Eleven Nigerian journalists and two media organisations are on the longlists of the One World Media Awards announced on Wednesday.
They are among those listed from over 500 entries across 96 countries for 15 awards in contention.
The OWM celebrates the industry’s best media coverage of the global south, spotlighting underreported stories that break through stereotypes, change the narrative and connect people across cultures.
“ The quality and diversity of the entries were outstanding, and we are honoured to announce the longlists across all 15 awards categories! The final three nominees in each category will be announced next month, and the winners will be presented at the online awards ceremony on 17 June 2021,” OWM stated.
The Nigerian nominees in various categories and their winning stories are as follows:
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AWARD
Sponsored by WaterBear Network
For a piece of media, including broadcast, online, audio, print or film, that explores the relationship between people and the planet. In particular, we are interested in these areas: changing cities, the climate crisis, energy, environmental health, environmental justice, food, water, wildlife and zero waste.
Silent killer: Oil pollution continues to kill Nigerians in Delta region | International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) | Kelechukwu Iruoma & Ruth Olurounbi
INTERNATIONAL JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR AWARD
For a filmmaker or journalist working in any medium who has made the most outstanding contribution to international journalism during the past year.
Fisayo Soyombo | Foundation of Investigative Journalism
NEW VOICE AWARD
For a young filmmaker or journalist working in any medium, 32 years of age or under as of 16th February 2021, who has made a substantial contribution to international journalism during the year.
Grace Ekpu | BBC
Wale lawal | The Republic
POPULAR FEATURES
For a piece of media, including broadcast, digital, audio, print or film, that deals with stories, topics or issues in, about or related to the global south through creative treatment of an issue. The media should reach a wider audience potentially less familiar with global south and help to provide a more accurate, balanced perspective.
The all-women law firm helping prisoners get justice in Nigeria | Al Jazeera English | Nosmot Gbadamosi
PRINT AWARD
For a feature article (750 words or longer) published in print or online that deals with stories, topics or issues in, about or related to the global south. This may include specialist features such as sport, music, food and health.
Inside Nigeria’s illegal backstreet abortion clinics | Al Jazeera | Ope Adetayo
Mama Boko Haram’s story | The Guardian | Chika Oduah
PODCAST & RADIO AWARD
For an audio feature, podcast, or single programme from a series, broadcast on radio or online, that deals with stories, topics or issues in, about or related to the global south.
23419 | Anchor FM | Chioma Onyenwe
Finding Closure | Royal FM 95.1 | Babatunde Okunlola
SPECIAL AWARD
For an independent media organisation based in the global south using media to address social, cultural, political and economic issues. The Award seeks to recognise and encourage outstanding reporting that informs the public, provides an outlet for local people’s voices, creates a space for critical information and holds those in power to account.
The Republic Knowledge Company | Nigeria
Peoples Gazette | Nigeria
WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS REPORTING AWARD
Sponsored by the European Investment Bank
For media, including broadcast, digital, audio, film or print, that explores women’s entrepreneurship in the global south. Reporting can showcase stories of successful female entrepreneurs, the challenges women face in trying to grow their businesses, and/or the critical role that women entrepreneurs play in economic development by boosting growth and creating jobs.
Women who feed Lagos: How lack of education robs fish traders of booming digital market | The Cable | Taiwo Adebulu