Nigeria: Arise News Praises Leadership Over Choice of Obaigbena, Rabiu As Persons of the Year

What the report says

Arise News has publicly welcomed LEADERSHIP Newspaper’s decision to name Prince Nduka Obaigbena and Abdul Samad Rabiu as its Persons of the Year 2026. The remarks were made on Arise News’ Morning Show in a “Good News” segment, where the recognition was framed as a shared celebration of two figures whose work has influenced different parts of Nigeria’s economy and public life.

According to the report, Obaigbena was highlighted for a long media career that began with This Week magazine in the 1980s, followed by the launch of THISDAY newspaper and, later, Arise News. The segment also pointed to his recent Leke Leke app launch as part of his ongoing media and digital activity. LEADERSHIP’s own description of Obaigbena was cited as praising him for building institutions and for backing bold ideas.

Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, was recognized for industrial expansion across cement, sugar, flour and edible oils, along with continued investment despite broader economic pressures. The report also noted his reported commitment to expand BUA’s Port Harcourt terminal and his philanthropy through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative in education, healthcare and community development.

The coverage matters because it spotlights two prominent Nigerian business leaders whose influence extends beyond their core sectors, while also reflecting how media organizations are publicly acknowledging one another’s editorial choices.