Olugbenga Adanikin

Olugbenga Adanikin is a distinguished investigative journalist with a solid track record of impactful reporting, professional excellence, and international recognition. Known for his commitment to accountability and public interest journalism, Olugbenga has built a career rooted in uncovering corruption, exposing environmental and social injustices, and driving transparency across Nigeria and the West Africa. A recent graduate of the University of Derby in the United Kingdom, Olugbenga successfully completed his Master’s degree in Journalism, further strengthening his academic and professional foundation. This academic achievement complements over a decade of practical experience and thought leadership in the field of investigative journalism. In 2023, Olugbenga was selected as a Fellow of the prestigious Edward R. Murrow International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) — a U.S. State Department-sponsored program recognizing outstanding current and emerging leaders across the globe. That same year, he was also named a Fellow of the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN), joining a global cohort of investigative journalists dedicated to advancing transparency and accountability through in-depth reporting. His work has earned him numerous accolades. In 2022, he was the 1st Runner-up at the PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Media Excellence Awards, highlighting his strength in financial and business journalism. He was also a finalist in the Sanlam Financial Journalism Awards in the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) category, and was recognized as a WASH Champion by the Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Development Awareness for his consistent reporting on water, sanitation, and hygiene issues. Olugbenga’s investigative focus extends into security and extremism. In 2022, he was selected as an ICFJ/Code for Africa Fellow on Combating Religious Extremism, working on stories that challenged radical narratives and brought to light the social consequences of religious militancy. In the same period, he emerged as the 1st Runner-up at the West Africa Media Excellence Conference and Awards (WAMECA) for 2021/2022, further cementing his status as a leading investigative journalist in the region. His earlier recognitions include being named Journalist of the Year in 2020 by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), where he had previously led investigative teams in Abuja, Nigeria. Under his leadership, these teams produced hard-hitting reports on corruption, governance failures, and development issues. In 2018, he received the ActionAid Journalist of the Year award — a milestone that marked the beginning of a career defined by impact and integrity. Olugbenga's work is distinguished by its rigor, relevance, and public service orientation. He is deeply invested in journalism that not only informs but also provokes meaningful change in society. Whether investigating financial mismanagement, environmental crises, or social inequalities, his stories reflect a deep commitment to truth and justice. With his academic and professional experience, Olugbenga Adanikin continues to shape the future of investigative journalism, mentoring young reporters and contributing to global conversations on press freedom, governance, and sustainable development.