President Bola Tinubu, Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State, and other dignitaries has mourned the demise of Professeur Tom Adaba.
Tom Adaba was the pioneer Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission.
In different statements on Saturday by their spokespersons, the President and Kogi State Governor extended their heartfelt condolences to the Adaba’s family, the federal government, Kogi State Government, and her people over the loss of the media icon.
KogiOnline reports that Professor Adaba passed away on Saturday at the age of 84.
President Tinubu recognised Adaba’s remarkable achievements as the first principal of the NTA Television College in Jos, the Plateau State capital.
Governor Ododo expressed grief over the demise of the ace broadcaster, communications scholar and media administrator whom he described as a leading light for development in Nigeria and a courageous voice of the people of Ebira land and Kogi state.
Hon. Abubakar Ohere in his mourning message and expression of sadness along with other dignitaries said Prof. Adaba is a vocal voice pg justice.
He was described as a father and elder statesman and that his death is like the burning of a great library—a lifetime of wisdom, stories, and lessons now beyond our reach.
Adding that the warmth of those words are guidance and are the depth of their love, and the imprint of their knowledge and remain remain with the peolle, shaping who they are.
The President said, “He (Adaba) contributed immensely to journalism practice in Nigeria, particularly in the broadcast industry.
“From teaching and mentoring to administration and consultancy, Professor Adaba was a towering figure and an inspiration to many within Nigeria’s broadcasting circles and beyond.“
He said, “The annals of Nigeria’s broadcast industry deregulation, communication scholarship, and the growth of media scholarship will be incomplete without a generous reference to Professor Adaba’s contributions.
“May his legacies live on in the many professionals he trained, the scholarly books he authored, and the integrity he brought to the public offices he held.”
They all prayed for the repose of Adaba’s soul and asked God Almighty to comfort his family, friends, and all who mourn this irreparable loss.
Adaba was also the first PhD. holder to be produced by the Department of Theatre Arts of the University of Jos in 1989.
As the NBC Director-General in 1992, the media icon was instrumental to overseeing the deregulation of Nigeria’s broadcast industry under the military administration of Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida.
Adaba was also at some time a Board member of DAAR Communications PLC, owners and operators of Africa Independent Television, AIT, Raypower FM, and Faaji Radio.
He was a community leader of note in Ebiraland in Kogi State and a devout Catholic. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Theresa Aaze Adaba, children and great grandchildren.