Nigerian Media Nite-Out Award Convener, Sola Olugbemiro, Dies Ahead of 20th Anniversary Celebration

Sola Olugbemiro, the Convener of the prestigious Nigerian Media Nite-Out Award, has passed on, throwing the Nigerian media and entertainment industry into mourning.

Olugbemiro died on Sunday night, August 23, 2026, at a time when preparations were reportedly underway for the 20th anniversary edition of the Nigerian Media Nite-Out Award, one of Nigeria’s notable platforms for recognising excellence and outstanding contributions to the media and entertainment industry.

His death came as a shock to colleagues, friends, media professionals and stakeholders who had worked closely with him over the years.

Olugbemiro was widely recognised for his dedication to celebrating professionals who have contributed significantly to the growth and development of Nigeria’s media landscape. Through the Nigerian Media Nite-Out Award, he created a platform that brought together journalists, broadcasters, publishers, public relations practitioners, entertainers, corporate organisations and other stakeholders.

The award, which has grown over the years, became a major gathering for personalities within and outside the media industry, providing recognition for individuals and organisations whose contributions had made an impact in their respective fields.

The forthcoming 20th anniversary celebration was expected to be a landmark edition, marking two decades of the award’s journey and its contribution to Nigeria’s media and entertainment ecosystem.

However, Olugbemiro’s sudden death has cast a shadow over the anticipated anniversary celebration.

Tributes are expected to continue pouring in from members of the media, entertainment industry, corporate Nigeria and other associates who knew the late award convener.

For many of his colleagues, Olugbemiro’s greatest legacy will be the platform he built to honour others. At a time when recognition remains an important motivation for professionals across the creative and media sectors, the Nigerian Media Nite-Out Award provided an avenue to celebrate hard work, professionalism and excellence.

His passing therefore represents not only a personal loss to his family and associates but also a significant loss to the Nigerian media community.

As preparations for the 20th anniversary of the Nigerian Media Nite-Out Award had reached an advanced stage, Olugbemiro’s death has left stakeholders reflecting on his years of service and commitment to the industry.

Details surrounding the circumstances of his death, funeral arrangements and the future of the 20th anniversary edition of the award are expected to be announced by his family and organisers.

Olugbemiro is survived by his family, friends, colleagues and a community of media and entertainment professionals who will remember him for his passion, dedication and efforts to honour those who helped shape Nigeria’s media landscape.

His death marks the end of an era for a man who spent years creating a platform dedicated to celebrating others.

May his soul rest in peace.