Bitrus Kozah, Abuja
The Management and Staff of Voice of Nigeria, VON, have condoled with the family and staff of Voice of Nigeria, VON, over the loss of Mrs. Rafat Salami who died and was buried according to Islamic rights on Friday December 20, 2024.
In a statement issued by the VON Director General, Mallam Jibrin Baba-Ndace on Saturday he said the “Management and staff of Voice of Nigeria (VON) extend heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Mrs. Rafat Idris Salami, our esteemed Assistant Director of Digital Media.”
Mr. Ndace said, “Her demise on Friday, 20th December 2024, has left us all in shock and deep sorrow.
“Mrs. Salami was far more than a professional; she was a beacon of strength, compassion, and inspiration.”
The Voice of Nigeria’s Director General further stated “Her remarkable contributions to broadcast journalism and her pivotal role in advancing digital media at VON were extraordinary.
“Renowned for her impeccable work ethic, multilingual skills, and unwavering commitment to excellence, she was the epitome of professionalism and dedication.
“My personal relationship with Mrs. Salami predates my appointment as Director General of VON.” He said
The former Director General of Voice of Nigeria, VON, Mallam Abubakar Jijiwa said Madame Rafat Salami will be remembered for her numerous contributions in her service to the country, to God and humanity.
The Head of News, Voice of Nigeria, Mr. Aliyu Othman commended her contributions in “so many ways”.
In recent times even earlier this week, despite her health challenges, Mrs. Salami participated actively during the VON Management Retreat held in Abuja Nigeria’s capital before her death.
Mrs. Salami’s illustrious journey with VON began as a correspondent in Lagos, State Southwest Nigeria, where her passion and diligence set her apart.
Over the years, she played instrumental roles in producing flagship programs such as VONSCOPE, Sixty Minutes, and Africa Hour.
Her integrity, dedication to truth, and exceptional leadership earned her the admiration and respect of her peers.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mrs. Salami was a passionate unionist, a staunch advocate for gender equity, and a mentor to countless talents within the media industry.
She will be remembered for her active involvement in the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and her recent re-election as Treasurer of the International Press Institute (IPI) underscored her lifelong commitment to advancing journalism and human right.
PIAK
