Journalist
Tari Joshua, whose full name was Tariolate Sisei Joshua, hailed from the Okpoama community in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. He was widely recognized for hosting influential and long-running news programs. In the 2000s, he became a beloved sports reporter and presenter, earning fame for his exceptional contributions to Nigerian media.
Who Was Tari Joshua?
Tari Joshua was renowned as a reputable sports reporter and presenter who significantly impacted Nigeria’s media industry. An Economics graduate, he transitioned into journalism with great passion and quickly rose to prominence. A Port Harcourt native, Tari made his mark in the media world starting in 2001, anchoring major TV programs for the African Independence Television (AIT) in Abuja. He also played a key role in the development of the media landscape in Bayelsa State, serving as the General Manager of the Yenagoa station.
Beyond his work in television, Tari was a dedicated philanthropist who helped many in need, earning the affection of people from various backgrounds, regardless of their tribe or religion. His dream was to push the boundaries of Nigerian media to new heights, and he achieved that. Sadly, Tari Joshua passed away unexpectedly in 2019 at the age of 44.
Birth and Family
Tariolate Sisei Joshua was born on January 24, 1975, at the Iragha Maternity in Ndoki Estate, Port Harcourt, to the late Joshua Sieri of the Omota and Osainta families, and Mrs. Dimiebi Joshua of the Arusaigha and Kiente families, all from Okpoama, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Education
Tari began his primary education at Fatima Nursery and Primary School, before completing it at UPE Model Primary School in Borokiri between 1978 and 1986. In the same year, he gained admission to the prestigious Air Force Military School in Jos, where he earned his West African School Certificate in 1993.
His pursuit of higher education led him to the University of Port Harcourt, where he studied Economics and graduated with a Second Class Upper Division. As a child, Tari had dreamed of becoming a military officer or a police officer, which influenced his decision to attend the Air Force Military School in Jos.
Career in Journalism
Tari’s journey into journalism began with a desire for early independence from his parents. He moved to Abuja, where he started his career as a cameraman. Initially, his role was limited to holding the camera for others to conduct interviews, but over time, he transitioned into conducting interviews himself.
Tari’s breakthrough came when he covered a sports event when no one else was available. This marked the start of his rise as a sports reporter. His talent quickly became apparent, and soon he was recognized as one of the best sports reporters at DAAR Communications. Tari covered several major international events, including the 1989 Scotland, 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup, and the African Nations Cup in 2002, 2004, and 2006.
NAFDAC Reporting
In addition to his sports coverage, Tari made significant contributions to health journalism. He became the first reporter to cover the work of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on television. During this time, he worked closely with the late Professor Dora Akunyili, NAFDAC’s Director-General from 2001 to 2009, on national health programs like polio eradication and immunization.
Government House Reporting
Tari’s career took a new turn in 2007 when he was assigned as the government house correspondent for Bayelsa State as a new administration took office. His hard work and dedication led to his appointment as the General Manager of AIT-Elebele, Bayelsa State, a position he held for about five years before being transferred.
Final Days
Tragically, Tari Joshua passed away before he could begin his new role as a Legislative Aid to Senator Biobarakuma Degi-Eremienyo in the National Assembly.
Tari was widely regarded as a good man, a philanthropist, and someone who always went out of his way to help others. His generosity knew no bounds, and he was known for assisting the elderly and those in need.
Family and Faith
Tariolate Joshua was married to a woman from Kogi State (of the Igbira tribe). Although the marriage ended in divorce, it was blessed with two children.
Tari was a devout Christian. He began his Christian journey with the Assemblies of God Church and, at the time of his death, was a member of Living Faith Church (also known as Winners Chapel) in Sunnyvale Estate, Lokogoma, FCT, Abuja.
Death
Tariolate Sisei Joshua faced health challenges that led to his untimely passing on May 26, 2019, at the age of 44. His death was a great loss to the media industry and to all who knew him.
