LASUSTECH Charts New Path for Ethical Journalism in Tribute to Jakande

The Department of Mass Communication, Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), in collaboration with the DSE Foundation, on Wednesday held a commemorative event celebrating the life and legacy of Alhaji Lateef Jakande, renowned journalist, media icon, and former Governor of Lagos State.

Held on the university campus, the memorial event featured a powerful keynote address by Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, veteran journalist, former Editor-in-Chief of Vanguard Newspapers, and Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism. In his remarks, Adefaye emphasized the urgent need for integrity and professionalism in today’s rapidly evolving digital media landscape.

Reflecting on the enduring lessons from Jakande’s journalistic career, Adefaye stated that while technology has democratized information dissemination, it has also blurred the lines of credibility. “In an era where anyone with a smartphone can claim to be a journalist, credibility must be the anchor,” he said. He called on practitioners to uphold transparency, humility, and rigorous fact-based reporting.

Adefaye urged journalists to adopt modern tools such as data journalism and immersive storytelling without discarding the ethical compass that guided media greats like Jakande. He cautioned against the commercialisation of journalism at the expense of its civic mission, noting, “Journalism must remain a mission-driven enterprise, not a marketplace of manipulated narratives.”

He further charged journalists to use digital platforms as tools for public enlightenment rather than self-promotion. “Digital media should not sacrifice substance for spectacle. Editorial integrity must remain the core,” he noted. According to Adefaye, today’s platforms are the modern-day printing presses and must be harnessed responsibly to preserve the sanctity of truth and public service.

The commemorative event also featured a vibrant panel session with contributions from distinguished media veterans including Chief Monzor Olowosago, Publisher of Oriwu Sun Newspaper; Mr. Taiwo Obe; Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin; and Mrs. Adesola Kosoko, General Manager, Lagos Television (LTV 8). They collectively emphasized the need for credibility, mentorship, and ethical conduct in journalism practice.

In his welcome address, LASUSTECH Vice Chancellor, Professor Olumuyiwa Odusanya, described the event as a vital tribute to Jakande’s legacy. “This is our modest contribution to the memory of an ‘active governor’ whose legacy continues to shape models of good governance and commitment to education and journalism,” he stated.

Professor Odusanya commended the DSE Foundation for its collaboration and lauded the efforts of the Department of Mass Communication, led by Acting Head Dr. Steve Adesemoye, for organizing the landmark event.

In a symbolic move inspired by Adefaye’s address, the Department of Mass Communication expressed interest in exploring the rich and largely untapped journalistic archives of Lateef Jakande, in partnership with key stakeholders. The initiative aims to further preserve and promote the values that defined Jakande’s exemplary media career.

The event stands as a resounding call to action, urging journalists, educators, and institutions alike to uphold the enduring values of truth, accountability, and public service in a digitally-driven media age.