The Group News Editor, Dr Sunday Isuwa, has received the Distinguished Media Icon of the Year Award 2026 in recognition of his contributions to journalism, while calling on journalists and newspaper editors to embrace digital technology to remain relevant in the rapidly evolving media industry.
Isuwa received the prestigious award during the 17th Annual Lecture and Awards organised by the Ebony Herald Hall of Fame and Dignity International in Abuja on Wednesday.
The event, which attracted prominent stakeholders from the media and other sectors, focused on the theme, Nigeria’s Evolving Democracy, Insecurity and the Impact of Social Media, providing a platform for discussions on the country’s democratic development, security challenges and the growing influence of digital communication.
Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the ceremony, Isuwa described the recognition as a source of encouragement to deepen his commitment to journalism and the responsibility of the media in promoting democratic accountability.
He expressed appreciation for the honour, noting that his career had been driven by passion, dedication and a strong belief in the importance of journalism to society.
According to him, his decision to pursue journalism was informed by his early passion for the profession, which motivated him to study Mass Communication.
He said, “It’s so exciting that if you do something that you have passion for and you receive an honour, I think it’s a very good thing. I was just doing my work and, as a young man, I believed that I had a career in journalism. And so, my focus was to study mass communication.”
Reflecting on his professional journey, Isuwa disclosed that he had worked with several reputable media organisations, including LEADERSHIP, Daily Trust, Daily Times and Pulse.NG. He also revealed that he had undertaken freelance assignments for The New York Times.
He explained that throughout his career, his guiding principle had been to ensure that the media remained committed to its fundamental responsibility of informing and educating citizens, as well as holding those in positions of authority accountable.
The award recipient, who is also the author of Digital Shift in Nigeria’s Newspaper Industry, said the publication was developed to promote media literacy and provide journalists and other industry stakeholders with a better understanding of the technological transformation taking place in the newspaper business.
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Addressing the challenges facing traditional newspaper organisations, Isuwa urged young journalists to cultivate a strong reading culture and make continuous professional development a priority.
He stressed that journalism goes beyond writing reports and publishing stories, explaining that intellectual development, research and the practical application of knowledge were essential ingredients for professional excellence.
“My advice to young journalists and those who have a passion for journalism is that this is a profession that requires someone to be knowledgeable about everything. And for you to be knowledgeable, you have to read, re-read and apply it,” he said.
Isuwa expressed concern over what he described as the declining reading culture among some journalists, warning that the profession requires constant learning and intellectual engagement beyond routine newsroom activities.
He maintained that reading empowers journalists with the knowledge and confidence needed to educate the public and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“When you read, you are empowering yourself, and you will have the ability to also empower others. So, that’s why I don’t joke with reading. I have my own timetable of reading,” he added.
The Group News Editor also called on newspaper editors and media executives still relying on conventional newsroom practices to urgently adapt to the realities of digital journalism.
He warned that media organisations that fail to embrace technological innovation risk losing relevance in an industry increasingly driven by digital platforms, multimedia content and real-time information delivery.
According to him, modern newspaper journalism requires professionals to develop additional skills beyond conventional news writing, including photography, video production, multimedia storytelling and live reporting.
He explained that journalists must be prepared to capture events through pictures and videos and communicate developments to audiences across different platforms.
“If you are a newspaper journalist, you don’t just write text and go to sleep. No, you have to take pictures. You have to take videos.
“You have to learn how to speak when they call you from the office or from a studio so that you can be able to give live updates in every environment,” he said.
On the growing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the media industry, Isuwa maintained that emerging technologies should not be regarded as threats to journalism but as instruments for improving productivity, efficiency and professional output.
He encouraged editors and media organisations to explore available digital applications and AI-powered solutions to strengthen newsroom operations, improve content production and meet the changing expectations of modern audiences.
He emphasised that journalists who understand and effectively utilise technology would be better positioned to compete in the evolving media environment.
“I’m not saying that technology is taking our job, but technology is to enhance our job. And so, those who will not venture into technology, they will be left behind,” he stated.
Isuwa’s recognition with the Distinguished Media Icon of the Year Award 2026 highlights his contributions to the Nigerian media industry and reinforces the growing importance of professional excellence, continuous learning and technological innovation in contemporary journalism.
