A COALITION of Nigerian diaspora organisations in the United States has announced plans to honour selected Americans and veteran journalist and media executive, Laolu Akande, in recognition of what it described as sustained efforts in highlighting insecurity, human rights concerns, and advocacy for religious freedom in Nigeria.
News Point Nigeria reports that the recognition ceremony is scheduled to take place on June 23, 2026, at the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, US Capitol, Washington, D.C. The programme will run from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. EST, with red carpet arrivals beginning at 5:30 p.m., while a post-event DJ performance is expected to conclude the evening from 8:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The initiative is being spearheaded by Save Nigeria Group USA and the Nigeria Christian Coalition under the leadership of Mr. Stephen Osemwegie, President and Founder of Save Nigeria Group USA and Convener of the Coalition for Nigerian Christians Protection.
In a formal invitation letter addressed to Akande, the coalition described the recognition as a high-level honour, announcing that the veteran journalist had been nominated for the Global Voice of Truth and Integrity Award.
“We are privileged to inform you that you have been nominated to receive the Global Voice of Truth and Integrity Award,” the letter stated.
According to the organisers, the award is intended to recognise Akande’s commitment to what they described as factual, courageous and consistent journalism, particularly in drawing attention to the plight of persecuted Christian communities in Nigeria.
“This award is conferred in recognition of your exceptional journalism and your unwavering commitment to factual, courageous reporting on the systematic persecution of Christians in Nigeria,” the coalition said.
The group also singled out Akande’s television programme, Inside Sources, describing it as a vital platform for public discourse and an important voice for those whose concerns often go unheard.
“In an era of compromised narratives, your programme, Inside Sources, has become a beacon of clarity and a vital platform for the voiceless,” the letter added.
The coalition further commended his reporting style and professional discipline, noting that his commitment to documenting incidents affecting vulnerable communities has helped sustain international awareness of developments in Nigeria.
“Consistent factual reporting: your fearless dedication to documenting the atrocities committed against Christian communities, ensuring that the global community cannot plead ignorance.”
It also highlighted Akande’s unique position as both a media professional and faith-based communicator, saying his dual roles have strengthened his influence in shaping international conversations around Nigeria’s security and governance challenges.
“Your unique position as both a seasoned journalist and a servant of God, using your platform to demand accountability from leadership while offering hope to the persecuted.”
The organisers disclosed that the event is expected to attract a number of international political and religious figures, including President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Pastor E.A. Adeboye. According to the coalition, the gathering is designed to deepen international cooperation on security, human rights and religious freedom issues affecting Nigeria.
The coalition also stressed that Akande’s participation would help connect policy discussions with realities on the ground.
“Your insights help bridge the gap between policy and reality, providing the Inside Source information that international stakeholders require to take decisive action for the protection of Nigerians.”
Reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a seamless visit, the coalition said it was prepared to coordinate all necessary arrangements concerning diplomatic protocols, travel logistics and VIP engagements.
“We are prepared to coordinate extensively with your office regarding all diplomatic protocols, travel logistics, and VIP arrangements to ensure your visit to the United States capital is as productive as it is celebratory.”
The award ceremony is being organised by a network of diaspora advocacy groups, including Save Nigeria Group USA led by Stephen Osemwegie, Equipping the Persecuted led by Judd Saul, Save the Persecuted Christians led by Dede Laugesen, Africa Arise, and the US Nigeria Law Group led by Emmanuel Ogebe, alongside several other organisations operating across multiple states in the United States.
Master of ceremonies for the event include Pastor Laolu Akande, host of Inside Sources on Channels Television, Abuja, Nigeria, and Miss Grace Glass of the Center for Urban Renewal, Education and Policy in Washington, D.C.
The evening is expected to commence with red carpet arrivals at 5:30 p.m., followed by the main programme featuring award presentations, keynote addresses and special recognitions before concluding with entertainment and a post-event music session.