The Executive Director and Editor-in-Chief of Leadership Newspaper, Azu Ishiekwene, has called on journalists to uphold the enduring legacy of the Daily Times by embracing accuracy, credibility, and context in an era marked by misinformation and digital disruption.
Speaking at events marking the centenary celebration of Daily Times Newspaper in Abuja, Ishiekwene described the newspaper as one of the most significant institutions in Nigeria’s media history and a benchmark for professional journalism. He commended the management for preserving the institution and sustaining its legacy a century after its establishment in 1926. The newspaper marked its 100th anniversary on June 1, 2026.
Ishiekwene noted that although Nigeria’s press history predates Daily Times, the newspaper distinguished itself by transforming journalism into a vehicle for mass literacy, national engagement, and informed public discourse. “It introduced the era of mass literacy in Nigeria. It became a marketplace for public conversation and helped shape discussions about the future of the country,” he said.
He emphasized that the newspaper served as a critical training ground for generations of journalists and media professionals, producing some of the most respected names in the profession. Ishiekwene also highlighted its role in the nationalist movement and its contributions to press freedom, public accountability, and democratic engagement in Nigeria. “Daily Times fundamentally became an important training ground. It became a platform for the nationalist movement and helped to shape public opinion. It gave significant power to the press, which we celebrate today,” he stated.
Reflecting on the relevance of the newspaper’s legacy to contemporary journalism, Ishiekwene challenged media practitioners to examine how they use the platforms available to them. “The challenge it throws at us today is: what are we doing with the various platforms where we work? How much of that legacy are we prepared to carry forward?” he asked.
Earlier, the founder of Folio Media Group and Publisher of Daily Times, Mr. Fidelis Anosike, described the centenary celebration as a defining moment not only for the organization but also for Nigerian journalism. He said Daily Times had survived political transitions, economic upheavals, and technological changes because of its commitment to truth, public service, and nation-building.
