It was a moment of gratitude, celebration, and well-deserved honour as Chief Adedeji Hazeez Titilayo, Publisher of Epe Times Community Newspaper and Chief Executive Officer of Ariya Television, marked his 70th birthday with a grand three-in-one celebration featuring a special thanksgiving, mansion dedication, and car dedication.
According to Lagostrend report, the veteran journalist clocked 70 on Monday, February 16, 2026. The milestone was first commemorated with a solemn prayer session where all glory was returned to Almighty God for His faithfulness over the decades. Family members—including his wife, children, and grandchildren—friends, associates, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the man widely described as a pillar of community journalism in Epe Division and beyond.
Mansion & Car Dedication in Odomola
The celebration entered its second phase on Saturday, February 21, 2026, with the dedication of a beautiful mansion and a brand-new car at Odomola in Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Epe Division of Lagos State.
The dedication ceremony was officiated by Pastor Joseph Ochei, Pastor Olakunle Tosiji, and Pastor AdeOluwa Oyekunle, who led heartfelt praise, worship, exhortation, and fervent prayers before officially dedicating the properties. The atmosphere was filled with thanksgiving, joy, and admiration for a life of purpose and service.
Honours from the Journalism Community
In recognition of his immense contributions to journalism, Mr. Damola Aderibigbe, Publisher of The Light and Starlight Newspaper, alongside other journalists in Epe, presented a special award to Chief Hazeez. He was honoured as a veteran journalist who has upheld professionalism and ethical standards throughout his career.
The presentation of a Special Birthday Edition in his honour further highlighted his impact, especially as Epe Times marks 20 years on the newsstand—an enduring testament to his vision and resilience in community journalism.
Entertainment and merriment continued late into the night as dignitaries, colleagues, traditional leaders, and admirers trooped in to celebrate a man whose early years were devoted to nation, state, and community building.
Profile of a Media Trailblazer
Name: Hazeez Adedeji Titilayo
Born: February 16, 1956, Lagos Island
Hails From: Sangotedo (Eti-Osa LG) and Epe LG, Lagos State
Educational Background
Lagos City Council Primary School, Okesuna (1962–1969)
Ikosi Methodist High School, Agbowa (1970–1974) – Lagos State Government Scholarship Awardee (1973)
University of Ibadan (Pre-University/GCE A-Level), 1975
Nigerian Institute of Journalism (1976–1978)
Advanced Journalism Diploma, NIJ (1990)
Distinguished Career
Chief Hazeez began his journalism career as Senior Reporter with the Nigerian Tide Newspaper (1978–1980) and later served as National Assembly Correspondent (Senate) for Concord Newspaper (1980–1982).
He went on to found and co-publish notable media platforms including:
IWE ARIYA (Ariya Newspapers Nigeria Ltd)
ALAYE Newspaper
Founder, Epe Times Community Newspaper (2005)
Founder, Deji Hazeez & Associates (Press Relations & Advertising)
He also served in the Lagos State Civil Service as Senior Information Officer before resigning in 1994 to continue his media and public relations pursuits.
Chief Hazeez holds memberships in the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and is a founding member of several journalism and community press associations in Epe Division.
Chieftaincy & Business Leadership
He is the Chief Jagunmolu of Sangotedo and holds other respected traditional titles. In the business sphere, he serves as Chairman of Hazeez Ariya Nigeria Ltd—proprietors of Ariya Television, Ariya Advertising Agency, and publishers of Epe Times and Lagos Diary Newspaper.
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A Life of Impact
At 70, Chief Adedeji Hazeez stands tall as a symbol of dedication, resilience, and community service. His journey from Lagos Island to becoming one of Epe Division’s most respected media figures reflects a lifetime committed to truth, development, and uplifting society.
As tributes continue to pour in, one thing remains clear: his legacy in journalism and community development will resonate for generations to come.
Happy 70th Birthday to a Gentle Giant of Community Media.
See pictures below
