The Nigeria Union of journalists for the first time recognised and celebrated media legends, who have contributed immensely to the growth of the media industry.
These media legends in Nigeria were recognised at the maiden edition of the annual milestone recognition of media icons held in Lagos, South-West Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the President Nigeria Union of journalist, Mr. Chris Isiguzo applauded these media icons for their contributions towards the growth of journalism over the years.
“These media icons have worked to promote press freedom, being the key drivers of democracy.“
Mr. Isiguzo described the recognition by the Union as an avenue to encourage other journalists to consistently working hard and to uphold the ethics of the profession.
Chairman of the occasion, former State Governor of Ogun, Chief Olusegun Osoba charged journalists to begin celebrating themselves now as much as they celebrate others.
“Today, we are here to celebrate ourselves. Today will be the beginning of greater things for the NUJ. Let us have a website for practicing Nigerian journalists because we need to stop those who are not part of our noble profession,“ Chief Osoba noted.
Some of the prominent recipients at the event include the chairman and Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Sam Amuka; former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba; Publisher of ThisDay Newspapers, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; and Chairman of Daar Communications (AIT TV), Chief Raymond Dokpesi, the chairman of Channels media group, Mr. John Momoh among others who were honoured by the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, in Lagos.
Responding on behalf of the recipients of the NUJ award, Chairman of Daar Communications (AIT TV), Chief Raymond Dokpesi expressed his appreciation to the members of NUJ for the iconic recognition bestowed on them as he pays tribute to the Nigerian journalists.
“Journalists in Nigeria have made sacrifices and in many cases lost their lives to ensure that Nigeria continues to exist.
“If there is any profession that is underpaid, it is journalists but they continue to triumph in spite of all. The media profession has suffered a lot. It has not received appropriate attention from the politicians, yet it is the profession charged with the responsibility of ensuring accountability,“ he noted.
On the upcoming 2023 elections, Chief Dokpesi urged Nigerians to remain united and work towards electing the best leader for the country.
“Nigeria must not divide. Our leaders have done all that is required to keep this country together. It is our duty to ensure that it remains.”
