The Federal Capital Territory Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists has nominated the Editor-in-Chief of Leadership Newspaper, Azubuike Ishiekwene, for its 2026 Media Leadership Excellence Award.
This was contained in a statement made available to The PUNCH on Monday.
According to the statement, the nomination was conveyed in a letter co-signed by the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, and the Planning Committee Chairman, Obas Esiedesa.
The council noted that the award is aimed at honouring journalists who have distinguished themselves through excellence, integrity, and commitment to the highest standards of the profession.
It added that the selection process was guided by professional assessment, industry reputation, and the societal impact of the nominees’ journalistic work.
The statement quoted the NUJ as saying that Ishiekwene’s nomination was in recognition of his outstanding contributions to journalism, commitment to ethical reporting, and consistent efforts in promoting credible, balanced, and impactful storytelling.
“Your work has demonstrated a strong dedication to truth, accountability, and responsible journalism, contributing significantly to public awareness and strengthening democratic values in Nigeria.
“Through your reporting and editorial contributions, you have continued to uphold the core principles of the journalism profession while inspiring confidence in the role of the media in nation-building,” the statement read.
The council added that the award ceremony will be held on May 19 as part of activities marking its Press Week.
It described Ishiekwene as a journalist with over three decades of experience.
“He is a fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and has served as Chairman of the judging panel for the CNN African Journalist of the Year Awards.
“A founding member of the Global Editors Network, he was also a board member of the World Editors Forum and remains one of Africa’s most syndicated columnists.
“He has authored several books, including ‘Writing for Media and Monetising It’ and ‘A Midlifer’s Guide to Content Creation and Profit.’
“He is also the Chairman of Openfees, an Abuja-based NGO that supports indigent primary and secondary school students with school
“He has won numerous awards and has also taught voluntarily at his alma mater, the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos,” the statement added.
Credit: punchng.com
