By Stellamaris Ashinze
A group known as Media Rights Agenda (MRA,) has announced Ms Blessing Oladunjoye and Mr Remmy Nweke as winners of the maiden Dr Goodluck Jonathan Freedom of Information Awards.
MRA said the awards recognises outstanding contributions to the promotion and use of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2011, in advancing accountability and transparency.
In a statement in Lagos on Thursday by MRA Executive Director, Mr Edetaen Ojo, the group said Oladunjoye emerged winner in the category for the highest number of FOI requests made between May 28, 2011 and Dec. 31, 2025.
He said Nweke, Group Executive Editor of ITREALMS Media Group, won the second category for exceptional advocacy and public awareness efforts in promoting the FOI Act.
Ojo described the awards as timely, coming on the 15th anniversary of signing of the FOI Act into law by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
According to him, the two journalists demonstrated professionalism, courage and commitment to public interest journalism through sustained use and promotion of the Act.
He noted that journalists across Nigeria increasingly deploy the FOI Act for investigative reporting, public accountability and anti-corruption reporting inspite of secrecy by some public institutions.
Ojo, however, urged more media organisations and journalists to actively utilise the Act to strengthen transparency and democratic governance.
He commended Oladunjoye for submitting over 50 FOI requests to public institutions and pursuing strategic litigation against those who fail to comply with the law.
According to him, her court victories have strengthened enforcement of the Act and advanced citizens’ right to information..
He urged journalists to effectively deploy the law to promote compliance by institutions and deepen democratic accountability.
He reaffirmed MRA’s commitment to supporting investigative journalism, media freedom, transparency and accountability in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, he said the winners would receive plaques, certificates and prizes at a ceremony to be held on a later date. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng