Nigeria media practitioners have been admonished to play critical roles such that will strengthen the nation and ensure that the country does not succumb to despair despite the mounting economic and security challenges.
This was the consensus at the weekend, during the 22nd anniversary of Oodua Newspaper, a regional newspaper covering Yoruba speaking states and official launch of its news website, held at the Dapo Aderogba Hall of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Press Centre, Iyanganku, Ibadan.
The duo, a renowned Islamic cleric and Spiritual Head of Shafaudeen-In-Islam Worldwide, Professor Sabit Olagoke, JP and a former Ambassador to Phillipines, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, in their respective lecture at the programme, shared their perspectives on how the media can navigate the current situation in the country.
The speakers highlighted the need for the media to remain objective, ethical, and accountable, and to hold the government accountable, while calling for greater investment in investigative journalism, as well as more focus on solutions-based reporting.
Speaking on the theme of the lecture: Media Practice Amid Economic and Security Challenges,” the keynote speaker, Prof. Olagoke maintained that the media practitioners should invest on vocation as another source of livelihood to be able to cope with the challenges of wellness entitlement and responsibility challenges.
He observed that capacity building in the industry is sacrosanct if the media practitioner must meet up with the rapid trend of development in mass communication, social media and at the regulated service inclusivity for the interest of members of the public and for objective reportage borne out of investigative journalism.
“Above all, use media practice to integrate, unite, build and promote happiness and prosperity by changing the psyche of the people as professional givers.”
“Don’t lose or reduce your passion for the job but objectively explore the rots for necessary intervention on zero tolerance for institutional indiscipline and corruption. The development and good governance focus.”
“We are now in a globalised world where transactions are driven through internet facilities. Go for e-marketing and online sales and services but never into cybercrime because of integrity abuse implication,” Professor Olagoke warned.
On his part, the guest lecturer, Ambassador Farounbi noted that the media has a duty to expose and challenge corruption, impunity, and injustice, and to speak truth to power.
“But at the same time, the media must not lose sight of the bigger picture. We must also focus on solutions, on what we can do to make things better. It is not enough to only criticize, we must also inspire hope and offer a way forward.”
He added that in a time of economic crisis and insecurity, the media must be a force for unity and understanding, rather than division and hate.
“We must highlight the common humanity that unites us, rather than the differences that divide us. In doing so, we can help to build a better future for our nation.”
Ambassador Farounbi further emphasized the need for a strong and vibrant independent media, one that is not beholden to any government or political party.
“The media must be free to criticise and challenge those in power, without fear of retribution or intimidation. Only then can we truly serve as a check on power, and hold those in authority to account.”
“The media must also embrace new technologies and platforms, and adapt to the changing media landscape. This includes investing in digital media, social media, and alternative forms of media.”
“We must not be afraid to experiment and try new things, and to embrace change. This is the only way to ensure that we remain relevant and influential.”
“The media must also remain committed to the principles of accuracy, fairness, and balance. We must not let our biases and prejudices becloud our judgment, and we must strive to be objective and impartial in our reporting. Only then we can truly serve the public interest and help to promote social justice and progress.”
“These are challenging times, but also a time of great opportunity for the media. We must not lose sight of the positive role we can play in shaping our nation’s future.”
“If we hold true to our principles and ideals, we can help Nigeria to become a stronger, more just, and more prosperous nation.”
In closing, Farounbi urged the media to remain focused on the bigger picture, and to avoid getting caught up in the day-to-day politics and scandals.
Speaking earlier in the same vein, the Senator representing Oyo South in the senate, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Akeem Abas, advocated policies that promote media sustainability, foster innovation, and support investigative journalism through grants and partnerships.
“In this age of technological advancement, we have witnessed the rise of online news platforms and citizen journalism. While this presents new opportunities for reporting, it also poses challenges to maintaining accuracy, fairness, and ethical standards. Investigative journalism, which is vital for exposing corruption and holding the powerful accountable, requires substantial resources.”
“Serving as the voice of the people, journalists often find themselves in conflict zones, investigating organized crime, and exposing political wrongdoing.”
“It is our duty as a society to protect these brave individuals by implementing measures to ensure their safety, such as passing legislation that criminalizes violence against journalists and providing them with the necessary training and resources for their protection.”
“Moreover, we must emphasize the importance of media literacy and critical thinking skills among our citizens.”
“The prevalence of fake news and misinformation has far-reaching consequences, fueling societal divisions and eroding trust in the media.”
“Journalists should be at the forefront of fact-checking and countering false narratives with accurate and evidence-based reporting. Educational institutions and civil society organizations can partner with the media to promote media literacy and foster a well-informed public that critically engages with news content.”
“In conclusion, the practice of journalism faces immense challenges amid economic hardships and security threats.”
“Together, lawmakers, media organisations, and the public can create enabling environment that supports media sustainability, protects journalists, promotes media literacy, and upholds the fundamental tenets of a free press.’
“Only then can we ensure that journalism continues to serve as the pillar of democracy, shining a light on the truth and speaking truth to power.”
“However, adversity often spurs innovation and calls for collective action. As we celebrate the milestone of Oodua Newspaper’s online website, let us commit ourselves to safeguarding the future of journalism,” he posited.
In his address, the chief host and chairman of Oodua Newspaper, Senator Hosea Ayoola Agboola, expressed appreciation to stakeholders that have ensured the tabloid remains relevant, informative, and accessible to all Yoruba speaking people.
“We are committed to maintaining our high standards of journalism, and to always put the interests of our readers first. We look forward to continuing to work together to create a better informed and more engaged society.”
“We are deeply grateful for your role in helping us to serve our community and our country.”
“As we move forward, we will continue to strive to be a newspaper that reflects the diversity of opinions and perspectives that exist in Nigeria.”
Agboola emphasized the importance of the media in promoting democracy and upholding human rights.
“The media has a critical role to play in safeguarding democracy and promoting the rule of law,” he said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the editor of the newspaper, Comrade Richard Thomas, extolled the virtues of Senator Agboola for his unwavering support over the past 22 years.
“On behalf of the entire editorial staff of Oodua Newspaper, I would like to express our deep gratitude to Senator Hosea Agboola for his unwavering support over the past 22 years”
“We are also grateful to individuals and organizations who have supported us over the years, and to those who have dedicated their time and energy to making Oodua Newspaper the respected institution that it is today.”
Comrade Thomas went on to highlight ways in which the newspaper has evolved and adapted to the changing media landscape.
“We have been at the forefront of the transition from print to digital media, and we have embraced new technologies and platforms to reach our readers.”
“We have also expanded our editorial focus to include a wide range of topics, from politics and economics to culture and lifestyle. We are committed to remaining a source of trusted information and analysis for our readers, and to serving as a forum for dialogue and debate on the issues that matter most to Nigerians.”
Comrade Thomas expressed his optimism for the future of Oodua Newspaper, saying: “We believe that the best is yet to come, and that we are poised to continue to grow and evolve in the years ahead.”
Highlights of the event was presentation of awards to well-meaning Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in their chosen careers.
Some of the awardees included the Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer, Aryfad Travels and Tours Limited Ibadan, Dr Raymond Adeyinka Adewale, the Oyo State Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, (NSCDC), Dr Michael Adaralewa, Hon Gbenga Adewusi (Arole), and others
