Abuja, Nigeria – November 22, 2024:
The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has announced the shortlist of 15 outstanding journalists nominated for its inaugural Excellence in Journalism Awards.
CJID made the announcement in Abuja following the release of the nominees’ list by the Chairperson of the panel of judges, Ajibola Amzat, Editor, Centre for Collaborative Investigative Journalism.
Other members of the panel, comprising distinguished professionals across Africa and beyond, includes Stella Din-Jacob, Director of News, TVC, Adeolu Adekola, Project Manager, Centre for Investigative Journalism, London and Kent Mensah , the Chief Ghana Correspondent, The Africa Report.
The 15 journalists who made the list, authors of 13 reports, were selected from a pool of 388 entries received from seven countries across West Africa.
The finalists include: Kunle Adebajo of Humangle (Nigeria), Bettina Nwelih of News Central (Nigeria), Kwetey Nartey of Joy News (Ghana), Jemilat Nasiru of The Cable (Nigeria) and Yero Bah of Nigeria Health Watch (The Gambia/Nigeria) and Olayide Soaga of Prime Progress (Nigeria).
Others are: Manasseh-Azure-Awuni, Adwoa Adobea Owusu and Evans Aziamor-Mensah of The Fourth Estate (Ghana), Manasseh Mbachii of Premium Times (Nigeria), Juliet Buna of African Women in Media (Nigeria), Godwin Asediba of Media General (Ghana), Kabir Yusuf of Premium Times (Nigeria), Jamiu Folarin of Rock City FM (Nigeria) and Prosper Ishaya of Social Voices (Nigeria).
The award, launched in 2024, reflects CJID’s commitment to supporting and celebrating excellent journalism that addresses critical issues across Africa. It recognizes journalists whose impactful work fosters accountability, transparency, and development.
The award winners will be unveiled at CJID’s 10th-anniversary dinner and awards ceremony, scheduled for Wednesday, November 27, 2024, in Abuja.
The ceremony is part of CJID’s 2024 Media and Development Conference, which will bring together media professionals, innovators, and thought leaders to discuss the transformative role of media and technology in advancing democracy and development in Africa.
“We are excited to recognize the exceptional contributions of these journalists to the African media landscape. Their work embodies the principles of integrity, innovation, and impact that CJID seeks to promote,” Amzat, the judges’ chair said.
CJID congratulates all shortlisted nominees for their dedication to telling important African stories and looks forward to celebrating their achievements later this month.
Kemi Busari,
For the CJID 2024 Excellence in Journalism Awards Committee.
