By JKNewsMedia
THE ECONOMIC challenges facing the country have informed the need for journalists to build resilience and stay competitive in a constantly shifting media environment.
Towards this end, the Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria (ACCoN) organised a retreat in Ikeja, Lagos on February 5, 2025.
The event, centred around the theme “Empowering Christian Journalists for Impact: Integrity, Innovation, and Influence,” provided attendees with strategies for professional growth and self-improvement.
Bishop (Dr.) Charles Ighele, General Superintendent of Holy Spirit Mission, opened the event by addressing the role of Christian journalists in nation-building.
He urged journalists to continue upgrading their skills, warning that without such efforts, their relevance in the field could diminish over time.
Drawing from Isaiah 54:14, Bishop Ighele highlighted the importance of truth and excellence, calling on journalists to uphold ethical standards, even at the cost of financial gain.
He also spoke about his agricultural project, which led to the creation of a university of agriculture in Ogun State, encouraging journalists to think entrepreneurially and make meaningful contributions to national development.
The training also featured Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, a renowned media trainer and former Managing Editor (Online) of The Nation Newspaper.
Otufodunrin emphasised the significance of career development, urging journalists to have clear short-term and long-term plans for their professional growth.
He encouraged attendees to stay ahead by continuously improving their skills and adapting to emerging technologies, such as AI and search engines, to enhance their research and reporting abilities.
Otufodunrin also spoke on the importance of certifications and attending media training, stressing that career growth requires intentional planning and constant learning.
Mr. Sanmi Falobi took the stage to discuss “NGO Intrapreneurship and the Future of Faith-Based Initiatives.” He highlighted the growing influence of digital media in shaping public opinion and driving social change.
Falobi introduced the concept of media intrapreneurship, explaining that it involves taking initiative within an organization to drive innovation without bearing financial risks.
He pointed out that intrapreneurs, unlike traditional entrepreneurs, work within established institutions while creating new projects and improving processes.
Falobi explained how this approach could revolutionise media strategies and foster greater efficiency within organisations.
The retreat was opened by ACCoN President, Adeola Ogunlade, who thanked the participants and stakeholders for their continued support.
Ogunlade reinforced that the training was not only about gaining knowledge but also about networking, strategising, and equipping participants to remain relevant and impactful in the evolving media landscape.
He said the training sessions were intended to equip journalists with the tools to navigate the challenges of their profession, towards ensuring that they stay at the forefront of innovation, integrity-driven journalism, and career growth.
