Gowon Frederick Onuh earns prestigious NUJ Excellence Award

Gowon Frederick Onuh earns NUJ Excellence Award, highlights media integrity and supports ethical journalism during Press Week ceremony

Gowon Frederick Onuh, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Systems Ltd, was honored with the Award for Excellence in Automotive Paints Brands during the NUJ Correspondents Chapel Press Week and Awards ceremony held on Saturday, August 30th, 2025, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

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The event celebrated the intersection of corporate leadership and journalistic integrity, a cause Mr. Onuh has long championed.

Sharing the stage was Mrs. Pauline Oloche, Head of Marketing/Digital Innovations at First Systems Ltd, representing the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence.

Accepting the award, Gowon Frederick Onuh expressed heartfelt appreciation and extended his financial support to the launch of THE CHAPEL, the Chapel’s official magazine.

His contribution underscored a deep belief in the power of ethical journalism and credible reporting.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Onuh didn’t just celebrate the accolade—he used the platform to deliver a powerful message.

He urged journalists to verify facts diligently before publication, warning that misinformation can have lasting damage, especially in the business world.

“You would see a situation whereby in an attempt to go for something cheaper, they go for a low-quality product… and because we are not in line, some people would say it is original as Sikkens. That is misinformation,” he emphasized, using his premium automotive paint brand, Sikkens, as a real-world example.

This call for media responsibility continued in his goodwill message distributed to attendees, where he reaffirmed his enduring support for journalism that prioritizes truth over sensationalism.

At 55, Gowon Frederick Onuh has built a respected legacy in corporate leadership.

A graduate of Benue State Polytechnic and Joseph Ayo Babalola University, and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, he has steered First Systems Ltd since 2009.