At least ten Nigerian journalists with small-scale businesses and innovative business ideas will be supported with soft loans by the Sports Journalists Forum (SJF) as part of activities marking the group’s annual end-of-year party slated for Saturday, December 21, in Lagos.

According to ace sports journalist and Group admin of the body, Godwin Enakhena, the 7th edition of the annual ceremony is a testament to the growth recorded as a group.

Beyond the business support, members who have distinguished themselves in the year under review will also be recognised across 10 categories with winners getting 50,000 naira each, a certificate and a jersey of any Nigerian football club of their choice.

Speaking about the idea behind the financial support for small scale business owners, Enakhena said, “Life is more than being a journalist.

“With the current state of Nigeria’s economy and the media industry wage scale, many journalists are struggling. So, in our own little way of empowering journalists to live a decent life and stay afloat, we want to support 10 members with entrepreneurial visions.”

He expressed gratitude to the members for their support of the group’s vision and encouraged them to take time to attend the event, unwind, and recharge for the upcoming year.

News Central TV has been honoured with a distinguished award for its role in supporting women across the nation.

The Managing Director of News Central,  Kayode Akintemi, received the award on behalf of the media agency at the International Association of Women Police (IAWP) Conference held in Abuja.

The award is a recognition of News Central’s commitment to promoting gender equality, empowering women in law enforcement, developmental journalism and community engagement.

The IAWP Conference renowned for its dedication to celebrating the achievements of women in law enforcement and their allies, presented Akintemi with the award in acknowledgment of News Central TV’s impactful contributions to society.

The conference brought together influential leaders, policy makers, and advocates from around the globe to discuss and address critical issues facing women in law enforcement and beyond.

Across Nigeria, News Central is renowned for championing initiatives that empower women and promote diversity within the media industry.

The station has been instrumental in providing a platform for women’s voices, addressing social issues, and fostering a culture of inclusivity. The award further highlights News Central’s dedication and commitment to the cause.

Commenting on the award, the Managing Director expressed gratitude and emphasized the importance of continued efforts towards gender equality and social justice.

“It is an honor to receive this recognition on behalf of News Central TV. Our mission has always been to create a media landscape that is reflective of our diverse society and to empower women to tell their stories.

“This award motivates us to continue our work with even greater passion and determination,” Akintemi said.

News Central TV remains committed to its core values of integrity, innovation, and inclusivity. The station will continue to leverage its platform to advocate for positive change, support women in the media, and contribute to the overall betterment of society

One of Nigeria’s most enterprising sports journalists, Tana Aiyejina who was Group Sports Editor of The Punch, has been elevated to the position of Deputy Editor of the newspaper.

A basketball promoter, Igoche Mark has congratulated the journalist who is well known for his in-depth reporting.

Mark, renowned for his contributions to the growth of basketball in Nigeria, through his Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship sponsorship, praised Aiyejina’s dexterity and dedication to quality sports news reporting. 

“Mr. Tana Aiyejina’s elevation as Deputy Editor of The Punch Newspapers is a testament to his dexterity and dedication to quality sports news reportage from his days as a green horn sports reporter with The National Mirror,” he said.

Aiyejina, who hails from Edo State, has earned the moniker ‘Tenacious Tana’ for his objective and tenacious approach to sports journalism.

 Mark commended the sports editor’s remarkable track record, stating, “He has always discharged his duties with objectivity and tenacity, a trade mark that earned him the moniker ‘Tenacious Tana.’”

Looking ahead, Mark urged Aiyejina to continue his valuable contributions to the sports sector, saying, “My charge to you as a stakeholder in sports is never to leave the sector, as together let’s build Nigerian sports to an enviable height.”

“The promotion of Tana Aiyejina to the position of Deputy Editor at The Punch Newspapers is a testament to his unwavering commitment to sports journalism and his ability to consistently deliver high-quality reporting. This recognition is sure to inspire other sports journalists to strive for excellence in their craft,” Mark added.