The Nigerian media landscape is set for a significant celebration of excellence as the prestigious Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) prepares for its 34th edition. The ceremony is scheduled to hold on Tuesday in Lagos, continuing a legacy that has defined quality in journalism for decades.
A Night of Honour for Media Icons
This year's event will be particularly momentous, featuring the presentation of 20 competitive prizes across various facets of journalism, including reporting, commentary, and media aesthetics. These awards uphold DAME's core mission of rewarding outstanding professionalism, ethical responsibility, and excellence.
Beyond the competitive categories, the spotlight will shine on three distinguished veterans who have profoundly shaped the industry. The 2025 Honorary Fellowships will be conferred upon:
- Najeem Jimoh, the former Editor of The Punch, celebrated for his editorial depth, calm leadership, and deep commitment to mentoring young journalists.
- Dare Babarinsa, co-founder and former Executive Editor of TELL magazine, recognized as a premier chronicler of Nigeria's political history through his work at Drum, Concord, Newswatch, and Gaskiya Media. His seminal book, House of War, remains a vital historical reference.
- Owei Lakemfa, a renowned columnist, courageous trade unionist, and former Secretary-General of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), whose voice has been a consistent force for justice and workers' rights.
DAME's Enduring Legacy and Industry Impact
Since its establishment in 1992, DAME has served as the gold standard for media quality in Nigeria. The awards are more than just an annual event; they are part of a larger vision. The DAME Trust Fund actively invests in the future of journalism through training programmes designed to strengthen professional skills, enhance ethical standards, and support the next generation of reporters and editors.
Symposium on Securing Nigeria's Future
In a related development, a major symposium themed 'Equipping the Nigerian Child for the Future: How Prepared Are We?' will be held next Tuesday at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja.
This event is a collaboration between the Nigerian Guild of Editors, DAME, and UNICEF. It will convene media leaders, policymakers, and child-rights advocates to address the urgent challenges facing millions of Nigerian children.
Participants will focus on practical solutions for improving safe learning environments, enhancing child protection systems, building climate resilience, and advancing ethical, child-focused media reporting. UNICEF representatives emphasize that children bear the greatest burden of insecurity and poverty, despite contributing the least to these crises. The organisers hope this dialogue will spark stronger partnerships and a renewed national commitment to ensuring every Nigerian child can thrive.
