ASABA/Nigeria: Kenneth Orusi, the Editor-in-Chief of The Story Publishing House and Chief Press Secretary to the Governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the March 18th, 2023 election, has been honoured with the Media Merit Excellence Awards by Nigeria Radar Magazine.
Orusi, currently serving his first term as Chairman of the Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel (ICC), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, clinched the “Best Constructive Journalist” and “Special Leadership Recognition” Awards. These accolades acknowledge his 14 years of experience as a media practitioner and unionist.
The awards were presented by the Chairman of the occasion and the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Udeme Bassey Eshiet. Speaking at the event, Comrade Tony C. Okwunebe (aka) A1, Publisher/CEO of Nigeria Radar Magazine, highlighted the importance of journalists in governance and emphasized the theme of this year’s event, “Politics, Politicians and the challenges of the Journalists in sensational journalism towards nation building”.
He praised the role of journalists as the fourth estate of the realm, noting their significant contributions to society. Okwunebe also expressed disappointment at the neglect of journalists by successive governments in Delta State since its creation in 1991. He called for greater recognition and appreciation for the vital role journalists play in society.
The event featured various award categories, including Print Media Individual Awards, Print Media Awards, Electronic Media Awards, Online Media Awards, Special Leadership Recognition, Special Friends/Mentors Awards, and Most Inspiring Personalities Award. Recipients were selected by a 5-man Committee based on their contributions to journalism in the state.
In his closing remarks, Okwunebe congratulated the awardees, acknowledging their efforts and dedication to the profession. He also introduced special awards, including the Veteran Journalists Award, to celebrate veterans who have contributed to the peace and unity enjoyed in Delta NUJ, and the Special Friends/Mentors Awards, for those who guided him during his early days in the media world.
The Media Merit Excellence Awards served as a platform to recognize the outstanding contributions of journalists in Delta State and to encourage excellence in the profession. The event underscored the importance of journalism in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.
