NUJ Lagos Announces Award Recipients For 2025 Press Week

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Lagos Council has announced five award recipients for its 2025 Press Week, celebrating individuals who have played significant roles in governance, media support, and civic leadership.

The Union says the honours reflect its commitment to promoting responsible journalism and strengthening public institutions at a time when Nigeria faces economic and governance challenges.

The recipients include senior government officials, media advocates, and public service leaders.

Mr Olatunji Bello, Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), will be honoured “for his outstanding contributions to NUJ and Public Governance.”

Mr Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, will receive an award of excellence “for his outstanding contributions to Public Governance.”

The Union will also recognise two senior figures from the Lagos Ministry of Information and Strategy.

Mr Olusina Thorpe, former Permanent Secretary, will be honoured “for his outstanding contributions to NUJ.”

At the same time, Mr Lanre Bajulaiye, the current Permanent Secretary, will be awarded “for his outstanding contributions to NUJ.”

Dr Abimbola Oyetunde, Deputy President of the NUJ, will be celebrated “for her outstanding contributions to NUJ.”

The Council said the awardees’ “dedication, service, and leadership continue to inspire excellence within the journalism profession and the broader civic space.”

Media observers say the awards reflect the growing intersection between journalism, governance, and accountability.

Experts note that recognising public officials who work closely with the media helps reinforce trust between government institutions and journalists, especially at a time when press freedom and access to information remain under pressure.

Civil society advocates also believe the honours highlight the crucial role of media in shaping conversations around economic reforms and energy security—this year’s Press Week theme.

The awards will be presented at a gala night scheduled for:

Date: Friday, 28 November 2025

Venue: BOS Hall, LTV Complex, Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja

Time: 4 pm

Organisers say this year’s celebration will bring together journalists, policymakers, and private sector partners committed to the advancement of good governance and responsible reporting.

In a joint statement signed by Chairman Adeleye Ajayi, Secretary Tunde Olalere, and Press Week Committee Chairman Wale Akodu, the Union congratulated all awardees, saying it “looks forward to celebrating their achievements during the 2025 Press Week.”

The NUJ says the 2025 Press Week will continue with panel discussions, industry dialogues, and networking events focusing on media ethics, business development in a challenging economy, and Nigeria’s push for energy security.