Nduka Obaigbena, the founder and chairman of THISDAY and ARISE News, was formally notified on Monday that he had been chosen as Leadership Newspapers’ Person of the Year for 2026. The announcement took place at the ARISE News offices in Ikoyi, Lagos, and was delivered by a delegation from the publishing house.
Who presented the award?
The delegation was led by Leadership Newspapers Chairman Mrs Zainab Sam Nda‑Isaiah, accompanied by Vice Chairman and Editor‑in‑Chief Azu Ishiekwene. Also in attendance were the ombudsman for THISDAY and ARISE News, Kayode Komolafe; THISDAY Managing Director Eniola Bello; and ARISE News Director of Politics Akin Osuntokun.
What does the award recognise?
The Person of the Year accolade celebrates individuals who have made a lasting impact on Nigeria’s media landscape. Obaigbena’s portfolio includes the daily newspaper THISDAY, the global news channel ARISE News, and the African‑focused social media platform Lekkelee, which recently added free audio and video calling features for its members.
When and where was the notification made?
The formal notification was handed over at the Ikoyi office of ARISE News on Monday, marking the official start of the award‑giving process for the 2026 cycle.
Why is Obaigbena’s contribution significant?
Since founding THISDAY in 2003, Obaigbena has built one of Nigeria’s most widely read newspapers, while ARISE News extends the country’s voice to an international audience. His leadership of Lekkelee aims to provide a pan‑African digital space for dialogue and content sharing.
What are the next steps?
Leadership Newspapers will present the physical award at a gala ceremony later in the year, with details to be announced by the organisation’s communications team.
The ceremony underscored the close ties between Nigeria’s leading print and broadcast outlets and highlighted Obaigbena’s role in shaping contemporary African media.