0
0
By Sola Rotimi
The Union also drew attention to the evolving realities confronting the journalism profession in the age of artificial intelligence, misinformation and citizen journalism.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), University of Ilorin Chapel, has unveiled plans to establish a permanent secretariat as part of activities marking its 13th anniversary.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, described journalism as a critical instrument for nation-building and urged media practitioners to continue drawing the attention of leaders to issues that promote development and societal progress.
Egbewole also called for the revival of what he described as the golden era of UNILORIN FM, stressing the need to sustain and strengthen the positive values, standards, and achievements established by previous administrations.
In an address, the Director of Corporate Affairs of the University, Chief Kunle Akogun, expressed concern over the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and citizen journalism on the media profession.
Akogun warned that their misuse is creating new challenges for journalists.
According to him, although AI and citizen journalism were introduced to enhance information dissemination and broaden access to information, they are increasingly encouraging poor journalistic practices and the circulation of unverified reports capable of damaging reputations and undermining public trust.
He, however, expressed confidence in the professionalism and integrity of members of the UNILORIN NUJ Chapel and urged them to remain committed to ethical standards and responsible journalism.
“Journalists must continue to uphold the principles of accuracy, fairness, and verification in order to maintain the credibility of the profession,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the NUJ UNILORIN Chapel, Tijani Adewoyin, commended members of the Chapel for maintaining professionalism, integrity, and responsible journalism since its establishment in 2013.
He noted that members of the Chapel had consistently projected the achievements and positive image of the University of Ilorin to the wider public through objective and ethical reporting.
“Since its establishment in 2013, the NUJ UNILoRIN Chapel has remained a credible and respected voice within the University community…We have reported truthfully, holding leadership accountable while projecting the achievements and excellence of the University of Ilorin to thewider society,” he said.
Adewoyin paid tribute to past leaders of the Chapel and acknowledged the support of the University management, particularly the Vice Chancellor, the Director of Corporate Affairs, the The General Manager, UNILoRIN 89.3 FM, Mr. Idris Akintola and the Chairman, Kwara State Council of the NUJ Abdullateef Ahmed for their commitment to the growth of journalism within the institution.
He described the proposed NUJ secretariat as a landmark project that would provide a permanent institutional home for journalism within the University community.
According to him, the facility, when completed, will house a newsroom, resource library, digital media studio, and training centre aimed at enhancing professional development and capacity building for journalists.
The event also featured a keynote lecture on the theme, “One Country, Many Narratives: Media and the Challenge of National Unity in Nigeria.”
Delivering the lecture, the lecture, Prof. Rasaq Adisa of the department of Mass Communication at the University, challenged the Nigerian media to reclaim its historic role as a force for national integration, accountability, and democratic development amid growing concerns over misinformation, partisan reporting, and declining public trust.
Adisa noted that the media remains the primary lens through which citizens perceive their country and therefore carries a profound responsibility in shaping national cohesion.
According to him, journalists operating in today’s fractured information environment do more than report events; they influence public perception and manage social tensions.
“In a fractured media landscape, journalists do not just report the news, they actively manage social friction. This topic challenges working reporters to look past sensationalized, polarizing angles and adopt constructive or peace journalism frames,” he said.
The guest speaker further observed that while journalists have a responsibility to hold leaders accountable, they must also be conscious of their role in preserving social stability and promoting national unity.
The anniversary celebration brought together media practitioners, academics, university administrators, and communication professionals to reflect on the evolving role of journalism in nation-building and democratic development.
Also in attendance we’re traditional rulers including Oba Riliwan Yekini, the Olora of Ora Kingdom, who was the Royal Father of the Day.
