“When Excellence Speaks, Silence Listens”: NUJ Anambra Honours Icons at 2025 Man of the Year Ceremony

“Greatness is not claimed—it is earned, and when it walks into a room, it needs no introduction.”
That was the unspoken sentiment that filled the air on August 28, 2025, as the Anambra State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) hosted its prestigious Man of the Year Award Ceremony at the International Convention Centre, Awka.

The event, which marked the grand finale of the 2025 Press Week, was more than a celebration—it was a statement. A statement that merit still matters, and that those who shape society through service, integrity, and excellence deserve to be seen, heard, and honoured.

The ceremony was the climax of a week-long series of activities that included press tours to government projects, novelty matches, indoor games, and humanitarian visits to the Awka Correctional Centre. Anchored on the theme: “The Role of Journalists in Election Reportage: The Case of Anambra State,” the week served as a mirror for the media’s role in shaping democratic narratives.

The hall brimmed with dignitaries:

• Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim* (representing Gov. Soludo)
• Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze
• Chief of Staff, Hon. Ernest Ezeajughi
• Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor
• Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers, Igwe Chidubem Iweka of Obosi
  —each lending their presence to underscore the weight of the occasion.

Delivering the keynote, Prof. Angela Nkiru Nwamuo, member of the governing council of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, challenged journalists to rise above “horse race journalism.”

“We must move beyond who is winning and who is trailing,” she said. “The real story lies in the policies that shape lives. Journalists must interrogate governance, expose malpractice, and amplify the voices of the people.”

Her words struck a chord, echoing the theme’s urgency in an election year.

The Professor Stella Okunna Prize for Ethical Journalism was awarded to two outstanding journalists:
Aloysius Attah, for his investigative piece “Inside Anambra Troubled Communities” (Sun Newspaper)
Ukpa Ewa*, for “Why Anambra May Not Produce Female Governors Soon” (Truth Online)

Prof. Okunna, in her remarks, emphasized that ethics remain the bedrock of credible journalism.
“Without ethics, journalism loses its soul. This award is my way of keeping that soul alive,” she declared.

The NUJ also recognized other change makers:

• Dr. Ifeoma Udoka – Philanthropist of the 21st Century
• Hon. Ikechukwu Okafor – Most Inspiring Youth Leader
• Dr. ThankGod Chibuike Anago – Outstanding Mayor of the Year
• Dr. Nelson Obinna Omenugha – Outstanding Youth Leader of the Year.

In his welcome address, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, NUJ State Chairman, reiterated the union’s commitment to integrity:

“This award is not bought. It is earned. We honour those who serve society selflessly. And as journalists, we pledge to uphold ethical standards and professionalism.”