The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has initiated the Jury deliberation process for the inaugural ECOWAS Media Excellence Awards. This initiative aims to honor journalists whose contributions have been pivotal in shaping the socio-economic integration, peace, and security within the West African region. The deliberations, taking place at Stratton Hotel in Abuja, are set to continue until April 12.
The Media Excellence Awards, part of ECOWAS's 50th-anniversary celebrations, emphasize the vital role of media in West Africa. As highlighted by Honorable Mambury Njie, Special Advisor on Economic Affairs to the President, "journalists in our region are not merely reporters—they are educators, nation-builders, and guardians of our democratic values."
Mr. Joel AHOFODJI, Head of Communication at the ECOWAS Communication Directorate, expressed pride in the awards and confidence in the Jury's commitment to excellence. "Your deliberation is a responsibility not just to the present, but to the future of journalism in our region," he stated.
The President of the Jury, Mr. Abdoulie Gassama, emphasized the importance of selecting stories about ECOWAS programs that truly made a difference. The seven-member Jury, reflecting the region's diversity, has started reviewing entries, initially focusing on the television category, with assessments based on originality, technical execution, ethical standards, and societal impact.
This initiative underlies the crucial role journalism plays in democratic societies by providing a platform for voices to be heard, cultures to be preserved, and futures to be shaped. The award recipients will be announced later this year, with the awards serving as both a tribute and a call for protecting press freedom and inspiring ethical journalism.
The deliberations highlight the importance of honoring those who speak truth both to power and to the public as West Africa celebrates five decades of integration and development.
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