Nigerians have taken to social media to celebrate veteran journalist, former presidential spokesman and host of Inside Sources on Channels Television, Laolu Akande, following his recognition with the 2026 Voice of Truth Award at the inaugural U.S., Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala in Washington, D.C.

Akande received the award on Thursday, for what organisers described as his commitment to factual, courageous and principled reporting, particularly on issues relating to religious freedom, insecurity and human rights.

The recognition sparked a wave of commendations on X, with many Nigerians describing the award as a fitting tribute to a journalist whose work has consistently reflected professionalism, integrity and dedication to truth.

Among those who reacted was Musa Jacob (@Musa_Jacob12), who described the award as well deserved.

“A reward for dedication for Mr. Laolu Akande, a true journalist and a standard to follow. Big congratulations to you sir,” he wrote.

Another X user, Adelekan Al (@adelekanadeoye), simply described Akande as “a champion of the truth.”

Dr. Uzo Dan Macaulay also applauded the veteran broadcaster, describing him as “a beacon of integrity.”

“A beacon of integrity whose calm, dignified image reassures and inspires. Congratulations on the 2026 Voice of Truth Award. Your steadfast courage and principled reporting lift our public life and challenge others to match your standard,” he wrote.

For Ola Bankole (@OlakunleBanko…), the award was proof that diligence and consistency eventually earn recognition.

“When you do your work diligently, you’re bound to be recognised for it. This shows that Laolu Akande does his work well. Three years after being presidential aide, his work and voice resonate beyond the shores of Africa,” she wrote.
Communications professional, Balogun Murtala, (@MMBaloo), also joined the growing list of admirers.

“Congratulations to @akandeoj for this great achievement. Posterity will be kind to you,” he stated.

Similarly, Eden Wumi Collins (@AdewumiCollins) linked the recognition to Akande’s reporting record.

“I celebrate @InsideSources01 host, @akandeoj for bagging the U.S., Nigeria Faith Heroes Award. This is as a result of his factual reporting on the systematic persecution of Christians and other groups in Nigeria,” he wrote.

Many of those celebrating the award also noted that “Inside Sources” has become a respected platform for thoughtful analysis, truth, accountability and factual public discourse, arguing that the programme has amplified the qualities for which Akande received international recognition.

The reactions reflected a common sentiment among supporters that Akande’s journalism has earned respect across professional, religious and civic circles because of its emphasis on facts, balance and public accountability.

At the Washington gala, Akande also addressed the issue of insecurity in Nigeria, explaining that drawing international attention to killings and abductions was not intended to embarrass the country but to mobilise support for efforts aimed at ending the violence.

The award itself carries particular significance because it was presented before an audience that included leading American lawmakers, diplomats, international religious freedom advocates, faith leaders and civil society actors from both Nigeria and the United States.

The recognition placed Akande among a distinguished group of honourees that included President Donald J. Trump, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Pastor Folu Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, Congressman Christopher Smith, Congressman Riley Moore, the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, Prophet Isa El Buba and the Nigerian Armed Forces, whose award was received on behalf of the military by representatives of Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.

For many of those celebrating him online, the honour was not merely a personal achievement but recognition earned through decades of journalism, public service and principled engagement in national discourse.

Supporters noted that Akande’s inclusion among globally recognised advocates, statesmen, faith leaders and institutions underscored the growing international appreciation for credible journalism and courageous public advocacy.

Several commentators also observed that the award reflected a career spanning newspaper journalism, public communication, governance and broadcasting.

They argued that through his work on “Inside Sources” and his broader public interventions, Akande has consistently championed informed debate, accountability, religious freedom and the protection of vulnerable communities.