Anike Agbaje-Williams

At the SNB Icon Of The Broadcast Media Award to Anike Agbaje-Williams

Anike Agbaje-Williams, the first female broadcaster in Africa, was recently honored with the Icon of the Broadcast Media Award by the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB). This award recognizes her groundbreaking role in opening doors for female broadcasters not only in Nigeria but across Africa. The SNB presented the award at its 1st National Conference Recognition Dinner and Awards Night in Abuja on 15 August 2024.

Anike Agbaje-William’s Award Plaque

Alabi Olusoji, Agbaje-Williams’ grandson, accepted the award on her behalf and expressed gratitude to the organizers for acknowledging her significant contributions. He praised his grandmother for inspiring her family, society, and particularly women in the broadcasting industry. Olusoji noted that if his grandmother who currently lives in Ibadan Oyo State was in Abuja to receive award, she would emphasize the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the industry and be deeply honored by this recognition. He also spoke about her early career struggles in Lagos and how she overcame numerous obstacles to become Nigeria’s first female broadcaster.

86 year old Anike Agbaje-Williams hails from Abeokuta Ogun State.

Anike Agbaje-Williams at 1st Voice of Women Awards in 2015

Abdulhamid Dembros, the Director-General of the Nigeria Television Authority and Chairman of the Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria, emphasized the importance of recognizing pioneers who paved the way for others in the broadcasting industry. He urged current broadcasters to build on the legacy of these trailblazers and create their lasting legacies. Prof. Umar Pate, the National President of the SNB, highlighted the organization’s commitment to building a credible broadcasting system in Nigeria and acknowledged the sacrifices of industry pioneers. He urged stakeholders to protect the industry’s reputation despite the challenges posed by the digital revolution, assuring that the SNB would continue to honor broadcasters and uphold discipline and quality in the profession.

Anike Agbaje-Williams’ grandson Olusoji Alabi

In addition to Agbaje-Williams, the SNB also recognized former President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and the late Raymond Dokpesi, founder of Daar Communications Plc among over 20 other individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to nation-building and development.

Diana Omueza
Women Radio 91.7 Abuja
news@wfm917.com