By Mercy Gadia Adi
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, on Saturday received international recognition as she was honoured with the “Excellence in Media Leadership and Advocacy Award” by the School of Communications and Media Studies, Learn To Live Business School UK (LLBSUK).
The prestigious award was the major highlight of LLBSUK’s 2025 Postgraduate Awards Ceremony, which celebrated graduands from Cohort 1 and Cohort 2 in an atmosphere filled with pride, academic fulfilment and professional camaraderie.
The ceremony attracted media scholars, seasoned practitioners, academics, and families of the graduands. Among those who completed the rigorous programme were Mrs. Funmilayo Evelyn Akintola, Gloria Ikiba, Arith, and Yecenu Joyce Sasetu, alongside other professionals trained in communication strategy, media ethics and development reporting.
Presenting the award, former Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and Chairman of AFIA Television, Chief Emeka Mba, described Ike as one of the most influential voices in contemporary Nigerian journalism.
“Comrade Grace Ike is a trailblazer in media leadership,” he said. “Her work continues to influence national discourse. This award recognises an outstanding individual who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in advancing ethical journalism, free expression and responsible media practice.”
In her response, an emotional Ike expressed deep gratitude for the honour, calling it both a validation and a renewed call to duty.
“I am delighted by this recognition from the School of Communications and Media Studies,” she said. “Strategic communication remains central to our national development. We must continue to refine how we tell our stories and how we engage the public.”
She reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening public trust in the media, pledging to continue championing narratives that rebuild confidence in journalism.
“I will do my best to inspire my people to tell stories that shape public trust. The media must remain a credible bridge between government, institutions and citizens,” she added.
For the new graduands, the event signified the beginning of a new professional chapter. Many expressed excitement at entering higher roles equipped with in-demand skills that LLBSUK says will strengthen Nigeria’s media ecosystem in the years ahead.
The colourful ceremony ended with presentation of certificates, awards, group photographs and a networking session involving academics, researchers and practitioners.