…Publisher celebrates resilience, legacy of storytelling
…Free eye care outreach highlights commitment to community impact
It was a moment of reflection, celebration and renewed commitment to excellence on Saturday as Great Achiever Magazine commemorated its 30th anniversary, with Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Yomi Ogunsanu, delivering a stirring welcome address that traced the publication’s journey and impact over three decades.
Addressing a distinguished audience of traditional rulers, professionals, and stakeholders, Ogunsanu described the anniversary as a historic milestone, marking “thirty years of hard work, perseverance and resilience” in documenting excellence and inspiring generations through storytelling.
Founded in 1996 in Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, the magazine, according to the publisher, emerged from a bold vision to celebrate achievement and uphold integrity in journalism, despite humble beginnings and limited resources.
He noted that the publication had, over the years, remained committed to spotlighting achievers across governance, business, education, culture and community development, positioning itself as a platform for nation-building and historical documentation.
Ogunsanu emphasized that Great Achiever Magazine evolved with changing times, transitioning from print to digital platforms while maintaining its core values of credibility and excellence in storytelling.
Reflecting on the challenges faced over the years, he acknowledged economic pressures and shifts in the media landscape but affirmed that the organisation had remained resilient, relevant and purpose-driven.
The publisher expressed deep appreciation to readers, featured personalities, advertisers, and the editorial team, describing them as critical pillars that sustained the magazine’s vision and growth.
He also attributed the publication’s longevity to divine grace, noting that God’s guidance had been instrumental in navigating the organisation through difficult periods.
Looking ahead, Ogunsanu disclosed plans to expand the magazine’s digital footprint, discover and promote emerging achievers, and continue publishing biographical works that preserve legacies for future generations.
The event also served as an avenue to recognise key traditional and community leaders who have supported the magazine over the years, including Oba Abdul-Razaq Adesina Adenugba and Samuel A. Awosanya.
Others acknowledged for their contributions include Feyisayo Soyewe, described as a longstanding supporter of the publication’s mission.
A major highlight of the celebration was the announcement of Lifetime Achievement Awards for notable personalities who have distinguished themselves in their fields and supported the magazine’s growth.
Among the awardees are Femi Bakre, Managing Director of Parallex Bank, and Yekeen Ajibola Odusanya, a retired Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service.
Also honoured were Ademola Onalaja, Safiriyu Kazeem, Funke Bakre and Abiodun Bakare.
Ogunsanu congratulated the awardees, describing them as individuals who had not only excelled in their respective careers but also contributed meaningfully to societal development and the magazine’s sustainability.
In line with its corporate social responsibility, the magazine organised a free medical outreach during the event, offering eye screening, medication and eyeglasses to members of the public.
The outreach was conducted in partnership with St. Mary’s Catholic Eye Hospital, a renowned specialist institution, underscoring the magazine’s commitment to community welfare.
The publisher used the occasion to highlight specific contributions of some awardees, recalling the support of Odusanya during a 2024 engagement with the Lilypond Export Command, which he said strengthened institutional collaboration.
He also praised Onalaja for his consistent guidance and Kazeem for sustained patronage, describing both as instrumental to the magazine’s enduring success.
Special recognition was given to Funke Bakre for her steadfast support, and to Abiodun Bakare for his mentorship and encouragement over the years.
Ogunsanu reserved particular commendation for Femi Bakre, whose support, including facilitating advert retainership for the magazine, he described as a major factor in its sustainability.
He concluded by expressing gratitude to guests for their presence, noting that the celebration belonged as much to supporters as it did to the organisation, and reaffirmed the magazine’s commitment to greater impact in the years ahead.
Additionally, goodwill messages poured in from prominent leaders and stakeholders, including former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, who was represented at the occasion by Giwa Niyi Osoba.
In his remarks, Senator Daniel congratulated the management and staff of Great Achiever Magazine for sustaining a legacy of purposeful journalism over three decades.
Speaking on his behalf, Osoba described the publication as a vital platform that has consistently projected positive narratives about Nigeria and its people, noting that its commitment to celebrating excellence aligns with the broader goals of national development and social cohesion.
He further commended the publisher for his resilience and vision, urging the organisation to continue setting high standards in media practice while adapting to the evolving digital landscape, as he reaffirmed Senator Daniel’s support for initiatives that promote integrity, excellence and community advancement.
