Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The countdown has begun for the highly anticipated Niger Delta Advancement Awards (NDAA) 8.0, set to take place on Sunday, February 8, 2026, in the vibrant city of Port Harcourt. Organized by Juvenis Magazine/TV, this eighth edition continues to shine a spotlight on exceptional individuals and organizations driving progress across the nine Niger Delta states: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers.
The awards recognize achievements in media, entertainment, business, community development, and more, fostering regional pride and inspiration. As voting intensifies through the official platform, Alexa News Network Limited (Alexa.ng) stands proudly as an official media partner, dedicated to promoting credible journalism, regional storytelling, and sustainable development through comprehensive coverage of the event.
One of the most contested categories this year is Best Radio Station Manager, featuring 15 outstanding professionals who have excelled in managing radio operations, innovating programming, engaging audiences, and contributing to their communities. These nominees oversee a diverse range of stations, from commercial powerhouses to community-focused outlets, demonstrating leadership in an industry vital to information dissemination and cultural preservation in the Niger Delta.
Here are in-depth profiles of the nominees:
1. Patricia Orumwense – Speed 96.9 FM (Edo)
Patricia Orumwense leads Speed 96.9 FM, a grassroots station in Benin City known for its pidgin English programming and strong listenership across Edo, Delta, and Ondo states. Her management emphasizes relatable content that resonates with everyday listeners, making the station a household name in the region.
2. Anny Abdulsalam – Save a Life 88.9 FM (Rivers)
Anny Abdulsalam manages Save a Life 88.9 FM in Rivers State, focusing on impactful community-oriented broadcasts. Under her stewardship, the station has built a reputation for life-enhancing programs that promote health, safety, and social awareness.
3. Eddy Ekpenyong – Comfort 95.1 FM (Akwa Ibom)
A veteran broadcaster with over 40 years in the industry, Eddy Ekpenyong serves as Station Manager at Comfort 95.1 FM in Uyo. Previously Head of Programmes, he hosts shows like Jazz Convention and is celebrated for his phonetic precision, mentorship, and transformative leadership that has positioned Comfort FM as a top station in Akwa Ibom.
4. OtoObong Ekpenyong a.k.a. Owwteebee – Sparkling 92.3 FM (Cross River)
OtoObong Ekpenyong, popularly known as Owwteebee, is the Station Manager at Sparkling 92.3 FM in Calabar. A storyteller, producer, and educator, he produces and hosts engaging morning shows while overseeing innovative content that highlights Cross River's culture and issues, earning admiration for his commitment to excellence.
5. Christy Jaho Ayenuku – Melody 88.6 FM (Delta)
Christy Jaho Ayenuku manages Melody 88.6 FM, part of Delta Broadcasting Service in Warri. A seasoned newsreader and presenter, she anchors flagship programs like Good Morning Delta and main news bulletins, bringing professionalism and community focus to state-owned broadcasting in Delta.
6. Godday Ighoteguono – Crest 106.1 FM (Ondo)
Godday Ighoteguono heads Crest 106.1 FM in Akure, where he has propelled the station to the top of listener charts in Ondo State. An award-winning journalist and MC, he co-hosts the Crest Breakfast Show and has been recognized for constructive journalism, making Crest a leading voice in news and current affairs.
7. Chris Oluigbo – Naija 92.7 FM (Rivers)
Chris Oluigbo oversees Naija 92.7 FM in Rivers State, delivering vibrant, youth-oriented programming that captures the energetic spirit of the region through music, talk shows, and interactive segments.
8. Peace Ifidon – Vibes 97.3 FM (Edo)
Peace Ifidon manages Vibes 97.3 FM in Benin City, known for its dynamic entertainment and lifestyle content. Her leadership fosters a vibrant on-air atmosphere that keeps listeners tuned in across Edo State.
9. Ikechukwu Juwe – Passion 94.5 FM (Akwa Ibom)
Ikechukwu Juwe, also known as Captain Iyke, leads Passion 94.5 FM (part of Advocate Broadcasting Network) in Uyo. A versatile presenter, his management emphasizes passionate, audience-driven programs that blend news, entertainment, and community engagement.
10. China Asheru – Wazobia 94.1 FM (Rivers)
China Asheru manages Wazobia 94.1 FM in Rivers State, a station famous for its pidgin-infused, humorous, and relatable content that appeals to a broad demographic, solidifying its popularity in the Niger Delta.
11. Adetokunbo Adeeko – Peoples 93.1 FM (Bayelsa)
Adetokunbo Adeeko heads Peoples 93.1 FM in Bayelsa, focusing on people-centric programming that addresses local issues, entertainment, and development in the state.
12. Deborah Odiba – Legend 98.3 FM (Abia)
Deborah Odiba, a prominent "Radio Girl" and news anchor, manages Legend 98.3 FM in Abia. Her experience across stations brings compelling news delivery and engaging content to listeners.
13. Solomon Onu – Hot 99.5 FM (Imo)
Solomon Onu leads Hot 99.5 FM in Imo, curating hot hits, news, and interactive shows that keep the station buzzing with energy and relevance.
14. Hon. Chinyere Emmanuel Igwe – Wish 99.5 FM (Rivers)
Hon. Chinyere Emmanuel Igwe, a politician and media entrepreneur, manages Wish 99.5 FM in Rivers State. She has built the station into a platform for aspirational content and community empowerment.
15. Babatunde Babson Adekunle – Quest 93.1 FM (Delta)
Babatunde Babson Adekunle oversees Quest 93.1 FM in Warri, complementing his role with Quest Television. His dual expertise in radio and TV enhances innovative, quest-driven programming in Delta.
The winner will be announced at the February 8 ceremony, determined by public votes and expert judgment. This category underscores the pivotal role of radio managers in shaping public discourse and entertainment in the Niger Delta.
With Alexa News Network Limited as media partner, NDAA 8.0 is poised to inspire greater achievements across the region.
