…Governor’s CPS, Festus Ahon, Bags Award for Journalistic Excellence
The Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Chapter, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for creating a supportive and enabling environment that allows media practitioners in the state to operate freely and effectively.
This commendation came during the 2025 Publishers Week, Lecture and Award Ceremony of the association, held on Thursday in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area. As part of the event, the ACNPN conferred a prestigious merit award on the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Sir Festus Ahon, in recognition of his outstanding professionalism, dedication to journalistic values, and exemplary service as the Governor’s spokesperson.
While presenting the award, the Member representing Oshimili North in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank Esenwah, described Ahon as a veteran journalist whose contributions to the media landscape continue to inspire practitioners across the state.
Sir Ahon, who was represented at the ceremony by an Assistant Director of Information, Mr. Ivovi Aruoriwo, expressed deep appreciation to the association for the honour. He described the award as a significant encouragement to remain steadfast in upholding integrity, excellence, and core journalistic values.
“An award of this nature serves as a powerful motivator, encouraging me to stay on track, uphold my values, and strive for excellence in all my endeavours,” Ahon stated. He dedicated the honour to God, Governor Oborevwori, all media aides, and his colleagues in the state’s information sector.
Ahon also lauded journalists and the ACNPN for their ongoing collaboration with the state government to strengthen communication and deepen engagement with grassroots communities.
Earlier in his welcome address, the State Chairman of ACNPN, Comrade Ike Abiagom, said the ceremony marked another milestone in the association’s commitment to advancing community journalism and promoting grassroots development. He praised Governor Oborevwori for fostering a conducive atmosphere for community newspapers to thrive and reaffirmed the association’s resolve to continue informing, educating, and uplifting communities across the state.
This year’s Publishers Week, themed “Empowering the People: Community Newspapers, Mental Health Awareness—Access to Basic Healthcare and Health Unity: The Role of Cooperative Societies in Promoting Community Healthcare and Mental Wellness,” underscored the importance of strong media-government collaboration in enhancing transparency and community wellbeing.