KWALE/Nigeria: In a ceremony honoring Alaska Ekele, Publisher and CEO of Ndokwa Vanguard, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State praised Ekele’s remarkable three-decade-long dedication to the media industry. The event, held on January 4, 2024, witnessed the presence of dignitaries.
During the celebration, Governor Oborevwori who was represented by his SSA on Community Newspaper Prince Oromorokpai, commended Ekele’s unwavering commitment to community journalism, acknowledging Ndokwa Vanguard’s profound impact on grassroots communities by disseminating vital information. on behalf of the governor, conveyed appreciation for Ekele’s significant contributions to the media industry.
The government assures its support for community media, pledging to create an environment conducive to their growth. However, the administration clarified that this backing wouldn’t overshadow existing media outlets but aimed to enhance the effectiveness of community newspapers.
Emphasizing the government’s solid support for the community media sector, the administration pledged its dedication to fostering an environment conducive to the growth and continuity of such vital information dissemination platforms.
Governor Oborevwori’s administration hinted at a forthcoming review of existing community newspapers, signaling a commitment to enhancing their effectiveness and reach. Prince Oromorokpai expressed the administration’s intention to bolster their capacity to serve local communities while emphasizing that the support doesn’t overshadow or acquire existing media outlets.
Meanwhile, Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli, CEO of Ndokwa Reporters and Chairman of Delta Online Publishers Forum highlighted Ekele’s dedication and emphasized the critical role of grassroots newspapers in preserving authentic stories and cultural identity. He urged increased support for their sustainability and growth.
Enebeli highlighted Ekele’s dedication and service, emphasizing his commitment to excellence and integrity, which has left a lasting impact on Ndokwa and Delta State at large. He praised Ekele’s efforts in amplifying local voices and preserving cultural heritage through community media.
However, amidst the celebration, Enebeli raised concerns about the lack of support from the community and leaders for local newspapers, stressing the critical role these papers play in preserving authentic stories and cultural identity. He called for collective action, urging increased support and resources for sustainability and growth.
Additionally, Dr. Barr Chukwudi Onyema Okwelum the Guest Lecturer at the occasion highlighted the pivotal role of Mr Ekele and the Ndokwa Vanguard in projecting the tradition and culture of the Ndokwa people. He emphasized the paper’s contribution to exposing Ukwuani to the world and called for support from the people of the area.
Mr. Alaska Ekele in his peech reflected on his journey during the celebration. He expressed gratitude to influential figures, attributing his success in the media landscape to his Primary 4 teacher, Mr. Ezekiel Ekakitie, and the pivotal opportunity extended by Mr. Chuddy Oduenyi, the Advert Manager of Vanguard Newspapers in 1993.
On his part, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Solomon Igulu, called on all sons and daughters, especially those in political positions and offices to help the growth local media in the area.
Ekele credited Vanguard Newspapers for laying the groundwork for his career and outlined his vision for a Research Centre in Ukwuani land, aimed at dispelling misinformation about the region and preserving cultural heritage. He passionately appealed for support from the public and industry colleagues to realize this noble cause.
The event which was spiced with traditional music, ended with the launching and unveiling of a One Billion Naira Research Centre in Ukwuani land, set to house various facilities for cultural preservation and knowledge dissemination.
