D.A.M.E. Judges Retreat to Peninsula Resort The Judges for the 17th edition of Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) met last week at the Peninsula Resort, Ajah to finalise deliberations on this year’s award winners. Choosing an award winner of the prestigious D.A.M.E. is a matter for serious consideration by the seventeen-member panel of judges set up early last month to identify distinguished media works from all entries submitted. The judges have, before now, worked assiduously in six committees set up to look at the various entries submitted under specific categories. The report of findings made at the sub-committee levels formed the basis of submission for final deliberation at this retreat. The final verdict and recommendations arrived at on Sunday will be communicated to the DAME Board of Trustees for final approval. The 17th DAME Panel of Judges is made up of experienced and reputable men and women in the Nigerian media: Chief Gbolabo Ogunsanwo, Mr. Ben Lawrence, Mrs Agbeke Ogunsanwo, and Mr. Tam Fiofori (Film & Sports Critic); PR Consultants Jimi Disu, Victor Agunbiade, Chido Nwakanma, and Tunde Thompson. Others are: Mrs Tinu Odugbemi (former Chairperson, NAWOJ) and Mrs Wale Sokunbi of the Sun, Mr. Feyi Smith (Executive Secretary, NPAN), Mr. Muyiwa Adetiba, Mr. Muda Ganiyu (Lecturer, Mass Communication), Mr. Gbemi Sagay, managing director, The SHOPS Ltd, Mr. Joseph Afolabi, managing director, Extra Bold Ltd, Mr.Taiwo Obileye (ace broadcaster), and Dr. Nosa Owens-Ibie of the United Nations. D.A.M.E., which has conferred 313 prizes since inception 17 years ago, remains the most consistent media awards scheme in Africa. D.A.M.E. rewards and encourages professionals in the media and marketing communications to improve the standard of their works in a glamorous D.A.M.E. ceremony that attracts the crème de la crème of the media industry in Nigeria and other leading professionals in government, industry and the academia. The Trustees will announce the date of the Award ceremony later. Anthony Okafor Secretary, D.A.M.E. Board of Trustees