By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
DECADES OF impactful investigative journalism earned George Otumu a Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) degree during a landmark ceremony held by Crown University, United States of America (USA), with top figures from media, government, and entertainment in attendance.
The award presentation, held with grandeur, attracted distinguished guests including royalty, award-winning journalists, veteran editors, and music legends.
HRH Olori Janet Afolabi, Queen of Apomu Land and former Cable News Network (CNN) African Journalist of the Year (Business category), graced the ceremony alongside Declan Opalaeke, recipient of the CNN African Journalist of the Year (Health category).
Also present was Kayode Ajala, widely acknowledged as the youngest editor of Hints magazine; Coker Onita, erstwhile publisher of Today’s Choice magazine; and Dr Teemac Omatshola Iseli, former president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN).
Dr Ngozi Omambala, LLCI Chairperson and media executive, veteran journalist Charles Okogene, and crews from BBC News, Arise TV, and Channels TV were among the high-profile attendees.
The event underscored Crown University’s continued tradition of recognising African excellence and scholarly distinction in global journalism practice.
The honorary conferment places Otumu among the rare class of African journalists honoured for their fearless pursuit of truth and exceptional dedication to journalistic integrity.
As stated by the organisers, the Doctorate in Investigative Journalism was awarded “in honour of relentless commitment to unveiling hard truths and shaping public accountability through the written word.”
The ceremony also celebrated the intersection of culture, advocacy, and journalism, highlighting the role of media in nation-building and institutional integrity.
Attendees included media moguls, captains of industry, and government representatives, signalling the enduring impact of credible journalism in modern society.
Crown University reiterated its commitment to promoting journalistic scholarship and celebrating global icons whose works challenge corruption, injustice, and social decay.
Otumu’s conferment adds a new chapter to his already storied career, cementing his reputation within the global media space as a voice of credibility and influence.
