Joyce Mmereole Okoli
It was an evening of elegance, applause, and well-deserved recognition as media professionals gathered in Lagos to celebrate excellence at the annual awards of the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP). Among the night’s brightest stars was Mr. David Oladimeji, Publisher of Reporters Diary, who clinched the Best Instantaneous News Publisher of the Year Award for his remarkable blend of speed, accuracy, and integrity in news reporting.
As his name was announced, the hall erupted in applause a tribute to a journalist whose consistency and credibility have redefined the standards of Nigeria’s digital newsroom. Presenting the award, Mayor Oki Samson, President of NAOSNP, praised Oladimeji’s professionalism and ethical depth.
The “David Oladimeji represents what every serious-minded journalist should aspire to be. He delivers news with speed and accuracy, setting a benchmark for excellence in online reporting,” Oki said.
For Oladimeji, the recognition was both humbling and affirming. He dedicated the award to his editorial team, acknowledging their tireless effort in ensuring Reporters Diary remains a credible voice in the digital media space.
“This award is not mine alone,” he said. “It belongs to my team the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes to ensure our stories are timely, truthful, and impactful.”
Before launching Reporters Diary, Oladimeji had carved a distinguished career across several respected Nigerian newsrooms. From Daily Times to The Guardian, New Age Newspaper, and Nigeria Focus Magazine, he built a reputation as a meticulous reporter and editor who valued truth above trends.
Colleagues recall him as “the newsroom machine” a journalist who could chase a story from lead to headline with unrelenting focus. His early years at the University of Jos and later the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) prepared him for a career marked by leadership, accountability, and service.
In professional circles, Oladimeji has served as Vice President of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) and remains an active member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), advocating for recognition and ethical standards within online journalism.
Since its inception, Reporters Diary has become a trusted platform for breaking news and investigative stories, particularly in the security and governance sectors. Its commitment to verified reporting has distinguished it in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly across digital platforms.
Under Oladimeji’s leadership, the publication continues to set the pace for credible digital journalism where accuracy remains the backbone of speed.
“This recognition reminds us that consistency and integrity still matter. It’s a call to stay objective, responsible, and committed to truth no matter how fast the world moves,” Oladimeji said. “
For many younger journalists present at the NAOSNP event, Oladimeji’s story was more than a celebration it was inspiration. His journey stands as proof that in the fast-changing media ecosystem, credibility remains the most valuable currency.
As the night ended and the hall emptied, one truth stood clear: David Oladimeji isn’t just publishing news he’s shaping the standard for responsible digital journalism in Nigeria.
In a world where being first often overshadows being right, Oladimeji’s message endures:
“Awards are good, but credibility is better. That’s what sustains the newsroom.”