Citizen TV journalist Ayub Abdikadir’s star continues to rise, and his latest career milestone is proof of his growing stature in Kenya’s media industry.
On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, the Citizen TV journalist made his debut on JKLIVE, stepping into a new role alongside veteran anchor Jeff Koinange.
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In a major shift for the show, veteran journalist Jeff Koinange revealed a new format where he would spearhead the talk show segment, while Ayub would take charge of the news desk.
“Ayub Abdikadir is enjoying his first JKLIVE, and it’s a good format—I love it. It’s really good. It’s working, and I hope you guys are enjoying it.
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If you are just joining us, we have a new format. Ayub Abdikadir is on the news desk, and I will take care of the bench,” Jeff said.
Ayub Makes Debut on JKLIVE
On his part, Ayub expressed excitement about the transition when Jeff asked if he was happy with the new setup.
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“Much appreciated. Yes, I do. Hakuna pressure. Seen it from seamless,” Ayub responded.
Ayub’s chemistry with Jeff Koinange was first tested when the two co-anchored the news together on Sunday Live, a prime-time news bulletin, on Sunday, February 16.
Known for pressing guests with well-researched facts, Ayub was standing in for the flawless Olive Burrows, who was in Addis Ababa covering African Union elections.
Ayub is also the host of Day Break, a comprehensive morning news and current affairs program on Citizen TV that airs from 6 AM to 10 AM, Monday to Friday.
The show features a mix of current affairs, including newspaper reviews, analysis, and hard-hitting interviews.
Other hosts of the program include Sam Gituku, Trevor Ombija and Serfine Achieng Ouma.
Abdikadir’s Big Break
Ayub has gained prominence as one of the most talented journalists in Kenya, primarily due to his sharp interviewing skills.
His direct and fearless questioning style has earned him a reputation for holding leaders accountable, making his interviews particularly engaging.
During the run-up to the 2022 General Elections, while working as a K24 News anchor at MediaMax, Ayub impressed many viewers with his hard-hitting questions that always left politicians exposed.
In a joint media interview with former IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati, his incisive questioning left audiences captivated – it was his big break that catapulted him to the high table, to dine with the big boys.
Also Read: Ex-Citizen TV News Anchor Lands New Job in Kindiki’s Office
That performance caught the attention of Royal Media Services, one of Kenya’s largest media houses, which poached him from K24.
He officially joined Citizen TV on August 5, 2022, boosting the Channel’s star-studded lineup of anchors.
He has been compared to Hussein Mohamed in many ways. Mohamed left RMS in the run up to the 2022 elections before joining then Deputy President William Ruto’s team.
Abdikadir has continued to impress viewers with asking tough questions in his career.
In May 2024, during President Wiliam Ruto’s visit to the White House, Ayub confronted the President about Kenya’s decision to deploy 1,000 police officers to Haiti as part of a multinational security mission.
He questioned why Kenya was sending officers abroad while struggling with insecurity issues at home, particularly in the North Rift region.
Abdikadir’s Career
Abdikadir’s journalism career began with an internship at Ebru TV while he was still in his final year of university.
His dedication and work ethic saw him transition into a volunteer role, which later led to a full-time position at K24 TV.
Also Read: Ex-Citizen TV Anchor Janet Mbugua Makes Comeback
At K24, he gained recognition as a morning show host and reporter, refining his skills in Kenya’s competitive media landscape.
In August 2022, he made a career-defining move to Citizen TV, further cementing his reputation as an incisive and fearless journalist.
Education Background
Abdikadir holds a bachelor’s degree in communication and journalism.
He pursued his primary education at Wajir Primary School and later attended Wajir High School for his secondary education.
Those who have worked with him describe him as a team player and a down-to-earth man.
With age quickly catching up with Jeff Koinange (almost 60) and sometimes struggling to read from the teleprompter, Ayub is poised to be Citizen TV’s next big name.
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