By Raji Rasak
A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Correspondent, Mr Rasak Raji, has won an Outstanding Community Relations Journalist of the Year award in Lagos.
Raji, who is the Badagry District Correspondent of NAN, was given the award by 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 to recognise journalists who had significantly contributed to deepening local governance and strengthening ties between communities and the media.
It also described Raji as a journalist who had distinguished himself with professionalism, accuracy, and integrity, adding that his work continued to promote trust between citizens and their leaders.
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, Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Mr Babatunde Hunpe, praised Raji’s dedication to telling the stories of ordinary people.
Hunpe also commended him for bridging the gap between local authorities and residents through accurate, community-centred 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 has earned him the recognition,” the chairman said.
Receiving the award, Raji said that 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 keeps the bond between the people and their government alive,” Raji said.
Guests at the event commended the recognition, with many stressing that community journalism remained the bedrock of democracy.
This ensures that the voices of those at the grassroots are not drowned by the noise of national politics. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Chioma Ugboma
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Source: nannews.ng
