Lifestyle
What To Know About Tom Adaba, Pioneer NBC DG
By Gideon Ayeni
Tom Adaba was a towering figure in Nigerian media and broadcasting. Beyond his contributions to the industry, he was a distinguished academic, visionary leader, generous philanthropist, and devoted family man.
Late Tom Adaba’s contributions spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the global media space and mentoring countless individuals who have excelled in both private and public service.
Early Life and Education
Born on July 2, 1941, in Asaba to a devout Catholic family, Thomas Aaze Adaba was the eldest of six siblings. His early ambition was to become a priest, leading him to enroll at St. Peter Claver’s Seminary, Okpala, Imo State. However, his path soon shifted towards the military before he eventually discovered his true passion—broadcasting—while training at the Advanced Teacher’s College (ATC) in Kano in the sixties. A debate he organized at the institution caught the attention of school authorities, setting him on a lifelong journey in media.
Trailblazing Career in Broadcasting
Tom Adaba was a pioneer in Nigeria’s broadcasting sector, holding several strategic positions that shaped the industry. In 1980, he was appointed the first Principal of the NTA Television College, Jos, a training institution established to meet the growing demand for media professionals in the country.
Between 1990 and 1992, he served as the General Manager of NTA Makurdi before being promoted to Deputy Director of Operations at NTA Headquarters, Lagos. His groundbreaking role came in 1992 when he was appointed the Pioneer Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC)—the newly established regulatory body for Nigeria’s broadcasting industry.
Under his leadership, NBC revolutionized Nigeria’s media landscape, introducing private broadcasting and setting the foundation for the industry’s growth. He remained in charge until his retirement from public service in 1999.
Post-Retirement and Legacy
Even after leaving public office, Adaba continued his impactful work as a media consultant and academic. Through Trim Communications Ltd., Abuja, he provided advisory services while also lecturing and mentoring future broadcasters. His expertise was sought after by international organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and The World Bank.
He was a respected public speaker, often presenting papers on media, governance, and global communication issues. His influence extended beyond Nigeria, serving as President of the African Council on Communication Education (ACCE), Nairobi, Kenya (1988–1992).
Notable Awards and Honors
Prof. Adaba’s contributions were widely recognized, earning him several prestigious awards and positions, including:
National Honour: Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) (2008)
Ohi Etohueyi (Beacon of Light) of Ebiraland (1994)
Grand Knight – Noble Order of the Knights of St. Mulumba, Nigeria
Ambassador for Peace Award – Universal Peace Federation (2006)
Board Member: DAAR Communications (AIT/Raypower) (2000–2010)
Director: Reliance Telecommunications Ltd., Lagos
Chair: Anebira Heritage Foundation
Board Member: Loyola Jesuit College, Abuja
Final Years and Passing
Until his passing on February 22, 2025, at the age of 83, Tom Adaba remained active in Nigeria’s media landscape, continuously advocating for ethical journalism and industry development. His legacy as a pioneer, mentor, and thought leader in broadcasting will live on through the many professionals he inspired.
Prof. Tom Adaba’s death marks the end of an era in Nigerian broadcasting, but his contributions will continue to shape the industry for generations to come.
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