In a moment of pride for grassroots journalism, the Badagry District Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr. Raji Rasak, has been named Outstanding Community Relations Journalist of the Year.
The award was conferred on Rasak by the Conference of 57 Chief Press Secretaries of Lagos State Councils, a body that recognizes journalists who have significantly contributed to deepening local governance and strengthening ties between communities and the media.
The event, which took place at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Topo, Badagry, drew journalists, council officials, and community leaders who gathered to celebrate excellence in reporting at the grassroots.
Presenting the award, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, praised Rasak’s dedication to telling the stories of ordinary people and bridging the gap between local authorities and residents through accurate, community-centered reportage.
According to Hunpe, journalism goes beyond breaking news headlines—it also serves as a tool for social cohesion and accountability at the grassroots. He noted that Rasak’s consistent efforts to spotlight both the challenges and successes of Badagry and other Lagos communities had earned him the recognition.
For Rasak, the award was more than just a plaque. It was a validation of years of hard work covering the pulse of the people— from community development projects to cultural celebrations and from governance issues to human interest stories that rarely make the front pages.
The Conference of 57 CPS described him as a journalist who has distinguished himself with professionalism, accuracy, and integrity, adding that his work continues to promote trust between citizens and their leaders.
Guests at the event commended the recognition, with many stressing that community journalism remains the bedrock of democracy, as it ensures that the voices of those at the grassroots are not drowned by the noise of national politics.
As Rasak walked away with his award, the applause that followed reflected more than celebration—it was a collective endorsement of journalism that uplifts communities, inspires development, and keeps the bond between the people and their government alive.
