‘How media can offer hope in challenging times’

The media has been urged to give hope in these challenging times. The charge was made by the Provost, Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Mr. Gbenga Adefaye. He spoke at the Rotary Int’l District 9110 Humanitarian Reporting Award (RHRA) ceremony, which held recently at District Centre, Ladoke Akintola Street, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

He spoke on the incredible impact that the media could have on the world around, and use that impact to inspire, uplift, and create hope in the hearts of all who are touched by them.

He asked, “how much do the media consciously seek that alternate silver lining that uplifts? How much do we skirt around the excess darkness that surrounds us, to illuminate the path towards a brighter future built on the foundation of hope – that powerful force with the ability to transform lives, communities, and even the world at large?

“How much do we cultivate hope in a world that often feels fractured and divided? How much do we nurture optimism in the face of overwhelming challenges and persistent injustices? Just how much? The answer lies in our collective willpower, our shared humanity, and our unwavering commitment to creating a more just, equitable, and sustainable world for all.”

Commending the efforts of Rotary Club to build hope in humanity, through implementation of various projects, which have led to success in areas such as WASH -Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Projects, to the various Maternal and Child Health Initiative to improve healthcare services for women and children; the HIV/AIDS Awareness and Prevention Programme; to Education and Literacy Programmes promoting education and literacy through scholarship schemes, school infrastructure development, teacher training initiatives, and literacy promotion campaigns; and vocational training programmes and economic development initiatives in Nigeria to empower individuals with the skills and resources needed to improve their livelihoods through skills training workshops, entrepreneurship programmes, and microfinance initiatives to support small businesses and create economic opportunities, he said Rotary raises hope and redeem pledges.

He said: “One of the first steps towards building hope is to acknowledge the interconnectedness of our global community. We must recognise that the problems we face – whether they be climate change, wars, poverty, or discrimination – do not exist in isolation, but are deeply intertwined with one another. By embracing our common humanity and working together, we can amplify our impact and create meaningful change.

“If we work with the belief that hope thrives in environments of empathy, compassion, and understanding; if we listen to the voices of those who have been marginalised and oppressed, seek to understand their experiences and perspectives, and that we stand in solidarity with them as allies and advocates for justice; then we can change the narrative.”

He said, “the media faces a lot of obstacles in the discharge of its constitutional watchdog role that, oftentimes may be adversarial. Because we probably focus more on the challenges faced by our society than solutions, our media has often been accused of seeing half-empty than half-full cups; being more cynical than optimistic about the public good. So, when we see such efforts as this award, it is a big thumbs up.”

According to him, “the media can shine a light on the darkest corners of society; and give voice to the voiceless, as it holds the powerful accountable. It has the power not just to report on the world as it is but to envision and create the world as it could be.”

Adefaye continued, “for us as media professionals, it starts with the stories we choose to tell and how we tell them. Without necessarily ignoring our usual advocacy to hold the government responsible and put the feet of our leaders to the fire, we should not be focusing solely on the negative. There are a plethora of gripping tales that bleed the hearts, there are also stories of resilience, compassion, triumphs and humanity at its best.

There are stories of individuals and communities who are working tirelessly to make a difference, who are standing up for what is right, and who are building a more just and equitable world. Stories that give hope.”

He said such stories must engage our attention: “Tell Stories of Resilience, stories of individuals and communities who have overcome adversity and made a positive impact in their communities. If we tell these, we can inspire others to believe in their resilience and ability to effect change too.

“Tell stories that promote positive solutions: Instead of focusing solely on problems and challenges, the media can also lift the spirit by highlighting positive solutions and initiatives that are making a difference in the world around us. Get the achievers club in science and technology, in medicine and arts. Showcase innovative approaches to social issues. That way, we inspire others to take action and contribute to positive change.

“Tell stories that foster empathy and understanding: The media can foster empathy and understanding among people from diverse backgrounds if we promote inclusiveness and embark on peace advocacy. Sharing stories that highlight common humanity and shared values can promote a sense of unity and compassion in our society.

“Finally, we amplify voices of hope: The media can amplify voices of hope and optimism, including those of activists, artists, and community leaders who are working towards a better future. If we give our platform to these voices, we can inspire others to join the movement for positive change.
Our media must serve as platforms to foster dialogue, bridge divides, and promote understanding and empathy across lines of difference. This requires courage, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the truth. It requires us to be bold in our storytelling, compassionate in our reporting, and unwavering in our pursuit of a better world.”

The event, which had Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Chairman of Governing Council NIJ, as chairman, attracted Rotarian Ifeyinwa Rita Ejezie, Rotary International District 9110, District Governor, Mr. John Momoh, Chairman, Channels Media Group, the Special Guest of Honour, Past District Governors and District Leaders.

Osoba was represented by CEO of DAME, Mr. Lanre Idowu, while Momoh was represented by GM, Operations, Channels Media Group.