NBMA’s Ambassador Segun Olusola Annual Lecture has passed the mic to future broadcasters as it celebrates Nigeria’s broadcasting legacy.
Glamtush reports that the Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards (NBMA), in collaboration with the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Lagos, successfully hosted the Ambassador Segun Olusola Annual Lecture on Tuesday, July 21, with the theme: “Passing the Mic: Bridging Generations, Restoring Professionalism, and Securing the Future of Broadcasting.”
The landmark event brought together broadcasting legends, media professionals, academics, students, and industry stakeholders for a day of reflection, knowledge exchange, mentorship, and celebration of Nigeria’s rich broadcasting heritage.
The lecture commenced with a captivating broadcast heritage video showcase, taking participants on a nostalgic journey through the personalities, milestones, and defining moments that have shaped Nigeria’s broadcasting landscape.
In his welcome address, the Convener of NBMA, Omogbolahan Akinwumi, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to preserving professional values, promoting mentorship, and creating platforms that empower the next generation of media practitioners.
“The essence of Passing the Mic could not be more timely. At a time when everyone with a smartphone is a ‘media house,’ a ring light is sometimes mistaken for a broadcasting licence, and going viral occasionally competes with being credible, this conversation has become more important than ever,” said the NBMA Convener, Omogbolahan Akinwumi.
The Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Lagos, Professor Sunday Oloruntola, delivered a welcome address themed “The State of Broadcasting in Nigeria: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” highlighting the evolution of the industry, current realities, and the opportunities ahead for emerging professionals.
The intellectual conversations began with the first keynote session delivered by Mr. Victor Ogwezzy, who represented Dr. Tijjani Ramalan, Chairman of the Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria (IBAN). His presentation, themed “Restoring Professionalism in an Era of Virality and Instant Fame,” examined the urgent need for credibility, ethics, and responsibility in a rapidly changing media environment.
The first panel session, themed “Bridging Generations: Experience Meets Innovation,”featured industry voices including Gbemileke Oscar Oyinsan, Moses Humphrey (Mozmotion), Abigail Isaiah Gogo-Ogute, Cordelia Okpei, and Wilson Victory. The engaging discussion explored the changing identity of broadcasters, emerging opportunities, industry challenges, and the importance of collaboration between experienced professionals and young talents. The microphones certainly earned their keep as ideas and perspectives flowed freely.
The collaboration between NBMA and the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, UNILAG, underscored a shared commitment to strengthening professional development, mentorship, and innovation within Nigeria’s media ecosystem.
The event’s intermission came alive with a spectacular cultural performance by Artxellency Arts Company, showcasing the power of creativity and reminding guests that communication extends beyond spoken words.
A major highlight of the lecture was the keynote address by veteran broadcaster Mr. Sonny Irabor, who spoke on “The Responsibility of Veterans in Nurturing the Next Generation of Broadcasters.” Drawing from decades of experience, he charged industry veterans to actively mentor, guide, and support young media professionals.
The second panel session, themed “Professionalism, AI Technology and the Future of Broadcasting,” featured Cordel
Beyond conversations and knowledge sharing, the event celebrated excellence through the presentation of Certificates of Excellence to panelists and Certificates of Distinguished Leadership to keynote speakers, recognising their contributions to industry growth and capacity development.
The defining moment of the lecture was the symbolic “Passing the Mic” ceremony, where seasoned broadcasters officially handed over the microphone to students from the University of Lagos and Yaba College of Technology, representing the next generation entrusted with carrying forward the broadcasting legacy.
The emotional ceremony was elevated by the introduction and sharing of the “Future Broadcaster’s Pledge,” as students committed themselves to upholding professionalism, integrity, ethical storytelling, creativity, and responsibility as the next custodians of the broadcasting profession.
The pledge transformed the ceremony from a symbolic handover into a commitment to responsible storytelling, reminding the next generation that receiving the microphone is not only about having a voice, but accepting the responsibility that comes with shaping narratives and informing society.
Throughout the programme, the conversations were expertly guided by moderator Zdon Paporella, whose engaging delivery, humour, and professionalism ensured a seamless blend of insightful discussions and memorable moments.
The Ambassador Segun Olusola Annual Lecture was more than a gathering; it was a celebration of where broadcasting has been, a conversation about where it stands today, and a commitment to where it is headed.
As the microphone moved from one generation to another, one message resonated clearly: The mic has been passed. The pledge has been made. The future of broadcasting is in capable hands.
