The newly-appointed Director of Public Communication and Corporate Affairs at the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Dr Sunday Saanu, has urged journalists to prioritise relationships, integrity and professional development over quick financial gains.

He stressed that lasting success is built on credibility rather than riches.

Saanu gave the charge during a congratulatory visit by the Executives of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, where he previously served as Chairman of the Chapel.

Speaking, Saanu emphasised that nurturing relationships and investing in professional growth are key to sustainable success in the media industry.

Reflecting on his journey from modest beginnings to a leadership role within the university system, he admitted he never imagined reaching his current position.

“Relationships are more valuable than money. The connections you build, the goodwill you nurture, and the integrity you protect will take you farther than any immediate financial reward,” he said.

Recounting his early struggling days, Saanu said: “There were times I had virtually nothing to my name, but I remained focused. Something inside me kept saying, ‘Keep going.’ That conviction carried me through,” he added.
He also highlighted the importance of documenting one’s professional journey.

“When you preserve your history, one day it will remind you how far you have come,” he said, attributing subsequent career breakthroughs to the credibility and goodwill he had cultivated over the years.

The media scholar urged journalists to join recognised professional bodies to enhance credibility and career prospects. “When opportunities come, one of the first questions you will be asked is: ‘Which professional body do you belong to?’ Some people have lost life-changing opportunities simply because they were not professionally affiliated,” he warned.

Earlier, Correspondents’ Chapel Chairman, Yinka Adeniran, said all members rejoiced with Saanu on his appointment, describing him as an admirable export of the chapel to academia.

In his remarks, Vice Chairman Comrade Remi Koleoso added that he was not surprised by Saanu’s achievements, praising him as a goal-getter with a Midas touch during their student days at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta.