Dapo Olorunyomi to Receive AMDF Lifetime Achievement Award
Veteran publisher recognized for decades of contributions to investigative journalism and media ethics in Africa.
1Prestigious Media Recognition
The Africa Media Development Foundation has named Dapo Olorunyomi as the recipient of its 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor celebrates veteran professionals who have significantly shaped public discourse and ethical reporting standards across the continent. The foundation will officially present the award during its upcoming tenth annual conference held in December.
2A Career in Journalism
Dapo Olorunyomi is the publisher of PREMIUM TIMES and currently serves as the chief executive officer of the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development. His career spans several decades, focusing on investigative reporting and the promotion of press freedom. He has been a central figure in addressing challenges within the West African media.
3Institutional Impact and Growth
In 2011, Olorunyomi co-founded PREMIUM TIMES, which became a leading platform for public-interest journalism. He later co-established the Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism in 2014, which was rebranded as the CJID in 2022. These organizations aim to strengthen democratic accountability and foster innovation in media practices throughout the West African region.
4History of Distinguished Honors
This latest recognition adds to a long list of accolades for Olorunyomi's contributions to the field. He previously received the 2020 International Press Freedom Award from the Committee to Protect Journalists. Additionally, he was honored with the 2017 Diamond Awards for Media Excellence and the national title of Officer of the Order of the Niger.
5Selection and Award Process
Unlike other categories in the AMDF awards, the Lifetime Achievement Award is determined exclusively by the foundation's board. Only one recipient is selected annually for this specific honor. The decision reflects the board's assessment of an individual's lasting impact on development journalism, public discourse, and the overall integrity of the African media landscape.
6Journalist of the Year Finalists
Alongside the lifetime achievement announcement, AMDF revealed finalists for its 2026 Journalist of the Year Awards. Candidates were selected from nine African countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, and Kenya. Finalists were named in online, print, radio, and television categories, though no finalists were recommended for the photography category after a rigorous assessment of submissions.
7Rigorous Evaluation Criteria
Joseph Edegbo, chairman of the selection committee, emphasized that entries were judged on development relevance and investigative depth. The committee focused on the actual journalistic works submitted rather than relying on applicant descriptions. Key metrics included originality, research quality, evidence, and the potential impact of the reporting on the public interest across Africa.
8Upcoming Conference Significance
The awards ceremony will take place during the 10th Africa Conference on Development Journalism, scheduled for 2 to 4 December 2026. This event serves as a critical gathering for media professionals to discuss industry challenges. It highlights the ongoing commitment to fostering high-quality, evidence-based reporting that supports democratic governance and transparency across the continent.
Original article: Premium Times Nigeria — Dapo Olorunyomi to Receive AMDF Lifetime Achievement Award