Anike Agbaje-Williams, the first person to appear on television in Africa, has passed away at the age of 88. She died peacefully in Ibadan, Oyo State, where she spent most of her life.
Agbaje-Williams made history on October 31, 1959, when she became the first face to be seen on Western Nigerian Television (WNTV), which was Africa’s first television station.
Her voice was also the first to be heard on Africa’s first commercial radio station, Western Nigerian Broadcasting Service (WNBS), earning her the title of “Double First.”
Her family confirmed her passing in a statement signed by Mrs. Banji Sokoya, a family member. The statement noted that Agbaje-Williams was born on October 23, 1937, and had a remarkable career in broadcasting.
She worked at WNTV, now known as the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), and rose through the ranks to become a respected producer and director of programs. She retired in July 1986 after a distinguished career.
Her family described her as an icon whose contributions to broadcasting left a lasting impact. They noted that her passing is a moment of deep sorrow, not just for her family but also for the many people whose lives she touched.
“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 statement read.
