Veteran Nigerian broadcaster, Mrs Bimbo Oloyede, has launched a new book aimed at bridging the knowledge gap between media education and professional practice in Nigeria.
Titled “Communication and Media in Nigeria,” the book was launched to mark Oloyede’s 50 years of contributions to the theory, practice and transformation of the Nigerian media industry.
Oloyede explained that the publication was designed to provide aspiring broadcasters with practical knowledge and a clearer understanding of what to expect when they enter the media industry.
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“The idea behind this publication is to ensure that we bridge the knowledge gap between what the students are being taught and what is actually happening in the media industry; bridging that gap makes it possible for students to have a better idea of what to expect when they come out of school and there is nobody better to describe that or tell them than the people who have lived it,” she said.
The Secretary-General of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, Professor Andrew Haruna, commended the initiative, particularly the decision to preserve the experiences of media professionals for future generations.
Haruna noted that the book would help document the challenges, successes and transformations that shaped the profession, while commending the planned distribution of 1,500 free copies to libraries of higher institutions offering media and communication studies.
He described the initiative as a valuable investment in education, knowledge sharing and the training of future media professionals.
Former Minister of Education and economic policy expert, Mrs Oby Ezekwesili, who attended the event, called for stronger collaboration between civil society organisations and the media to promote national development.
Reviewing the book, journalist and politician, Dr Reuben Abati, praised the publication for providing practitioners with an opportunity to reflect on their professional journeys.
Abati observed that the book brought together television personalities, writers, producers, sports broadcasters, news anchors, presenters, editors, media owners, scholars and other professionals to make it relatable, informative and refreshing.
The publication features contributions from more than 50 media personalities drawn from radio, television, advertising, public relations, film, academia and policymaking.
Other books by Oloyede include Command Your Stage and Strictly Speaking.
In 1976, Oloyede made history as the first female network news anchor on the Nigerian Television Authority. Between 1976 and 1980, she helped pioneer national television broadcasting in Nigeria before building a career in independent production and media training.
