Osun Veteran Journalists Unveil Retraining Programme to Sanitize Media Practice, Raise National Standards

Follow

( 0 Followers )

X

Follow

E-mail : *

Follow Unfollow

Veteran journalists in Osun State have stepped up efforts to reform Nigeria’s media landscape with plans to retrain practicing and upcoming journalists, a move aimed at strengthening professionalism and eliminating untrained practitioners from the industry.

The decision was reached at a recent meeting of the body, formally known as the Veteran Journalists Association (VJA), which has made history as the first association of veteran journalists in Nigeria to be registered as a legally recognised organisation by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

In a statement issued by the Association’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Sanya Fadipe, the VJA said the retraining initiative is designed to address growing concerns over declining professional standards, frequent errors in news reporting, and the rising influence of so-called emergency or fake journalists.

The Association explained that the programme will focus on mentoring young journalists and retooling practicing professionals, blending decades of newsroom experience with modern journalism ethics, accuracy, and best practices required in today’s digital media environment.
At a ceremony marking the formal presentation of the VJA’s Certificate of Registration, the Association’s Chairman, Mr. Smolette Adetoyese Shitu Alamu, described the legal recognition as a turning point that would further energise members to contribute meaningfully to the growth of journalism in Nigeria.

He expressed confidence that the new status would strengthen the Association’s resolve to pass on the art, science, and values of journalism to a new generation, while reinforcing credibility and public trust in the media.

The event, attended by the Association’s Patron, members of the Board of Trustees, and other distinguished personalities, also provided an opportunity to commend the perseverance of members and the efforts of the Association’s legal adviser, whose work culminated in the successful CAC registration.

Speakers at the occasion praised the Veteran Journalists Association for keeping the ideals of journalism alive and urged practicing journalists to continually update their skills and uphold ethical standards in the face of evolving media challenges.

The Association is made up of highly respected professionals with at least 40 years of experience in print and electronic media, most of whom retired from active service as chief executive officers in their respective organisations.

With mentorship and retraining at the core of its vision, the VJA said it is committed to building professional capacity and elevating journalism practice across Osun State and beyond.

By becoming the first Veteran Journalists Association in Nigeria to receive CAC registration, the Osun chapter has set a historic benchmark in the country’s media industry, reinforcing its leadership role in shaping the future of journalism.