Femi Oyewale, Simon Kolawole Honoured with TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation Award of Excellence in Journalism
Gora, Nasarawa State, 1 November 2025 – In a ceremony celebrating literary and journalistic excellence, Mr. Femi Oyewale, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Sahara Weekly and President of the National Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NAOSRE), was conferred with the Award of Excellence in Journalism by the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation.
The award was presented during the TY Buratai Literary Initiative Award Ceremony, which also featured the Young 20 Adult Literature Prize (YALP) 2024 Anthology Public Presentation at the newly commissioned Lt Gen OA Ihejirika (Rtd) Hall within the Tukur Buratai Research Center, Gora, Nasarawa State. The hall was officially declared open by Lt Gen OA Ihejirika (Rtd) himself, who also served as the Chairman of the occasion. Unable to attend in person due to international commitments, Mr. Oyewale was ably represented by Dr. Mohammed Sani Abubakar.
Celebrating a Legacy of Integrity and Humanitarianism
The award citation recognized Mr. Oyewale for his exemplary contributions to journalism, transformative leadership, and profound humanitarian service, perfectly aligning with the foundation’s mission: “helping the poor, improving lives.”
A distinguished publisher and visionary leader, Mr. Oyewale’s career trajectory exemplifies dedication and professionalism. Trained under the mentorship of Concord Newspapers, he rose to lead Sahara Weekly, NAOSRE, and the National Association of Online Security Reporters with a steadfast commitment to ethical, balanced, and impactful reporting.
Through the NASRE Media Foundation, he has pioneered initiatives providing financial aid, medical support, and educational scholarships to families of deceased and ailing journalists, creating a safety net for those who dedicate their lives to informing the nation.
General Buratai’s Remarks on the Occasion
In his keynote address, General Tukur Buratai (Rtd) lauded Mr. Oyewale as a “shining example of integrity and social consciousness in Nigerian journalism,” stating:
“In a time when the press faces numerous challenges, Femi Oyewale has consistently demonstrated that leadership in journalism is not only about reporting the truth, but also about uplifting those who risk everything to keep the public informed. His humanitarian work mirrors the core values of our foundation – compassion, service, and empowerment.”
General Buratai further encouraged media leaders to emulate Mr. Oyewale’s commitment, adding:
“We honour not just a journalist, but a visionary whose work strengthens the pillars of democracy and serves as a beacon of hope for all Nigerians.”
Media Houses and Recognition
The award was jointly acknowledged by two leading media institutions: The Cable Newspaper, led by Publisher Simon Kolawole, and Sahara Weekly, under Mr. Oyewale’s stewardship. This dual recognition highlighted the recipient’s leadership and collaborative spirit within Nigeria’s media landscape.
The award citation read:
“For his unwavering dedication to journalistic excellence, his visionary leadership that unites and empowers media professionals, and his profound humanitarian impact that touches countless lives, we celebrate him today. He is not just a master of his craft, but a beacon of hope and a true champion for humanity.”
A Personal Letter of Commendation
Prior to the ceremony, Mr. Oyewale received a formal letter of commendation from the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation, praising his leadership of NAOSRE and Sahara Weekly as a model for ethical journalism:
“Your distinguished career, marked by integrity and a steadfast commitment to the truth, is vividly reflected in your leadership of Sahara Weekly and Sahara TV. Your continued guidance will be defined by the same objectivity, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication to the public interest that has characterized your work.”
The award, presented at the Tukur Buratai Research Centre, marks another milestone in Mr. Oyewale’s ongoing mission to champion ethical journalism and humanitarian service. His recognition today underscores a career dedicated not only to reporting the truth but also to uplifting and supporting those who serve the public through media.
About the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation
The foundation is committed to humanitarian service, social development, and recognition of excellence, particularly in fields that impact society, including media, education, and literature.
