Last week, Anuforo was honoured with the ICT Innovation Storyteller Award at the Africa Tech Alliance Excellence (ATAEx) Awards.

This award acknowledged her exceptional ability to craft captivating narratives that illuminate the intricacies and potential of the ICT sector.

“Chinenye’s dedication to her craft is evident in her insightful analysis and engaging storytelling,” said Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, co-convener of the ATAEx Awards. “Her work has consistently shed light on the significant impact of technology on society, making her a deserving recipient of this award.”

The accolades didn’t stop there. Just a week later, Anuforo was named the ICT Reporter of the Year at the Africa Digital Awards (ADA). This prestigious award further solidifies her position as a leading voice in the ICT industry.

Mr. Tayo Adewusi, Publisher/Coordinator of NIICF & ADA, who presented the award, highlighted Anuforo’s role in shaping public discourse on ICT issues.

“Her reports have not only informed but also inspired, making her a true champion of digital innovation,” he said.

Expressing her gratitude, Chinenye Anuforo stated, “I am deeply honored and humbled to receive these awards. I am grateful to my editors at The Sun Newspapers for their unwavering support and to the organizers of the ATAEx Awards and Africa Digital Awards for recognizing my work. It is a privilege to be able to contribute to the growth of the ICT sector in Nigeria through journalism.”

Anuforo said that the government, media, and citizens, must work together to uphold the existing legal framework that protects freedom of expression; strengthen the independence of regulatory bodies like the NPC, and promote responsible journalism that is factual and balanced.

She made the remarks while speaking at QNET webinar to celebrate the World Press Day on Tuesday.

According to her, press freedom is not merely about headlines or broadcasts; it is the lifeblood of a healthy society, the vigilant eye that holds power to account, and the platform for exchanging ideas freely.

“It empowers us to challenge the status quo, debate critical issues, and ensure accountability from our leaders.

“In Nigeria, our press landscape is diverse and vibrant, reflecting a collaborative effort between various stakeholders. While challenges persist, it’s essential to recognise the progress made and the ongoing commitment to press freedom.

“The Nigerian Constitution, specifically Section 39, guarantees the right to freedom of expression, providing a solid foundation for a thriving press. Additionally, independent regulatory bodies like the National Press Council play a crucial role in safeguarding journalists’ rights and ensuring ethical conduct.

“The Government has also established independent regulatory bodies like the National Press Council (NPC). While ensuring ethical conduct, the NPC plays a crucial role in protecting journalists’ rights. It provides a platform for grievance redressers, safeguarding them from undue pressure. These bodies allow journalists to fulfill their vital role as watchdogs, truth-tellers, and story-tellers of relevant information.

“Moreover, initiatives such as the Freedom of Information Act empower journalists to access information from public institutions, fostering transparency and accountability. These efforts contribute to a media environment where journalists can fulfil their vital role as watchdogs and truth-tellers.

Press freedom is a continuous journey

“Our journey towards press freedom is ongoing, and we must continue working together to uphold existing legal frameworks, strengthen the independence of regulatory bodies, and promote responsible journalism.

“In spite of the challenges faced, I urge us all to acknowledge the progress made and consistently work towards a media environment free from harassment and intimidation.

“We must all – the government, media, and citizens – work together to:

• Uphold the existing legal framework that protects freedom of expression.
• Strengthen the independence of regulatory bodies like the NPC.
• Promote responsible journalism that is factual and balanced”.

Having said these, Chinenye Anuforo thanked QNET for their dedication to honouring journalists, saying “it is truly commendable”.

“In a world where information is power, journalists play a vital role in holding those in power accountable, giving voice to the voiceless, and shining a light on truth.

“Their work is often thankless, demanding, and even dangerous. Yet, they persevere, driven by a deep commitment to informing the public and upholding the principles of a free press.

“By recognising these brave individuals, QNET, you are sending a powerful message. You are saying that their work matters, their voices are heard, and their safety is paramount. You are also inspiring the next generation of journalists, showing them the impact they can have on the world”.

Nodding in agreement with Mrs. Anuforo, Mr. Biram Fall, QNET’s regional general manager (RGM) for sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), said that as a global lifestyle and wellness direct selling company with a presence in over 25 countries, QNET thrives on the principles of transparency and public access to accurate information.

