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By Dada Ahmed.
In the bustling world of Nigerian journalism, late Hajiya Rafat Onyeche Salami,55 years,stood as a beacon of dedication and professionalism.
Hajiya Rafat Onyeche Salami, who hailed from Ihima in Okehi Local Government Area of kogi state,died in Abuja on December 2024 during an illness, leaving her three children and other members of her family and colleagues in the fourth estate of the realm to mourn her.
As the Assistant Director of Digital Media at Voice of Nigeria (VON) and Treasurer of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, her contributions to the media landscape were profound. Yet, beyond her public accolades, Rafat’s most enduring legacy lies in her role as a caring mother, particularly to her son, Ahmed, who is on the autism spectrum.
Rafat’s journey into the realm of special needs advocacy was deeply personal. Embracing her son’s diagnosis with unwavering love, she became a vocal advocate for children with autism and special needs, drawing from her personal experience as a dedicated mother to her son. She openly shared her experiences, challenges, and triumphs, aiming to raise awareness and foster acceptance within society. Through her foundation,Okenite foundation,she emphasized the need for inclusive healthcare services and mental health support for mothers facing similar challenges. ​​
Her advocacy extended beyond her immediate circle. Rafat utilized her platform to educate the public about autism, challenging societal stigmas and misconceptions. She participated in various seminars, delivered papers, and engaged in various live platforms to support the survival of special needs children, including those with autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy. Her efforts brought great relief to families with children with special needs, helping to integrate many youths back into society. ​​
Rafat’s approach to motherhood was not only trailblazing but also characterized by resilience, compassion, and an unyielding commitment to her son’s well-being.
Mrs Tina Auta, a journalist and a mother said of the late Refat:”She was indeed an amazon and her legacy will live on.
“The media space will miss her boldness and people with special needs, especially parents have indeed lost a guardian, who encouraged and gave hope to us all.”
She often shared glimpses of their life together, highlighting the joys and challenges of raising a child with autism. In one of her social media posts, she expressed her pride, stating, “I am proud to be the mother of an autistic child!” ​​ Her openness served as a source of inspiration and comfort to many mothers navigating similar paths.
The lessons from Rafat’s life are manifold for mothers everywhere:That they need to embrace children, especially of special with love by accepting their unique needs wholeheartedly and to recognize that every child deserves love and understanding.
She also taught the essence of advocating relentlessly in such noble cause by using their voice to challenge societal stigmas, educate others, and advocate for inclusive policies that support children with special needs.
Again, the deceased laboured assiduously in enlightening mothers to always seek and provide support for children of special needs, and acknowledged the importance of psycho-social support for both the child and the caregiver.
She encouraged mothers to note that building a community of support can make the journey less daunting.
Rafat in her time, also urged mothers with children of special needs to their experiences, to raise awareness and foster acceptance, thus helping to create a more inclusive society for all children.
Hajiya Rafat Onyeche Salami’s life was a testament to the profound impact a mother’s love and advocacy can have, not only on her children but on society at large. Her legacy will continue to inspire and educate, reminding us all of the power of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication.​​
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, has called on journalists to draw inspiration from the exemplary life and work of late Rafat Salami, a respected journalist, who contributed significantly to the growth of the profession in Nigeria.
Idris made the appeal at the 3rd-day prayer session in her honour held at the Al-Habibiyyah Mosque in the Guzape District of Abuja, nation’s capital.
The Information Minister praised Hajia Rafat Salami’s dedication and professionalism.
“Mrs. Salami was very hardworking, courageous, and passionate about everything she pursued. During my tenure as President of the International Press Institute (IPI) in 2015, she served as Treasurer, and her outstanding contributions greatly advanced the Institute’s goals,” he stated.
Muhammad Idris conveyed condolences on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, describing her passing as a profound loss to the field of journalism.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, Fuad Adeyemi, who officiated the prayer session, highlighted Hajia Rafat Salami’s dedication to her faith.
Imam Fuad Adeyemi described her as a devout Muslim and a committed member of the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society.
“We lost a sister who played an integral role in the survival and growth of Al-Habibiyyah.
Her commitment to the propagation of Islam and her community efforts will remain a lasting legacy,” he said while praying for Allah’s mercy upon her soul.
Imam Adeyemi reflected on her remarkable life, emphasising her commitment to community service.
“We mourn her so much. Al-Habibiyyah mourns her so much. We are so sad that Sister Rafat has left us,” the Imam said.
He encouraged the attendees to find comfort in her legacy of faith and service, adding, “We are sad that Almighty Allah has invited her.
It is apt to describe Hajiya Rafat Onyeche Salami as a remarkable individual and a compassionate mother who left a significant and influential impact not only on the sound of history but also on both and society at large.
May almighty Allah grant the deceased aljanah firdaus and her family as well as the journalism community, the fortitude to bear this great loss.
Ahmed, a fan of Rafat Salami’s Facebook page, publishes The Reporters.
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