of industry, media moguls gathered to celebrate, John Ajayi, the Publisher and CEO of the pioneer marketing, brand and advertising magazine, MARKETING EDGE Publications as he marks the diamond age of 60.
The epochal event which started with a thanksgiving service at the Catholic Church Transfiguration, Arepo, Ogun State was officiated by Most Rev Dr Peter Olukayode Odetoyinbo, the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta Diocese who admonished Christians to maintain the spirit of gratitude in every circumstance.
According to him, thanksgiving is a vital aspect of Christianity as it is a vivid demonstration of the sincere acknowledgement of the goodness of God. He prayed that as Christians continued to recognized the immutable hand of God in their lives, there will be a ceaseless flow of his goodness and mercies.
While describing Mr. John Ajayi as a lover of God who has shown commitment to the things of God over the years, he commended his resilience in championing the cause of the gospel, in furtherance of the Kingdom of God.
Mr. John Ajayi who was elated amid a rush of emotions expressed his heartfelt gratitude to God for preserving his life despite the myriad of challenges. Recounting his career journey and foray into brand journalism, the media tycoon shared some valuable lessons from his almost three dacade experience spotlighting the hitetto largely covered territory of brand, advertising and marketing communications.
According to him, he learnt to be fearless, dogged and relentless in the search of facts even though he had to step on some toes. He noted that his unflinching faith in God helped him through the turbulent period of his life.
Stilling basking in the euphoria of the day, Mr. Ajayi expressed his resolve to dedicate the rest of his life to giving back to society and philanthropy. “I will live the rest of my life to impact others” he said.
The Thanksgiving service was immediately followed by a reception which was well attended by very eminent and distinguished personalities, which include, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, President of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) and Group Managing Director, CMC Connect, Udeme Ufot, Group Managing Director SO&U, and Vice-President of the Experiential Marketers Association and Lead Consultant at Aster Integrated Marketing Limited.
Other reputable attendees include, the President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, AAAN and CEO of X3m Ideas, Steve Babaeko, Wasiu Abiola, Cluster Media Lead, West Africa, Nigerian Breweries Plc amongst others.
Highlight of the event was the cutting of the cake with family, friends and well wishers as well.as staff of MARKETING EDGE Group.
RECOMMENDED ARTICLES
Comment
No comments found.