Broadcast leaders have been urged to uphold professionalism, accuracy and ethical standards amid growing pressure from the digital media landscape, with experts warning that credibility must not be sacrificed for speed.
Speaking at the 2026 Ambassador Segun Olusola Annual Lecture at the University of Lagos, Chairman of the Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria (IBAN), Dr. Ahmed Ramalan, said broadcasters must use technology responsibly while remaining committed to the core values of journalism.
“We are living in one of the most transformative periods in the history of communication. Technology has given billions of people the ability to create and distribute content instantly,” he said.
Accuracy Over Speed
Dr. Ramalan noted that while the digital revolution has expanded access to information and amplified diverse voices, it has also intensified the race to publish content quickly, often at the expense of accuracy.
“Today, many people compete not to be the most accurate, but to be the first. Headlines are increasingly designed to attract clicks rather than communicate facts,” he said.
According to him, professional broadcasting must stand apart by upholding truth, accuracy, fairness, balance, accountability and respect for human dignity.
“Verification must always come before publication. Being first is good; being right is far more important,” he stressed, warning that inaccurate broadcasts could fuel fear, damage reputations and threaten national security.
Ethical Leadership
The IBAN chairman urged media organisations to continue investing in training, editorial independence, technological innovation and ethical leadership.
“Professionalism cannot flourish where commercial pressure consistently overrides editorial judgment,” he said.
He also called on regulators and professional bodies to strengthen standards while encouraging the responsible use of emerging technologies.
“Our responsibility is not to resist technology but to ensure that technology never replaces professionalism.”
Segun Olusola’s Legacy
Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Lagos, Professor Sunday Oloruntola, said the legacy of Ambassador Segun Olusola highlights the enduring role of broadcasting in building public trust and national development.
“Broadcasting is more than a profession. It is about public trust, connecting people, preserving culture and contributing to national development,” he said.
The lecture, organised by the Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards in partnership with the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, was themed: “Passing the Mic: Bridging Generations, Restoring Professionalism and Securing the Future of Broadcasting.”
The event featured panel discussions, stage performances, interactive sessions and recognition awards for outstanding broadcasters.
The annual lecture honours the late Ambassador Segun Olusola, renowned broadcaster, television producer and diplomat, best known as the writer and executive producer of “The Village Headmaster”, Nigeria’s longest-running television soap opera. He died on June 21, 2012, at the age of 77.
