The Chairman/CEO of Koko Beach Hotels and Resorts Limited, Richard Shittu, has formally accepted his selection as a recipient of the DTN@100 Trailblazer Award. This prestigious honour is part of the Daily Times Nigeria @100 Celebration, a centenary programme themed "Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future." The award ceremony was scheduled to take place on November 3, 2026, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.
In an acceptance letter dated November 2, 2026, Shittu expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and gratitude to the Board, Management, and the Organising Committee of the Daily Times Nigeria @100 Celebration. He also thanked the Times Heroes Award Council and all those involved in the selection process. Shittu described Daily Times as a formidable force in Nigeria's media landscape, noting its century-long commitment to journalism and influence on public thought.
Shittu highlighted that Daily Times' remarkable milestone is a testament to its resilience, enduring relevance, and impact across generations. He sees this award as an opportunity to celebrate the newspaper's past achievements while recognizing its capacity to remain a driving force in shaping Nigeria's future. The hospitality entrepreneur acknowledged the award as a significant honour and a privilege to be associated with the Daily Times @100 Celebration and the Nigerian Grand Book initiative.
Due to unavoidable circumstances, Shittu disclosed that he would be out of the country on the scheduled award presentation date and would be unable to personally receive the award. He tendered his apologies for any inconvenience and reaffirmed his commitment to receiving the award in person at a later date convenient to the organisers. Shittu emphasised that he remains committed to the award and is willing to schedule a formal presentation for a later date.
The DTN@100 Trailblazer Award is part of a larger programme that aims to honour distinguished Nigerians across business, technology, public service, and national development. The awards ceremony was set to take place alongside the Shaping the Future Town Hall and the Honouring the Past Exhibition. Other notable recipients of the DTN@100 awards include Renaissance Energy CEO, Tony Attah, and MTN Nigeria Chairman, Ernest Ndukwe.
The Daily Times Nigeria @100 Celebration is a significant milestone in the country's media history, marking 100 years of journalism and public service. The centenary programme aims to recognise and celebrate the contributions of Nigerians who have made a positive impact in their respective fields. The programme also seeks to promote Nigeria's growth and development by honouring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and achievements.
Key points
- Richard Shittu, Chairman of Koko Beach Hotels and Resorts Limited, has accepted the DTN@100 Trailblazer Award.
- The award ceremony was part of the Daily Times Nigeria @100 Celebration, a centenary programme themed "Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future."
- Shittu was unable to attend the award ceremony due to unavoidable circumstances and will receive the award at a later date.
