Senior reporter with TVC News, Owolabi Olayinka Efuwape Adenusi, is set to be honoured with the traditional title of “Katukan Sanwi” by the Yandang Chiefdom in recognition of his outstanding contributions to journalism and community service.
The coronation is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Yandang Nation, which spans communities in Adamawa and Taraba States.
The honour will be conferred by His Royal Highness, Pastor Dr. Haniel Hinlewheni Banti, Daa Kpang Sanwi I, the Paramount Ruler of the Yandang people. Other high-profile honourees expected to receive traditional titles at the ceremony include the Secretary to the Taraba State Government, the Senator representing Taraba North, Senator Saidu Lau, his wife, and other dignitaries.
Adenusi becomes the first journalist to be recognised with a chieftaincy title by the Yandang royal institution—an honour he describes as a humbling acknowledgment of his years of commitment to truth and public service.
Speaking ahead of the coronation, Adenusi reflected on his reporting journey, particularly his extensive coverage of attacks and insecurity in the Yandang region. He recounted how his team at TVC News was the only national media outlet to cover critical incidents in the area, including the mass killing of over 500 people, the exhumation of the king’s father shortly after his burial, and an attempted assassination of the monarch.
“I was there with my cameraman, Musa Muhammed, telling their stories when the world wasn’t listening,” Adenusi said. “This recognition is not about me alone—it’s about the power of journalism to give voice to the voiceless and defend humanity in times of crisis.”
Adenusi also expressed gratitude to Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State and Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State for their support, and paid tribute to former Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, Hon. Abel Diah Peter, for his role in advancing his career.
He also extended appreciation to the leadership of TVC News, including Editor-in-Chief Stella Din Jacob, Director of Current Affairs Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Bureau Chiefs Mr. Ayo and Mr. Femi, Victoria Ajayi, and his long-time field partner, Musa Muhammed.
The traditional title “Katukan Sanwi” is reserved for individuals who have shown exceptional courage, service, and integrity in their work—values the Yandang Nation believes Adenusi exemplifies.
His coronation is seen as a symbol of national unity, as a Yoruba journalist from Ijebu-Remo, Ogun State, is being honoured by a northern royal institution, reinforcing the shared identity and solidarity that transcends Nigeria’s ethnic lines.
