NIGERIAN BOOK FAIR TRUST CHAIRMAN PAYS TRIBUTE TO GBADEGA ADEDAPO AT 60
By Wole Adedoyin
The current Chairman of the Nigerian Book Fair Trust (NBFT), Managing Director of CSS Bookshops Limited, and immediate past President of the Booksellers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Dare Oluwatuyi, has paid a heartfelt tribute to Mr. Gbadega Adedapo on the occasion of his 60th birthday.
In a goodwill message released on behalf of the NBFT Council, Oluwatuyi described Mr. Adedapo as a visionary leader whose commitment and dedication have significantly shaped the Nigerian book industry. He noted that Adedapo’s tenure as Chairman of the NBFT brought about transformative changes in the organization and execution of the Nigeria International Book Fair (NIBF).
Oluwatuyi emphasized that Mr. Adedapo’s contributions to the book fair extended beyond his chairmanship, citing his consistent involvement and continued support for the growth of the NIBF. “Your leadership and expertise have left an indelible mark on our organization. Your impact is felt not only in Nigeria but across the global publishing community,” he stated.
Highlighting Adedapo’s impressive profile, Oluwatuyi recalled his roles as former President of the Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA), member of the International Publishers Association (IPA) Executive Council, and current Chairman of the Reproduction Rights Society of Nigeria (REPRONIG). He stressed that these positions are a testament to Adedapo’s unwavering passion for the development of the book industry.
The NBFT Chairman further praised Adedapo as an erudite publisher and philanthropist whose influence transcends the publishing profession. “Your selfless service and leadership continue to inspire generations of stakeholders in the book sector. You are deeply respected and admired by your peers,” Oluwatuyi affirmed.
According to him, the Nigerian book ecosystem owes much of its current progress to the steadfastness, vision, and resilience of leaders like Adedapo. He noted that his guidance has provided a strong foundation for young professionals and emerging institutions in the industry.
On behalf of the NBFT Council, Oluwatuyi expressed profound gratitude to Mr. Adedapo for his numerous contributions, both visible and behind the scenes, which have strengthened the structure of the council and advanced the Nigeria International Book Fair.
“As you mark this remarkable milestone, we join your family, friends, and associates in celebrating you. We pray for your continued good health, happiness, and a long life filled with fulfillment,” Oluwatuyi wrote.
He concluded his tribute with warm wishes, expressing the council’s love and appreciation for Adedapo’s guidance and mentorship. “We look forward to many more years of your wisdom, passion, and contributions to the growth of our literary and publishing community.”
The Nigerian Book Fair Trust, through this tribute, reaffirmed its deep respect and recognition of Mr. Gbadega Adedapo’s extraordinary service to the Nigerian and international book world.
