By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Mentoring Commandant Alistair Soyode, founder of Bright Entertainment Network (BEN TV) and Nationals in Diaspora Mentoring Corp (NIDMECORP), has received the DTN@100 Trailblazer Award as Daily Times Nigeria marks its 100th anniversary.
The award was presented on Tuesday, November 3, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, in recognition of Soyode’s contributions to media development, leadership, public service and national development.
The centenary celebration, themed “Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future,” brought together prominent Nigerians from government, business, technology, media and public service to recognise individuals and organisations whose work has contributed to the country’s development and international profile.
Other award recipients included the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd.); Dr Mahmood Ahmadu, founder of Online Integrated Solutions (OIS), who received the Nigeria Global Champion Award; and Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, former Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, who received a Changemaker Award.
Soyode’s recognition reflects his longstanding involvement in media development, diaspora engagement, mentoring, leadership advocacy and the promotion of Nigeria’s image internationally.
Through BEN TV, described as the first Black and ethnic satellite television network in Europe, he has worked to strengthen media connections between Africa and the global community.
His NIDMECORP initiative also focuses on mentoring, youth development, good governance and responsible leadership. Soyode previously served in a global leadership role within the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation.
Expressing appreciation for the award, Soyode acknowledged Daily Times Nigeria, Folio Media Group and the Times Heroes Award Council. He particularly recognised the council’s chairman, Mr Bolaji Okusaga, and Folio Media Group Chairman, Mr Fidelis Anosike.
He described the recognition as an encouragement to continue contributing to nation-building. He also highlighted the importance of documenting the achievements of Nigerians through the Nigerian Grand Book to preserve the country’s history for future generations.
Soyode called on media organisations to sustain quality journalism, expand coverage of issues affecting the public and use their platforms to promote awareness, responsible representation and the public good.
Founded in 1926, Daily Times Nigeria is marking a century of documenting the country’s political, economic, social and cultural development.