Nduka Obaigbena is a Nigerian media entrepreneur, publisher, and cultural figure whose work has shaped journalism and broadcasting in Africa.
Born in Ibadan in 1959, he studied at the University of Benin and later attended international programs in business and leadership.
His vision was to create media platforms that would compete globally while reflecting African perspectives.
In 1995, he founded ThisDay Newspapers, a publication that quickly became one of Nigeria’s most influential dailies. Known for its bold reporting, colorful design, and international outlook, ThisDay raised the standard of print journalism in the country.
It distinguished itself with in-depth coverage of politics, business, and culture, while attracting some of the nation’s finest journalists.
Building on this success, Obaigbena expanded into broadcasting with the creation of the Arise News Channel, an international platform with studios in London, New York, Johannesburg, and Lagos.
Arise provides 24-hour coverage of global affairs from an African perspective, giving the continent a stronger voice in world media.
His influence extends beyond news into entertainment and cultural diplomacy. Through the ThisDay Music and Fashion Festival, he brought global stars such as Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Usher to African stages, showcasing the continent’s relevance in the creative economy.
Obaigbena is also a founding member of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), where he has advocated for press freedom and the sustainability of independent media.
Despite facing challenges and controversies, he has remained a resilient and innovative figure.
Today, Nduka Obaigbena is recognized as a trailblazer who gave Nigerian journalism an international dimension, blending bold creativity with business vision to project Africa’s stories onto the global stage.
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