News Central Television is proud to announce its nomination at the 2025 African Media Awards, following recognition for its groundbreaking investigation, “The Cartel Behind Nigeria’s Illegal Mining Industry,” in the Current Affairs Program category. The winners were announced yesterday, Thursday, December 4th, 2025 during the prestigious ceremony held in Addis Ababa.
The acclaimed investigation, led by renowned investigative journalist Jude Bella, is part of News Central’s special programme Declassified, which is devoted to uncovering Africa’s most critical, concealed, and high-stakes stories. Declassified focuses on exposing corruption, injustice, and systemic failures that significantly affect communities across the continent.
Jude Bella’s report offered a deep, unflinching look into the criminal networks that fuel Nigeria’s illegal mining industry. By unravelling the cartel-like operations, political collusion, and environmental destruction linked to the trade, the investigation sparked nationwide and regional conversations about accountability, governance, and the urgent need for reform.
Reacting to the recognition, News Central’s Managing Director, Mr Kayode Akintemi, praised the team’s dedication and the significance of the story.
“We are extremely proud to have emerged second among some of the continent’s most outstanding and competitive entries. Jude Bella’s investigation speaks to our commitment to fearless, fact-driven reporting that serves the public interest. This recognition reinforces our resolve to keep pushing boundaries in African journalism.”
The African Media Awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and integrity in media practice across the continent, highlighting stories that shape public discourse and drive societal change.
News Central remains committed to advancing investigative journalism through Declassified and other editorial initiatives that aim to enlighten, empower, and inspire audiences across Africa.
