By David Lawani, Abuja
As part of activities marking its 2025 Press Week, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter, on Tuesday honoured the Publisher of ThisNigeria newspaper, Mr Eric Osagie , with an award of Integrity and Professionalism.
The colourful event, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, brought together a host of dignitaries, media professionals, and stakeholders to celebrate excellence and commitment to journalistic ideals.
The 2025 NUJ FCT Press Week had the theme, “Journalism in a Changing World: Press Freedom, Media, Democracy, and Society.”
Osagie, a veteran journalist and media strategist, was represented at the occasion by ThisNigeria’s acting Abuja Bureau Chief, Vincent Egunyanga, who expressed deep appreciation to the NUJ for the honour.
“We are grateful,” Egunyanga said on behalf of the publisher. “Thank you for recognising the work we are doing at ThisNigeria. We are committed to nation-building through fair, free, and credible reportage. This award encourages us to continue on the path of truth and professionalism.”
In her opening address, Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, emphasised the pivotal role of journalism in strengthening democracy and promoting social justice.
“In this era of uncertainty and mistrust, journalists must recommit to the ideals of truth, integrity, courage, and public service,” she said. “The press must remain independent, vibrant, and a critical force in our democracy. Press freedom is not a privilege—it is a right, and it must be protected at all costs.”
In his remarks, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, urged journalists in the FCT to verify information before publishing it, especially in this era of Artificial Intelligence.
Egbetokun, who was represented by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, pledged the force’s collaboration with the media.
He clarified that anytime a journalist was invited for questioning, the police should be seen as doing their job and not opposing press freedom.
In his contribution, Ifeanyi Oladeji, Assistant General Manager of Transcorp, expressed the hotel’s commitment to promoting world-standard hospitality services in Nigeria.
Oladeji stated that for over 37 years, the hospital had established its reputation through numerous awards in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
He, however, said that those achievements and recognitions were made possible with the support of the media.
Oladeji urged the media to continue supporting the hotel and the hospitality and tourism industry as a whole.
Other notable award recipients included Senator Tanko Al-Makura, who was recognised as the Most Press-Friendly Personality, alongside various distinguished individuals for their contributions to media development and support for press freedom.
The NUJ Press Week serves as a platform for reflecting on the challenges and responsibilities of the media in Nigeria, while also recognising those who exemplify its highest standards.
