Ghana's Media Pioneer Alhaji Saddick's Legacy Lives On Through Next Generation of Journalists
The passing of Dr Abubakari Sidick Ahmed, known as Alhaji, marks the end of an era for Ghana's media landscape, but his transformative impact on journalism and democratic discourse continues through the dozens of media professionals he mentored over three decades.
Renowned investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas led tributes to the Radio Univers stalwart, who died at 63 on February 16, 2026, describing him as "a quiet minaret in turbulent times" whose influence shaped an entire generation of Ghana's media leaders.
Building Media Excellence Through Mentorship
Alhaji's remarkable career at Radio Univers, the University of Ghana's campus-based station, demonstrates the power of institutional leadership in developing talent. As the longest-serving staff member in the station's history, he transformed what began as a student journalism role into a legacy-building platform.
The impressive roster of media personalities who emerged under his guidance reads like a who's who of Ghana's broadcasting industry: Bernard Avle, Nii Arday Clegg, Kafui Dey, Bola Ray, Shamima Muslim, Dr Amanda Kwofie, and many others who now occupy senior positions across the country's media landscape.
Champion of Press Freedom and Democracy
During Ghana's challenging transition periods, Alhaji stood alongside prominent figures like Kofi Coomson, Abdul-Malik Kweku Baako, and Kwesi Pratt Jr. in the fight for press freedom and constitutional governance. This commitment to democratic values positioned him as a key architect of Ghana's modern media environment.
His approach combined professional excellence with unwavering integrity, creating a model for ethical journalism that continues to influence Ghana's media standards today.
Innovation in Campus Broadcasting
Under Alhaji's leadership, Radio Univers became more than just a campus station; it evolved into a training ground for future media leaders. This institutional development model offers valuable lessons for educational institutions across Africa looking to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice.
The station's success in nurturing talent demonstrates how strategic mentorship and institutional commitment can create lasting impact in developing Ghana's human capital in the media sector.
Lasting Impact on Ghana's Information Ecosystem
Anas Aremeyaw Anas recalled Alhaji's final words of encouragement: "Push the frontiers of democracy. Let integrity be your shield." This philosophy continues to guide the investigative work that has made Ghana's journalism internationally recognized.
The tribute from one of Africa's most celebrated investigative journalists underscores how Alhaji's influence extends beyond traditional broadcasting into the realm of accountability journalism that strengthens democratic institutions.
As Ghana continues to position itself as a leader in press freedom across Africa, the foundation laid by pioneers like Alhaji Saddick remains crucial to sustaining the country's reputation as a beacon of democratic governance and media excellence on the continent.