A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Correspondent, Mr. Rasak Raji, has won the Outstanding Community Relations Journalist of the Year award in Lagos.
Raji, who is the Badagry District Correspondent of NAN, received the award on Friday evening from the Conference of 57 Chief Press Secretaries of Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of Lagos State.
The conference said the award was in recognition of journalists who had significantly contributed to deepening local governance and strengthening ties between communities and the media.
It described Raji as a journalist who had distinguished himself with professionalism, accuracy, and integrity, adding that his work continues to promote trust between citizens and their leaders.
The award ceremony, 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 grassroots reporting.
Presenting the award, Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Mr. Babatunde Hunpe, praised Raji’s dedication to telling the stories of ordinary people.
Hunpe commended him for bridging the gap between local authorities and residents through accurate, community-centered reportage.
“Journalism goes beyond breaking news headlines—it also serves as a tool for social cohesion and accountability at the grassroots.
“Raji’s consistent efforts to spotlight both the challenges and successes of Badagry and other Lagos communities have earned him this recognition,” the chairman said.
Receiving the award, Raji said the honour was more than just a plaque.
“It is a validation of years of hard work covering the pulse of the people—from community development projects to cultural celebrations.
“Also, from governance issues to human interest stories that rarely make the front pages.
“The applause that followed the recognition reflects more than celebration.
“It is a collective endorsement of journalism that uplifts communities, inspires development, and strengthens the bond between the people and their government,” Raji said.
Guests at the event commended the recognition, with many stressing that community journalism remains the bedrock of democracy, ensuring that grassroots voices are not drowned by the noise of national politics.
