The Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) on Wednesday held its 23rd matriculation ceremony, matriculating 293 students for the 2025/2026 academic session.
Provost of the Institute, Gbenga Adefaye in his remarks charged the new students to uphold ethical standards in the evolving media landscape.
He stated that digital technology, artificial intelligence, and data-driven storytelling are changing journalism and mass communication.
He pointed out the influence of artificial intelligence and social media on the media landscape, highlighting the duty of professional communicators to fight fake news and misinformation.
The Provost noted that NIJ has maintained a tradition of solid academic instruction along with practical training, balancing theory and practice while emphasized that the Institute’s admission process for students followed national standards closely, ensuring the integrity of their records and certificates.
‘You are not here merely to earn certificate, you are here to become leaders, innovators and ethical custodian of public information. Nigeria needs journalists who are courageous, competent, and ethically principled, and that NIJ will equip the students with skills, confidence, and a professional identity to define their careers long after graduation,’ he said.
Meanwhile, the Provost, in an exclusive interview with NewsClick Nigeria, said the Institute is investing heavily in technology to make learning easy and up to date for students.
‘We’ve just set up two ICT centers, equipped with all the necessary equipment and software, to facilitate learning. The key is to master technology, not be intimidated by it. We’re poised for this challenge.’
He also advised the matriculated students of the class of 2026 to be diligent with their studies.
‘Keep your eyes open and acquire all the necessary knowledge. By the time you complete your program in NIJ, many of you should aspire to become employers, not just employees, thanks to the quality training you’ll receive,’ he said.
Speaking further, the Registrar said the Institute has started teaching students Artificial Intelligence (AI) related courses, informing them of its advantages and disadvantages. She said they are also teaching students to recognize AI’s boundaries in reporting and ensure they get their facts straight, avoiding issues like deep fakes and false reporting.
The Registrar emphasized that NIJ doesn’t tolerate gangsterism, cultism, or any negative social behavior, stating that the school holds its ethics seriously.
‘As journalists, we expect them to be disciplined and serve as role models for society. They themselves have to be disciplined,’ she said.