Tinubu Mourns Doyen Of TV Broadcasting Agbaje-Williams
President Bola Tinubu has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family, professional associates, and the broader broadcast media industry following the death of Chief (Mrs.) Anike Agbaje-Williams, a pioneer in the broadcasting field.
Mrs. Agbaje-Williams, who was the first African to appear on television, passed away on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, at the age of 88. Her family confirmed the news of her death.
Born on October 23, 1936, Chief Agbaje-Williams was a veteran broadcaster who retired from active service in 1986. She made history as the first face to appear on the first television station in Africa, Western Nigerian Television (WNTV), both during the test transmission and on the official opening night. She was also the first voice heard on Africa’s first commercial radio station, WNBS.
President Tinubu, in a statement issued by his spokesman Bayo Onanuga, commended Mrs. Agbaje-Williams for her pioneering contributions to the broadcast industry, noting that her work had inspired generations of media professionals.
“Chief Anike Agbaje-Williams was a trailblazer and one of the pioneering figures of the broadcast industry in Nigeria and Africa. She made history as the first woman in Africa to grace Television and Radio as an announcer and broadcaster,” President Tinubu stated.
He further expressed that her professional legacy would continue to inspire both current and future generations of media practitioners. The president also extended his sympathies to her family, praying that they find comfort during this difficult time.
