MARKETING EDGE Publisher bags Chieftaincy title as ASIWAJU OF IJAN-EKITI

By Zion Rufus

John Ajayi, Publisher/CEO of MARKETING EDGE PUBLICATIONS LTD a revered figure in Nigeria’s publishing and journalism sector, has been honoured with the prestigious title of High Chief ASIWAJU OF IJAN-EKITI in Ekiti State, Nigeria.

The title was formally conferred on him as part of activities commemorating the one year coronation of the Royal Highness, HRM Oba Lawrence Adebanji Aladesuyi.

The Chieftaincy confernment on the veteran journalist alongside other eminent personalities was presided over by His Royal Majesty, the Onijan of Ijan-Ekiti, HRM ONIJAN OF IJAN EKITI, OBA LAWRENCE ADEBANJI ALADESUYI (AFAYAGBEKUN 11), in his palace.

Commenting on this distinguished title and position, John Ajayi expressed his gratitude and unwavering commitment to serving God and humanity. He emphasized his dedication to prioritizing the welfare of his people and all individuals he encounters, citing his deep connection with the Ekiti community since his formative years.

As an undergraduate student at the University of Lagos (Unilag), he was even elected as the President of the Ekiti Students Union. During his tenure, he and his team provided dynamic and result-oriented leadership to Ekiti students in Unilag.

“My commitment is to continue to serve God and humanity with unreserved energy and devotion,” Ajayi affirmed. “With this new position as Asiwaju Of Ijan Ekiti land, it is a renewed commitment to lofty ideals and service to God and humanity.”

John Ajayi, born on June 12, 1963, in Ijan-Ekiti, Gbonyin Local Government of Ekiti State, has dedicated his life to his faith, his beautiful family, the people of Ekiti, and a fulfilling career. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from the renowned University of Lagos, where his association with the Ekiti people remained strong.

He and his team worked tirelessly to preserve their culture and language and ensure their well-being.
To further his knowledge and prepare for future endeavors, he pursued a postgraduate diploma in Journalism at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, and later earned a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Lagos.

John Ajayi’s career in journalism has been marked by his unwavering dedication, visionary mindset, and exceptional marketing and public relations skills. He worked with esteemed media organizations in Nigeria, leaving an indelible mark in the print media sector.

His expertise spanned various business beats, and he served as a State House Correspondent for THISDAY Newspapers, covering events in the Governor’s office.

He embarked on his journalism journey at The News magazine and later joined Thisday newspaper, where he introduced the Media page column.

His investigative journalism skills and relentless pursuit of news stories earned him recognition for delivering groundbreaking reports that elevated the standards of Nigerian journalism.
In 2003, he took a bold step by establishing his own media outfit, MARKETING EDGE Publications Ltd.

Despite the risks involved, Ajayi’s vision aimed to promote brand ideas while expanding the boundaries of marketing and advertising knowledge within the Integrated Marketing Communications sector.

MARKETING EDGE has since evolved into a multi-channel media news platform, encompassing print, online, broadcast, and out-of-home media.

Additionally, the company established a subsidiary called Media Edge, offering comprehensive marketing communications and brand management consultancy services.

In acknowledgment of his outstanding contributions to the growth and development of journalism, John Ajayi was inducted into the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) in 2017.

Furthermore, in 2022, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), along with the Lagos Chapter and Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), honored him for his immense impact on the profession.

BJAN bestowed him with the Industry Torchbearer award for his pioneering work in brand journalism, while the NUJ recognized him as one of Nigeria’s Media Icons, further cementing John Ajayi’s legacy as a distinguished figure in the world of journalism and media.