By Joke Kujenya
A PALPABLE sense of excitement fills the air at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), as the sun rose over Ogba, Lagos, on Monday.
Today marks not just the beginning of the 2024/25 academic session but also the dawn of a new era for this prestigious institution.
Students, lecturers, and visitors stepped onto a campus transformed, with its vibrant atmosphere a testament to years of dedication and hard work of significant renovations led by veteran journalist Mr. Gbenga Adefaye.
This marks the institution’s first major physical upgrade in over 35 years.
Students were just gasping “WoW” in successions as they walked into their new-look institution of journalism in Nigeria.
NIJ Through the Years
Founded in 1963 and fully operational since 1971, NIJ has long been a cornerstone of journalism education in Nigeria.
Its mission has always been to cultivate skilled media professionals equipped to navigate the complexities of communication in an ever-changing world.
Over the decades, the institute has nurtured some of the country’s most notable journalists, including prominent figures like seasoned and accomplished senior investigative journalist, Ms. Joke Kujenya, publisher of Latest Updates – JKNewsMedia, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa and a host of others, who have all made significant contributions to the media landscape.
For the first time in over three decades, NIJ is unveiling significant renovations that breathe fresh life into its facilities.
The heart of this transformation is the stunning Kesington Adebutu Resource Centre, a modern two-storey building that stands proudly on the campus.
Donated by Chief Kesington Adebutu, the centre features a spacious 350-seat lecture theatre and adaptable academic spaces, all designed to foster an enriched learning environment for aspiring journalists.
Emphasizing the significance of the center during a ceremony in June 2024, Mr. Lanre Ogundipe, a revered voice in the journalism field, expressed his vision for the institution.
Speaking about the resource centre, not only as a physical space, but as a beacon of progress for journalism education in Nigeria, Ogundipe noted: “This is a pivotal moment for NIJ.”
The anticipation surrounding the project was palpable, and it was Aare (Dr) Kola Oyefeso, representing Chief Adebutu, who offered assurance to the gathered crowd. “This is a done deal,” he proclaimed with unwavering confidence.
His conviction resonated deeply, reflecting the commitment behind the construction. “Sir Adebutu doesn’t do anything halfway.
This project is financed 100% and will be completed 100% and fully unveiled on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.”
These words further fueled the excitement of students and staff alike, igniting a shared vision for the future.
Resource Centre: A Wholesome Transformation
The completion of the Kesington Adebutu Resource Centre is not just a physical transformation; it is a historic milestone for the Nigerian Institute of Journalism.
Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, the institute’s provost, expressed his optimism about the project.
He recalled how Chief Adebutu promised its completion within four months—a promise now fulfilled, marking a significant achievement during Adefaye’s tenure.
NIJ’s Training Legacy
As students gather in the sleek, modern spaces of the new facility, they will not only benefit from state-of-the-art resources but also inherit a legacy of excellence.
NIJ trains individuals in various disciplines, from print to broadcast journalism, and boasts a strong alumni network.
Its reputation for rigorous academic standards and practical training in a conducive learning environment has set it apart in the field of mass communication.
The Kesington Adebutu Resource Centre, with its innovative design and cutting-edge facilities, reinforces the institute’s commitment to fostering a new generation of media professionals.
As the doors open to this remarkable space, the NIJ helmsman restates this reaffirms the institute’s vision of becoming the leading institution for mass communication and journalism training in Africa.
With over N250 million invested in this project, the financial commitment reflects the transformative vision for the institution.
“This is more than just bricks and mortar, the resource centre symbolizes hope and opportunity for students eager to shape the future of journalism in Nigeria,” Adefaye affirms with a sense of pride.
Stating: “Welcome to the new NIJ, where the future of journalism is being crafted, one story at a time.”
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