Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of News Central Television, Kayode Akintemi, has reaffirmed the station’s commitment to reshaping television journalism in Nigeria and across the continent, describing the channel as a platform that gives the people an authentic voice.
During a recent conversation, reflecting on his appointment and the journey so far, Akintemi recalled taking the reins of Newscentral on December 1, 2023, and the vision set in motion from that day forward.
“Just about 16 months ago, We sat here and we had conversations about the vision and what we’re trying to do—how we’re going to try and change things on television and what changes we want to see.”
Akintemi said Newscentral has undergone a transformative evolution in its editorial philosophy and reporting structure since then.
“In 16 months, we have gone through a phase of complete change of concept of reporting,” he explained. “We have arrived at the point where we’re able to say that News Central is arguably—without a doubt, actually—the only television station in Nigeria, possibly one of two or just the only one in Africa, that can claim to be authentically having its finger on the pulse of the nation and the continent.”
Central to this transformation is a deliberate effort to report stories that matter to everyday people across the country and beyond, emphasising the station’s commitment to giving citizens a platform to express their concerns, interests, and aspirations.
“We make sure that on a daily basis, we’re looking around for what’s happening around the nation. We’re reporting what the people are saying. We’re reaching out to Nigerians, wherever they are around the country, and we’re getting them to engage with the media in a way that they’ve not done in the past,” he said.
Highlighting News Central’s innovative approach to audience engagement, Akintemi pointed out the station’s proactive online and offline presence, harping on its bold journey towards expanding its footprint across Africa, particularly with its recent launch on GOTV. According to Akintemi, the move is part of a strategic commitment to “reach the unreached” and provide vital information to audiences across the continent.
“We’re going the extra mile,” he began. “We were first on Star Times, and then we went on DSTV. That cost us quite a small chunk of money. But going on GOTV has not been cheap at all. It’s cost us more than quite a bit.”
Despite the significant investment, Akintemi emphasised that being on GOTV was a deliberate decision to increase accessibility for viewers who might not otherwise have access to satellite or cable television.
“There is a larger number of audience that’s waiting to be captured on GOTV. There’s a massive number there. So our job is to make sure that we reach them. Those who have not been reached, it’s our job to reach them.”
Akintemi’s remarks underscore News Central’s mission to blend journalistic excellence with civic engagement, positioning the station as a leading voice in African media with a grassroots approach to storytelling.
