
Radio Nigeria Journalist, Alfred Ajayi has emerged winner of the Best Solutions Journalism Reporting category at the 2025 Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) Excellence in Journalism Awards.
The announcement was made during the award ceremony on Wednesday, which celebrates outstanding professionalism, ethical reporting and impactful storytelling across the West Africa sub-region.
Ajayi’s winning entry titled “Anambra Free Maternal Care Policy Sparks Hope Despite Challenges”, spotlighted the positive impacts of the free Antenatal (ANC) and delivery program of the Anambra State Government.
The solutions-based report harvested testimonies from beneficiaries mostly pregnant women and health workers on how the initiative was increasing patronage of primary healthcare facilities, while also x-ray outstanding challenges hampering optimal impact.
His report was recognized for its depth, clarity and strong focus on practical, evidence-based responses to societal challenges – a key hallmark of solutions journalism.
Speaking on the recognition, Ajayi expressed gratitude to God and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) for providing the platform to excel professionally.
“First of all, I dedicate this to God who gives inspiration that makes the difference. I am also grateful to my employer, Radio Nigeria, who gave the platform that has brought the best out of me.
“This award is particularly cherished because it is a sweet reward for my consistent efforts since 2023 since I came to know about Solutions Journalism.”
“Indeed, hard work pays no matter the incentive or enticement to the contrary.”
The CJID Excellence in Journalism Awards is regarded as one of West Africa’s most prestigious platforms for rewarding exceptional contributions to media development and practice.
