Jakande’s Journalism Legacy Sparks Bold Reflection at LASUSTECH
Jakande’s journalism legacy honoured at LASUSTECH roundtable, inspiring media professionals and students to uphold truth, ethics, and people-focused reporting
Jakande’s journalism legacy took centre stage at Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) during a powerful memorial roundtable on 23 July 2025.
Also read: LASUSTECH Students Balance Studies With Side Businesses
The event celebrated the late statesman and media icon, Lateef Kayode Jakande, and explored the relevance of his values in today’s fast-changing digital media space.
Hosted by LASUSTECH’s Department of Mass Communication in collaboration with the DSE Foundation, the roundtable featured speeches from prominent media professionals, students and scholars.
The topic, “Journalism in the Digital Age: Lessons from Jakande’s Legacy,” examined how his principles continue to guide credible journalism.
In his keynote speech, Mr Gbenga Adebayo stressed that credibility in Nigerian journalism is under threat despite having over 22 million internet users.
He declared, “Journalism never dies. It transforms. Jakande was a beacon of light in Nigerian journalism.”
Mr Adebayo outlined core principles Jakande upheld: journalism as a mission, not merely a business; the journalist as an educator, not just an entertainer; and the press as a voice for the people.
He urged young journalists to master new digital tools without losing traditional values. “Upcoming journalists should widen their pens and pixels,” he added.
High Chief Tunde Fanimokun, Chairman of the DSE Foundation, noted, “Jakande was a man of integrity. He stood for the people. Let us honour that by pursuing journalism rooted in truth and credibility.”
Panelists expanded the conversation further. Mr Taiwo Obe highlighted the importance of punctuality, knowledge of media history and sustainability.
Alhaji Monzor Olowosago urged journalists to earn trust by being accurate and accessible.
Mrs Adesola Kosoko reminded students that the platforms may evolve, but the ethics remain unchanged.
Mr Lekan Otufodunrin encouraged journalists to use technology as a support, not a replacement for human insight.
The event concluded with calls for continued education, critical thinking and a return to public service in journalism.
Also read: LASUSTECH Indigene Verification Begins
Jakande’s journalism legacy served not only as a tribute but as a living blueprint for a responsible media future.
