The Onigbeti of Igbeti Kingdom in Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State, HRM Oba (Engr.) Bashir Olalekan Abioye Siyanbola IV, has charged journalists in the state to embrace digital technology and artificial intelligence without compromising professional ethics, journalistic integrity and the cherished Yoruba Omoluabi values.
The monarch also urged media practitioners to deploy their professional expertise towards promoting good governance, national development, patriotism and societal moral values.
Oba Siyanbola gave the charge on Monday, November 2, at the Diamond Jubilee celebration and 2026 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.
The traditional ruler, who was the Royal Father of the occasion, congratulated the union on its attainment of 60 years, describing the diamond jubilee as a remarkable landmark in its chequered history of professional excellence, public enlightenment and nation-building.
Expressing gratitude to God for witnessing the historic celebration, the monarch commended journalists for their invaluable contributions to shaping public opinion, strengthening democratic institutions and fostering responsible citizenship.
Reflecting on the historical trajectory of the council, Oba Siyanbola observed that the anniversary provided an opportunity to celebrate the visionary founding fathers of journalism in the defunct Western Region, as well as fearless practitioners whose writings and professional engagements challenged colonialism and military authoritarianism.
He noted that Oyo NUJ had, over the decades, produced an impressive array of distinguished editors, broadcasters and columnists whose contributions elevated Ibadan to a prominent position as a centre of intellectual discourse and journalistic excellence in Nigeria.
On the future of the profession, the monarch maintained that digital innovation, artificial intelligence and data-driven journalism had become indispensable components of contemporary media practice.
He, therefore, called on the union to prioritise capacity development by investing in the training of younger journalists and equipping them with the requisite technological skills to navigate the rapidly evolving media landscape.
“Train your young ones, embrace technology, but never abandon the Yoruba Omoluabi ethos that made you respected,” he admonished.
The monarch further implored journalists to give prominence to narratives that inspire hope, showcase developmental strides and strengthen grassroots governance, while assuring the union of his palace’s continued support.
He particularly extended an invitation to media practitioners to visit Igbeti and bring the kingdom’s abundant marble deposits, tourism prospects and peaceful disposition to national prominence through responsible reportage.
According to him, journalism should transcend the routine dissemination of information and become a formidable instrument for societal transformation and the development of Oyo State.
Oba Siyanbola prayed for the sustained growth and prosperity of the union, expressing optimism that its voice would never be stifled and its commitment to professional journalism would remain resolute.
Earlier, the Guest Lecturer, Chief Dare Babarinsa, a former journalist with TELL Magazine and Managing Director of Gaskiya Publication, delivered a lecture entitled, “Oyo NUJ @ 60: Six Decades of Legacy, Milestones and Lessons for the Future.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of NUJ, Oyo State Council, Mr Akeem Abas, described the diamond jubilee as a momentous milestone in the council’s institutional history.
Abas recalled that Oyo NUJ was the first state council of the union to be established in Nigeria, noting that the anniversary offered an important platform to reflect on its historical antecedents, celebrate its achievements and renew its commitment to professional excellence.
He reaffirmed the council’s resolve to uphold ethical standards, professional conduct and the legal provisions governing journalism practice.
The NUJ chairman also expressed gratitude to God for His protection over journalists in the state, while offering prayers for continued divine guidance, wisdom and safety for members of the union.
The celebration attracted veteran journalists, state executives of the union, chapel leaders, members of the NUJ and other well-wishers.