By Toluwalase Oderinde
The Department of Mass Communication at Olabisi Onabanjo University, in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, hosted a public discussion with the theme "Trust and National Development in Nigeria” on July 16th, 2024. The event, held at the Large Lecture Theatre in the New Faculty of Social Sciences Building, drew an impressive turnout from students, faculty, and notable guests.
Dr. Lanre Akinola, the Head of the Department of Mass Communication, introduced the hosts for the panel discussion, students Otutu Mary Osamudiame and Mr Daniel. Moderated by Mojisola Ahunbiade, the student panel included Abdulsalam Olamide, Ashaye Olubunmi, Adeshina Bernice.
Abdulsalam Olamide highlighted the dual-edged nature of the media, emphasizing that as the fourth estate, the public is likely to believe everything published. Olubunmi concluded the discussion by stressing the importance of being a trustworthy citizen in national development, while Bernice echoed the active role trust plays. Abdulsalam further noted the powerful potential of media in rebranding and changing perceptions through PR strategies.
Mr Daniel then anchored the program, leading the audience through the national anthem, Ogun State anthem, and the school anthem. He introduced the distinguished guest speakers: Alhaji Shafarudeen, Former Nigerian High commissioner to the United Kingdom, Former Resident Electoral Commissioner, Elder Ahmed Raji (Senior Advocate of Nigeria), Dr. Mrs Morayo Afolabi-Brown, Managing director, TVC entertainment, Host, Your view, Mrs. Funke Salako (Director, National Orientation Agency, Ogun State Directorate). Current lecturers were also recognized, including Dr. Lanre Akinola, Associate Professor Dr. Semiu Bello, and several others.
Dr. Lanre Akinola delivered a heartfelt welcome speech, giving special recognition to the chairman of the planning committee, Dr. Atewolara Odule, and the president of the Mass Communication Department, Peter Ololade. The Fire Troop's dance performance added a vibrant touch to the event.
The keynote address was delivered by Elder Ahmed Raji, who spoke on "Leadership: Breeding the Trust Deficit Among Nigerian Youth." He highlighted the critical role of trust in leadership and the challenges faced by Nigerian youth. "The youth are often regarded as leaders of tomorrow, yet what is to prepare them for tomorrow is denied to them," he stated, pointing to the performance of current leaders as a source of skepticism among the youth.
Dr. Mrs. Morayo Afolabi-Brown, Managing Director of TVC Entertainment and host of "Your View," addressed the issue of social trust and community. She encouraged young people to actively contribute to building a better Nigeria, stating, "We need to play our individual roles; we must choose to build a better Nigeria together."
Ambassador Sharafadeen Tunji Isola, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, also spoke on the importance of trust, describing it as confidence and faith that begins within the family unit. He identified factors influencing trust, including pedigree, experience, and biases, and emphasized the need for better leadership recruitment strategies and public utility.
The event featured a panel discussion with Dr. Morayo Afolabi-Brown, Sharafadeen Tunji Isola, and Abdulsalam Olamide. The panel discussion which was moderated by Dr. Lanre Akinola. Abdulsalam noted that trust is something that can be lost over time and needs constant nurturing.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Odule expressed gratitude to all participants and attendees for their contributions to the discussion.
The event underscored the vital role of trust in national development and the media's power to influence public perception, urging all citizens, especially the youth, to uphold trust and integrity for a better Nigeria.
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