Okegbenro’s SMED Initiative Gets Plaudits from Odegbami, Anibeze

*Dudu-Orumen, Olopade, others set to partner the project

The Sports and Media Development Network (SMED), a non-governmental body initiative put in place to mark the 60th birthday of frontline journalist and media entrepreneur, Gboyega Okegbenro, has received wide support from the sporting world.

At breakfast session to inaugurate SMED’s Board of Trustees in Lagos yesterday, Okegbenro who chairs the initiative as well doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of Peachtree Communications, described the NGO as something he conceived as a pay back time to help mentor up and coming journalists.

With over 40 years experience as a journalist, Gboye as he’s fondly called, believes those on the board of SMED like ex-international Segun Odegbami, Vanguard on Saturday Editor, Onochie Anibeze, former Ogun State’s Commissioner for Sports, Bukola Olopade amongst others, will open doors of opportunities for youths.

“We are going to give athletes and journalists fresh perspectives into their careers,” Okegbenro added.

In his remarks, Odegbami said the SMED initiative was a strong idea that will change the life of many youths in the country.

“Okegbenro is full of many ideas and this is another noble one. He told me about NFF News Magazine and I was not excited but he made a success out of the publication. The SMED initiative is a big one with sports and media together while education is also part of this. This is mass appeal and it will be widely embraced fast,” Odegbami said.

Also, Anibeze while congratulating Okegbenro on his birthday added that it was time for the media to be at the forefront of sports development in the country.

“You can write to shape opinion and also ensure they listen to you. The coaches, managers and athletes themselves must listen when you state your message clearly from a well-informed perspective,” Anibeze said.

CEO of Nilayo Sports, Bukola Olopade, advised the staff members and the board of SMED to stay firmly with the organization to make it a big brand.

Chairman of Edo State Sports Commission, Barr. Godwin Dudu-Orumen, in his remarks pledged the support of the state and his academy, Crest Football Academy to help actualise the dream behind the setting up of SMED.