A distinguished media practitioner and public relations expert, Mr. Ehi Braimah was honoured in London on Tuesday with the prestigious Chancellor’s Alumni Award of the University of Roehampton, which has 90,000 global alumni.
Braimah, who is also Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of an independent and online newspaper, Naija Times, was one of three Nigerians among the 20 recipients. He received the Alumni Innovation and Inspiration Award for his outstanding achievements.
The award ceremony was held at Lime Tree Suite, Elm Grove, inside the campus of the university.
The citation read during the award ceremony praised Braimah for using Naija Times to influence change for an egalitarian society by promoting balanced and evidenced-based reporting, especially during critical events like the 2023 presidential election.
“Braimah is a prominent voice for political and economic reforms, maintaining rigorous standards of journalism and fighting corruption”, the citation read.
The other Nigerians who were also honoured were Humphrey Aghoghovbia Jr. and Marian Adejokun.
At the ceremony, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Richard Keogh who stood in for the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jean-Noel Ezingeard, told the audience that the university is a modern institution with a long, rich and proud history. “As many of you know, our roots stretched back to the 1840s through the early work of our founding colleges”, Keogh said.
“Roehampton is a special place and I am truly delighted to welcome you to the 2024 Chancellor’s Alumni awards. We have a rich and vibrant global alumni network that continues to grow.
“Today’s event is significant as we celebrate the remarkable achievements, impact and contributions of Roehampton alumni. When you graduate, your connection to us does not end. We’re immensely grateful to our donor community of 500 individuals and volunteer community of 400 alumni, who have been mentoring our students. More than 400 students have benefited from the mentoring programme.
“We hold the distinction of being the longest serving provider of higher education for women in the UK, and our commitment to professional education, widening participation and transforming lives is as strong today as it was then”.
In her welcome remarks, the Director of Business Development, Fundraising and Alumni Relations, Eleanor Merrick, who founded the Roehampton alumni 10 years ago, said it was a good feeling having award recipients from different countries under the same roof to celebrate their remarkable achievements, adding that the reception was an opportunity for the alumni to interact and build formidable and long-lasting relationships.
Braimah used the occasion to present two copies of Naija Times‘ book, For a Better Society to Keogh for the university’s library.
The University of Roehampton was given its university title 20 years ago by the Privy Council, but it had existed previously as four colleges since the 18th century. Other members of the university community who attended the ceremony included Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor for Internationalisation and Global Engagement, Prof. Sunitha Narendran; and Dean of the Faculty of Business and Law, Prof. Dan Nunan.
Braimah’s family members, friends and associates were present to celebrate with him. They included his sister-in-law, Bukola Olakotan; aunt-in-law, Cynthia Ologunde; Chairman, The Nation newspapers’ editorial board, Mr. Sam Omatseye, Engr. Clement Ede-Agege; PR expert/financial analyst, Mr. Toni Kan; global PR strategist/cross-cultural leadership expert, Dr. Toju Ogbe; chartered accountant, Matthew Odu.
After completing his MBA at the University of Roehampton in 2016, Braimah has continued to demonstrate remarkable commitment to excellence in his professional career by launching multiple media platforms.
As publisher of Naija Times, he has made significant contributions to the Nigerian media, using the platform to drive thought leadership and insightful journalism, especially through his column in the newspaper.
In addition to his role as a media practitioner, Braimah is the Deputy President of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce, where his influence has been instrumental in fostering stronger business relationships between Nigeria and the United States.
His dedication to both media and international commerce reinforces his versatile leadership across multiple sectors. Braimah’s recognition by the University of Roehampton underscores the global impact of the institution’s alumni.
The Chancellor’s Alumni Award celebrates exceptional achievements and the innovative contributions made by Roehampton graduates around the world.
Aside from his media and business roles, Braimah is an active leader in Rotary. He currently serves as an Assistant Governor and chair of the Public Image Committee of Rotary International District 9112.
Braimah’s commitment to community service and improving Rotary’s public image further demonstrates his passion for making a difference, both locally and internationally.