The Publisher of Daily Times Nigeria, Mr Fidelis Anosike, has described journalists as the architects of modern Nigeria, saying the country’s political and economic foundations were largely built through the efforts of media practitioners.
He gave the commendation at a media parley to mark the 100th anniversary of The Daily Times newspaper in Abuja.
Mr Anosike said that the newspaper’s legacy extends beyond journalism, noting that it played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.
According to him, Daily Times was instrumental in the creation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and served as a catalyst for national development through storytelling and public engagement.
“If you don’t tell your story, nobody will tell your story for you,” Mr Anosike said.
He also stressed the importance of media in nation-building and national identity.
He pointed out that Nigeria is existing because of journalism.
“We plan to change the perception of Nigeria globally to tell the story of Nigeria the way it should be told and deliver an award platform to reward excellence.” He said.
Reflecting on the acquisition of Daily Times by Folio Communications, Mr Anosike said preserving the institution’s legacy had required years of legal battles, financial commitment and strategic planning.
He disclosed that more than N1.5 billion was spent on litigation to secure ownership rights and protect the newspaper’s assets, describing the effort as a sacrifice necessary to preserve one of Nigeria’s most important national institutions.
The Daily Times publisher also noted that reaching the newspaper’s 100th anniversary was a major milestone.
He noted that the organisation’s next phase would focus on reviving media consciousness and repositioning the brand for the digital age.
He said that Daily Times was never merely a newspaper company but a nation-building enterprise whose influence transcended the media industry.
Mr Anosike also unveiled plans for a one-year programme aimed at promoting the role of journalism in national development.
He also introduced what he described as “Daily Times 2.0” for future generations.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, FCT Chapter, Comrade Grace Ike, congratulated the management and staff of Daily Times on attaining the historic milestone.
She described the centenary celebration as a testament to resilience, relevance and service to the nation.
“Daily Times has, over the decades, played a historic role in shaping public opinion, promoting democratic values and strengthening the practice of journalism in Nigeria,” she said.
She added that the newspaper’s legacy remains a reference point in the history of the Nigerian press and commended generations of journalists whose sacrifices helped sustain the institution.
Media executives, journalists, industry stakeholders and distinguished guests at the parley reflected on the newspaper’s contributions to Nigeria’s development and discussed its future role in the country’s evolving media landscape.
