Pan-Atlantic University (PAU)
held the second edition of its annual Media Roundtable event, centred
around the theme: “Beyond Critique: The Importance of Constructive
Media Engagement in Governance and Nation-Building.”
The event brought together prominent media leaders, practitioners, students, academics, and various media stakeholders.
In his welcome address, Dr Peter Bamkole, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
(Admin) of Pan-Atlantic University, set the tone for the day’s conversations by emphasising the power of truthful and transparent reporting.
“What you see, say, and write must be truthful, transparent, and reliable. Speaking the truth will change the narrative and promote constructive engagement instead of blind criticism,” Dr Bamkole stated.
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The event featured an engaging panel discussion led by esteemed media
professionals, including Magnus Onyibe (Public Policy Analyst and
Author), Fisayo Soyombo (Founder, Foundation for Investigative
Journalism -FIJ), Sherriff Quadry (Broadcast Journalist, Nigeria Info),
Margaret Agada-Mba (Lecturer, School of Media and Communication,
Pan-Atlantic University), Jonathan James Lyamgohn (Media Consultant) and Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun (Head of Programmes, News Central) each
offering unique insights into the vital role of the media in governance
and society. Onyinyechi Aderibigbe of Nigeria Info and Elizabeth Musa of
Business Day were the moderators at the event.
During the panel discussion, Sherriff Quadry emphasised the demanding
nature of journalism, stating that it requires more than simply identifying as a journalist. He highlighted the need for extra commitment, dedication, and above all, sacrifice.
Quadry also stressed the essential role of a free press in maintaining a functioning democracy, noting that democracy cannot survive without journalists, and without a free press, it becomes impossible. He further addressed the challenges faced by Nigerian journalists, asserting that determination is key, as the work can be frustrating, particularly in a context where politicians often feel they should not be questioned.
Quadry also spoke on the responsibility of journalists to ensure that
their work positively impacts society, cautioning that reports should
foster development rather than create chaos. In her contribution, Margaret Agada-Mba questioned the government’s view of the media,
posing the critical question: while the media strives to partner with
the government, does the government consider the media a partner in
national development?
Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun echoed the sentiment that there should be no
restraints on the press, arguing that while cultural, religious, and
ethnic sensitivities exist, they should not translate into restrictions
on media freedom. She further underscored the role of journalists as
truth-tellers, stating that their responsibility is to present news with
honesty and transparency. She further added to the dialogue by stressing
the responsibility of senior journalists to mentor the next generation.
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“There has to be a space for the transference of the values that make
journalism what it is,” she said, underscoring the importance of
cultivating ethical values in upcoming journalists.
Magnus Onyibe added that if journalists are ever offered the opportunity
to work with the government, they should ensure they do so with a clear
conscience, maintaining their integrity in the face of such challenges.
Fisayo Soyonbo addressed the issue of harassment faced by investigative
journalists, highlighting that the solution to such intimidation is more
investigative journalism.
“The answer to harassment is more journalism because the idea of harassment is to get the journalist to stop pursuing the truth,” Soyonbo said. He emphasized the journalist’s role in
uncovering the truth and presenting it to the public: “The job of a
journalist is to dig the truth and release it.”
Jonathan James Lyamgohn emphasized three key principles when engaging
with the government: respect, patriotism, and press independence.
“We are the fourth estate of the realm,” he noted, underscoring the vital
role of journalists in upholding democracy. He also remarked,
“Journalism will always be challenging, but journalism will always be
rewarding. Our ultimate employer, beyond our organization, is the
people.”
The panellists reiterated that journalism is not merely a profession but
a commitment to truth, transparency, and societal impact. As media
practitioners navigate the complexities of reporting in a challenging
environment, they must remain steadfast in their duty to hold power
accountable, foster positive change, and contribute to the growth of a
more informed and engaged society.
The event called on both the media and government to foster a relationship grounded in mutual respect and the shared goal of national development while preserving the integrity of a free and independent press. Through constructive engagement and responsible journalism, the
media can continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring accountability and
promoting the common good.
About Pan-Atlantic University (PAU)
Pan-Atlantic University is a renowned institution committed to providing
world-class education and fostering intellectual growth, creativity, and
leadership in Africa. PAU offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate,
and executive education programs aimed at equipping students with the
skills needed to positively impact their communities and industries.
Currently, Pan-Atlantic University has seven main units: Lagos Business
School (LBS), Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), School of Media and
Communication (SMC), School of Management and Social Sciences (SMSS), School of Science and Technology (SST), Institute of Humanities (IOH), and Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA)
