Nigeria’s history is rich with the contributions of journalists, spanning from the pre-independence era to the present day. It is a tale of bold, influential figures who dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to the pursuit of ‘Project Nigeria’.
After playing pivotal roles in securing the nation’s independence, these journalists leveraged their platforms and loyal followings to take on roles of public service.
Many distinguished Nigerian journalists not only shaped the nation’s struggle for independence but also transitioned into political leadership, further solidifying their legacy in the country’s political landscape
Journalist Turn Politicians Post Independence
Nnamdi Azikiwe: Often referred to as the “Father of Nigerian Nationalism”, Nnamdi Azikiwe was a prominent journalist and media mogul before becoming involved in politics.
He worked as a journalist and editor of several newspapers, including The West African Pilot, which was influential in promoting the cause of Nigerian independence. Through his media platform, Azikiwe became a vocal advocate for Nigerian self-governance.
Azikiwe became Nigeria’s first President (1963–1966) following independence. He was also a key figure in the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and a major proponent of independence.
Obafemi Awolowo: A prominent Nigerian nationalist, Awolowo was a journalist and publisher before becoming one of the leading political figures in Nigeria’s struggle for independence.
Awolowo was the founder and editor of The Nigerian Tribune, one of Nigeria’s first daily newspapers, which he used to advance the cause of independence and promote his political ideals. His newspaper became a platform for advocacy against colonial rule.
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Awolowo was the Premier of the Western Region and one of the founding fathers of modern Nigeria. He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s move toward independence and later became a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, leading the Action Group party.
Herbert Macaulay: Known as the “Father of Nigerian Nationalism”, Macaulay was a journalist, engineer, and political activist.
He founded the newspaper The Lagos Daily News and used it as a tool to promote nationalist ideas and mobilise against British colonial rule. His writings contributed significantly to the rise of Nigerian nationalism.
Macaulay was a founding member of the National Congress of British West Africa (NCBWA) and later helped form the Nigeria National Democratic Party (NNDP), which fought for Nigerian self-governance. He is considered one of the key figures in the political movement leading to Nigeria’s independence.
Akintola Williams: Williams was a Nigerian journalist and politician who also played a role in Nigeria’s independence struggle, though his legacy is not as widely recognised as some of the other figures listed here.
He was involved in the early nationalist press and publications advocating for independence.
Williams was a prominent member of the Action Group party and later became a key player in Nigerian politics, where he helped advocate for a free and independent Nigeria.
There were others like Tunji Otegbeye, a prominent journalist and publisher who was active during Nigeria’s independence movement. Alhaji Ibrahim Waziri, a key figure in the Nigerian press and nationalist movements. Michael Imoudu was a Nigerian labour leader and a nationalist. Although not a full-time journalist, Imoudu used his position in the labour movement and his interactions with the press to advocate for workers’ rights and independence.
Journalists Who Became Elected Politicians
Olusegun Osoba: Served as Governor of Ogun State from 1999 to 2003. He was a senior journalist before politics.
Chris Anyanwu: Elected Senator for Imo East (Owerri) in 2007 and served through the next term.
Babafemi Ojudu: Elected Senator for Ekiti Central in 2011.
Smart Adeyemi: Former NUJ President who was elected Senator for Kogi West, first in 2007 and has since served multiple terms.
Eziuche Ubani: Elected Member of the House of Representatives (Obingwa/Osisioma/Ugwunagbo, Abia State) in 2007.
Osita Izunaso: Although his early background includes journalism training, he has also won elective positions, including Senator for Imo West (most recently elected in 2023).
Global Journalism Figures Who Have Held Elective Political Offices
Jesse Jackson Jr (United States) was a well-known civil rights activist and journalist before pursuing politics. He served as a U.S. Congressman for Illinois (1995–2012).
Silvio Berlusconi (Italy): An influential media mogul, he controlled Mediaset, Italy’s largest private television network. His media influence played a significant role in his rise to power. Berlusconi served as Prime Minister of Italy for three terms, from 1994 to 1995, 2001 to 2006, and 2008 to 2011. His media empire gave him significant influence over Italian politics.
Boris Johnson (United Kingdom): Before becoming the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Johnson was the editor of The Spectator, a well-known British magazine, and a columnist for various newspapers.
He served as Mayor of London from 2008 to 2016 and later became the Prime Minister of the UK (2019–2022). His background in journalism played a role in his communication and public persona.
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Journalism can indeed provide a strong foundation for leadership and governance, though it is not the only route. Many journalists transition into politics for various reasons, and their skills in communication, critical thinking, and public engagement often contribute to their effectiveness in political roles.
we may see more of these journalists, like Omoyele Sowore, who has contested the presidency, and Modele Sarafa Yusuf, who only recently joined the governorship race for Ogun state.
Sunday Michael Ogwu is a Nigerian journalist and editor of Pinnacle Daily. He is known for his work in business and economic reporting. He has held editorial roles in prominent Nigerian media outlets, where he has focused on economic policy, financial markets, and developmental issues affecting Nigeria and Africa more broadly.
