Follow Us on Google
Presidential hopeful, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has donated N5 million to the Kwara State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel.
The donation was against the backdrop of the NUJ’s 45th anniversary; after the local chapter conferred an excellence award on him, yesterday.
The oil magnate dedicated his Award of Excellence to ‘the Nigerian youth and all victims of institutional abuse.’
Delivering the message on his behalf, Abdulrazaq Hamzat told an audience of journalists, civil society leaders, and political figures that the award was not about personal achievements, but about giving voice to those silenced by systemic injustice. The declaration drew sustained applause. Backing words with action, Hashim announced a N5 million donation to the Correspondents’ Chapel, underscoring his belief that a vibrant and independent press remains the “pillar of democracy” and urged journalists to remain fearless in holding institutions accountable.
Other News
Hashim described institutional abuse, particularly in the academic sector, as a “silent killer of democracy” that stifles innovation, silences dissent, and weakens trust in governance.
Citing his personal experience, he recalled how the University of Lagos withheld his degree certificate after disagreements tied to student activism. “They could withhold a certificate, but not knowledge,” he said, and explained how the setback propelled him to establish Set and Sell, a political communication firm that laid the foundation for his success as a PR strategist and entrepreneur.
He also highlighted the case of Abdulrazaq Hamzat, who was expelled and denied a Master’s certificate by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) due to disputes over student association activities. Such actions, Hashim warned, are “a dangerous stain on Nigeria’s democratic credentials.
“Institutions should address intellectual issues intellectually, not through victimisation,” he added.
