The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun-East Independent Chapel, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting professionalism and combating quackery in journalism by organising a capacity-building training for journalists across the Ogun-East Senatorial District.

The professional development programme, aimed at strengthening ethical journalism and enhancing media practice, brought together journalists from different media organisations to deepen their knowledge of contemporary journalism and professional standards.

The guest lecturer, veteran journalist, and current State Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Comrade Adekunle Olayeni, delivered a keynote lecture titled "Maintaining Good Journalism in a Troubled Ocean" during a virtual gathering held on Wednesday.

Olayeni is a former Chairman of the Correspondents' Chapel, former Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, former State Correspondent of The Telegraph Newspaper, and currently serves in the Corporate Affairs Division of Olabisi Onabanjo University.

In his presentation, Olayeni provided participants with practical insights into the changing landscape of journalism, emphasising media ethics, professional responsibility, accuracy, and the need for continuous learning in an increasingly competitive information environment.

He stressed the importance of grassroots journalism, effective headline writing, and thorough investigation before publication, noting that credibility remains the greatest asset of every journalist. 

He urged practitioners to prioritise factual reporting over speed, saying well-researched stories not only educate the public but also strengthen confidence in the media.

Speaking further on the theme, "Maintaining Good Journalism In A Troubled Ocean," Olayeni described today's media environment as one challenged by misinformation, disinformation, economic pressures and the race to break news. 

According to him, these realities make it even more imperative for journalists to remain committed to truth, fairness, balance, and verification in every report.

He also encouraged journalists to embrace regular training and adapt to emerging digital technologies without compromising the ethical principles of the profession. He noted that while technology has transformed news gathering and dissemination, the fundamental values of accuracy, objectivity, accountability, and public interest must remain the guiding principles of journalism.

The veteran journalist further advised practitioners to see themselves as custodians of public trust, stressing that responsible journalism contributes significantly to national development, good governance, and an informed society. 

Olayeni urged media professionals to resist sensationalism and uphold the integrity of the profession despite prevailing challenges within the media industry.

Speaking on behalf of the chapel, the leadership led by Chairman, Comrade Oluseun Oduneye, alongside the Vice Chairman, Comrade Charles Adegbite, Secretary, Comrade Funmilayo Suleodu Adewoju and other members, expressed appreciation to the guest lecturer for sharing his wealth of experience and enriching members with valuable professional knowledge.

The chapel noted that the training forms part of its ongoing efforts to promote ethical journalism, discourage unprofessional practices, and build the capacity of journalists within the Ogun-East Senatorial District. 

It reaffirmed its commitment to organising similar programmes that will continue to enhance competence, professionalism, and excellence in media practice.

The training also underscored the importance of continuous professional development as participants engaged in discussions on ethical reporting, newsroom challenges, and strategies for sustaining quality journalism in an evolving media landscape.

- Story from NUJ Ogun-East Independent Chapel