The Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba-Ndace, has disclosed the move to achieve more innovative and globally connected organisation, anchored on partnerships, new languages, stronger journalism and continuous learning.
Speaking during a meeting with VON staff, Mallam Baba-Ndace said his vision for the organisation is centred on people and partnerships that go beyond financial considerations.
He highlighted the organisation’s Mandarin-language broadcast, which airs for 30 minutes every Wednesday with a repeat on Saturday, as one of such innovations, disclosing that plans to introduce more languages are underway.
He cited VON’s partnership with Tanzania, in which both countries exchange staff for training, as an opportunity that could create new experiences and professional opportunities for reporters.
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On the challenges facing the organisation, the DG said he would focus on solving problems rather than lamenting over them. Referring to the “broken windows” approach, he said he would tackle VON’s challenges one at a time and with determination.
He further urged staff to maintain decorum, avoid undervaluing themselves or the institution, and remain committed to continuous learning.
Citing the Hausa saying, “Naman da ya kai baki, shi ne nama,” loosely translated as“The meat that has reached the mouth is the real meat,” he emphasised the importance of ensuring that efforts ultimately produce tangible results and called on staff to maximise each opportunity.
He also referenced Matthew 7:7, “Ask, seek and knock”, encouraging staff to be proactive and persistent in pursuing opportunities.
The DG challenged journalists, particularly new staff, to contribute to the repositioning of VON by remaining humble, building meaningful relationships and producing content that projects positive narratives about Nigeria and Africa.
“I come to listen and connect because I am a reporter first,” he said, urging journalists not to assume they know everything.
He stressed that VON has “just one newsroom” and said reporters in zonal offices should see themselves as roving journalists rather than government-house correspondents.
The DG encouraged reporters to look beyond government activities and tell stories about culture, festivals, innovation and people that can positively shape perceptions of Nigeria and Africa.
He also spoke about branding in an era of media convergence, noting that journalists represent the VON brand wherever they go.
He urged them to remain presentable, professional and proud of their identity cards, stressing that professionalism does not have to be expensive.
“Journalism has taken me places, but it does not come cheap,” he said, adding that success requires dedication, strong relationships and proper packaging.
He said that every staff member is an ambassador of VON and must contribute to building an institution they can proudly represent.
