By Dare Akogun
In order for the media practitioners to perform at optimum level government at all levels have been urged to provide more funding to the media.
This call was made by Professor Mulkah Ahmad of the University of Ilorin, at the Annual Memorial Lecture held in Honour of Late educationist, Professor Shehu Ahmed Jimoh, organised by the Nigerian Media Parliament in collaboration with NUJ, SOBI FM Chapel held at the NUJ Press Centre Ilorin, Kwara State.
She noted that denying media professionals in both public and private services their allowances is wrong, maintaining that it is the duty of government to provide basic amenities and incentives for journalists to carry out their work effectively.
Professor Ahmad also called for massive investment in educational initiatives that will increase access to quality education and promote vocational studies.
According to her “given the pivotal role of education in socio-economic development, there is a need for increased investment in educational initiatives.
“This includes improving access to quality education, updating the curriculum to align with contemporary needs, and promoting vocational and professional training.
“To tackle the issue of unemployment in Nigeria, comprehensive strategies should be devised. This involves creating a conducive environment for job creation, supporting entrepreneurship, and aligning educational programs with the demands of the job market.
“Recognizing the significant influence of media, implementing media literacy programs can empower individuals to critically engage with media content.
“This can enhance awareness, promote civic responsibility, and mitigate the potential negative impacts of media,” she said.
The guest lecturer, Professor Mulkah Ahmad who also lauded late Professor Jimoh’s legacy, said “His dedication to academic excellence and his belief in the transformative power of education underscore the pivotal role that the media can play in shaping public discourse and driving positive change.
“Indeed, Professor Jimoh’s legacy serves as a testament to the profound impact that individuals can have when they dedicate themselves to the pursuit of knowledge, truth, and justice.
The Chairman of the occasion and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof Abdulganiyu Ambali stressed on the need for media personnel to be well insured as they go through a lot of risk in discharging their duties.
“Media workers should be insured as they are well dedicated and have families. The federal, state and local government should look into it,” he said.
In his remark the Chairman of Sobi FM Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr. Dare Akogun described the late Professor Shehu Jimoh as one of Ilorin’s most distinguished sons, said the lecture was organised to pay tribute to a man whose contributions to educational development and community service to Ilorin, Kwara and Nigeria as a whole, have left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.
“Professor Jimoh throughout his lifetime embarked on a journey that would shape the destinies of countless individuals and communities.
“Throughout his illustrious career, he embodied the values of objectivity, discipline, and justice, serving as a beacon of inspiration for generations of educators and youth alike,” he said.
The highpoint of the event is the launching and unveiling of a magazine about the life and times of the late Professor Shehu Jimoh, joined by his wife, Ajiya Ayo Awawu Jimoh and other dignitaries from all walks of life.
