The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has nominated the Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP Newspapers, Azu Ishiekwene, for the 2026 Media Leadership Excellence Award.
The award is to honour journalists who have distinguished themselves through excellence, integrity, and commitment to the highest standards of the profession.
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In a nomination letter signed by the FCT Council Chairman of the NUJ, Grace Ike, and the Planning Committee Chairman, Obas Esiedesa, the union said the selection process for the award was guided by professional assessment, industry reputation, and the broader impact of journalistic work on society.
According to the NUJ, Mr Ishiekwene’s nomination was in recognition of his outstanding contributions to journalism, commitment to ethical reporting, “and consistent efforts in promoting credible, balanced, and impactful storytelling.”
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“Your work has demonstrated a strong dedication to truth, accountability, and responsible journalism, contributing significantly to public awareness and strengthening democratic values in Nigeria. Through your reporting and editorial contributions, you have continued to uphold the core principles of the journalism profession while inspiring confidence in the role of the media in nation-building” the letter read.
The award is part of activities marking the 2026 NUJ FCT Council Press Week, scheduled to be held on Tuesday, 19 May in Abuja.
Mr Ishiekwene has nearly 40 years experience as a journalist. He is a fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), and was at a time the Chairman of the judging panel of the CNN African Journalists of Year.
A founding member of the Global Editors Network (GEN), he was also a board member of the World Editors Forum (WEF), and one of Africa’s most syndicated columnists.
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He has authored several books, including two recent ones – ‘Writing for Media and Monetising It,’ and ‘A Midlifer’s Guide to Content Creation and Profit.’
He is the Chairman of Openfees, an Abuja-based NGO, that pays school fees for indigent primary and secondary school students.
He has won many awards and also taught on a voluntary basis at his alma mater, Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos.
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