Siene Allwell-Brown, a former television presenter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), is celebrating her 70th birthday, and it’s time to take a look back at her life and career. Born in Lagos, Nigeria in 1953, Siene grew up in a household that valued education and hard work. She was encouraged by her parents to pursue her passions and pursue a career in television, a field that was still in its infancy in Nigeria at the time.
Siene began her television career in the early 1970s as a researcher and scriptwriter for NTA. Her natural charisma, intelligence, and on-screen presence quickly caught the attention of producers, and she was soon promoted to a full-time presenter. For over two decades, Siene was a familiar face on NTA, hosting a variety of programs including news, current affairs, and entertainment shows. She quickly became a household name, and her popularity continued to grow as she brought a unique perspective and energy to her broadcasts.
One of Siene’s signature programs was “People and Places,” a weekly travel show that took viewers to some of the most interesting and exotic destinations in Nigeria and beyond. Siene’s infectious enthusiasm and her passion for exploring new cultures and meeting new people made her the perfect host for this groundbreaking show. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, regardless of their background or language, made her an instant favorite with audiences.
Siene’s contributions to television were not limited to her on-screen work. Behind the scenes, she was a trailblazer for women in the industry. She was one of the first female presenters to work for NTA and was instrumental in paving the way for the many women who followed in her footsteps. She was also a mentor to many young broadcasters and was always willing to offer her advice and support to those just starting out in the field.
Siene’s achievements in television were recognized both nationally and internationally. She was awarded the Nigerian National Order of Merit for her contributions to the media, and in 1990, she was awarded the African Women of the Year award. he was also conferred with “Amaopuorubo” Grand Bonny Kingdom in 2006 a title conferred to select few females every few decades for serving the country and Bonny Kingdom creditably, and received “Service to Humanity Award” by Radio, Television, and Theatre Workers Union (RATTAWU), RSTV chapter, Rivers state. “Certificate of Honor” for achievement geared towards the development of mankind and the Bonny kingdom by Ibaniwari Owuogbo (cultural legend of grand Bonny kingdom). She was awarded Certificate of Commendation, Newscaster of the year category, Nigerian Media Merit Award. For three years consecutively, Siene was voted Best Nigerian Newscaster by Lagos Life- a Guardian Newspapers publication (1986, 1987, and 1988).
Siene retired from NTA in the late 1990s, but her impact on the industry and her legacy continue to this day. In recognition of her contributions, the Siene Allwell-Brown Foundation was established to provide support and mentorship to young people interested in pursuing careers in television and the media. The foundation provides scholarships, training opportunities, and networking events to help young people reach their full potential and achieve their dreams.
As Siene celebrates her 70th birthday, it’s a time to reflect on the many contributions she has made to television and the media in Nigeria. She is an inspiration to all those who have followed in her footsteps and a reminder that, with hard work, dedication, and a passion for storytelling, anything is possible.
Siene is a true pioneer in the Nigerian television industry and a testament to the power of women’s contributions to media and society. On this special occasion, we celebrate her achievements and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.
Happy 70th birthday, Siene Allwell-Brown!
.
Joseph Omoniyi
