Chief Abia Onyike, a veteran journalist and former Deputy National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has been selected as one of 20 prominent Nigerian journalists to receive the union's 2026 Milestone Recognition of Media Icons Award. The award ceremony is part of activities marking the 71st anniversary of the NUJ, established in 1955, and is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Hotel Continental in Abuja.
Onyike was chosen in recognition of his immense contributions to the development of journalism in Nigeria. According to the NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, and National Secretary, Achike Chude, Onyike's selection is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the journalism profession. The award recipients were described as leading media personalities and stalwarts who have distinguished themselves through their contributions to journalism.
Other prominent Nigerians selected for the recognition include the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi; veteran broadcaster, Dr Danladi Bako; renowned journalist, publisher and former senator, Chris Anyanwu; celebrated columnist and co-founder of Newswatch magazine, Dan Agbese; publisher of The Source magazine, Comfort Obi; and broadcaster and traditional title holder, Prince Adeyinka Amosu.
Onyike's selection is seen as recognition of a journalism career spanning several decades, during which he has combined professional practice, union leadership, public communication and media management. Born on May 22, 1960, in Amaekpu, Ohafia, Abia State, Onyike hails from Akanu Owutu Edda in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. He began his journalism career in the 1980s as a freelance journalist, contributing articles to regional newspapers.
Onyike's public service career began in 1989 when he was employed as an Information Officer in the Imo State Ministry of Information. He was subsequently posted to the Government House Press Unit in Owerri during the administration of the then military governor, Amadi Ikwechegh. Between 1990 and 1994, he served as an Area Information Officer in Onicha, Ohaozara, Umuahia and Ikwuano local government areas.
Following the creation of Ebonyi State in 1996, Onyike emerged as the pioneer chairman of the NUJ in the new state, playing a significant role in establishing the union's structures and advancing the interests of journalists. His involvement in organised journalism extended to the national level in 1999 when he was elected Deputy National President of the NUJ, a position he held until 2003.
Onyike has continued to strengthen his professional credentials academically, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from the University of Calabar in 1987, a Master of Arts degree in Mass Communication from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 1993, and recently completing a PhD in Mass Communication at the same institution in 2026. He also undertook his National Youth Service Corps programme at the School of General Studies, Bayero University, Kano, between 1987 and 1988.
Key points
- Abia Onyike is among 20 distinguished Nigerian journalists to receive the NUJ's 2026 Milestone Recognition of Media Icons Award.
- The award ceremony is scheduled for November 7, 2026, at the Hotel Continental in Abuja.
- Onyike's selection recognises his contributions to the development of journalism in Nigeria.
