Daud Olatunji
The 32nd anniversary celebration of Prestige Newspaper, a prominent community newspaper in Ogun state, unfolded on Sunday at the NUJ Hall, Iwe-Iroyin, Okelewo, Abeokuta.
Esteemed stakeholders gathered to acknowledge the indispensable role of the media in nation-building and to recognize the publication’s commitment to balanced and unbiased reporting.
Former Head Of Service, Mrs. Iyabo Odulate, praised Prestige Newspaper for its reputable standing, noting the absence of crime in its reportage.
She emphasized the importance of media organizations considering the needs of the populace while also ensuring profitability.
The event featured a lecture titled “The Role of Community Media In Nation Building” by Sir Eddy Aina, former Director of the National Broadcasting Commission.
Aina urged media stakeholders to stand firm, positioning themselves as solution providers for the nation’s development.
Addressing funding challenges, he highlighted the varying capabilities of media houses to operate independently, attributing financial struggles to the licensing method in the country.
Reflecting on the newspaper’s journey, the Publisher of Prestige Newspaper, Elder Dada Olanipekun, underscored the importance of ethical journalism.
He discouraged the practice of accepting ‘brown envelopes’ and encouraged junior colleagues to rely on ideas for sustainability, emphasizing that ethical journalism ultimately ensures survival.
“The media must look at the pain people are going through and be able to identify the pain of the masses because the media too is within the masses,” Olanipekun stated.
He also called for government support, not in stipends, but in addressing the challenges faced by the media industry.
The celebration culminated in the recognition of individuals with Meritorious Awards and the unveiling of the new edition of Prestige Newspaper, marking another milestone in its dedication to serving the community
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