The Publisher ofNews Expressand associated titles, Mr Isaac Umunna, was on Thursday, honoured with a “Special Recognition Award” by the organisers of the Anambra Media Excellence Award (AMEA) for his immense contributions to the development of the media industry.

Umunna, a multiple award recipient, apart from runningNews Expressalso publishesDaily Sports(dailysportsng.com) andEconomy Watch(economywatchng.com).

In his address, the National President, Association of Digital Media Core Advocates (ADMCA), Comrade Harris Chuma, said that the programme was designed to provoke and inspire professionalism while encouraging and promoting creative excellence.

He explained that the aim of kicking off AMEA in the state is to bring opinion moulders, policy formulators, major stakeholders and players in print, electronic and online media in Anambra State together to interact, network and share ideas as well as best practices in the media.

Chuma said: “Today, we will honour outstanding men and women who are making the ever vibrant Anambra media industry proud.

“We will celebrate their creative and professional excellence. Also, in the list of awardees are great personalities who have contributed in no small measures towards the growth and development of the media industry. We are poised at celebrating hard work, dedication and diligence.”

Twenty other outstanding media personalities were also honoured for their contributions to the growth of media in the state.

The awardees include Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service, Nze Uche Nworah; MD, National Light Newspaper, Sir Chika Nnabuife; Commissioner for Information, Hon. C Don Adinuba; and Anambra State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Emma Ifesinachi.

Others include Bureau Chief of The Oracle Newspaper, Dr. Emeka Odogwu; Engr Ifeanyi Aniagor, Uju Edochie, and Chief Maja Umeh, among others.

Presenting the special award of recognition to Umunna, the Deputy Press Secretary to Governor Willie Obiano, Mr. Emeka Ozumba, described theNews ExpressPublisher as a friend of the family and one deserving of the award.

He said that Umunna as an old hand in the business of news reporting has done well enough to be applauded.

The memorable event held atBest Western Meloch Hotel,Awka, was spiced with musical renditions by Gyration Master and former lawmaker Tony Oneweek.

•PHOTO: News Express Senior Correspondent Pamela Eboh displaying the Certificate of Special Recognition after receiving it on behalf of Umunna . . . on Thursday, in Awka.