Prince Nduka Obaigbena named LEADERSHIP Person of the Year 2026

3:05

Prince Nduka Obaigbena named LEADERSHIP Person of the Year 2026

Published by YuToday Staff

1 day ago · 3:05 readSeptember 2, 2026

Prince Nduka Obaigbena, a media mogul and founder of institutions like THISDAY and ARISE News Channel, has been named the LEADERSHIP Person of the Year 2026. The recognition, announced by ARISE Television’s morning show hosts, celebrates his nearly five decades of shaping Nigeria’s journalism, broadcasting, and creative industries. Obaigbena’s latest venture, the LekeeLekee social media app, has further cemented his influence in Africa’s digital media space.

Key takeaways

Prince Nduka Obaigbena is the LEADERSHIP Person of the Year 2026 for revolutionizing Nigeria’s media industry.
His career spans nearly five decades, with foundational roles in print, broadcast, and digital media.
Obaigbena’s ventures include *ThisWeek*, *THISDAY*, ARISE News Channel, and the LekeeLekee app.
The recognition highlights his impact on journalism, talent development, and industry innovation.

Who is Prince Nduka Obaigbena?

Prince Nduka Obaigbena is a Nigerian media entrepreneur and founder of several influential publications and broadcasting platforms. Born into a family with a legacy in journalism, he launched *ThisWeek* magazine in 1986, followed by *THISDAY* newspaper in 1995. His most notable creation, ARISE News Channel in 2013, redefined 24-hour news broadcasting in Nigeria. Beyond traditional media, Obaigbena ventured into digital innovation with the LekeeLekee app in early 2026, a social media platform designed to engage African audiences. His career reflects a commitment to fostering media talent and driving industry growth.

Why was he honored by ARISE TV?

ARISE Television’s morning show hosts praised Obaigbena’s selection as LEADERSHIP Person of the Year 2026, calling it a tribute to his unparalleled contributions. They highlighted his role in nurturing media professionals, many of whom credit their career growth to the opportunities he provided. The recognition also acknowledges his ability to adapt to industry shifts, from print journalism to digital platforms. His ventures have not only shaped Nigeria’s media landscape but also set benchmarks for public discourse and professional development.

What are his key achievements?

Obaigbena’s career spans nearly five decades, marked by the founding of *ThisWeek*, *THISDAY*, and ARISE News Channel. These institutions have become pillars of Nigeria’s media industry, offering platforms for journalism and public debate. His latest project, LekeeLekee, has surpassed 100,000 downloads, signaling his continued relevance in Africa’s digital economy. Beyond media, his work reflects a broader commitment to community development and industry innovation.

How has he influenced Nigeria’s media?

Obaigbena’s influence extends beyond his own ventures. By founding institutions that prioritize quality journalism and professional growth, he has shaped the careers of countless media practitioners. His ability to identify and mentor talent has earned him respect across the industry. Additionally, his ventures have introduced new formats and technologies, from 24-hour news channels to social media engagement tools. His legacy is one of transformation, adaptability, and leadership.

What’s next for Prince Nduka Obaigbena?

With LekeeLekee gaining traction, Obaigbena’s focus appears to be on expanding his digital footprint. The app’s success suggests further innovations in Africa’s social media space. Meanwhile, his established platforms continue to evolve, adapting to changing audience preferences. Industry observers expect him to remain a key player in Nigeria’s media landscape, potentially exploring new ventures or partnerships. His long-term vision likely includes sustaining his legacy while embracing future trends.

What happens next

As Prince Nduka Obaigbena continues to expand his digital ventures, industry watchers anticipate further innovations in Africa’s media landscape. His focus on LekeeLekee and established platforms suggests a push toward greater audience engagement and technological integration. Observers will closely monitor how his ventures adapt to evolving media consumption trends, particularly in the digital space.