NEWS
Nestlé Nigeria Announces Judging Panel for the 2025 Media Awards
Nestlé Nigeria is pleased to announce the distinguished panel of judges for the 2025 Nestlé Nigeria Media Awards. This year’s panel brings together accomplished professionals in journalism, academia, nutrition, communications, and development, reinforcing Nestlé’s commitment to recognizing excellence in impactful and socially relevant storytelling.
The panel welcomes Dr. Yvonne Kanalio Olaloku, Nutrition Specialist with the Nestlé Nutrition Institute for Central and West Africa, whose extensive work in fortification advocacy and evidence-based nutrition brings valuable expertise to the Awards. Also joining the ranks this year is Dr. Margaret Agada-Mba, Senior Lecturer in Communication, Media and Cultural Studies at the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, known for her strong background in development communication, media research, and broadcasting.
They join a team of returning judges whose continued service strengthens the Awards’ credibility and rigor. Dr. Sunday John, Senior Lecturer at the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, recognized nationally for his works in environmental communication, media evaluation, and editorial excellence. Dr. Chioma Emma-Nwachukwu, Programmes Lead for the Lagos Chapter of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, brings her well-regarded leadership in public health nutrition. Completing the judging panel is Dr. Rosemary Otalor, Account Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications at APO Group, continues to contribute her seasoned experience in media relations, strategic communications, and public affairs.
The 2025 Awards received 281 entries from journalists across the country, reflecting strong national interest in themes such as nutrition and food systems, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, women empowerment, community development, agriculture, and finance. Submissions will be evaluated based on accuracy, originality, impact, balance, depth, and adherence to ethical standards. The combined experience of the judges, those newly joining and those returning, ensures a rigorous and fair review grounded in a deep appreciation for journalism’s role in shaping public understanding and driving progress.
Victoria Uwadoka, Head of Corporate Communications, Public Affairs & Sustainability at Nestlé Nigeria, said, “We are honoured to present a judging panel whose professional accomplishments and commitment to societal advancement so closely align with the values of the Nestlé Nigeria Media Awards. Their expertise and integrity strengthen our mission to highlight journalistic work that brings critical issues to the forefront. Through this Awards platform, we remain committed to encouraging factual, insightful, and solution-oriented reporting that not only informs and inspires, but also contributes meaningfully to the well-being of individuals, families, and communities across Nigeria.”
The Nestlé Nigeria Media Awards remains a celebration of journalistic excellence, shining a light on stories that reflect the country’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. Through this platform, Nestlé reaffirms its commitment to supporting impactful storytelling that drives awareness and meaningful change.
NEWS
Africa Caught Off-guard as Idris Elba Stuns with FIFA World Cup Message
SuperSport viewers across Africa were left stunned when normal programming was suddenly interrupted by Hollywood star Idris Elba, who delivered a message saying “Everything else can wait.”Millions of DStv and GOtv viewers across Africa experienced the surprise interruption during prime-time viewing on 15 April 2026 at 7pm, including in the middle of live sport broadcast. Screens abruptly went black before a countdown appeared, followed by a familiar silhouette.It was Idris Elba.Ten Of Us NowThe award-winning actor addressed Africa directly with a message celebrating a historic football moment. Ten African nations have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the most ever.“There are ten of us now,” Elba said in his unmistakable gravelly voice. “I honestly don’t care which one of us wins. I just want to see African football light up the world stage.”“My mum is from Ghana, my dad is from Sierra Leone. But my heart is African,” said Elba, a global superstar who remains deeply connected to the continent. “That’s why I’m watching. Every. Single. Game.”Africa’s Greatest World Cup?The FIFA World Cup 2026™, hosted across Mexico, Canada and the USA, will see Africa represented by Ghana, South Africa, Senegal, Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire and DR Congo.It is a milestone tournament, and SuperSport on DStv and GOtv is positioning itself as the home of every kick, goal and celebration.“History doesn’t always tell you when it’s going to happen,” Elba continued. “But I’m here to tell you where it may happen. SuperSport. Only on DStv and GOtv. Everything else you thought you were going to be doing… it can wait.”Energetic Big Brother Mzansi star Smash Afrika and the ever-stylish host of Big Brother Naija, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, are also starring in the wider DStv and GOtv FIFA World Cup campaign.Every Match, Every ScreenAll 104 FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches will be available live on SuperSport across DStv, DStv Stream, GOtv and GOtv Stream.Viewers can follow the tournament through satellite TV or stream on phones, laptops and smart TVs, depending on their preference and connectivity.Coverage will also include local language options, including pidgin, making the tournament more accessible to audiences across the continent.The World Cup kicks off on 11 June 2026 with the opening ceremony in Mexico City, live on SuperSport. From the opening match to the final, fans across Africa will be able to follow every moment.
