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It was a landmark event that brought together broadcasting legends, media professionals, academics, students and industry stakeholders for a day of reflection, knowledge exchange, mentorship and celebration of Nigeria’s rich broadcasting heritage.
With the theme: ‘Passing the Mic: Bridging Generations, Restoring Professionalism, and Securing the Future of Broadcasting’, the Ambassador Segun Olusola Annual Lecture organised by the Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards (NBMA), in collaboration with Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Lagos (UNILAG), successfully held on Tuesday, July 21.
The lecture commenced with a captivating broadcast heritage video showcase, taking participants on a nostalgic journey through the personalities, milestones, and defining moments that have shaped Nigeria’s broadcasting landscape.
In his welcome address, Convener of NBMA, Omogbolahan Akinwumi, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to preserving professional values, promoting mentorship and creating platforms that empower the next generation of media practitioners.
“The essence of ‘Passing the Mic’ could not be more timely. At a time when everyone with a smartphone is a ‘media house,’ a ring light is sometimes mistaken for a broadcasting licence and going viral occasionally competes with being credible, this conversation has become more important than ever,” he said.
Delivering his welcome remarks tagged, ‘The State of Broadcasting in Nigeria: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’, Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Lagos, Prof. Sunday Oloruntola, highlighted the evolution of the industry, current realities, and the opportunities ahead for emerging professionals.
The intellectual conversations began with the first keynote session delivered by Victor Ogwezzy, who represented Dr. Tijjani Ramalan, chairman, Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria (IBAN).
Speaking on ‘Restoring Professionalism in an Era of Virality and Instant Fame’, he examined the urgent need for credibility, ethics and responsibility in a rapidly changing media environment.
The first panel session titled, ‘Bridging Generations: Experience Meets Innovation’, featured industry voices like Gbemileke Oscar Oyinsan, Moses Humphrey (Mozmotion), Abigail Isaiah Gogo-Ogute, Cordelia Okpei and Wilson Victory.
The engaging discussion explored the changing identity of broadcasters, emerging opportunities, industry challenges, and the importance of collaboration between experienced professionals and young talents. The microphones certainly earned their keeps as ideas and perspectives flowed freely.
The collaboration between NBMA and UNILAG’s Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, underscored a shared commitment to strengthening professional development, mentorship and innovation within Nigeria’s media ecosystem.
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The event’s intermission came alive with a spectacular cultural performance by Artxellency Arts Company, showcasing the power of creativity and reminding guests that communication extends beyond spoken words.
A major highlight of the event was the keynote address by veteran broadcaster, Sonny Irabor, who spoke on ‘The Responsibility of Veterans in Nurturing the Next Generation of Broadcasters’. Drawing from decades of experience, he charged industry veterans to actively mentor, guide and support young media professionals.
The second panel session, themed, ‘Professionalism, AI Technology and the Future of Broadcasting’, which featured Cordelia Okpei, MC Icewater and Shine Begho examined the impact of Artificial Intelligence, digital transformation and innovation on the evolving media profession.
Beyond the conversations and knowledge sharing, the event celebrated the best of broadcasting through the presentation of Certificates of Excellence to panelists, including Certificates of Distinguished Leadership to keynote speakers, recognising their contributions to industry growth and capacity development.
The defining moment of the lecture was the symbolic ‘Passing the Mic’ ceremony, where seasoned broadcasters handed over the microphone to students from University of Lagos and Yaba College of Technology, representing the next generation entrusted with carrying forward the broadcasting legacy.
The emotional ceremony was elevated by the introduction and sharing of “Future Broadcaster’s Pledge,” as students committed themselves to upholding professionalism, integrity, ethical storytelling, creativity and responsibility as the next custodians of the broadcasting profession.
The pledge transformed the ceremony from a symbolic handover into a commitment to responsible storytelling, reminding the next generation that receiving the microphone is not only about having a voice, but accepting the responsibility that comes with shaping narratives and informing society.
With engaging delivery, humour and professionalism, the moderator, Zdon Paporella ensured a seamless blend of insightful discussions and memorable moments.
The Ambassador Segun Olusola Annual Lecture was more than a gathering; it was a celebration of where broadcasting has been, a conversation about where it stands today, and a commitment to where it is headed.
As the microphone moved from one generation to another, one message resonated clearly: the mic has been passed and the pledge made, signifying the fact that the future of broadcasting is in capable hands.
