North Eastern University (NEU) in Gombe, Nigeria, has honored Ghanaian investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas by naming its new multimedia studio after him.
The commissioning took place during an international conference on investigative journalism, organized by WikkiTimes, NEU, and the Tiger Eye Foundation Ghana.
The Anas Aremeyaw Anas Multimedia Studio is a modern facility designed for media innovation. It includes professional audio and video recording equipment, green screens, high-performance computers for graphics and animation, DSLR cameras for photography, and virtual reality labs. With advanced tools for digital storytelling, the studio aims to train and inspire future journalists in Northern Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, Anas expressed gratitude for the recognition and encouraged young journalists to be fearless in their work.
“I hope to see courageous journalists whose work will stand the test of time and expose corruption in our society,” he said.
He also emphasized that journalism should serve the public good.
“There is no point in journalism if it does not benefit society. Investigative journalism must uplift communities and promote development.”
Dr. Sani Jauro, Pro-Chancellor and Founder of NEU, praised Anas for his contributions to journalism.
“I have followed Anas’s work, and naming this studio after him is a step toward great things. NEU is proud to honor his sacrifice for humanity,” he said.
WikkiTimes Co-Publisher Ajibola Amzat highlighted the challenges of investigative journalism, revealing that the newspaper has faced multiple lawsuits since its founding in 2018.
“Despite threats and legal battles, we remain committed to exposing corruption and holding power accountable,” he said.
Haruna Mohammed, also a co-publisher of WikkiTimes, stressed the organization’s mission to train top investigative journalists in Nigeria.
Professor Umaru Pate, Vice Chancellor of Federal University Kashere, urged young journalists to tackle corruption in Nigeria.
“Corruption is a major obstacle to our progress. We must change our approach and fight against it,” he said.
Dr. Hamid Adamu Mohammed, Dean of Communication at NEU, called for more investigative reports on overlooked areas, such as religious and traditional institutions. He also encouraged using local languages in journalism to engage wider audiences.
Victoria Bamas, Editor at the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), emphasized the need for more female representation in newsrooms.
“Women’s voices are often ignored. We need gender balance in journalism to ensure fair and inclusive reporting,” she said.