NEWS
Governor Dauda Lawal Receives Nigerian Air Force Delegation in Gusau to Strengthen Security, Combat Terrorism
Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal P.hD, received a high-level delegation from the Nigerian Air Force during a strategic visit aimed at strengthening ongoing efforts to combat insecurity across the state.
The visit featured a presentation and inspection of key military air assets, including a combat-equipped helicopter designed for rapid response and real-time operations.
The Governor, alongside top government officials and security chiefs, was briefed on the aircraft’s capabilities, operational features, and its role in tackling banditry and other security challenges.
During the session, Air Force personnel demonstrated key features of the aircraft, including weapon systems and surveillance technology, highlighting its effectiveness in reconnaissance and combat missions.
Governor Lawal expressed strong interest, inspecting the equipment and asking questions about deployment and coordination with ground forces.
He commended the Federal Government and Air Force leadership for their commitment to restoring peace in Zamfara and reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to supporting all security agencies through collaboration and strategic initiatives.
The visit marks a significant step toward enhancing aerial surveillance and rapid response capabilities in Zamfara, reflecting renewed progress in addressing insecurity in the state.
NEWS
Governor Dauda Lawal Approves 120-Day Rapid Intervention Plan to Revamp Zamfara’s Educational Sector
Governor Dauda Lawal has approved a 120-day Rapid Intervention Action Plan aimed at addressing systemic failures in Zamfara State’s education sector.
The Governor presided over the State Executive Council meeting on Monday at the Government House in Gusau, where key decisions were taken.
During deliberations at the 65th Council meeting, issues related to education, health, works, and other sectors were discussed and approved.
The Council endorsed a 120-day rapid intervention plan built on prior diagnostic activities conducted by the Ministry of Education and the Education Quality Assurance Agency (EQAA). The plan, presented by the overseeing Commissioner for Education, Abdulmalik Abubakar Gajam, includes payroll audits, school mapping exercises, and infrastructure assessments. It proposes targeted, time-bound interventions across governance, infrastructure, digital transformation, teacher development, and student welfare.
The Council also approved the formation of a joint committee to immediately assess all illegal or unapproved structures built around schools in the state, with a view to relocating them and securing school environments. The committee will be led by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MOEST).
Additionally, the Council approved a single, unified Education Sector Bill (covering Early Childhood Care Development Education to Tertiary level), to be developed in consultation with stakeholders including agencies, institutions, civil society, traditional rulers, and development partners. A draft bill will be presented to the State House of Assembly for enactment within the emergency timeframe.
The Governor further approved the transfer of non-teaching staff—such as messengers, labourers, gardeners, cooks, guards, drivers, health workers, and artisans—from the Ministry’s payroll to appropriate MDAs (CPG, MoH, Establishment) or private firms.
Among other important issues, the Council approved the composition of the Zamfara State Steering Committee on the State of Emergency on Education and authorised the Committee to constitute a Technical Working Group (TWG) and co-opt stakeholders including the NUT, UNICEF, UBEC, traditional and religious leaders, private school proprietors, and CSOs.
-
NEWS2 days agoGovernor Dauda Lawal Receives Nigerian Air Force Delegation in Gusau to Strengthen Security, Combat Terrorism
-
Brand2 days agoOne Universe Launches to Redefine How People Find and Pay for Trusted Services
-
Cover16 hours agoBuilding Systems that outlive Founders – Bidemi Oke
-
NEWS16 hours agoAfrica Caught Off-guard as Idris Elba Stuns with FIFA World Cup Message
-
Brand16 hours agoFidelity Bank Advocates for Inmates’ welfare with donation to Enugu Custodial Centre
