The Editor of the Independent Observer Newspaper, Mr Bai Bai Sesay, has been named winner of the Media Excellence Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to journalism and his sustained commitment to truth, accountability and professional reporting in Sierra Leone.
The recognition, announced by the Scholar Media Award Team ahead of the official presentation ceremony, honours years of dedication to ethical journalism and meaningful contribution to public discourse and media development in the country.
Reacting after being contacted by our team from Nairobi, Mr Sesay described the news as unexpected and deeply humbling.
According to him, journalism has never been about recognition but about responsibility, public trust and remaining faithful to the profession.
“To be honest, I was completely taken by surprise. I was not expecting this recognition. Moments like this remind you that people are paying attention even when you believe they are not. I receive it with gratitude and humility,” he said.
Mr Sesay added, “First and foremost, I thank Allah Subhannah Wa Ta’alaa because every achievement belongs to Him.”
He dedicated the recognition to his colleagues at the Independent Observer Newspaper and thanked them for their commitment, sacrifice and belief in independent journalism.
He also expressed appreciation to the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), the Guild of Editors, the Independent Media Commission (IMC), media partners and institutions supporting the advancement of journalism in Sierra Leone.
Mr Sesay further paid tribute to news vendors across Sierra Leone, describing them as an essential but often overlooked part of the media chain, and extended gratitude to the people of Sierra Leone for their trust, engagement and continued support.
“This recognition is not mine alone. It belongs to my colleagues at the Independent Observer Newspaper, to SLAJ, the Guild of Editors, IMC, our partners, news vendors and the people of Sierra Leone whose trust gives meaning to our work. I accept this honour with humility and pray Allah continues to guide us in the service of truth and our nation,” he concluded.
The formal presentation of the Media Excellence Award is scheduled for 7th August 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya.
