2nd November, 2024
By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
As I walked through the vibrant halls of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) during my formative years, I found myself captivated by stories from seasoned journalists who paved the way for aspiring journalists like myself. Among those stories, one stood out – the tale of Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, a man whose name commanded respect and admiration. His journey in journalism has been marked by personal accolades, mentorship, ethical practices, and advocacy for free speech.
My internship at The Nation newspaper gave me a firsthand look at Omotoso’s dedication. This experience shaped my understanding of what it means to be a journalist. Over the course of my five-year journey in journalism, few people have influenced my perspective as deeply as Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, the current Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State and former editor of The Nation newspaper.
Omotoso’s dedication to journalism, support for NIJ, and respect for freedom of speech inspire young Nigerian journalists. My encounters with him revealed a man committed to upholding journalistic integrity and nurturing future journalists. His career, spanning decades, showcases him as a writer, editor, and passionate defender of the press.
In 2019, during my time at NIJ, Mrs. Patricia Kalesanwo provided a rare opportunity to my classmate, Adedamola Azeezat Ayodele, and me. Out of 98 students admitted in 2018, only two of us were assigned to The Nation newspaper for our Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, then-editor of The Nation, made an exception for us despite the newspaper halting its SIWES intake, citing NIJ’s reputation for producing exceptional journalists.
Under his guidance, Mr. Omotoso assigned Adedamola to the Education Beat and me to the City Beat team, led by Mr. Tajudeen Adebanjo. I appreciate Mrs. Precious Igbonwelundu and Miss Olatunde Odebiyi for guiding me through journalism’s intricacies. Their mentorship helped me publish my first byline on July 17, 2019: “Oshodi Residents, Traders Lament Over the Flood.”
My time at The Nation bridged the gap between classroom theory and hands-on journalism. Under Mr. Adebanjo’s guidance, I gained insights into quality journalism’s dedication and ethical rigor. Omotoso’s commitment to NIJ remained strong even after becoming Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State in 2019.
In 2022, I saw Mr. Gbenga Omotoso again at NIJ’s special convocation ceremony honoring Sir Kensington Adebukunola Adebutu. As Governor Sanwo-Olu’s representative, Omotoso emphasized the importance of ethical journalism, highlighting NIJ’s role in training knowledgeable, fearless journalists.
My 2024 encounter with Omotoso reaffirmed his dedication to journalism and education. At the Sir (Dr.) Kensington Adebukunola Adebutu Media Resource Centre’s grand commissioning, Omotoso urged media professionals to teach young journalists fact-checking’s importance amidst rampant misinformation.
Omotoso’s support for journalism as a sacred duty is admirable. He lamented traditional reporting standards’ decline in the digital age, reminding us that journalism should be more than sensational news or unverified opinions.
Throughout my journey, Omotoso’s presence reminded me of journalism’s core values. His actions and mentorship embody integrity, accountability, and commitment. He advocates for NIJ and journalistic ethics, urging students and professionals to remember their duty to society.
Omotoso’s legacy in Nigerian journalism is significant. He paved the way for future generations and set a standard of excellence. His vision of journalism as nation-building and unwavering support for NIJ inspires aspiring journalists.
As I reflect on my career, I recall Omotoso’s advice to represent our profession well. His influence shaped my commitment to journalism as a mission, not just a career. Through his guidance, I learned journalism is about maintaining integrity and honoring truth.
For young journalists like me, Gbenga Omotoso symbolizes resilience, dedication, and hope for a brighter future in Nigerian journalism.
