'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Professor Tom Adaba, the first Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), who passed away on Saturday at the age of 84.
In a heartfelt statement, Governor Ododo described the late Professor Adaba as a pioneering figure in Nigerian media, broadcasting, and academia. He noted that Adaba was a beacon of development in the country, particularly for the people of Kogi State and the Ebira community.
"I am saddened by the death of our father and leader, Professor Tom Adaba, who has gone to be with his maker," Governor Ododo said. "Our prayers are with his immediate family, the people of Kogi State, and Nigeria at large, as we mourn the colossal loss of a man who was not only a teacher and mentor but also a leader revered by many in the media profession, academia, the Ebira community, and the entire nation."
Governor Ododo also extended his condolences to the Ohinoyi of Ebira land, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, as well as to the people of Ebira and Kogi State, acknowledging the loss of someone who held the traditional title of Ohieteohueyi of Ebira land.
Professor Adaba, born in 1941, was a man of many historic accomplishments. He made significant strides in the field of communications, becoming the first Nigerian elected as president of the African Council for Communication Education (ACCE). His contributions to the media landscape also included serving as the first principal of the Nigeria Television College and, most notably, as the first Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). He continued to impact the field until his retirement in the late 1990s.
Professor Tom Adaba's legacy will live on as a trailblazer in Nigerian media and communications, whose work shaped the industry and inspired countless individuals.
The Governor concluded by reiterating his condolences, emphasizing that the late professor’s passing marks a significant loss for Nigeria, and especially for Kogi State and the Ebira community.
