Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
Former Inspector-General of Police, Mike Mbama Okiro, has praised veteran journalist and publisher, Uloma Peace Okorie, describing her as a committed media professional whose years of dedication to journalism have earned her widespread respect within the industry.
Okiro spoke in Abuja during the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council Press Week, where Okorie received an Award of Excellence and Resourceful Veteran Journalist in recognition of her contributions to the media profession.
Presenting the award, the former police chief reflected on his longstanding relationship with the Newsxtra Magazine publisher, noting that he had observed her professionalism and consistency throughout different stages of his career in the Nigeria Police Force.
According to Okiro, Okorie covered his activities from his tenure as Commissioner of Police in Lagos State through his appointment as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations and later as Inspector-General of Police.
He said her commitment to accurate and responsible journalism distinguished her among her peers, adding that the recognition was a deserved reward for years of hard work and sacrifice.
Okiro maintained that the award was a testament to Okorie’s unwavering dedication to the profession, stressing that journalists who have invested decades in promoting credible reporting should be celebrated.
The former IGP also commended the NUJ FCT Council for recognising veteran practitioners who have continued to make meaningful contributions to the growth of the media industry and national development.
He urged journalists across the country to remain guided by ethical standards and professionalism, emphasizing the critical role of the media in strengthening democracy and providing citizens with reliable information.
“The media remains an important institution in society, and journalists must continue to uphold truth, fairness and responsibility in their work,” he said.
The award presentation was one of the highlights of the NUJ FCT Press Week and attracted journalists, media executives, government officials and other notable guests.
Several participants at the event described the honour bestowed on Okorie as fitting recognition for a media practitioner whose career has spanned decades of reporting, publishing and public engagement.
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