DAME 2025: LEADERSHIP Shines In Best Newspaper Design, Commentary Categories

LEADERSHIP Newspaper has achieved another milestone in excellence, emerging as 1st runner-up in the Best Newspaper Design Category at the 34th edition of the Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME).

At the 2025 edition of DAME, which took place in Lagos, LEADERSHIP emerged among the top three national dailies recognised for outstanding visual presentation and editorial creativity.

The paper strengthened its position further as its Editor-in-Chief, Azu Ishiekwene, clinched the 2nd runner-up position in the Best Commentary Category for his widely-discussed article “Is AI Coming for the Journalist?”

According to the award organisers, Ishiekwene’s commentary offers a critical assessment of what the advent of AI means for the practice of journalism and how journalists can effectively utilise it to enhance their craft and credibility.

The organiser, Mr Lanre Idowu, expressed appreciation to stakeholders in the media industry for their support over the decades.

“In various ways, you are all critical to us, and you’ve been part of the journey of growth in the last 34 years. Some of us are sponsors. Some are judges. Some are winners. But overall, you are all well-wishers”

Idowu, however, recalled the consistency and integrity of the awards over the years, noting that most of the honorees have distinguished themselves in public service, journalism, governance, and the corporate sector.

The event also paid tribute to late members of the DAME media community, including Dr Doyin Abiola, Mr Joseph Abola Sigala and Ms Evelyn Osagie, describing them as valiant ambassadors who have answered the Lord’s call.

While a moment of silence was observed in their honour, as they reflected on the socio-economic challenges confronting the nation, Idowu implored journalists and citizens not to succumb to despair.

He said, “There is a widening gap between those who have and those who do not. We must not give in to despair. We must rediscover our strength as a people”

The organiser emphasised the pivotal role of journalism in keeping power accountable. “The message from this year’s exercise is that good journalism has a great part to play in positioning the country. The powers must be made accountable to the fair and robust appraisal of the service rendered to the public,” he added.

Idowu lauded journalists and media houses that remain committed to ethical reporting despite pressures. “Those who remain faithful to the traditions of free, strong, open, and responsible media are the ones best placed not only to keep good journalism alive, but to protect the future of our country,” he stated.