Encomiums poured in torrents on Thursday on former Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture Steve Ayorinde. The occasion was his 50th birthday.
Eminent personalities in the public sector, politics, media, arts and tourism industry extolled Ayorinde’s virtues.
Ayorinde was also honoured with a pan-African zoom webinar conference yesterday with the theme: Close the gap – For African Tourism to Reboot, Revive and Refocus.
Governor of Ekiti State and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, recalled Ayorinde’s admirable coverage of arts and culture as a young journalist, carving a niche for himself “as a first-rate literary critic and an art historian.”
In a letter he personally signed, Fayemi said:
“You not only brought class and panache to art and culture journalism, you also made your pages an encyclopedia of literary intelligence, and became widely respected by arts and culture enthusiasts. One is particularly proud of your consistent commitment to the defence of professional integrity in your role as a journalist, editor and media manager.
Former governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, under whom Ayorinde served as commissioner, described him as “a fine gentleman and a brother who is more than a friend.
“I personally attest to your mental dexterity as exemplified in your numerous contributions and achievements during our administration in Lagos State.
“Without a doubt, you have proven yourself in the last two decades as a very successful journalist, author, manager and administrator.
“On behalf of my family, Bola and myself, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to you and yours,” he stated.
The Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, congratulating Ayorinde during the virtual stakeholders’ conference, said his time at the helm of Lagos tourism had a significant impact on the state’s tourism landmark project.
Chairman of Punch Nigeria Ltd, Mrs Angela Amuwa, said Ayorinde’s life has been exemplary. She recalled her first encounter with the former editor of Punch on the Arts page of The Guardian “through his fine prose,” adding that his distinct style made him a joy to read.
The Publisher of Ovation magazine, Chief Dele Momodu, also described Ayorinde as a committed and amiable journalist who buit bridges and keeps his friends.
