Aisha Bello Mustapha, the news anchor from Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), has passed away.
The veteran broadcaster’s death was confirmed in the early hours of Monday.
Africa Today News, New York, reported that the journalist succumbed to a brief illness in Abuja.
Aisha gained popularity as a prominent figure on the local television network in the 1990s and 2000s.
Zainab Sabo, a close family friend, verified the death and mentioned that the interment, in line with Islamic customs, is set for later in the day.
‘The funeral prayer will take place at Abuja Central Mosque on Monday.’
‘Mama (Aisha) is indeed dead, and we are going to miss her, and we pray God bless her soul,’ Zainab tells BBC Pidgin.
It’s reported that details of the cause of her death at the moment are unknown.
The deceased journalist concluded her active service in May 2022, retiring after an illustrious 35-year.
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President Bola Tinubu has shared his heartfelt condolences with the family, friends, colleagues, and the extensive network of NTA, as well as the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, mourning the loss.
The details were encapsulated in a statement released on Monday, bearing the signature of Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity).
It was mentioned in the statement that the President, along with others, joined in paying heartfelt respects to the highly professional news anchor and presenter.
It read, ‘During her time as the presenter of the flagship ‘NTA Network News at 9’, Nigerians and viewers around the world looked forward to seeing her smile, warmth, and wisdom as she delivered news that can be trusted objectively.’
‘She mentored many young women who took to broadcasting, mainly by watching and listening to her eloquence, passion, and integrity on the screen, in the newsroom, and off the screen.’
‘Her legacy in broadcast journalism lives on in the rich news archives she leaves behind and the contributions she made to the development of broadcasting in Nigeria. She brought news to life and will continue to be a beacon to inspire generations in the beautiful art of broadcasting.’