Kadaria Ahmed is a trailblazing Nigerian journalist known for her impactful work in media and leadership in journalism.
Kadaria Ahmed is widely recognized as one of the most influential and accomplished journalists in Nigeria. Born on December 13, 1967, in Kano State, she has spent decades making a significant impact across various media platforms, including print, radio, television, online, and social media. Her career began at the BBC, where she gained international recognition for her work as a senior producer. Over the years, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to advancing journalism standards and using the media as a tool for societal development. One of her most significant contributions to Nigerian journalism is her ability to handle complex issues with a balanced perspective, drawing on her vast experience in both local and international contexts.
Her journey into journalism was paved by an impressive educational background. Kadaria attended Bayero University Kano, where she earned her Bachelor's degree, and then furthered her studies at Goldsmiths, University of London, where she completed a Master's degree in Television. She was also a Chevening Scholar, a testament to her academic excellence and potential. These academic achievements were integral in shaping her career, allowing her to work on significant international platforms, most notably the BBC. During her time at the BBC, Kadaria contributed to groundbreaking programs like "Focus on Africa" and "Network Africa," which helped shape the global conversation around African affairs. Her reporting took her across the world, from South Africa to Eritrea and the United Nations, giving her a unique global perspective that informed her future journalistic endeavors in Nigeria.
Kadaria’s transition from the BBC to Nigeria marked a new phase in her career. She became the editor of Next, an award-winning newspaper, where she was responsible for driving the editorial agenda. Under her leadership, the newspaper became known for its bold reporting and investigative journalism. She supervised a large team of journalists, including 120 staff members and 30 stringers, and was instrumental in guiding the publication through both successes and challenges. Though Next ceased its print edition in 2011, Kadaria’s time there solidified her reputation as a respected leader in Nigerian journalism. In addition to her work at Next, she made history in 2011 by moderating Nigeria's presidential election debate, which showcased her capacity to handle high-stakes political events with grace and objectivity.
One of the standout moments of her career came in 2014 when she co-created and hosted Straight Talk, a television program that sought to probe Nigeria's decision-makers on pressing national issues. The show became a platform for candid conversations with key political figures, including former Nigerian military leader Ibrahim Babangida, politicians like Babatunde Fashola and Rotimi Amaechi, and public figures such as Oby Ezekwesili and comedian Ali Baba. This program allowed Kadaria to engage with some of the most influential individuals in Nigerian politics and society, probing deep into issues that affected the nation. In 2017, she continued her work with The Core, a new show on Channels TV that built on the success of Straight Talk by providing insightful interviews and analysis of Nigerian affairs.
Kadaria Ahmed is perhaps most well-known for her 2017 interview with Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This interview made headlines as Kanu declared that it would be "Biafra or death," a statement that caused a major stir both within Nigeria and internationally. The interview provided an unprecedented opportunity for viewers to hear directly from Kanu, a controversial figure, and engage with his views on the secessionist movement. Kadaria’s handling of the interview showcased her ability to remain calm and composed while addressing sensitive and volatile subjects. Her professionalism in the face of such high tension further cemented her reputation as a leading figure in Nigerian journalism.
Beyond her television work, Kadaria has also moderated town hall meetings for Nigeria’s presidential candidates in the lead-up to the 2019 general elections. She played a significant role in facilitating discussions between President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, creating a space for the candidates to address the public on critical issues. Her moderation of these meetings highlighted her commitment to improving the political process in Nigeria and ensuring that the public had access to clear, direct communication from the country’s leaders.
In addition to her television and broadcasting career, Kadaria has ventured into entrepreneurship. In 2017, she founded Daria Media Ltd, a company designed to promote public service journalism. This initiative reflects her ongoing dedication to media ethics and her belief in the power of responsible journalism to bring about positive change. Building on this, she launched RadioNow 95.3FM in 2020, a Lagos-based radio station focused on national development, factual reporting, and engaging the Nigerian public in discussions on important topics. This move into radio broadcasting marked another milestone in her career, as she continued to broaden her impact on Nigerian media.
Kadaria Ahmed’s influence extends beyond her work as a journalist and media entrepreneur. She is an active member of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism’s judging panel and serves on the Board of Trustees for both the Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism and the Promasidor Quill Awards. These positions demonstrate her ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of journalists and promoting the values of transparency, accountability, and investigative reporting in Nigeria. As a member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and the Nigerian Institute of Directors, Kadaria continues to play a key role in shaping the future of Nigerian journalism, advocating for a media landscape that prioritizes truth and public service over sensationalism.
Throughout her career, Kadaria has faced numerous challenges, from working in an often volatile political environment to grappling with the complexities of reporting in a country rife with security concerns. However, her ability to navigate these obstacles with professionalism and integrity has only strengthened her standing as a trailblazer in Nigerian journalism. Her work has also highlighted the need for media practitioners to engage with difficult issues responsibly, ensuring that journalism serves as a tool for national progress rather than division.
Kadaria’s commitment to journalism and media ethics is further reflected in her personal background. She comes from a family with a strong literary tradition—her mother, Hafsat Abdulwaheed, is regarded as one of Northern Nigeria’s first female authors. This familial influence has had a profound impact on Kadaria’s worldview and approach to media, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the power of words and storytelling. Her mother’s advocacy for women’s rights and her literary contributions to Nigerian society have no doubt shaped Kadaria’s own career, particularly in her role as an advocate for ethical reporting and the promotion of public service journalism.
Throughout her career, Kadaria Ahmed has received numerous accolades for her contributions to Nigerian media. Her work has earned her a reputation for excellence in journalism and has set a high standard for others in the industry to follow. As she continues to grow her media ventures and push the boundaries of Nigerian journalism, she remains an inspiration to young journalists who seek to follow in her footsteps. Her career is a testament to the power of perseverance, integrity, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society through the media.
Kadaria’s influence on Nigerian media cannot be overstated. Her journey from the BBC to founding RadioNow 95.3FM reflects a career built on passion, hard work, and an unwavering belief in the power of journalism to shape public opinion and influence societal change. As she continues to impact the media landscape, her legacy will no doubt inspire future generations of journalists to uphold the values of truth, accountability, and public service.
Kadaria Ahmed’s career exemplifies the transformative power of journalism in Nigeria. Through her leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to ethical reporting, she has set a standard for the media industry. Her ability to balance sensitive issues with professionalism and integrity has made her a respected figure, not just in Nigeria but internationally. Her work continues to shape the conversation around Nigerian politics, society, and development, and her impact on the media landscape will be felt for years to come.
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