By Duchess Ifeoluwa
Friends, family members and colleagues across the Nigerian media industry have poured tributes on the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Freedom Online, Gabriel Akinadewo, as he marked his birthday.
The tributes, which came from journalists, media executives, political associates and family members, described Akinadewo as a diligent professional, a dependable friend and a respected figure within Nigeria’s journalism community.
Leading the congratulatory messages, veteran journalist Muyiwa Akintunde invoked the biblical verse Proverbs 22:29, noting that Akinadewo exemplifies the virtues of diligence and commitment in his professional and personal relationships.
“Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men,” he quoted, adding that Akinadewo has demonstrated remarkable dedication not only in his career but also in building enduring relationships.
He prayed that the celebrant would experience greater grace and reap abundant rewards from the good seeds he has sown in life.
In his tribute, journalist and longtime associate, Biodun Durojaiye, fondly referred to Akinadewo as “Angel Gabriel,” reflecting the respect and affection he commands among colleagues.
Durojaiye recounted that their friendship began around 2008 at the now-defunct Nigerian Compass newspaper, where Akinadewo served as Weekend Editor while he joined the organisation as Online Editor.
According to him, Akinadewo had already established himself as a respected journalist before their meeting, having served as Politics Editor and later Group Politics Editor at The Nation newspaper.
He recalled how Akinadewo once intervened to secure his reinstatement after he was dismissed from Nigerian Compass, describing the gesture as a defining moment that cemented their friendship.
Durojaiye also narrated how their professional relationship later evolved into a business partnership that culminated in the establishment of the online newspaper Freedom Online.
Over the years, he said, Akinadewo has remained widely respected among Nigerian editors for his generosity, integrity and sound judgement in political matters.
“Within the circle of Nigerian editors, Gabriel is widely respected and genuinely loved. Many fondly call him ‘Angel Gabriel.’ He is generous in spirit, fair in dealings and always mindful that opportunities should be shared,” Durojaiye said.
He also highlighted Akinadewo’s spiritual role as the General Overseer of a Cherubim and Seraphim path founded by his grandfather, noting that he carries the responsibility with humility and dedication.
“As you celebrate another year today, my brother, I pray that God grants you longer life, greater wisdom, stronger influence and deeper fulfilment in all that you do,” he added.
Also paying tribute, journalist and cleric David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi described the celebrant as a benevolent elder brother whose life reflects the family’s values of honesty, sincerity, generosity and devotion to God.
He said Akinadewo has remained a guiding figure to his siblings, especially since the passing of their parents, and has continued to shoulder important responsibilities within the family and the Motailatu Church of God founded by their father.
“Since our parents passed on, you have been doing your best to fill the vacuum left by their painful exits. I wish you more strength as you continue to pilot the affairs of our family and the Motailatu Church of God worldwide left in your care by our father, the founder,” he said.
Despite his accomplishments in the media industry, Akinadewo-Adekahunsi noted that the celebrant has remained humble and committed to supporting colleagues and younger professionals.
He also urged the celebrant not to be discouraged by occasional disappointments that sometimes come from people, even within close circles.
“Do not be dissuaded by certain disappointments from some people, even family members. Such experiences are part of the challenges we are bound to face as Christians and passionate leaders. The Scripture reminds us: ‘And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not,’” he said, quoting Galatians 6:9.
Akinadewo-Adekahunsi prayed that the celebrant would continue to enjoy divine strength, long life, sound health and greater success in all his endeavours.
“I pray that you will never experience sorrow in your life again. May God bless those who bless you and return every evil intended against you. I wish you all the best as you will definitely celebrate many more decades in sound health, abundance of good things, happiness, and breakthroughs in Jesus’ name. Amen,” he said.
Several other associates also extended goodwill messages to the celebrant.
Media aide to President Bola Tinubu, Tope Ajayi, wished him many happy returns, while renowned journalist and publisher Azuh Arinze described him as a respected senior colleague and extended his best wishes.
Publisher Ken Ugbechie praised Akinadewo as “a fine writer and a good man,” while Ekundayo Asaju commended his dedication to truth, integrity and responsible journalism.
Other well-wishers, including Sakibu Olokojobi, Tunde Abatan, Victor Oriola and Adeola Yusuf, also offered prayers for continued success, good health and greater impact in the years ahead.
Akinadewo, widely known within media circles as a seasoned journalist and editor, has built a distinguished career spanning several major Nigerian media organisations.
He has held key editorial positions in leading publications and remains a respected voice in the country’s journalism and political reporting landscape.
Colleagues say his leadership at Freedom Online continues to contribute to digital journalism and responsible media practice in Nigeria.
