The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has recognised some of Nigeria’s distinguished media professionals, including Executive Director of News at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Ayo Adewuyi, and former NTA Minna General Manager, Ayinde Soaga, for their contributions to the country’s journalism industry.
The recognition formed part of the union’s 2026 Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Nigeria, held on November 7 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, bringing together prominent figures from the media industry to celebrate years of professional service, sacrifice and commitment to journalism.
The ceremony was organised by the NUJ National Secretariat under the theme, “Strengthening Democracy Through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance.”
Ayo Adewuyi, who serves as Executive Director of News at NTA Headquarters in Abuja, was among the media professionals selected for the recognition. Soaga, a former General Manager of NTA Minna, was also named among the honourees, reflecting the contributions of broadcast journalists to the development of Nigeria’s media landscape.
Other distinguished recipients include Martins Oloja, former Managing Director of The Guardian; Azubuike Ishiekwene, Senior Vice-Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Leadership Media Group; Olusegun Adeniyi, Chairman of THISDAY Editorial Board; Kingsley Uranta of Channels Media Group; Sumner Sambo, Director of News and Politics Editor at ARISE News; and Chief Eric Teniola.
The list also features Mallam Yusuf Nuhu, former Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria; Chief Abia Onyike, former Deputy National President of the NUJ; Abdulkadir Ahmed Ibrahim; HRM Oba Rotimi Obamuwagun; Mukhtar Gidado; Hajia Tabitha Sani Kangiwa; Ignatius Nwachukwu; Toro Oladapo; Franz Ndulue; Olori Janet Mba Afolabi; Bayo Bodunrin; Uzoma Isiakpu; Adeyinka Amosu; Jubrin Bello Kwami; and Hajia Aisha Abdullahi Jao.
Chairman of the National Organising Committee, Otunba Gbenga Onayiga, said the initiative was designed to celebrate journalists who had dedicated their careers to the profession, acknowledging their courage, sacrifices, commitment and enduring contributions.
Onayiga explained that the Milestone Recognition was different from conventional award ceremonies, describing it as an opportunity for the union to appreciate distinguished professionals while they are still alive.
He also commended NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, and his leadership team for sustaining the initiative.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, attended as Special Guest of Honour and was scheduled to deliver the keynote address, with the event focusing on the relationship between responsible journalism, democratic development and good governance.
The recognition highlights the role of experienced journalists and media professionals in informing citizens, shaping public discourse, holding institutions accountable and strengthening democratic participation.
For professionals such as Adewuyi and Soaga, whose careers are associated with public broadcasting, the honour also places renewed attention on the contribution of Nigeria’s broadcast media to national information and public enlightenment.
The NUJ’s initiative underscores the importance of recognising professional dedication, institutional service and journalistic integrity, while encouraging younger generations of media practitioners to uphold the ethics and responsibilities of the profession.
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