Championing Truth and Impact: Hybrid News NG’s Hyacinth Nwafor Honoured at NMCA 2025 for Excellence in Crime Reporting

The Managing Editor of Hybrid News Nigeria, Mr. Hyacinth Nwafor, has been conferred with the Award of Excellence in Crime Reporting at the prestigious National Media Community Award (NMCA) 2025, held at the NERDC Conference Centre, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos.

The annual event, organized by the Media Community Network Africa (MCNA) in collaboration with Daily Pride Communications, celebrates distinguished personalities across the media, government, and public sectors who have made outstanding contributions to national development through responsible journalism and communication.

According to the organizers, this year’s edition focused on “The Media as a Catalyst for National Unity, Security, and Socio-Economic Growth,” highlighting the indispensable role of journalists in building a more informed and cohesive society.

In a letter addressed to Mr. Nwafor, the NMCA Award Screening Committee noted: “With profound respect and professional admiration, the Governing Council, Advisory Board, and Award Screening Committee of the Media Community Network Africa are delighted to honour Mr. Hyacinth Nwafor with the Award of Excellence in Crime Reporting. His investigative depth, objectivity, and consistency in holding institutions accountable reflect the courage and professionalism that the NMCA seeks to celebrate.”

In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Hyacinth Nwafor expressed gratitude to the organizers for the recognition, describing it as both humbling and inspiring.

“I am deeply honoured and profoundly humbled to receive this award. This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the collective support, trust, and encouragement I have received from so many remarkable individuals along the way.”

He extended special appreciation to Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Command, AIG Fayoade Adegoke, for his unwavering leadership and mentorship, which he said have inspired excellence, discipline, and dedication among media professionals.

Reflecting on the significance of being honoured during his lifetime, Nwafor stated: “It is truly a thing of great joy to be celebrated and recognized while still alive. Too often, we wait until people are gone before acknowledging their impact. Honouring people in their lifetime when they can feel and share in that joy is one of the purest forms of gratitude. It reminds us that our efforts are not in vain, that our voices matter, and that our labour of love for our nation and humanity is seen.”

Mr. Nwafor also used the occasion to draw national attention to the plight of journalists across Nigeria, stressing the need for stronger welfare systems and institutional protection.

“Journalists are the conscience of society. They tell the stories that shape nations, hold power accountable, and give voice to the voiceless. Yet, many suffer in silence, dying in poverty, battling health challenges without support, and working without safety nets or shelter,” he lamented.

He urged the Federal Government and relevant authorities to prioritize journalist welfare, including healthcare, housing, and safety, adding that a society that neglects its storytellers risks losing its moral compass.

“Journalists should not only be remembered in times of crisis or celebrated posthumously. They deserve to live honourably, work safely, and age gracefully. Recognition should translate into real-life impact,” Nwafor emphasized.

In his closing remarks, the Hybrid News NG editor reiterated his unwavering commitment to truth, fairness, and justice, describing the award as a call to action rather than a destination.

“As we celebrate today, let this award serve as a reminder that recognition is not just about applause or trophies, but about building a system that values human lives, integrity, and service. This honour renews my dedication to the truth, to humanity, and to the noble calling of journalism. Together, we can build a better, fairer, and more compassionate society.”

The National Media Community Award (NMCA) has grown to become one of Nigeria’s most respected platforms for recognizing excellence in journalism and communication. The annual event honours professionals and institutions that promote ethical media practice, integrity, and impactful storytelling across the nation.