Stella’s Stellar Rise

Huge congratulations go to OV Stella Din Jacob (Co 85-86), who has been recognised as the most powerful woman in Nigerian journalism.

Speaking of the achievement, WIJAfrica (Women in Journalism Africa), said, “An election year in any country can be tough for journalists. In Nigeria, where the past two months have seen one of its most consequential elections, one woman stepped up and delivered coverage like no other. Meet Stella Din Jacob, the powerhouse behind the unparalleled election coverage during the 2023 Nigerian elections. Leading a team of over 100 researchers, anchors, correspondents, producers, cameramen and others, Stella’s reporters delivered real-time reports from all 36 states of the Federation and the FCT. From Benin to Birnin Kebbi, Owerri to Oshogbo, they were on the ground, providing unmatched quality of reportage driven by technology. Going live from Friday, February 24, and continuing for five days straight until Wednesday the 29th, Stella’s team seamlessly merged digital and traditional media to create a synergy that was quite simply unmatched. And the impact of her work? Stella’s coverage led to the broadening of Nigerian election analytics, voter education, and international observer participation.

“Her contributions to journalism over the last 30 years have been so significant that she was recently awarded the Lifetime Award for Journalistic Excellence from the prestigious Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism. In 2023, Stella Din Jacob rose to the top, becoming the most powerful woman in journalism in Nigeria. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to delivering the truth to the people.”

Stella is a seasoned journalist, news manager, and lawyer, with a multi-award winning career spanning three decades, and is currently Director of News at TVC Communications.

Stella kindly shared her reaction to this recognition: “It is humbling and a call to action to lead by the power of my example. Congratulations to all women who made this list and the unsung professionals who have not relented in putting their best foot forward; together we will raise the bar and shatter every glass ceiling! I will continue to up the stakes and raise the bar by devoting my time in grooming consequential leaders and the next generation of broadcasters. For me, this ranking is another call to fire on all cylinders and dare to go where no one has ever been: Failure is not an option and impossible does not exist!”