ENROLLED ORIGINAL
1
A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
25-310
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
December 17, 2024
To recognize the 80
th
birthday of Kojo Nnamdi on January 8, 2025.
WHEREAS, Rex Orville Montague Paul, better known as Kojo Nnamdi, was born on
January 8, 1945, in British Guiana (now Guyana), and throughout his life, has been a respected
radio journalist, public affairs host, and a beacon of knowledge and dialogue for the Washington,
DC region;
WHEREAS, Kojo Nnamdi began his career with passion and purpose, moving from his
native Guyana to Canada and eventually to the United States, where he pursued his education
and became involved in the Black Power movement, before finding his calling in radio;
WHEREAS, since 1969, Kojo Nnamdi has established himself as a leading figure in
broadcasting, with roles that included editing and directing at Washington’s WOL and WHUR
radio stations, later becoming a long- standing host of the public affairs television show Evening
Exchange on WHUT-TV, where he engaged viewers in deep conversations on vital local,
national, and international topics;
WHEREAS, Kojo Nnamdi made his mark as the host of The Kojo Nnamdi Show on
WAMU, bringing thoughtful discussion to the airwaves for over 23 years, covering topics
ranging from transportation and gentrification to racial relations and food culture, while
remaining focused on the issues that matter most to the DC metropolitan area;
WHEREAS, Nnamdi’s interviewing style, characterized by insightful, direct, and fair
questions, has earned him the respect of listeners, public officials, and fellow broadcasters alike,
including our Mayor, Muriel Bowser, and political reporter Tom Sherwood, who co- hosts The
Politics Hour with Nnamdi;
WHEREAS, Kojo Nnamdi’s contributions go beyond broadcasting as his Kojo in Our
Community series has fostered engagement with citizens across the region, giving voice to local
concerns and creating a space where ordinary people and leaders can have constructive dialogue;
ENROLLED ORIGINAL
2
WHEREAS, Kojo Nnamdi continues to play a critical role in public radio, hosting The
Politics Hour and Kojo In Your Community sessions, maintaining a forum that holds public
officials accountable, promotes civic engagement, and connects Washingtonians with their
leaders;
WHEREAS, Kojo Nnamdi has been a beloved fixture on Washington’s airwaves,
appreciated not only for his calm, reflective style but for his ability to present complex issues in
an accessible and engaging manner.
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That the
Council of the District of Columbia recognize January 8
th
, 2025, as the 80
th
Birthday of Kojo
Nnamdi to celebrate his illustrious career, his contributions to journalism and public discourse,
and his tireless dedication to enriching the lives of those in the Washington, DC region.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF
COLUMBIA, T hat we express our deepest appreciation for Kojo Nnamdi’s continued influence,
and wish him many more years of health, happiness, and impactful work. May his voice continue
to inspire, inform, and connect communities for generations to come.
Sec. 2. This resolution may be cited as the “Kojo Nnamdi 80
th
Birthday Recognition
Resolution of 2024”.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.