In Anambra, Soludo, Umeadi, Okonkwo, Okenna, Others Win Awards at NUJ Press Week

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

It was a spectacular celebration over the week as the 2024 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council came to a grand end. The 2024 Press Week was one for the history books, blending both recognitions of civic contributions with calls on journalists to embrace innovative and solution-based reporting amidst the changing security and economic situations at the moment.

Held at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Centre, Awka, with the theme, “The Media and Trajectories for Anambra State’s Future in a Dwindling Economy,” the well-attended event explored the critical roles of the media in economic recovery and sustainable development in every society. Dr. Monday Ashibogwu, an experienced public relations expert, who dissected the theme of the event by way of keynote address, enumerated the media's critical roles in driving sustainable solutions for these pressing concerns.

The week-long event, which kicked off on October 26 with series of activities, also featured the celebration and the recognition of accomplishments of individuals who have significantly impacted the society in one way or the other.

Among those honored was Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, wife of the Anambra State Governor, who received dual accolades as “Most Supportive Governor’s Wife” and “Voice for the Voiceless in the Southeast.”

The two prestigious awards, comprising giant goat, tubers of yam, award plaque, duvet, among other items, which were received on her behalf by the State Head of Service, Barr. Mrs. Theodora Igwegbe were befittingly given to the First Lady in recognition of her extensive advocacy and humanitarian work in the state, as is evidenced in her support to the Governor, her commitment to the welfare and general well-being of the masses.

The prestigious and equally highly coveted “2024 NUJ Man of the Year” award went to Prof. Chinedu Anthony Umeadi, a notable philanthropist and respected figure in both the fields of academy and administration, for his contributions to human capital development and public service, especially as it concerns his extensive support for education and healthcare initiatives. The title was handed over to him by the last year's winner of the award and Traditional Ruler of Ogidi kingdom, H.R.H. Igwe Alex Uzor Onyido.

Other recipients of other categories of the prestigious NUJ awards at f included the Traditional Ruler of Alor Kingdom, H.R.H. Igwe Chinedu Macanthony Elibe Okonkwo, who was awarded the title of “Philanthropist of the Decade,” for his relentless dedication to community betterment and infrastructure development. In the entrepreneurial sphere, Mr. Oliver Okenna received “Anambra’s Most Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year,” a nod to his transformative contributions to local business and economic innovation both within Anambra State and beyond. Participants in the 2024 NUJ Football Competition were also given cash prizes.

Also presented at the event was 2024 Prof. Chinyere Okunna Award for Ethical Journalism, which was won by Mr. Emma Elekwa of the Nation Newspaper, with Mr. Lawrence Nwimo of the Ikenga Online, as a runner-up, as were announced by the Award Committee.

As emphasized by the National President of NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, represented by the Southeast NUJ Vice President, Comrade Emmanuel Ifesinachi, the awardees were meticulously selected as figures who represent excellence and uphold quality values.

“Our process was rigorous to ensure that these honors reflect true merit and impact,” the VP stated, reiterating the NUJ’s role as a custodian of integrity and community-focused journalism in a society.

Earlier in his keynote speech, Dr. Ashibogwu called on journalists to embrace continuous learning and to leverage their platforms in ways that support Anambra’s economic and social recovery.

According to him, “Our role as journalists is to not only inform but also to inspire actionable change and hold leaders accountable.” He further challenged the journalists to explore solution-based stories that spotlight growth opportunities and entrepreneurship in the area.

Also speaking, the State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, echoed this sentiment, requesting that journalists continue their partnership with the state government by providing balanced and accurate coverage.

“We are not asking for exaggerated reporting but fair representation of the governor’s efforts and achievements,” he added. He further reassured attendees about the state’s ongoing measures to address insecurity, promising a safer environment for the upcoming holiday season.

The 2024 Press Week was chaired by Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, a renowned advocate for ethical journalism and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Paul University. Professor Okunna, who, in her address of welcome, emphasized that the NUJ Awards involve a rigorous selection process focused on merit, excellence, and social impact.

“The NUJ awards are not given lightly; they are a testament to genuine contributions to society and to journalism’s highest ideals,” she noted, encouraging awardees to see the recognition as both an honor and a responsibility.

In a vote of thanks, the NUJ Chairman, Anambra State Council, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, congratulated the awardees and reminded all present that the media serve as the “moral barometer and conscience of society.” He pledged the Union’s continued dedication to truth, integrity, and collaboration for the betterment of Anambra and Nigeria at large. “Everything the NUJ does is pro-society,” Dr. Odogwu stated, affirming the union’s role in advocating for transparency, development, and societal welfare.

Organized by the Dr. Njideka Ezeonyejiaku-led Planning Committee, the event also featured spectacular displays by masquerade and other music troupes that thrilled the participants with their performances; as well as the official celebration of the birthday of the NUJ Matriarch, Prof. Okunna by the Union; and official handover of the title of the NUJ Man of the Year to the new holder, by its previous holder.

As the curtains drew on the 2024 NUJ Press Week, the event not only left an indelible mark as a distinguished edition, but also affirmed the power of journalism as a force for good in society. It was a celebration not just of individual achievements but of the collective potential within the media to drive Anambra towards a future of resilience, progress, and unity. Indeed, it was a Press Week like never before, a defining moment for journalists, leaders, and citizens alike to envision and build a brighter Anambra.

More photos from the event: