By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Lagos, March 5, 2025 – The Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) today held its 22nd matriculation ceremony, officially welcoming 304 new students into the institution’s various programs. The Provost, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, in his address at the Lateef Jakande House campus in Ogba, Lagos, emphasized the institution’s commitment to academic and professional excellence while urging students to embrace technology, discipline, and ethical journalism.
Speaking to the matriculating students, Adefaye stressed the significance of the event, describing it as the formal initiation into the NIJ community. “Matriculation is not just a ceremony; it is a commitment to uphold the values of this institution. You are now part of a centre of excellence with a dual heritage of academic and hands-on training in mass communication for over half a century,” he said.
The newly admitted students include 127 for the National Diploma (ND) program, 82 for the Higher National Diploma (HND), and 95 for the Postgraduate Diploma (PGD). Adefaye assured them that their admissions had been duly processed through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and registered on the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), ensuring a seamless transition for those who will participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) upon graduation.
Strict Academic and Ethical Standards
The Provost reminded students of the institution’s high academic standards and disciplinary policies. “Attendance at lectures is compulsory, and each student must attain at least 70 percent attendance to qualify for examinations. Assignments and continuous assessments are not optional but an integral part of your academic progress,” he warned.
He also emphasized the need for students to maintain a decent dress code. “We are not just interested in your academic success but also your character. Decency will be strictly enforced on this campus,” he added.
Embracing AI and Emerging Media Trends
Acknowledging the rapid evolution of journalism in the digital era, Adefaye challenged students to equip themselves with the necessary skills to thrive in the modern media landscape. “This is the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and as mass communicators, you must embrace it, master it, and use it to your advantage. Journalism is no longer confined to print or broadcast; it now requires digital proficiency, content creation skills, and the ability to navigate the ever-changing media space,” he stated.
He also highlighted the increasing challenges posed by misinformation and fake news, urging students to uphold the highest ethical standards. “Fake news is an epidemic on social media, threatening societal stability. As future journalists, you must rise to the occasion and be the vanguard of truth, accuracy, and responsible reporting,” he advised.
Opportunities for Practical Training and Industry Exposure
The Provost assured students of NIJ’s commitment to practical training, industry exposure, and extracurricular activities. “During your time here, you will have the opportunity to participate in field trips to media houses, advertising agencies, and PR firms. ND students will undergo the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), while others can take part in entrepreneurship workshops, media competitions, and sports events such as the Lagos Tertiary Games Competition,” he explained.
He also announced that NIJ’s online radio project was in progress, aiming to provide real-time broadcasting experience for students. “We are expanding our practical training scope, especially for those in print and broadcast media. This is in line with our vision to produce graduates who are not only academically sound but also industry-ready,” he added.
Full Accreditation and Institutional Stability
Adefaye proudly announced that the NIJ recently secured full institutional accreditation until 2030, along with accreditation for its ND program. “For our HND programs in Journalism and Media Studies, as well as Strategic Communication and Media Studies, we have provisional accreditation. The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) will return for a full accreditation exercise in the second semester of the 2025/26 academic session,” he stated.
He also reassured students of NIJ’s uninterrupted academic calendar, a rare feat in Nigeria’s higher education sector. “At NIJ, we take pride in our ability to run seamless academic sessions without strikes or disruptions. This is a commitment we intend to maintain with the cooperation of our staff and students,” he said.
A Call to Excellence and Leadership
Adefaye went further to charge the new students to make the most of their time at NIJ. “You are not just here to earn a certificate; you are here to become leaders, innovators, and change-makers. Work hard, stay disciplined, and justify your admission into this institution. The knowledge and skills you acquire here will not only shape your future but also make you valuable in the marketplace,” he urged.
He also encouraged entrepreneurial thinking, stating that some students would leave NIJ not just as job seekers but as employers of labor. “We are optimistic that you will graduate with confidence, competence, and the ability to make an impact,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Provost, the Registrar, faculty members, governing council representatives, and other dignitaries.
A New Chapter for the Class of 2025
As the matriculation went on, excitement and anticipation filled the air as students took their oath and officially began their journey at the NIJ. With a renewed focus on AI-driven journalism, ethical media practice, and hands-on training, the institution remains committed to shaping the next generation of media professionals.
