The Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) chapter of the Radio, Television, Theatre, and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), on Tuesday, commissioned its newly constructed multipurpose hall at the Ile Akede, Orita Basorun premises of the station.
The facility, named after late veteran journalist Kunle Hamzat, father of Agidigbo FM founder Oriyomi Hamzat, was described by speakers as a “symbol of unity, perseverance, and commitment.”
Declaring the hall open, Prince Emeka Kalu, widely known as Magic Fingers and National President of RATTAWU, said the project reflected the spirit of resilience within the union.
“This hall is not just brick and mortar; it is a monument to our collective struggles, victories, and aspirations. It will stand as a centre of learning, solidarity, and progress for generations of media workers,” Prince Kalu stated.
He praised the BCOS chapter for their foresight and urged other chapters nationwide to emulate the initiative.
“This honour to the late Kunle Hamzat is timely and fitting. It reminds us that the labour of our past heroes in journalism and broadcasting must not be forgotten,” he added.
Outgoing Chairman of RATTAWU BCOS, Comrade Kolapo Carew, expressed delight at the completion of the long-envisioned project.
“This hall is not an end, but a means, a rallying point for our members, and a reminder of what can be achieved when dreams are pursued with perseverance,” Carew said.
“I urge our members to continue to stand in unity, because only in unity can we achieve more milestones like this.”
The Guest Speaker, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke (FCA), Chairman/CEO of Solutions FM, delivered a keynote lecture on “Leadership at a Time Like This.” He urged media professionals to embrace integrity, humility, communication, and coaching leadership styles.
“Leadership is not about position alone; it is about relationship, production, and the capacity to inspire growth in others. We must be leaders who raise leaders,” Adegoke stressed.
“If our profession will survive and thrive in these changing times, it must be driven by ethical leadership and continuous capacity development.”
Also speaking, Chairman of Oyo RATTAWU, Comrade Kehinde Olayade, commended the BCOS chapter for its foresight.
“What you have done here is more than building a hall. You have built a legacy, and this should inspire other chapters across the state,” he said.
In his goodwill message, the Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye Lekan Alabi, representing the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, praised the union for immortalising the late journalist.
“I was present during the foundation roofing of this hall, and today, I am here again for its commissioning. It shows resilience and determination. This is how great men are remembered,” Alabi remarked.
On behalf of the Hamzat family, Oriyomi Hamzat, founder of Agidigbo FM, expressed gratitude for the honour done to his late father.
“This recognition goes beyond my family. It reminds us that journalism is service, and those who serve with distinction will never be forgotten,” he said.
The new RATTAWU Hall is expected to serve as a hub for union activities, training sessions, and social events for members of BCOS.
Other dignitaries present included Chief Mrs. Dotun Olaitan, Chairman of BCOS Board; Comrade Kayode, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Oyo State; Alhaji (Chief) Asiwaju Yekini Abass Oladapo, Babaloja General of Oyo State; and Chief Nureeni Akanbi, among others.
