The Onigbeti of Igbeti Kingdom, in Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State, HRM Oba (Engr.) Bashir Olalekan Abioye Siyanbola IV, has urged journalists in Oyo State to embrace digital technology and artificial intelligence while upholding professionalism, ethical standards and the Yoruba Omoluabi values.
The monarch also called on journalists to use their professional skills to promote good governance, national development, patriotism and moral values.
He made the call on Monday, November 2, during the Diamond Jubilee celebration and 2026 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.
Oba Siyanbola, who served as the Royal Father of the occasion, congratulated the union on attaining 60 years, describing the anniversary as a remarkable milestone in its history of excellence, professionalism and nation-building.
He expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to witness the historic occasion and commended journalists for their contributions to shaping society and promoting responsible citizenship.
Reflecting on the council’s history, the monarch said the celebration offered an opportunity to honour the founding fathers of journalism in the old Western Region and fearless journalists who challenged colonialism and military rule through their writings.
He noted that Oyo NUJ had produced distinguished editors, broadcasters and columnists who contributed to making Ibadan a major centre of intellectual and journalistic excellence in Nigeria.
According to him, the future of journalism lies in digital technology, artificial intelligence and data-driven reporting, urging the council to invest in training young journalists and equip them with the skills required to remain relevant in the evolving media landscape.
“Train your young ones, embrace technology, but never abandon the Yoruba Omoluabi ethos that made you respected,” he said.
The monarch further encouraged journalists to promote stories of hope, development and grassroots governance, assuring the NUJ of his palace’s continued support.
He specifically invited journalists to Igbeti to report the kingdom’s rich marble resources, tourism potential and peaceful disposition, stressing that journalism should be used as a tool for building Oyo State.
Oba Siyanbola prayed for the continued growth of the union, declaring that its voice would never be silenced and its commitment to professional journalism would remain unwavering.
Earlier, the Guest Lecturer, Chief Dare Babarinsa, formerly of TELL Magazine and Managing Director of Gaskiya Publication, delivered a lecture titled, “Oyo NUJ @ 60: Six Decades of Legacy, Milestones and Lessons for the Future.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of NUJ Oyo State Council, Mr Akeem Abas, described the anniversary as a significant milestone, recalling that the council was the first NUJ state council to be established in Nigeria.
Abas said the celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the council’s historical contributions and reaffirm its commitment to professionalism, ethical conduct and legal standards in journalism.
He thanked God for His protection over journalists in the state and prayed for continued guidance, wisdom and safety for members.
The event was attended by veteran journalists, state executives, chapel leaders, members of the union and other well-wishers.
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