By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has honored two state governors and media professionals who distinguished themselves in their career.
The awardees were honoured at the 2024 Media ICON Awards, held in Lagos under the theme “Media Legends: Shaping Narratives, Inspiring Generations.”
The awards, divided into various categories, were designed to celebrate media professionals who have made significant contributions to journalism.
Among the honorees were the Governors of Katsina and Akwa Ibom States, recognized as the most media-friendly governors of the year.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, expressed his gratitude to the NUJ for hosting the third edition of the Annual Milestone Recognition of Media ICONs in Nigeria. He acknowledged the recognition of professionals excelling in the field of journalism and praised the union’s method of selecting the honorees. He noted that both Akwa Ibom and Katsina, created on the same day, were jointly celebrated.
Governor Radda emphasized the crucial role of journalism in governance, stating, “We can never achieve success without professional journalism. Journalism is a catalyst for development, and the media plays a vital role in promoting accountability in governance.”
He expressed hope that the award would inspire him to continue addressing challenges faced by his state.
NUJ President, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, emphasized the importance of media in maintaining democratic governance and national development. He stressed that the media must ensure accountability, transparency, and that the voices of the people are heard amid political and economic challenges.
Isiguzo called on journalists to rise to the occasion, particularly in investigative journalism, and focus on solutions that inspire hope. He urged the professionals to be a force for unity, saying, “We must continue to write stories that inspire, challenge, and build. In these troubling times, it is vital that we remain builders, not wreckers.”
He added, “The future of Nigeria depends on us as journalists. While we hold those in power accountable, we must also seek solutions that will elevate our nation to the greatness it deserves.”
The Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Otunba Gbenga Onayiga, highlighted that the event marked a departure from tradition, as seasoned professionals were being celebrated while alive. He encouraged investment in the media sector to further promote professionalism.
Notable award recipients this year included former Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor Obong Moses Ekpo, Pa Felix Adenaike; Dr. Ladan Salihu; Ms. Comfort Obi; Dr. Yemi Farounbi; Dr. Haroun Adamu; Professor Tonnie Iredia; Professor Umar Pate; and Mrs. Bisi Amagada. Others recognized were Comrade Ini Ememobong, Mallam Yakub Mohammed, Mr. Dan Agbese, Dr. Eddie Iroh, Mr. Lade Bonuola, Mr. Nosa Igiebor, Mrs. Toun Okewale-Sonaiya, Mrs. Comfort Umanah, HRH Eze Geo Anika, Chief Dare Babarinsa, Pa Jola Ogunlusi, and Usman Shuaibu Leman.