The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran journalist and communications expert, Dapo Sotuminu. 

Reflecting on the loss, Olopade described Sotuminu as more than a journalist: “Dapo and I share a long-standing working relationship.

“He was not just a journalist; he was a brother and a friend to me, a workaholic whose contributions to this industry will never be forgotten. His dedication and unparalleled work ethic have left an indelible mark on the sports sector.” 

Sotuminu, a respected media professional, was known for his impactful work in advancing sports marketing and journalism.

Olopade mourning the magnitude of this loss, stated, “Why now, Dapo! We had great things to do together. You’re a rare gem. Words fail to capture the devastation of this loss.” 

The late journalist’s legacy in sports media remains a testament to his dedication and passion, and his contributions will continue to inspire professionals in the industry.

The Lagos State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (Lagos SWAN) has again been thrown into a mourning state with the tragic demise of one of its vibrant members, Dapo Sotuminu, who died on Wednesday morning after a brief illness.

According to the Lagos SWAN chairman, Debo Oshundun, “This is a loss that strikes the heart of the association and serves as a painful reminder of the toll taken on the journalism and sports community. Sotuminu’s untimely departure is a case of one too many as we battle with the death of another member, Adeyinka Adebayo. This will surely leave an indelible mark on Lagos SWAN and its members.”

Oshundun described him as a consummate professional and passionate journalist because he would always be ready to stand and be counted when called.

While reminiscing on his life and time, he said Sotuminu was dedicated and committed to excellence and professionalism. The Lagos SWAN chairman said these were evident throughout his illustrious career.

He rose from a cub reporter to serve as the Deputy Sports Editor at New Telegraph Newspaper, Sports Editor at Compass Newspaper, Director of Communication with the Nigeria Women Football League, and Media Director for the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

The association affirmed that beyond Sotuminu’s professional achievements, he was also a visionary who championed grassroots sports development through the Victor Ikpeba 5-Aside Tournament and as the Director General for Sports at the Surulere Local Government Area of Lagos.

The Lagos SWAN family extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues left behind, as his legacy in sports journalism and sports development will never be forgotten.

The Nigeria Football Federation has commiserated with the family of veteran journalist, Dapo Sotuminu, who died in Lagos on Wednesday morning after a brief illness.

NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said: “This is really shocking. I have known Dapo for more than two decades and have always been impressed with his zest for thoroughness and of course, his passion for women’s football from the beginning of the game in Nigeria.

“Words are not enough to describe his stature as a professional and someone who showed immense respect and regard to fellow professionals and other human beings. We pray that the Almighty will grant him eternal rest, and also grant his family, friends and the sports-writing fraternity the fortitude to bear the big loss.”

Reports said the dedicated and resilient journalist gave up the ghost at the hospital to which he was rushed after he suddenly fell ill at home.

Sotuminu, a sapient and prolific professional for the several decades he was in the trade, worked at, among other media houses, TNT Newspapers (Deputy Sports Editor), New Telegraph Newspapers (Deputy Sports Editor) and Compass Newspapers (Sports Editor).

Suave, self-effacing and gifted with boundless energy, Dapo Sotuminu also served as the Director of Communications of Nigeria Women Football League and Media Director of Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.