As we celebrate the birthday of Reuben Okala today, it’s important to note that a life well lived is a life lived in the service of others. This is what the former NTA ace and crack Reporter epitomises.
An award-winning journalist and veteran broadcaster with a successful career with Nigeria’s national television station, the Nigerian Television Authority that spanned over 30 years, Reuben Okala has contributed more to humanity than he has taken.
Needless to emphasise that Birthdays are special occasions that mark the passage of time and serve as personal milestones in our lives. They provide us with an opportunity to pause and reflect on the journey we have embarked upon, the lessons we have learned, and the person we have become.
In his haydays in broadcast space, he served on a broad range of special assignments including as designated correspondent to a number of high-level officials such as the Executive Governor of a State, 3 Ministers of Information, 2 Ministers of Information and Communication Technology ((ICT) and media aide to a Chairman of a political party, among others.
As we journey through life, time becomes a fundamental element shaping our experiences and perceptions. Birthdays, in particular, serve as poignant reminders of the passage of time and prompt us to reflect upon our accomplishments, failures, and aspirations. They evoke a sense of nostalgia and allow us to gauge our progress about our goals and dreams.
Reuben Okala did not settle for less as he continues on the path of growth and self-development. He holds a Masters degree in Public Administration from University of Calabar, a Bachelors degree in Mass Communication from the National Open University of Nigeria, a Post-Graduate diploma and HND in Journalism from the International Institute of Journalism and a diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Jos. He also holds an honorary doctorate degree from Freedom University and Theological Seminary, Pottstown USA.
When we think about our past experiences and achievements, a myriad of emotions arises. Birthdays prompt us to reminisce about the joyful moments, the challenges we overcame, and the lessons we learned along the way. This emotional reflection helps us appreciate the breadth of our experiences and provides valuable insights into our personal growth and resilience.
By the grace of God Almighty who has been his pillar, Reuben has certified participation in several local and international courses and workshops on a wide spectrum of professional subjects such as: news reporting, sports coverage, location reporting, and ICT. His area of professional expertise include: media training. media relations, marketing, advocacy and campaigns, production of jingles and documentaries.
He served on the Executive Committee of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Abuja and is an associate member of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON).
He is also a member of the Microfinance Management Institute of Nigeria. He had at various times, served as Chairman of the ICT correspondents as well as the Chairman of the religion correspondents in Abuja.
Birthdays present an opportune moment to express gratitude for the gift of life and the people who have touched our hearts. It is a time to acknowledge the blessings we have received, the relationships we have cultivated, and the positive impact others have had on our journey. Expressing gratitude instills a sense of humility and deepens our appreciation for the beauty and interconnectedness of life.
Hence, Reuben Okala falls into the category of socially mobile and sagacious Nigerians. Reuben has used this channel to praise God at every stage of the way. He is a musician and a member of Performing Musciians Association of Nigeria (PMAN). And has also served as Chairman of the Fellowship of Gospel Music Ministers Organization of Nigeria (FOGMMON) Abuja chapter.
Aside his professional acumen, he is widely travelled and has visited a number of countries including: Switzerland, France, Holland, Israel, South Africa, Egypt, Palestine, United Arabs Emirate, Ghana, Ethiopia, Republic of Benin, Paris and Mexico.
A time-tested saying goes that: “Beside every successful man is a supportive family. To the glory of God, Reuben is gloriously married to a Diplomat and Lawyer. Patience, and together they have 3 children, two of whom are graduates. .
We say a glorious birthday to the Kogi born unassuming, proactive and versatile broadcaster of repute.