Daily Times is set to celebrate its 100th anniversary in Lagos with a series of events, including the Times Heroes Awards, a National Policy Town Hall, and an exhibition that highlights a century of documenting Nigeria's political, economic, and cultural milestones. The celebration, held under the theme “Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future,” will convene policymakers, business leaders, public-sector stakeholders, and other influential Nigerians to honour individuals and institutions whose contributions have shaped the country, while sparking fresh conversations about its future.
A Century of Documenting Nigeria's Journey
For 100 years, Daily Times has chronicled Nigeria’s political, economic, social, and cultural evolution. The centenary celebration draws on this legacy to recognise the people and institutions whose leadership, enterprise, public service, and innovation have influenced national development. The event is designed to connect the lessons of Nigeria’s history with the ambitions of future generations.
Mr. Bolaji Okusaga, Chairman of the DTN@100 Times Heroes Awards Council, emphasised the significance of the milestone. “As Daily Times celebrates 100 years of documenting Nigeria’s journey, the DTN@100 Times Heroes Awards is an opportunity to honour the people and institutions whose vision, courage and contributions have helped shape our nation. This centenary is not just about reflecting on our history; it is about preserving the lessons of our past, recognising the achievements of the present, and inspiring a new generation to build a more prosperous and inclusive Nigeria. Through the Town Hall, the exhibition and the Times Heroes Awards, we aim to spark meaningful conversations, celebrate enduring legacies and renew our collective commitment to shaping the future we want,” he said.
The Nigerian Grand Book and the Times Heroes Awards
A central feature of the centenary initiative is The Nigerian Grand Book, National Book of Changemakers, a publication developed over 15 years and informed by Daily Times’ century-long archive. The book, which features a foreword by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will document the contributions and achievements of distinguished Nigerians. Each awardee will receive a dedicated page preserving their story for future generations.
The Times Heroes Awards will recognise outstanding individuals and institutions whose decisions, leadership, and achievements have contributed to Nigeria’s development. This includes those who have built successful businesses, created opportunities, delivered public service, and advanced national progress. The awards aim to celebrate enduring legacies and inspire a new generation of changemakers.
National Policy Town Hall and Exhibition
The programme will also feature a policy-focused Town Hall designed to encourage dialogue on Nigeria’s development priorities and the practical steps required to unlock the country’s potential. Discussions will address critical issues including informal employment, energy access, infrastructure, productive livelihoods, and the conditions needed to attract investment and support sustainable growth.
The Honouring the Past Exhibition will showcase elements of Nigeria’s national story through the Daily Times archive, providing an opportunity for participants to reflect on the people, events, and milestones that have shaped the country over the past century. The exhibition sponsorship model will support school attendance, encouraging young Nigerians to connect with the nation’s history.
Building on the Abuja Gathering
The centenary initiative builds on an earlier gathering held on September 3, 2026, at ThisDay Dome, Abuja, which brought together prominent national figures. These included Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who represented President Tinubu; Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who delivered the keynote address and received an award; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu; Governors Abdullahi Sule, Umar Bago, and Dauda Lawal; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe.
Beyond celebrating distinguished Nigerians, the DTN@100 initiative seeks to preserve national memory, strengthen public appreciation of the people behind the country’s progress, and inspire future changemakers. The event will also provide opportunities for corporate participation and engagement. As Daily Times enters its second century, the celebration serves as both a tribute to the institution’s enduring role in documenting Nigeria and a platform for dialogue on the leadership, partnerships, and collective action needed to shape the country’s future.
