For over three decades, Cyril Stober has been a household name in Nigeria, known for his authoritative and professional delivery of news on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). Born in Niger State, Stober attended Fatima Secondary School, now known as Father O’Connell Science College, Minna. He is a Sierra Leonean by origin and has become a legend in the Nigerian broadcasting industry. In this article, we will take a closer look at Cyril Stober‘s life, career, and impact on Nigerian journalism.
Early Life and Education
Cyril Stober was born in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. He attended Government Secondary School (GSS) Minna, where he excelled academically and received an A1 in English. Stober showed an early interest in languages and learned to speak several Nigerian languages fluently. He later studied at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he obtained a degree in Modern Languages.
Career at NTA
Cyril Stober began his broadcasting career with NTA Minna. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a newscaster on the national network. Stober’s voice became synonymous with the phrase “Good evening, I am Cyril Stober, and this is the NTA News.” He was known for his calm and authoritative delivery of news and his ability to communicate complex issues in a simple and understandable manner.
Stober spent over three decades at NTA, covering major events in Nigeria and around the world. He reported on the Gulf War, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the release of Nelson Mandela from prison. He also covered several Nigerian elections, including the historic 1993 presidential election that was annulled by the military government.
Retirement and Marriage
In 2015, Cyril Stober retired from NTA, leaving behind a legacy as one of Nigeria’s most respected journalists and newscasters. His retirement was met with mixed reactions from Nigerians, with many taking to social media to express their admiration and gratitude for his contributions to Nigerian journalism [4].
In January 2018, Cyril Stober made headlines again when he married another NTA broadcaster, Elizabeth Banu. The wedding, which took place in Abuja, was attended by several high-profile guests, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar [2]. The couple’s union was seen as a symbol of love and hope for many Nigerians.
Legacy and Impact
Cyril Stober’s impact on Nigerian journalism cannot be overstated. He was a role model for many young journalists and newscasters, inspiring them to pursue excellence and professionalism in their work. Stober’s calm and authoritative delivery of news earned him the respect and admiration of millions of Nigerians.
Stober’s legacy also extends beyond the world of journalism. He was a cultural icon, known for his love of Nigerian culture and his ability to speak several Nigerian languages fluently. Stober’s traditional Hausa Fulani Babaringa and Caftan dress sense became a trademark of his personality, and he was often seen wearing them on air.
Conclusion
Cyril Stober is a legend in the Nigerian broadcasting industry, known for his professionalism, calm demeanor, and authoritative delivery of news. He spent over three decades at NTA, covering major events in Nigeria and around the world. His retirement in 2015 marked the end of an era in Nigerian journalism, but his legacy lives on. Cyril Stober will always be remembered as one of Nigeria’s most respected journalists and newscasters.