By Joy Salami
As the curtain gradually falls on 2024, the Managing Director of The Graphic Newspaper, Mr. Yusuf Itopa, has charged personnel of the corporation to sustain the core values of love and sacrifice in the coming year.
Mr Itopa, in his end of year message, said such fundamental values would go a long way in promoting and strengthening the foundation of love, tolerance, commitment and peace in the organization.
The gathering, described as casual yet significant, served as a platform for reflection, gratitude, and strategic planning for the upcoming year.
Speaking further, Mr. Itopa extended profound appreciation to the staff for their dedication and commitment throughout the year, while acknowledging the contributions of individuals in various roles, emphasising their critical impact on the organization’s growth.
In his words, “We owe our progress to the collective efforts of everyone here. Let us thank God for this journey and pray for a successful 2024”.
While wishing those traveling home for the Yuletide holidays a safe journey, he urged the team to embrace the coming year with renewed vigor and a stronger resolve to double their efforts.
The MD also highlighted the importance of cultivating stronger governmental connections to elevate the organization’s profile. He called on the staff to join him in praying for such breakthroughs, which he believes are pivotal to securing the attention the organization deserves.
Reflecting on his leadership, Mr. Itopa admitted that some of his decisions might have been challenging for some but emphasised they were made in the best interest of the organization.
According to him, “For success, tough decisions are sometimes necessary. What truly matters is that we are progressing”.
He encouraged unity and discouraged cliques among staff members, stressing the importance of love, humility, and teamwork in achieving common goals. He also announced plans for a Christmas celebration and hinted at making it a permanent tradition to foster camaraderie.
Other members of the team added their voices during the interaction session of the meeting. The Deputy News Editor who doubles as the Chairperson of The Graphic Chapel of Nigerian Union of Journalists, Ms. Grace Ben Kato, commended the management for their efforts but appealed for increased funding and better tools to streamline editorial workflows.
In response, Mr. Itopa reiterated his commitment to prioritising staff welfare and assured that all departments would benefit from planned reforms.
Speaking on behalf of the management, the Executive editor, Mr James Oyewole expressed gratitude to the staff for their dedication and called for greater cooperation and understanding in the new year.
He also emphasised the importance of timely responses to news assignments to maintain the organization’s reputation for excellence.
As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was one of optimism and shared purpose. The MD’s closing remarks served as a rallying call for even greater achievements in 2025.
