YENAGOA/Nigeria: In a gesture widely described as rare corporate recognition of media professionals, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has rewarded veteran journalists with substantial cash gifts in Bayelsa State, acknowledging their decades of service in documenting Nigeria’s history and shaping public discourse.
The Valentine’s Day initiative saw 100 senior journalists receive ₦1 million each, while octogenarian practitioners were honoured with ₦5 million apiece in appreciation of their lifelong dedication to journalism and national development.
The event was facilitated through the efforts of award-winning broadcaster Ovieteme George, who described the recognition as a heartfelt tribute to professionals whose commitment to truth, accountability and public enlightenment often goes unnoticed despite the demanding nature of their work.
Participants and observers noted that the awards went beyond financial support, symbolising gratitude for journalists’ sacrifices in chronicling national realities and strengthening democratic values. They added that such recognition underscores the enduring relevance of the press as a pillar of society and governance.
The initiative reflects the corporate philosophy of the firm’s founder, Government Ekpemupolo, and the management leadership of Kestin Pondi, under whose direction the company has expanded its activities beyond security operations into humanitarian outreach, youth empowerment and community development programmes across the Niger Delta.
According to DailyWatch.org, the recognition has been widely commended by stakeholders who view it as a morale-boosting intervention for veteran journalists and a model of corporate social responsibility that demonstrates how institutional influence can be leveraged to honour unsung contributors to national progress.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the gesture, describing it as both timely and symbolic, while urging other organisations to emulate similar initiatives that acknowledge the role of media professionals in strengthening transparency, civic awareness and societal advancement.
