Philip Osei Bonsu, a broadcaster widely known as O.B., has been named the 2026 Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Journalist of the Year. This prestigious award is the highest individual honour handed out by the Association each year, recognising a journalist's body of work over a qualifying period. O.B. is a prominent figure at Asempa FM, where he hosts the flagship political programme Ekosiisen and serves as Programmes Manager.
O.B.'s career is unique in that it combines broadcast journalism with law. He was called to the Ghana Bar in October 2024, after completing his professional training at the Ghana School of Law. His educational background includes a First Class Honours degree in Linguistics and Theatre Arts from the University of Ghana, an LLB from Central University, and an MSc in Corporate Communication and Public Affairs with Distinction from Robert Gordon University in Scotland.
The 30th GJA Media Awards, where O.B. received his award, took place on November 7, 2026, under the theme "Celebrating Excellence, Advancing Media Freedom and Combating Hate Speech in the Digital Age." The ceremony was attended by journalists, media organisations, and industry stakeholders who gathered to honour achievements across the sector. Other winners included Clinton Yeboah from Luv FM, who won the Best Radio Feature category.
O.B.'s recognition as Journalist of the Year is not his first notable honour. In January 2026, he was named among the personalities on Avance Media's inaugural Top 100 Ghanaians Powerlist 2025, recognised in the media category for his work on Ekosiisen. At the time, he attributed the recognition to the hard work and professionalism of his team and his dedication to his chosen professions.
The awards come at a time when press freedom has been a significant issue in Ghana. The country recently climbed to 39th on the global press freedom index, though the GJA leadership has urged caution over this improvement. The Association's leadership has also been vocal on matters affecting journalists, including criticising a government minister over comments on press conduct.
O.B.'s achievement is seen as a testament to his hard work and commitment to journalism and law. As he continues in his dual roles, his recognition by the GJA is expected to inspire other journalists and media professionals. The GJA Media Awards are a significant event in Ghana's media calendar, highlighting excellence and promoting media freedom.
The Ghana Journalists Association continues to play a crucial role in promoting press freedom and excellence in journalism. With O.B.'s award, the Association has recognised an individual who has made significant contributions to the media landscape in Ghana. The event has encouraged media professionals to continue upholding the highest standards of journalism.
Key points
- O.B. named 2026 GJA Journalist of the Year
- The 30th GJA Media Awards took place on November 7, 2026
- O.B. balances careers in broadcast journalism and law
