Kayode Akintemi Receives HTA Excellence in Media Award

News Central’s Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, Mr Kayode Akintemi, has been honoured with the Heroes of Tomorrow Africa (HTA) Excellence in Media Award 2026, in recognition of his enduring service, leadership and contribution to the African media landscape.

The prestigious award was presented to Mr. Akintemi by Professor Nelson Aluya at a ceremony held in New York on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

The recognition celebrates Mr. Akintemi’s longstanding commitment to journalism and media leadership, highlighting his role in advancing professional media practice and contributing to the growth and development of African storytelling.

As Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of News Central, Mr. Akintemi has played a significant role in shaping the organisation’s editorial direction and strengthening its position within Africa’s dynamic media industry.

His leadership reflects a commitment to journalism that informs audiences, amplifies African perspectives and connects stories from across the continent with audiences around the world.

Presenting the award, Professor Nelson Aluya acknowledged Mr. Akintemi’s service and leadership in African media underscoring the significance of his contribution to the industry over the years.

The Heroes of Tomorrow Africa Excellence in Media Award is a recognition of individuals whose work and leadership have made meaningful contributions to Africa and its global representation. Mr. Akintemi’s selection places his professional journey among the accomplishments being celebrated for their impact on the continent’s media sector.

Speaking on the honour, Mr. Akintemi expressed appreciation for the recognition and dedicated the award to colleagues, media professionals and stakeholders who continue to contribute to the development of African journalism.

He noted that recognition of this nature reinforces the importance of responsible journalism and the need for media organisations to continue investing in credible, impactful and Africa-focused storytelling.

The award comes at a time when African media continues to evolve in response to changing technologies, audience expectations and the growing global interest in African affairs. Through this changing landscape, media leaders and professionals are increasingly called upon to uphold journalistic standards while finding innovative ways to tell stories that reflect the diversity, aspirations and realities of the continent.

For News Central, the honour represents a recognition of the leadership behind its editorial and operational efforts and further highlights the growing importance of African-led media platforms in shaping conversations about the continent.

The Heroes of Tomorrow Africa Excellence in Media Award 2026 therefore marks another notable milestone in Kayode Akintemi’s professional journey and serves as recognition of his years of service and leadership within African media.

The presentation in New York brought together the celebration of an individual achievement with a broader acknowledgement of the important role that African media professionals play in informing audiences, shaping narratives and contributing to the continent’s future.