Writing has always been more than just putting words together for me. It’s something I’m passionate about—a way to tell stories, share ideas, and connect with others. I’ve always wanted to refine my craft, so I decided to enroll at the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) in Abuja. What I found there was more than just a learning institution. It was a hub of knowledge, mentorship, and practical learning led by some of the most experienced and insightful professionals in journalism, advertising, and public relations.
Walking into the IIJ felt like stepping into a world of endless possibilities. The lecturers weren’t just teachers—they were mentors, role models, and experts who brought their real-world experiences into the classroom. Each of them had a unique approach to teaching, and their passion for their fields made learning exciting and practical. I want to take a moment to share some of my most impactful lessons from these remarkable individuals.
Dr. Igwenagu, N.M, who taught Basic Sub-editing and News Arrangement, started off his first class with a striking truth: “In the world of communication, lies abound.” This statement stuck with me because it highlighted the responsibility that comes with being a communicator. He made it clear that accuracy and integrity should always guide our work as journalists and communication professionals. His classes encouraged us to always strive for the truth and to understand the ethical implications of the stories we share. His insights opened my eyes to the weight and impact of every word we write.
Mr. Uche Akunebu, who specialized in interpretative and specialized reporting, brought incredible energy to every class. His lessons were practical and motivational. One thing he said that has always stayed with me is, “Your pen is your sixth finger.” This showed me how powerful writing can be when used effectively. Mr. Akunebu believes that “media is a marketplace of ideas.” His words taught me that journalism is not just about reporting facts but about exchanging perspectives, debating viewpoints, and inspiring change. His advice taught me that good writing starts with a curiosity about the world and a commitment to storytelling.
Mr. Livinus Opara taught Public Relations and Advertising with clarity and thought-provoking insight. One of his most memorable lessons was his quote: “Even praying is an act of public relations.” This helped me understand that PR isn’t just about corporate strategies or managing brands—it’s about building relationships, influencing trust, and connecting with people on a personal level. Mr. Livinus doesn’t believe in fixing problems reactively. He puts it this way: “PR is not a process of mending a cracked fence.” His idea is that PR professionals should always stay ahead, predicting events and taking proactive measures. “PR is not tap water,” he says, emphasizing the need for foresight, strategy, and planning in the dynamic world of public relations. His sessions taught me to approach every situation with strategy and innovation, always thinking ahead.
Mr. Rueben Okala brought his wealth of experience as a veteran NTA news reporter and his current role as the General Manager of Caftan TV into the classroom while teaching Radio and TV Presentation and Production. His classes felt real—like stepping into a newsroom. Every word he shared was practical, rooted in years of hands-on experience. His teaching wasn’t just about technical skills but about connecting with your audience, professionalism, and storytelling. His teaching encouraged me to visualize myself in front of a camera or behind a mic, connecting stories with listeners and viewers.
Mr. Abdullahi Abubakar taught Photojournalism and Photography with passion and purpose. His approach was practical and insightful. One lesson he taught that has stuck with me is: “In photojournalism, the story actually starts with pictures.” His words showed me how powerful visual storytelling can be. Photography isn’t just about capturing moments but about telling a story—one frame at a time. Mr. Abdullahi also took us through the technical aspects of photography, teaching us about different kinds of lights and lighting technology. His classes helped me see how lighting could completely change the mood, focus, and narrative of a story. His lessons made it clear that photojournalism is about technique, vision, and creativity.
Dr. Osita Nweke, who taught Introduction to News Writing and Reporting, has this calm and steady way of teaching that makes you feel at ease. In one of his first lectures, he shared a golden rule for all journalists: “When developing copy, always use the 5 Ws and 1 H.” His advice taught us that every story should answer the key questions—who, what, where, when, why, and how—to ensure clarity and thorough reporting. Dr. Osita didn’t just give us technical tips; he instilled a sense of discipline and attention to detail. His teachings emphasized accuracy and ethics as the backbone of good journalism. His guidance continues to shape the way I approach reporting to this day.
Dr. Emma Shehu, who taught The Use of Social Media in Mass Communication, brought a modern and innovative perspective to the classroom. In an ever-evolving media landscape, his lessons on social media use were invaluable. He showed us how platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and others aren’t just spaces for sharing personal stories but powerful tools for mass communication, storytelling, and brand building. His insights on how social media could be leveraged to connect with audiences and share impactful messages opened up a new way of thinking about communication. Dr. Emma emphasized adaptability, creativity, and strategic use of social media, skills that are now indispensable for anyone entering the media field.
IIJ has truly been a transformative journey. The lecturers here didn’t just teach theories—they shared practical knowledge, life lessons, and real-world experience that have equipped me with the tools I need to move forward confidently.
To anyone dreaming of becoming a journalist, PR professional, or media expert: the International Institute of Journalism in Abuja is more than just a training ground. It’s a community of professionals dedicated to building dreams, refining skills, and shaping future media leaders.
To my lecturers, thank you for your guidance, mentorship, and for challenging me to be better. You’ve not just shared knowledge but have given me the confidence to step into the media world with purpose and vision. I’ll always be grateful for the journey and the lessons learned.
The journey through IIJ has been one of growth, passion, and practical learning. Thank you to each of the amazing faculty members for making this journey unforgettable.
Abu can be reached via danjumaabu3750@gmail.com or +2348062380296.
