Lecture Delivered by Prince Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, Founder, Penpushing Media, representing President, Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Eze Anaba at Annual Symposium and 10th Anniversary Celebration of The Academia Campus Journal Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, in affiliation with the University of Ibadan on July 29, 2026
Let us begin by understanding the key concepts of “Journalism” and “Insecurity” before we delve into the other aspects of our topic, which include the roles of campus journalists and media professionals in promoting peace and national development.
This will guide us in understanding why we have gathered here today.
What is Journalism?
Journalism is the practice of gathering, verifying, and reporting news and information to the public.
What is Insecurity?
Insecurity refers to a state of vulnerability to harm, and the lack of safety from threats such as crime, violence, or political instability.
The Intersection of Journalism and Insecurity
When these two concepts overlap, they create a highly complex dynamic that defines much of the modern news landscape. Journalism and insecurity intersect in two primary ways: journalism can either fuel insecurity or help to fight it.
Let us also consider some recent headlines about insecurity on campuses in Nigeria. Insecurity in Nigerian higher education includes incidents of mass abductions, cult violence, and attacks on student transport.
Insecurity and Development are twins. There can be no investment, no school, and no jobs without security. Journalism must connect both. Remember, a wrong post can cause a stampede or a riot. Therefore, verify first.
Recent events and reports illustrate the security threats on campuses across the country. These include abductions and banditry. Terrorists and armed bandits frequently target tertiary
institutions, particularly in northern Nigeria, for kidnappings and ransom demands. This has prompted regional student bodies to raise the alarm over worsening safety.
As media professionals, we must also be mindful of political violence and protests. Rising tensions ahead of state governorship elections have led to threats from student unions, such as NANS, to shut down academic activities.
The threat of incursions near school environments and federal highways has previously forced the Federal Ministry of Education to temporarily shut down vulnerable Unity Colleges and restrict on-campus activities.
There are also travel risks. Student delegations and union leaders traveling via federal highways have been victims of carefully coordinated ambushes and kidnappings.
Another challenge is the report of armed invasions in student quarters. In some instances, supposedly deployed security personnel have been accused of harassing and intimidating students. All these continue to drive insecurity.
Now, let us ask ourselves: If the pen is mightier than the sword, can it also be mightier than the bomb?
It is a known fact that insecurity thrives on misinformation, fear, and division. In other words, journalism can either fuel it or fight it.
Who are Campus Journalists and What are Their Roles?
Campus journalists are the “first responders” to news on campus. They are the earliest warning system. Being closest to events, they can prevent panic by reporting facts quickly.
Language matters. Words like “terrorists” or “tribal clash” can deepen divisions. It is better to use neutral and precise terms.
Campus journalists also serve as media amplifiers. They can either escalate tension or calm it.
As vital catalysts for national development and peacebuilding, they have a role in shaping public narratives, promoting civic education, and giving voice to marginalized groups. Through ethical and conflict-sensitive reporting, as well as constructive dialogue, they counter divisive propaganda and foster societal cohesion.
What is the Role of Media Professionals?
As media professionals, our role is to shape public opinion and drive national progress. We must act as impartial conflict mediators, civic watchdogs, and engines for social mobilization.
We promote peace by adopting conflict-sensitive reporting, avoiding sensationalism, and countering divisive narratives with stories that foster unity. For national development, we educate citizens on government policies and expose corruption.
The Responsibilities of Media Professionals in National Development and Peacebuilding include:
1. Promoting Peace and Conflict Resolution – Peace Journalism*: Applying frameworks that prioritize de-escalation, with a focus on fair representation and balanced perspectives rather than sensationalizing violence.
2. Combating Misinformation: Actively debunking rumors and hate speech, which are often drivers of ethnic, religious, or political strife.
3. Amplifying Marginalized Voices: Broadcasting diverse community perspectives to facilitate dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual understanding among divided groups.
Conclusion
Let us imbibe the theory and practice of fact-checking as a way to close our minds and eyes against falsehood and fake reportage.
A fact check is the process of verifying the factual accuracy and reliability of statements, claims, or written content. It is widely used in journalism, research, and daily life to prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure content is correct before it is published or shared.
Thank you all, and God bless.
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