The Chief Executive Officer of the African Heritage Foundation, Ambassador Tunde Adetunji, has called for a paradigm shift in the role of Nigeria’s media in fostering national and continental development.
Speaking at a workshop organised by the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) in Lagos on Thursday with the theme “Brain Drain to Brain Gain: The Role of the Media in Shaping Nigeria’s Narrative,” Adetunji highlighted the urgency of reshaping the African story to prioritise economic emancipation and intellectual renewal.
In his address, he charged journalists to rise above mediocrity and embrace their roles as custodians of national reconstruction. According to him, the media must see themselves as critical stakeholders in championing the renaissance of Africa. “Journalists have the power to reconstruct narratives, dispel stereotypes, and ignite a sense of pride and possibility among Africans. National reconstruction should be a major thrust of every media professional’s action,” he stated.
Adetunji emphasised that Africa cannot afford to remain shackled by economic dependency and neo-colonial exploitation. He noted that achieving true independence requires leveraging Africa’s human capital, intellectual resources, and cultural heritage to drive development and innovation.
As part of his advocacy for actionable steps, Adetunji revealed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the new Head of State of Burkina Faso to establish the Thomas Sankara University. Named after the revered Pan-Africanist leader, the institution is envisioned as a hub for intellectual excellence, designed to equip young Africans with the skills and mindset necessary to drive economic independence and transformative leadership.
“This MoU is a testament to what we can achieve when African nations collaborate. Africa has the talent, resources, and determination to succeed. We must stop exporting our brightest minds and start building institutions that keep them here to contribute to our growth,” Adetunji said.
Adetunji called on Nigeria to assume its rightful place as the epicenter of Africa’s economic and intellectual liberation. With its wealth of natural and human resources, Nigeria has the potential to lead the continent toward self-sufficiency and global relevance.
“It’s time to bail Africa out of economic slavery. Nigeria must be the torchlight of this movement—a beacon of hope and a leader in shaping Africa’s economic trajectory,” he declared.
He stressed that reversing brain drain into brain gain is essential for Africa’s progress. This requires creating an environment where talent is nurtured, rewarded, and retained, with Nigeria leading the charge. He also highlighted the media’s pivotal role in this transformation, urging journalists to spotlight success stories, challenge exploitative systems, and amplify the voices of those championing Africa’s progress.
Adetunji highlighted the power of the media in shaping narratives and influencing global perceptions of Africa. He encouraged media professionals to move beyond sensationalism and focus on stories that celebrate innovation, resilience, and progress.
“The media must insist that Africa matters,” he said. “They must champion a narrative that showcases Africa’s potential, its successes, and its determination to chart a new course. Through storytelling, the media can inspire hope, unite the continent, and galvanize action.”
Concluding his speech, Adetunji called for a united effort to reposition Africa as a global force. He urged governments, private sector leaders, and citizens to collaborate in creating a sustainable future where Africa’s potential is fully realised.
“This is our moment to rise. Brain gain is the key to unlocking Africa’s greatness, and the media is the tool to drive this change. Let us work together to ensure that Nigeria, and indeed Africa, takes its rightful place in the global arena,” he concluded.