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By Sola Rotimi
Broadcast journalists have been advised to make visual examinations of their vocal cords a routine health practice to safeguard their careers and overall wellbeing. The advice was given by Professor Habib Omokanye of the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Department, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Ilorin, while delivering a guest lecture at the annual get-together organised by members of the Nigerian Association of League of Veteran Journalists (NALVEJ).
Professor Omokanye noted that routine medical check-ups often neglect the ENT region, as attention is usually limited to blood tests and general screenings.
“Many standard medical examinations do not adequately assess the ear, nose and throat. For broadcasters, this is a serious oversight because the voice box is the primary tool of your profession,” he said.
He stressed that broadcasters must treat their voices with deliberate care, warning against self-medication and traditional remedies for hoarseness.
Prof. Omokanye
“At the first sign of any change in your voice, do not resort to herbal mixtures or home remedies. Seek professional medical attention. A simple procedure like video laryngoscopy can help detect problems early and prevent permanent damage,” he advised.
The ENT specialist also drew attention to the occupational risks faced by factory workers and machine operators, including pepper and grain grinders, who are routinely exposed to excessive noise.
“Prolonged exposure to loud noise gradually damages the hearing mechanism. Regular hearing assessments are essential for people working in such environments,” Prof. Omokanye said.
He introduced the concept of a “noise holiday”, explaining that periodic breaks from noisy settings allow the ears time to recover.
Second far right: Alhaji Tunde Akanbi
Speaking on the significance of the programme, Chairman of NALVEJ in Kwara State, Alhaji Tunde Akanbi, said veteran journalists require continuous health education due to the demands and risks associated with their profession.
“Many of our members have spent decades in the field, often under stressful and hazardous conditions. Regular health talks like this are necessary to keep our elders informed and healthy,” Akanbi said.
He also commended the Kwara State Government for its sustained support for veteran journalists.
“We appreciate the encouragement and support from the state government. It shows recognition of the contributions veterans have made to the growth of journalism in Kwara State,” he added.
In his remarks, Kwara State Governor, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, represented by his Senior Adviser and Counsellor, Alhaji Saadu Salau, described the lecture as timely and enlightening.
“This health talk is both insightful and necessary. Our administration remains committed to strengthening healthcare delivery, particularly at the primary level,” Salau said.
He assured that the Abdulrazaq-led government would continue to prioritize healthcare by upgrading medical equipment and renovating health facilities across the state.
Harmony FM reports that goodwill messages were delivered by the Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Mrs Bolanle Olukoju, and veteran broadcasters, including Alhaji Hameed Adio, a retired NTA sports journalist.
Other dignitaries at the event included the General Manager of Radio Nigeria Harmony FM, Hajiya Binta Abubakar Mora, represented by the Head of Engineering, Engr. Olayinka Abubakar, as well as the General Managers of Radio Kwara, Kwara Television and Unilorin FM.
