By Chioma Vivian James
Initiative for Women’s Accelerated Development in Africa (INWOAD) has congratulated its National Coordinator, Lydia Samson, on her recognition with an Award of Excellence at the 2026 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Press Week Lecture and Awards Ceremony held in Abuja.
The prestigious award was presented in recognition of Lydia Samson’s remarkable contributions to journalism and her impactful reportage in Nigeria’s energy sector through the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she serves as an energy correspondent.
The event, which formed part of activities marking the NUJ FCT Press Week, brought together prominent media practitioners, policymakers, civil society leaders, development partners, and distinguished Nigerians to celebrate professionalism, excellence, and contributions to national development.
Reacting to the honour, Lydia Samson expressed profound appreciation to the NUJ FCT Council for recognizing her dedication and commitment to responsible journalism and developmental reporting.
She stated that the award would further motivate her to continue promoting factual, balanced, and solution-driven journalism capable of advancing growth and sustainable development within Nigeria’s energy sector and beyond.
“This recognition is both humbling and encouraging. It strengthens my resolve to continue using journalism as a tool for national development, public enlightenment, and positive social impact,” she said.
Lydia Samson further reaffirmed her commitment to advancing the vision and objectives of Accelerated Women for Development in Africa (INWOAD), particularly in the areas of women empowerment, inclusion, leadership, and sustainable development across the continent.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, the Founder and President of INWOAD, Rotarian Evelyn Onyilo, described the award as a well-deserved recognition of Lydia Samson’s professionalism, resilience, and outstanding contributions to journalism and national development.
According to Evelyn Onyilo, Lydia Samson has remained a shining example of dedication and excellence both as a media professional and as a development advocate committed to empowering women and promoting positive change in society.
“Lydia Samson has consistently demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and passion in her work. Her contributions in the energy sector and commitment to developmental journalism continue to inspire many young professionals, especially women striving for excellence in the media industry,” Onyilo stated.
She also commended the NUJ FCT Council for sustaining a culture of recognizing hardworking and impactful professionals whose efforts contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s democratic growth and national progress.
The honour has continued to attract commendations from journalists, women organizations, civil society groups, and development advocates who described Lydia Samson as a committed professional whose work continues to make meaningful impact within the media landscape and beyond.
The NUJ FCT Press Week Lecture and Awards Ceremony remains one of Nigeria’s foremost annual media events dedicated to celebrating excellence, professionalism, and service in journalism and public life.
