Abuja, May 29, 2026 — Former Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, alongside the President of Commonwealth Business Women Africa, Ngozi Oyewole, media professionals and various women’s organisations, have praised veteran journalist and advocate, Moji Makanjuola, as she marked her 70th birthday.
The commendations were delivered during a grand reception held in Abuja, organised in her honour, according to a statement issued by Evelyn Onyilo, former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and Publisher of Phenomenal People Magazine.
Tallen was quoted as applauding Makanjuola’s excellence in health journalism, noting that her depth of knowledge in the field once made her assume she was a trained medical doctor.
Oyewole, Convener of the Business Women of Influence for Renewed Hope Agenda (BWI-RHA), described Makanjuola as a guiding light and mentor to many women working in advocacy and non-governmental spaces.
The Chief Organiser of the event, Dr Betty Olutunde of the Betnely Charity Foundation, described her as a compassionate individual with a consistent record of supporting others.
Representing the Director-General of the Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development, Dr Dayo Benjamin Laniyi, Dr Ebi Emezue highlighted Makanjuola’s commitment to social justice and women’s empowerment.
The National Chairperson of NAWOJ, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, represented by FCT Chairperson Bassey Ita Ikpang, described her as a devoted mentor who has nurtured many young professionals in the media space, while offering prayers for her continued good health.
Founder of Women of Worth Global, Comfort Adesoye, also prayed for her well-being, noting the positive impact of her lifelong service and mentorship.
A Deputy Director with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Dele Atunbi, said Makanjuola had remained a central figure in the organisation, consistently guiding younger journalists in Abuja.
Former NUJ FCT Chairman, Amos Dunia, recalled her role as one of the founding members of NAWOJ, adding that her influence helped shape the association’s early structure and leadership history.
In her remarks, Evelyn Onyilo expressed gratitude for Makanjuola’s recovery and good health, describing the celebration as a joyful moment for colleagues and admirers.
Responding, Makanjuola thanked guests for the surprise celebration and reflected on the importance of policies that allow spouses of diplomats and foreign service officers to engage meaningfully while abroad.
She also encouraged women to strengthen solidarity and mutual support in the pursuit of gender equality and professional advancement.
Guests at the event collectively described her as a trailblazing journalist, mentor, and selfless leader whose contributions to media and women’s advocacy continue to inspire many across Nigeria and beyond.