Richard Edoki, a Nigerian-born broadcaster known professionally as Richybongo, has been nominated for the Best Newcomer award at the 2025 National Hospital Radio Awards in the United Kingdom. This prestigious recognition highlights Edoki’s significant contributions to hospital broadcasting and his dedication to promoting African culture and inclusivity. The announcement of his nomination sparked a wave of congratulations, most notably from Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM). Dabiri-Erewa, through a statement released by the Commission’s Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, praised Edoki as a shining example of Nigerian excellence abroad and wished him success at the upcoming awards ceremony scheduled for April 5, 2025, in Leicestershire.
The National Hospital Radio Awards, an annual event organized by the Hospital Broadcasting Association, celebrates outstanding achievements in hospital radio broadcasting throughout the UK. These awards acknowledge the vital role hospital radio plays in providing entertainment, information, and comfort to patients, staff, and visitors within the healthcare setting. Richybongo’s nomination underscores the positive impact his work has had on the community served by the Community & Hospital Broadcasting Network in Cornwall, where he hosts the popular “African Vibe with Richybongo” program. This Sunday evening show has become a platform for showcasing African heritage, music, and culture, effectively bridging the gap between the African diaspora and the Cornish community.
Edoki’s journey to this recognition began in Nigeria, where he honed his broadcasting skills at Silverbird/Rhythm. His experience in the vibrant Nigerian media landscape provided a strong foundation for his career development. Three years ago, he relocated to the UK, bringing with him a wealth of talent and a passion for sharing his cultural heritage. His program, “African Vibe with Richybongo,” reflects this passion, offering a diverse range of music, interviews, and discussions that celebrate African culture while fostering understanding and inclusivity. The program’s focus on promoting African heritage within the Cornish community highlights Edoki’s commitment to building bridges and celebrating diversity.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, under the leadership of Abike Dabiri-Erewa, plays a crucial role in recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Nigerians living abroad. The Commission’s congratulatory message to Edoki underscores its commitment to supporting and acknowledging the contributions of diaspora Nigerians across various fields. Dabiri-Erewa’s commendation highlights Edoki’s success as a testament to the talent and resilience of Nigerians in the diaspora, serving as an inspiration to aspiring professionals worldwide. The Commission’s recognition further amplifies the importance of Edoki’s work in promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
Edoki’s nomination for the Best Newcomer award is a significant achievement, not only for him personally but also for the representation of African culture in UK media. His program, “African Vibe with Richybongo,” has carved a unique space within hospital broadcasting, demonstrating the power of media to connect communities and celebrate diversity. The program’s success highlights the growing appreciation for diverse voices and perspectives in the media landscape. This recognition further encourages the inclusion of more diverse voices and perspectives in broadcasting, contributing to a richer and more representative media landscape.
As Richybongo prepares for the National Hospital Radio Awards ceremony in April, his nomination stands as a testament to his dedication, talent, and the impact of his work. His journey from Nigeria to the UK, and his subsequent success in hospital broadcasting, exemplifies the positive contributions of the diaspora community to their adopted countries. The recognition he has received highlights the importance of celebrating cultural diversity and promoting inclusivity, not only within the media but also in wider society. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring broadcasters and a reminder of the power of media to build bridges and foster understanding across cultures.
