Breaking: Father Of Nigerian Broadcasting, Dies At 83

Breaking: Father Of Nigerian Broadcasting, Dies At 83

Professor Tom Adaba, the first Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has passed away at the age of 83. His death was confirmed today, February 22, by his daughter, Dr. Inya Ode..…..READ MORE 

Adinoyi Anivasa, the Secretary of the Egbira Elders Forum in Abuja, expressed his condolences, stating, “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of our elder and leader, Prof. Tom A. Adaba. He answered the call of nature early this morning. Further details about the burial arrangements will be provided later. We thank God for his life and pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.”

Professor Adaba’s remarkable career included serving as the first principal of the NTA Television College in Jos from 1980 to 1987. He was also the first Ph.D. graduate of the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Jos in 1989. As the inaugural DG of the NBC in 1992, he played a crucial role in the deregulation of Nigeria’s broadcast industry during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida, which paved the way for the rise of private broadcasters.

In addition to his contributions to the media sector, Adaba was a member of the board at DAAR Communications PLC, the parent company of Africa Independent Television (AIT), Raypower FM, and Faaji Radio. He also served as president of the African Council for Communication Education from 1988 to 1992, becoming the first Nigerian to hold the position.

A respected community leader in Ebiraland, Kogi State, Professor Adaba held the traditional title of Ohiete ohweyi of Ebiraland. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Theresa Aaze Adaba, their children, and great-grandchildren.