Renowned broadcast journalist and Anchor of What’s Trending on ARISE News, Ojinika Okpe, has been named Investigative Journalist of the Year 2025 by the Verbatim Media Group.
The announcement comes as Verbatim News Magazine and Verbatim Online Newspaper—founded by former editors of the iconic Newswatch Magazine, celebrated their 13th anniversary of excellence in publishing and sustainable media practice in Nigeria.
According to a formal nomination notice from the Verbatim Board of Editors, the prestigious award recognises Okpe’s “outstanding commitment to investigative journalism,” praising her fearlessness, depth, and dedication to uncovering hard truths.
Her popular “What’s Trending” segment was cited as a trailblazing example of impactful journalism.
The award was presented at the Verbatim Media Awards (VMA) ceremony that held on April 3, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. The event also honoured distinguished leaders, including Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, and Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State.
As part of the recognition, Okpe delivered a keynote address on her experience in investigative journalism.
Her profile and achievements will also be featured in a special edition of Verbatim Magazine, which will be distributed nationwide and globally through the publication’s online platform.
