Media Experts Stress Accuracy, Ethics And Public Trust As Essential Pillars Of Modern Broadcasting
Broadcast professionals have been urged to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy and ethical journalism amid the growing influence of digital media, with experts warning that credibility should never be sacrificed in the race to break news.
The call was made during the 2026 Ambassador Segun Olusola Annual Lecture held at the University of Lagos, where media stakeholders reflected on the future of broadcasting in an increasingly digital world.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria (IBAN), Dr. Ahmed Ramalan, said technology has transformed the way information is produced and distributed, giving billions of people instant access to create and share content across multiple platforms.
He, however, cautioned that the speed of digital publishing has also intensified competition among media organisations, with many prioritising being first over being accurate.
“We are living in one of the most transformative periods in the history of communication. Technology has given billions of people the ability to create and distribute content instantly,” he said.
Dr. Ramalan warned that sensational headlines designed merely to attract clicks are undermining responsible journalism, insisting that professional broadcasters must continue to distinguish themselves through truth, fairness, balance, accountability and respect for human dignity.
“Verification must always come before publication. Being first is good; being right is far more important,” he stated.
He noted that inaccurate or misleading broadcasts have the potential to spread panic, damage reputations, misinform the public and even threaten national security.
The IBAN Chairman also urged media organisations to invest more in staff training, editorial independence, technological innovation and ethical leadership, stressing that professionalism cannot thrive where commercial interests consistently override editorial judgment.
He further called on media regulators and professional bodies to strengthen industry standards while encouraging the responsible use of emerging technologies.
“Our responsibility is not to resist technology but to ensure that technology never replaces professionalism,” he added.
Also speaking, the Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies at the University of Lagos, Professor Sunday Oloruntola, described broadcasting as a profession built on public trust, cultural preservation and national development.
He said the enduring legacy of the late Ambassador Segun Olusola continues to inspire generations of broadcasters to serve society with integrity and excellence.
The annual lecture, organised by the Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards in partnership with the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, was themed “Passing the Mic: Bridging Generations, Restoring Professionalism and Securing the Future of Broadcasting.”
The event featured panel discussions, interactive sessions, stage performances and awards recognising outstanding contributions to the Nigerian broadcasting industry.
Ambassador Segun Olusola, renowned broadcaster, diplomat and creator of The Village Headmaster, Nigeria’s longest-running television drama series, is remembered as one of the pioneers who helped shape modern broadcasting in the country.