He said that the company’s dedication to these principles not only enhances trust and strengthens relationships but is also fundamental in supporting the free flow of information, essential for a vibrant press.

In his words:

“Our direct selling model has provided financial independence to millions, empowering them to transform their lives while pursuing personal aspirations.

“We commit to continuous delivery of high-quality products that meet rigorous global standards, with several certified by Nigeria’s NAFDAC.

“QNET has demonstrated transparency primarily through our Say No Campaign to educate communities about the dangers of fraudulent job offers that lead to human trafficking. The initiative involved radio commercials in English, Pidgin and Hausa, mounting billboards, distributing flyers and active engagement with key government stakeholders. Through this effort, we forged a partnership with LASCOPA on World Consumer Rights Day.

“Furthermore, we have extended invitations to Nigerian journalists to attend to our annual V Convention in Penang Malaysia to give them the true picture about the company”.

Mr. Fall added that QNET has also taken significant measures to dispel misinformation about the company, its business model, and the direct-selling industry in general across the Sub-Saharan Africa region.

QNET in Nigeria: Growth and Community Engagement

• In Nigeria, QNET’s growth has been significant, paralleled by the deepening commitment to community engagement and media freedom.
• Recently, the company launched a comprehensive social awareness campaign to enhance consumer protection and brand recognition.
• QNET is planning a roundtable discussion later this year, focusing on the role of businesses in supporting press freedom and enhancing transparency.

Anuforo’s innovative reporting on the Foundation’s impactful Y’ellopreneur initiative shattered expectations, earning her the coveted award as well as the cash prize.

The School of Media and Communications, Pan-Atlantic University 2023 professional programmes graduation ceremony, held at the Lagos Business School during the weekend, crackled with excitement as Odunaya Sanya, the executive secretary, MTN Foundation, revealed the winner.

Sanya lauded Anuforo for her exceptional report titled, “MTN’s Yellopreneur initiative paves way for women entrepreneurs in Nigeria.”

Unlike conventional reports, Anuforo’s work delved deeper, showcasing the Y’ellopreneur programme’s transformative power on the lives of its beneficiaries.

This win wasn’t a stroke of luck, Anuforo’s dedication to ICT journalism goes back to her roots.  A graduate of Federal Polytechnic, Oko with a stellar Mass Communication record, she honed her skills for eight years covering the Capital Market before taking the reins of the Sun’s ICT beat.

Her sharp journalistic instincts led her to uncover the inspiring stories behind the Y’ellopreneur initiative.

But, Chinenye Anuforo wasn’t the only media personality celebrated. The event also saw Mr. Hussain Abdulrasheed of Premier Radio, Kano walked away with the Chairman Award for his innovative project, while Chinedu Obe Chidi of Ripples Nigeria received recognition for his unwavering dedication throughout the program.

The ceremony marked the completion of the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MTN-MIP-2), a six-week, funded programme designed to empower media professionals.

The programme, co-organized by PAU, offered a treasure trove of learning, encompassing courses on modern journalist income streams, creativity, entrepreneurship, cutting-edge technologies like 5G and blockchain, and essential media ethics. The program even whisked participants away on a thrilling study trip to South Africa’s MTN Group headquarters.

This ceremony wasn’t just about celebrating winners, it was a testament to MTN’s unwavering commitment to nurturing Nigeria’s media landscape.

As Tobechukwu Okigbo, Chief Corporate Officer of MTN, earlier revealed, the programme was born from a desire to invest in the future.

Originally conceived as a lavish anniversary celebration, MTN took a bold turn, opting to empower journalists instead.

Okigbo’s words resonated clearly:

“Our goal is to help you understand our industry better and advance your reporting skills.”

Expressing her gratitude, Chinenye Anuforo stated,

“I am pleased to receive the MTN Foundation Chairman’s Award for Innovative Reportage. My report, ‘MTN’s Yellopreneur Initiative Paves the Way for Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria,’ aimed to shed light on the transformative impact of this program. I extend my sincere thanks to MTN Nigeria for this honor and for the invaluable experience gained through the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MTN MIP).”

She also expressed appreciation to the School of Media and Communications, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos, acknowledging their pivotal role in her professional development.