Investigative journalist, David Hundeyin, has received a commendation letter from the prime minister of India Narendra Modi, acknowledging his contributions to democracy and his brilliant journalism.

“Public intellectuals, policy analysts, and researchers play an important role in democracy by understanding complex policy dynamics and communicating it to the people. In helping design policy as well as in dissecting policy outcomes, they bring people and policymakers closer,” Mr Modi said in the letter. “Your award-winning journalism has won widespread appreciation. Your affection for India and Indian culture is also heartening to note.”

Sharing the news on his social media pages, Mr Hundeyin says he is ‘honoured’ to have received the commendation and that good journalism is one that makes impact.

“I feel honoured to have received an endorsement at such a high level, and it further makes the point that good journalism in the 21st century, is journalism that has a measurable impact, not journalism that ticks arbitrary boxes set by self-appointed gatekeepers.

” I hope this will inspire Nigeria’s new generation of journalists to embrace the new frontiers of the profession, adopt new storytelling formats, and break out of the boxes installed by supposed “senior” colleagues whose only interest is protection of the status quo at all cost,” Mr Hundeyin said.