Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has appointed seasoned media practitioner Adeshina Oyetayo as his Special Adviser on Research, Media and Documentation, bringing over two decades of journalistic excellence to the legislative leadership team.
The appointment, which became effective in March 2025, represents a strategic move by the Speaker to enhance the communication capabilities of his office through Oyetayo’s extensive experience across Nigeria’s media landscape. The new appointee’s rich background spans traditional journalism, digital media platforms, and specialised legislative reporting.
Before assuming his current role, Oyetayo served as Chief Executive Officer and Editor-in-Chief of XS-Proficient Media Services Limited, the publishing company behind www.theassemblyng.com—a National Assembly-accredited digital platform dedicated to comprehensive coverage of Nigerian legislative activities. Under his leadership, the organisation also produced specialised publications for various state governments, institutions, and private entities.
Oyetayo’s journalism career began in 2002 at the prestigious TELL Magazine, where he honed his investigative and reporting skills. His professional trajectory took a significant turn in 2010 when he joined Punch Newspaper as an external columnist, contributing regular insights on political and social issues. From 2014, he assumed the position of Managing Editor at Lagos Indicator magazine, further cementing his expertise in Lagos-focused journalism.
His investigative credentials were further enhanced through his work as an undercover reporter for BBC Africa Eye, where he contributed to high-impact investigative pieces. Beyond journalism, Oyetayo has demonstrated his literary prowess as the author of “Behind the Streets,” a compelling book that chronicles the personalities whose names have become synonymous with various locations across Lagos State.
The media veteran’s exceptional work has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. His achievements include being a finalist for the prestigious CNN/MultiChoice African Journalist of the Year award in 2006, winning the Young Journalist of the Year award in 2005, and receiving the Journalist of the Year recognition at The Future Awards Africa in 2007. His versatility was further recognised when he won the Best Music Writer award at the MTV MAMA Awards in 2010.
Academically, Oyetayo holds a solid foundation in Mass Communication from Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, complemented by philosophical studies at the University of Lagos. This dual educational background in communication and critical thinking positions him uniquely to navigate the complex intersection of media, politics, and public discourse.
In his new capacity, Oyetayo is expected to revolutionise the communication strategy of the Lagos Speaker’s office, leveraging his deep understanding of both traditional and digital media landscapes. His appointment signals the Assembly’s commitment to modern, effective communication practices that can bridge the gap between legislative activities and public understanding.
The seasoned journalist brings to his new role an intimate knowledge of Lagos politics, media dynamics, and the evolving needs of contemporary political communication. His extensive network within Nigeria’s media ecosystem and proven track record in legislative reporting make him ideally positioned to enhance the visibility and impact of the Lagos State House of Assembly’s activities.
This strategic appointment reflects Speaker Obasa’s vision of modernising legislative communication and ensuring that the activities of the Lagos State House of Assembly are effectively communicated to stakeholders and the general public through innovative media strategies and comprehensive documentation practices.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
