Black House Media (BHM) extends its prayers and deepest condolences to the family, friends, the Ogbunike community of Anambra State, and the media industry following the passing of Chuks Nwanne, the veteran journalist and General Manager of Abuja and Northern Operations at The Guardian.
Before his untimely passing on Saturday, October 3, 2026, Nwanne was an unwavering champion of BHM and its people. Titles only tell part of his story. He was a quintessential professional, devoted to true storytelling and to elevating the voices and moments that mattered most.
He invested selflessly in young minds. He would happily sit with junior PR consultants to explain the true spirit of Nigerian arts and culture journalism, demonstrating exactly what it takes to pursue the right story at all costs. Working alongside him was both a privilege and a masterclass, and hundreds of BHM consultants can testify to the profound generosity of his mentorship and spirit.
Like all great men, Chuks understood that the only way to truly make a mark on the world is to commit to something bigger than yourself. His journey was a testament to that ethos. He began working with The Guardian as a freelancer in 2006, officially joining the newspaper full-time as an entertainment reporter in 2008. Through sheer dedication, he rose through the ranks to become Editor of The Guardian on Saturday before eventually taking charge as General Manager of its Northern Operations. BHM is deeply honoured to have worked with, learned from and walked alongside him over the past 20 years.
BHM Holdings CEO, Ayeni Adekunle, recalls meeting Nwanne when they were young journalists, building their careers in the media industry.
“We were all hungry, passionate reporters travelling the country, collaborating and engaging in all sorts of shenanigans. It took some time before we became acquainted, and eventually, friends. But once we did, it was easily obvious that Chuks was one hell of a loyal and committed friend. When he’s in your corner, he really was in your corner. No games. No drama. Rare, in an industry and age where everything’s pretty much fair weather.
“I’m proud to say that Chuks Nwanne was one of the guys who used his position in the newsroom and at The Guardian to champion truth, give voice and influence to undercovered talents, support the arts, culture and creative industries, and platform projects and people who truly deserved it, without any commercial considerations. My company and I are beneficiaries.”
Beyond the newsroom, Chuks was fiercely devoted to his roots. He wore his heritage in Ogbunike, Anambra State, as a true badge of honour. His commitment to his origins led him to establish the Ogbunike Cave Carnival, a multi-day cultural celebration created to preserve local culture and place Anambra firmly on the tourism map.
Above all, he was a proud family man who spoke of his loved ones with glowing affection at every opportunity. He was a devoted husband and father, a respected media leader and a proud son of his community.
Nigeria and the media industry have lost a true titan, and his passing leaves an irreplaceable void. BHM extends its deepest sympathies to his family, the people of Ogbunike, his colleagues at The Guardian, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) during this incredibly difficult time. The company prays that God grants Mr Nwanne eternal rest and provides comfort to the family he leaves behind.
Though we mourn his untimely departure, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy of excellence that will inspire generations to come.
Signed,
Iretomiwa Akintunde-Johnson
Regional Manager, West Africa
BHM