First face on Nigeria TV, Anike Agbaje-Williams, dies at 88

Media icon and philanthropist, Anike Agbaje-Williams, has died at the age of 88.

Validview Network learnt that Agbaje-Williams died peacefully on Thursday in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, where she had lived most of her life.

Agbaje-Williams was the first face on African television after she appeared on the Western Nigerian Television station, now the Nigerian Television Authority, on the test transmission night and on the official opening night on October 31, 1959.

She was also said to have been the first voice heard on Western Nigerian Broadcasting Service, Africa’s first commercial radio station, earning the nickname “Double-First”.

In a statement on Thursday on behalf of the family, Banji Sokoya said her death is a moment of great sadness for the entire family, and her loss would be greatly felt by all those who knew her.

Sokoya asked that the family be accorded privacy to mourn Agbaje-Williams, adding that funeral arrangements would be announced later.

The statement reads, “The family profoundly mourns the passing of a great icon and a much-loved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

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“The family understands that her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country and also abroad by many people. They would be comforted and reassured by the knowledge that she lived a glorious, remarkable, and impactful life.

“The family would forever cherish the memories of her great love of broadcasting, her tremendous passion for life, and her love for God.

“She inspired lots of fans and mentees through the years, and the family appreciates your thoughts and prayers. She will remain in our hearts forever.”