NUJ Honours Gowon Onuh At Correspondents’ Chapel Press Week

…As Gowon Urges Journalists To Verify Their Facts

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Systems Ltd, Mr. Gowon Frederick Onuh, has urged journalists in Nigeria to uphold integrity and verify information before publication.

Mr. Onuh made the call after receiving the Award for Excellence in Automotive Paint Brands at the NUJ Correspondents Chapel Press Week and Awards, held on Saturday, 30 August 2025, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

The ceremony, which brought together prominent figures from the media, private, and public sectors, also featured the launch of the Chapel’s maiden official magazine, The Chapel.

Also present at the event was Mrs. Pauline Oloche, Head of Marketing and Digital Innovations at First Systems Ltd.

Mr. Onuh, known for championing credible journalism, contributed financially to the launch of The Chapel, describing it as an investment in strengthening the Fourth Estate.

On receiving his award, he expressed gratitude to the Correspondents Chapel, saying the recognition was not just for commercial success but for a commitment to values that align with ethical journalism.

However, his speech quickly shifted into an admonition for the media.

“I enjoin journalists to uphold the highest standards of their profession by rigorously verifying information before disseminating it to the public,” he said.

Speaking further in his goodwill message and a post-event address to journalists, Mr. Onuh stressed the dangers of misinformation to both business and society.

Using Sikkens, First Systems Ltd’s premium automotive paint brand, as an example, he explained:

“You would see a situation whereby in an attempt to go for something cheaper, they go for a low-quality product, and because we are not in line, some people would say it is original as Sikkens. That is misinformation.”

According to him, such false narratives can damage reputations and distort markets, underscoring why journalists must commit to accuracy.

At 55, Mr. Onuh has carved a reputation as a visionary leader in Nigeria’s automotive paints sector. A graduate of Benue State Polytechnic and Joseph Ayo Babalola University, he is also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

His career began with transforming the accounting operations at Samhays Ltd before joining First System Refinishes Ltd in 2005 as a pioneer Accounts and Personnel Manager. By 2009, he rose to become MD/CEO of First Systems Ltd.

Under his leadership, the company has become the sole franchise holder of Sikkens automotive paints and representative of Italy’s Nova Verta spray booths in Nigeria, consolidating its place as a market leader.

For many at the NUJ event, Mr. Onuh’s award represents more than recognition of business excellence.

It is a validation of a career grounded in integrity, innovation, and a commitment to truth—values he believes must guide both corporate leadership and journalism.