'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Hajia Rafatu Salami, a veteran journalist and National Treasurer of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria). Hajia Salami passed away in the early hours of Friday, December 20, 2024, in Abuja, at the age of 55.
In a condolence message issued by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo extended his sympathies to Hajia Salami’s immediate family, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the International Press Institute (IPI), and the management of Voice of Nigeria (VON), where she served as the Assistant Director of Digital Media until her death.
Governor Ododo praised Hajia Salami for her contributions to journalism and public service. "As we mourn the passing of our sister and one of the outstanding female journalists in Nigeria, we are comforted by her legacy of remarkable achievements as a courageous professional and a caring mother, as well as her compassion for humanity, unwavering integrity, and dedication to public service," he said.
The Governor emphasized her role as a trailblazer in the media, leaving an indelible mark on the journalism profession in Nigeria and serving as an inspiration to many young journalists, particularly women.
Governor Ododo prayed for the peaceful repose of Hajia Salami’s soul and asked God to grant her family the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. He also urged the journalism community to honor her memory by upholding the values she exemplified during her lifetime.
Hajia Rafatu Salami, a native of Ihima in Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, was known for her commitment to journalistic excellence and public service. Her death marks the end of an illustrious career that spanned decades, during which she contributed immensely to the growth of media in Nigeria.
She was laid to rest on Friday at the Gudu Cemetery in Abuja, according to Islamic rites.
The passing of Hajia Rafatu Salami is a significant loss not only to her family and colleagues but also to the journalism profession in Nigeria. Her contributions will continue to inspire generations of journalists.
