- Wasiu Adekunle Adejumo | Premier World News (PWN)
The Nigerian media industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran sports journalist and former Director of Programmes at Ogun State Television (OGTV), Alhaji Hakeem Akintunde.
Akintunde, a former Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State chapter, reportedly died on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) after a protracted illness.
He was said to have undergone chemotherapy during his battle with what medical sources described as colon cancer.
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, confirmed his passing in a statement signed by its Secretary, Bunmi Adigun.
“His passing tonight after a protracted illness marks the end of a remarkable career defined by dedication, excellence, and an unwavering passion for journalism and sports”, the statement read.
- A Distinguished Media Career:
Akintunde built a distinguished broadcasting career spanning decades at OGTV, where he rose to serve as Director of Programmes.
Widely respected as a versatile broadcaster and seasoned sports analyst, he was celebrated for his insightful commentaries and deep knowledge of sports administration.
Beyond Ogun State, he served as a former National Executive Committee member of SWAN, contributing significantly to the development of sports journalism in Nigeria.
Throughout his career, he mentored young sports reporters and remained a strong advocate for professionalism, credibility and ethical reporting in sports media.
“He lived and breathed journalism and sports until his last moments”, the NUJ statement added, noting that he earned admiration across the industry for his professionalism and enduring contributions.
- Awards and Recognition:
Colleagues recall that Akintunde received multiple recognitions and awards over the course of more than six decades in journalism, cementing his status as one of the respected voices in Nigerian sports broadcasting.
His analytical depth, institutional memory of Nigerian sports development and commitment to nurturing upcoming journalists earned him widespread respect among peers and sports administrators alike.
- Industry Mourns:
Tributes have continued to pour in from journalists, media houses, SWAN members and professional associates across the country.
The Ogun NUJ called on colleagues and well-wishers to pray for the repose of his soul and support his family.
“We ask that his family be granted the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss”, the statement concluded.
As of press time, the family has yet to announce funeral arrangements.
- A Lasting Legacy:
Akintunde’s death marks the end of an era in Ogun’s broadcasting history and Nigeria’s sports journalism community.
His legacy as a mentor, administrator, analyst and media leader remains firmly etched in the annals of Nigerian sports reporting.
Premier World News (PWN) joins the Nigerian media community in mourning the loss of a seasoned professional whose contributions elevated sports journalism to higher standards of excellence.
