ABEOKUTA – The Ogun state Commissioner for Rural Development, Hon. Taiwo Oludotun on Saturday hosted the executive and members of the Young Media Practitioners of Nigeria (YOMPON), Ogun State Chapter with a charge to imbibe professionalism in their media practice.
Oludotun, popularly knowns as Twinny also called for media scholars and proprietors of media organizations to establish regulatory body for media practitioners in Nigeria, saying this is necessary to curb the influx of quacks in the profession.
The Commissioner noted that the proliferation of social media has allowed untrained individuals with no journalism background to venture into the profession.
He therefore urged the National leadership of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to establish school of journalism that will certify all journalists in the country after graduating from higher institutions of learning.
He equally implored media practitioners in the country to engage in further investigative reports, adding that in-depth analysis of situation and objectivity in their news reportage will go along way in ameliorating the challenges facing the country.
“It’s just unfortunate that people who are not trained have ventured into the profession. Social media has turned everybody into journalists.
“There should be a regulatory body for journalism. I want to implore you, irrespective of your interest, your integrity is paramount.
“Journalists should delve more into investigative journalism, as young journalists, create a niche, show class, you might not be rich now, but when you write, people respect you.
“See yourself as an inspiration to do better. Let your write-us inspire people to do more. But the politicians are on their toes, but if you want to criticize, be constructive and objectives. I don’t believe in impossibility.”
Speaking earlier, the National President of the association, Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji, said the association was borne out of the proliferation of quack journalists in the profession.
“As young media practitioners, we have observed the influx of untrained characters into the profession due to the advent of social media, but in our little way of sanitizing the profession, the few ones amongst us who are thoroughbred journalists have come together to organize training for ourselves and share ideas on current trends in journalism.”
Also speaking, the State Chairman of the association, Comrade Saheed Adeola noted that, YOMPON stands as training platform for young media practitioners in the country.
“We believe that as Journalists we are determined and we want the media industry flooded with young practitioners, well trained, professional- not lacking anything.”
