Media guru Akinyemi celebrates broadcasting icon Julie Cooker at 87

By Adejayan Gbenga

Media expert and Chief Executive Officer of Pace Media Concept, Dr. Akinyemi Rasaq Akanmu Bolaji, has congratulated veteran broadcaster Chief Julie Cooker on her 87th birthday, describing her as a living repository of African broadcasting history whose legacy continues to inspire generations of journalists.

In a birthday message released on Saturday, Akinyemi praised Chief Cooker for her outstanding contributions to journalism, broadcasting and the promotion of African culture during a career spanning more than six decades.

He noted that she made history as the second woman to appear on Western Nigeria Television (WNTV), Ibadan, Africa’s first television station, where her professionalism, eloquence and commitment to ethical journalism set a standard for broadcasters across the continent.

Beyond broadcasting, Akinyemi described Chief Cooker as an accomplished songstress whose three musical albums contributed to the promotion and preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

He also commended her support for literary and historical documentation, recalling her acceptance to write the foreword to Media, Governance and Culture in Celebration of Chief Lekan Alabi @75.

According to him, her contribution added historical depth and intellectual value to the publication, reflecting her enduring commitment to preserving the rich heritage of the media profession.

Akinyemi said that although Chief Cooker now resides in London following her retirement, she remains actively involved in mentoring younger media practitioners by sharing the knowledge and experience she has gained over the years.

Describing her as “a doyenne, an oracle and a lodestar,” Akinyemi said her life exemplifies journalism as a lifelong commitment to truth, integrity and public service, and prayed that God would grant her continued good health, sound mind and peace as she marks her 87th birthday.