The Journalism Clinic, a media training outfit, has honoured media elders for their selfless service to journalism profession in the country.
Speaking at the Appreciation Day for Nigerian News Media Elders on Wednesday in Lagos, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, acknowledged media elders as mentors, role models, and custodians of journalistic excellence.
Omotoso, represented by Mr Kayode Oyekanmi, Director, Strategy Centre of the ministry, charged younger media practitioners to emulate the legacies set by the elders.
He said that while many of the revered elders had retired from active newsroom duties, their influence continued to resonate powerfully across the profession.
“I am proud to say that I am one of the many protegees who have benefitted from your mentorship and wisdom in the noble craft of journalism.
“Personally, I find the idea of an Appreciation Day for our media elders profoundly symbolic, not only for those beginning their careers as journalists, but also for those who have served as mentors, role models, and custodians of journalistic excellence,” Omotoso said.
He described journalism as a calling requiring courage, integrity, fairness, and commitment to truth and public service.
Omotoso said it was heartwarming that while the elders were still present, the professional community was recognising their immense contributions to building an informed and conscious society.
He said the act of gratitude would go a long way in promoting the spirit of patriotism, humility, continuity in the profession.
“Today’s celebration reminds us that journalism is not just a career. It is a lifelong calling, a calling that demands courage, integrity, fairness, and unwavering commitment to truth and public service.
“This appreciation teaches us that journalism at its very core is public trust, one that must always be guided by conscience, fairness, and accuracy.
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“You inspired generations of reporters, editors, and broadcasters to approach their craft with both passion and patriotism.
“Permit me to commend the Journalism Clinic for this thoughtful and noble initiative. Honouring our media elders is not only a celebration of history, but also an investment in our very own future.
“It reminds us that journalism thrives on legacy, mentorship, and integrity, values that remain indispensable to the survival and renaissance of our nation,” Omotoso said.
In his welcome address, the convener of the event, Mr Taiwo Obe, said he was convinced that people must know that Nigerian journalism played a critical role in Nigeria’s struggle for sovereignty and the sustenance of democracy.
Obe, who is the founder of Journalism Clinic, said media practitioners deserved to be celebrated and appreciated, even with fanfare.
One of the elders, Mr Patrick Oke, emphasised the responsibility of broadcasters and writers to carefully consider their words and messages.
Oke said words had significant power to shape lives and influence the mindset of the audience.
He called for a focus on instilling positive values and ideals in the younger generation through media content.
“Media professionals must prioritise building minds over commercial or entertainment purposes, they should encourage regular forums to remind the youth of their responsibility in shaping society positively,” Oke said.
Source: NAN
