Stakeholders Commend Bonny FM as Station Marks First Anniversary

The Chief Executive Officer of Grafton Entertainment and Managing Director of Bonny FM, Tonye Ibiama, has described the station as the “heartbeat of the community” as it marked its first anniversary on Bonny Island.

Speaking at a dinner to celebrate one year of operations, Ibiama said the station was established with a clear mission to amplify the voice of the Grand Bonny Kingdom, preserve its cultural heritage, and bridge the information gap between leadership and the grassroots.

“One year ago, we hit the airwaves with a simple but profound mission… we didn’t just want to be another frequency; we aimed to be the heartbeat of the community,” he said, noting that within 365 days, the station has grown into a reliable source of news, entertainment, and critical information for residents.

Call for Partnerships and Expansion

Looking ahead, Ibiama called for stronger partnerships with corporate organisations and stakeholders to deepen the station’s impact, particularly in areas such as environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, and investigative journalism.

He revealed plans to scale operations through improved infrastructure, wider reach, and digital expansion, while also announcing initiatives including the training of 10 Bonny-origin youths in media and broadcasting, as well as the continuation of the station’s Children’s Day quiz competition.

Government, Traditional Leaders Commend Progress

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of Bonny Local Government Area, Abinye Blessing Pepple, commended the station’s achievements and praised Ibiama’s leadership, alongside the support of the Amanyanabo of Bonny.

He described Bonny FM as a “unique and productive initiative,” expressing optimism that the station would continue to grow and deliver value to the community.

Stakeholders Applaud Impact, Urge More Sensitisation

Several chiefs and stakeholders, including the Vice Chairman of the Bonny Chiefs’ Council and Head of the Jack-Wilson Pepple Chieftaincy House, Haniel T. Jack-Wilson Pepple, the Head of the ATTONI Chieftaincy House, Abel Attoni, and the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas Bonny, Victor Okoloba, praised the station for its contributions since launching in March 2025.

They noted that the station has improved access to information, engaged residents both within and outside the kingdom, and provided a platform for community voices.

“Information is key in every developing society. If you are not informed, you are deformed,” one stakeholder said, adding that Bonny FM has helped reshape public discourse and bring hidden issues to light.

However, they cautioned the station against complacency, urging it to intensify public sensitisation efforts and continue striving for greater impact.

Listeners Call for More Engagement

Listeners and fans who attended the anniversary event also shared positive feedback, highlighting the station’s role in boosting local businesses, increasing visibility for individuals, and keeping residents informed.

Some, however, called for expanded programming, including longer airtime for popular segments such as sports, and increased community engagement.

As Bonny FM begins its second year, expectations remain high that the station will not only sustain its momentum but further strengthen its role as a trusted voice and unifying force within Bonny Island and its coverage area.

In the video below, the team at Bonny FM reflects on a year of growth, creativity, and being the 'Voice from the Atlantic.' From its roots in Bonny Island to reaching listeners across the Atlantic, it has been an incredible journey of amplifying voices, sharing local stories, and connecting the community.

Watch to the end to catch an excerpt from a speech the King, His Majesty, King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III, CON, JP, Perekule XI gave during a live session in the Bonny FM studio.