It was all glitz and glamour on Friday September 15th when friends, family, associates, members of the press and sports stakeholders across Nigeria came together to celebrate, veteran sports journalist, Bayour Issah on the occasion of his 58th birthday.
A widely traveled and accomplished sports journalist with over three decades of experience, the birthday celebration which climaxed at the Henry George Hotels in Ilorin was a true reflection of the immense contribution that the celebrant has made in the development of sports in the country.
People from all walks of life, especially members of the ‘fourth estate of the realm’ took turns to pay their tributes to the Publisher of Sportspro News who they all agreed has paid his dues in his trade.
Described as a leading light in the sports industry in Nigeria, he is reputed for not only mentoring many top sports journalists through his Sportspro News outlet but for also inspiring many Nigerians through his masterful delivery of content in both print and broadcasting.
The eventful Friday which began with a special prayer at Solagberu Mosque was followed by a novelty football match at Kwara Football Academy, and finally the night of tributes.
The Chief Imam of Solagberu Mosque, Sheikh Mohammed Jamiu prayed for the celebrant and his family. He prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the celebrant more fruitful years on earth in good health, prosperity and wisdom.
Kwara Football Academy, after playing out a one-all draw against Arsenal Kiddies in the Novelty match, eventually won the encounter 3-2 on penalties. The match was graced by the movers and shakers in the sport fraternity in the State.
Top government functionaries, business executives, family members, friends and associates and sports stakeholders graced the grand finale, where the virtues of Bayour Issah were extolled.
For many who have passed through his tutelage, they all ascribed their success to the ace Sportscaster and wished him many happy returns of the day.
The occasion which was chaired by the General Manager of Radio Kwara, Alhaji Kayode Aremu also had the attendance of the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Coach Bola Magaji amongst other top personalities.
The celebrant, who also had enough time to tell part of his stories, appreciated personalities, both living and dead, who according to him has assisted and supported his journey to the stardom.
In his remark, he also charged upcoming journalists to get the required education, grounded in the knowledge of sports, carve a niche for themselves in order to be relevant in the industry.
Meanwhile, the celebrant also revealed his plans to mark his 60th birthday celebration with a colloquium where intellectuals would come together to talk and chart a course for sports journalism and development in Nigeria.
Earlier on Thursday, Nigeria Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest of England Striker had among many other gifs received by the celebrant presented a Toyota Camry Car and a sum of One million naira to the legendary sports journalist
