“Media for development is a journey that requires sacrifices from journalists,” stated Mr Femi Adeshina, OON, former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.
He delivered the keynote address at the 2025 edition of the International Campus Journalism Conference (ICJC) held at the BOO C Lecture Theatre, Obafemi Awolowo University.
In his address, he emphasised that the media is a powerful tool for innovative and economic change. He discussed the importance of disseminating information, empowering people, and holding leaders accountable, noting that these goals can be achieved through traditional and digital media platforms.
Other notable speakers at the conference included Abimbola Abatta, an investigative reporter with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), Anthony Dimnwka, an on-air personality at Nigeria Info 99.3 FM, Afouda Samuel, a presenter and producer at 32 FM 94.9, Osarennoma Saba, a presenter and producer at Dominion Broadcast Group, and Professor Ayodele, the association’s academic adviser.
A significant highlight of the conference was a special session facilitated by BudgIT Foundation, a civic tech organization focused on budget transparency and data-driven journalism. The session, titled “Bimi for Journalism: Maximizing AI for Efficient Reporting,” featured insights from Akinkunmi Oludiran, a Data Analyst and AI researcher at BudgIT, and Ifeoluwa Odetayo, a Data Analyst intern with the foundation. The duo showcased practical applications of artificial intelligence in streamlining newsroom operations and enhancing investigative journalism.
Additionally, two engaging panel discussions further enriched the conference. The first panel, moderated by Oladele Hannah Boluwatife from the Union of Campus Journalists, University of Ilorin (UCJ Unilorin), featured Abimbola Abatta The discussion focused on the media’s pivotal role in shaping societal values, promoting justice, and holding institutions accountable.
The second panel, moderated by Thank-God Adeoye Oke from Olabisi Onabanjo University, included panellists Afouda Samuel, Anthony Dimnwka, and Abimbola Abatta They explored “The Power of Storytelling in the Media,” emphasizing its significance in amplifying marginalized voices and fostering public engagement.
Campus press unions from across universities were also in attendance, including the Union of Campus Journalists, University of Ibadan (UCJ UI), The Academia Campus Journalists UI Abeokuta Affiliate, Union of Campus Journalists, University of Ilorin (UCJ Unilorin), and UCJ UniOsun, reflecting the conference’s national reach.
The conference concluded with closing remarks from the President of ACJOAU, Olabode Oluwafemi, and the Vice President, Esther Olatimehin, who expressed their gratitude to all participants.