Nicholas Ibekwe

Nicholas is a Nigerian born in the slums of Maroko (now demolished) in Lagos. He is the ninth child in a family of eleven siblings. Competing for his parents attention with ten other siblings will have a profound effect on his personality. This has made him very competitive. He obtained his first degree in English language from the Lagos State University, Ojo.

Nicholas started his journalism career in 2008 with NEXT Newspapers (www.234next.com).  He has won several awards and recognitions in investigative reporting. In 2009 Nicholas won the online category of the Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporters with the story on the proliferation of hired armies in the troubled Niger-Delta Region of Nigeria. He was also commended in the Prestigious MultiChoice/CNN African Journalists of the Year Award in the same year. In 2010, he emerged runner-up in the Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporters. He was also a finalist in the biggest award for investigative reporters in Africa- The Fair (Forum for African Investigative Reporters) Awards in 2010 and 2011.

Nicholas is a 2011/2012 Chevening Scholar. He presently studies MA International Journalism at City University, London.

Nicholas is passionate about investigative reporting and revealing the excesses of government officials, organisations and individuals. He is also an all-rounded reporter who had worked as a court reporter, written sports stories and an excellent reviewer and feature writer.

He is a ‘Street Poet” some of his work could be read at:      and an avid lover of Hip Hop music.

I can be contacted on nicholasibekwe@gmail.com.

Twitter: www.twitter.com/nicholasibekwe