NUJ PRESIDENT CANVASSES CREATIVITY OUTSIDE JOURNALISM

By Eunice Olile

The President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, has urged journalists to be more creative and find other alternative sources of income to be able to stand the test of time.

Dr. Isiguzo gave the advise at the unveiling of collection of poems and launch of “Petals of Life,” at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ikeja.

The NUJ president who commended the author Mrs. Lilian Ario for the drive, said the book is an eye opener to journalists, as they are not meant to be limited.

“I am happy to be here today because I have an idea of how this journey started, and I am thrilled it has finally become a reality.

“Poetry is not fictional; it deals with emotions, reality, truth, and life. Whenever you are down, turn to literature because it helps convey your thoughts appropriately.

“This work is from one of us, a journalist. Against this backdrop, I urge members of the pen profession to be creative outside our job.

“Social media is a place where people are also getting information. To make ends meet and beyond our unity, we need to be creative if we must succeed,” Isiguzo added.

An academic and creative writer,Dr. Olatunbosun Taofeek, who reviewed the Poem “Petals of life”, praised the author for her creative writing style.

“I read the book from the first poem, ‘I Found Me,’ to the last poem titled ‘Inspired Inclusion.’ Many issues were raised in the collection, such as the position of a girl child, her place in the world, and her relevance.

“Other parts focused on memories, the ‘Japa’ syndrome, depression, and many other topics. These works are great, and any lover of books will want to read them over and over again because the messages are deep and engaging.

“I recommend this collection for schools, institutions, social commentators, and many others.”

The author, Mrs Lilian Ario, who is a Broadcast Journalist at Voice of Nigeria, VON, Lagos and the Secretary of Lagos NAWOJ, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and inspiration.

“I want to thank God for making today a reality. I am also grateful to everyone for taking the time to be here to celebrate with me.

“‘Petals of Life’ contains about 70 poems and 12 subtitles. The poems focus on themes such as faith, reflections, memorials, and depression, just to name a few.

“The collection also addresses social vices and societal ills, aiming to shed light on these grey areas,” she emphasized.

In a goodwill message, the National President, the National Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Hajiya Ayisat Ibrahim-Bura, who was represented by the Chairperson Lagos NAWOJ, Dr. Adeola Ekine, who said women understand the significance of telling stories that resonate with the realities of their diverse society, explained that the work is a shining example of how literature can bridge gaps, foster understanding, and inspire change.

The event featured a dance drama that conveyed some messages from the collection and thrilled attendees.

The event was attended by Members of the NUJ and NAWOJ including Chairman NUJ Oyo council, Comrade Demola Babalola, Director of Public Affairs Department Mrs. Mary Atolagbe, and Deputy Director of Languages, Mrs. Christie Joseph, both from Voice of Nigeria, a lecturer from Lagos State University, Dr. Stephen Fatonji and many other well wishers.