Representatives of Wikimedia with Kayode Akintemi, News Central’s managing director (centre), receiving the award in Lagos
The News Central Television and Kayode Akintemi, its managing director and editor-in-chief, have been honoured at the Nigeria Wikimedia community distinguished awards (NWCDA) 2025.
According to a statement by the News Central Television, the event was held in Lagos on November 14.
The awards celebrated media organisations and individuals who have made exceptional contributions to open knowledge, digital literacy, and community empowerment.
The statement said Wikimedia, the global non-profit known for powering widely used knowledge platforms, recognised News Central Television for its pivotal role in amplifying credible information, promoting media transparency, and supporting Wikimedia’s mission of freely accessible knowledge across Africa.
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Akintemi received a special leadership award for his dedication to fact-based storytelling, newsroom excellence, and fostering partnerships that strengthen the ecosystem of open knowledge and responsible digital media.
Speaking on the awards, Akintemi said the recognition reinforces “our commitment to supporting free knowledge initiatives and building stronger bridges between journalism and the Wikimedia ecosystem”.
“We are truly humbled by this award. At News Central, we believe in the transformative power of information and the responsibility that comes with telling stories with truth and depth,” he added.
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The statement added that Wikimedia organisers praised News Central for its contributions to public enlightenment, research-driven reporting, and collaborative initiatives that advance digital education, fact-checking, and knowledge sharing across the continent.
“Under Akintemi’s leadership, News Central has continued to champion innovation in media practice, youth empowerment, and the responsible use of digital tools,” it said.
“The station’s focus on accuracy, transparency, and public service journalism aligns strongly with Wikimedia’s global vision of expanding access to reliable information.
The award also highlights News Central’s growing role in supporting literacy and digital engagement in communities across Nigeria through programming, editorial policies, and partnerships designed to elevate African narratives and ensure public access to verified information.”
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