The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) and the US Mission in Nigeria recently hosted a four-day “What Makes Great Radio?” Workshop for different groups of radio professionals in Nigeria. From reporters and producers to presenters, 48 radio professionals gathered in Lagos and Abuja to enhance their skills to report for radio and exchange industry insights. The Lagos workshop was from Monday 15 to Thursday 18 May, while the Abuja workshop took place from Monday 22 to Thursday 25 May 2023.
Held differently in Lagos and Abuja, the workshop commenced with a dinner with the facilitator, radio station managers, top media academics and the organisers to discuss the media landscape in Nigeria.
At the Lagos workshop, Joe Kruzich, Public Affairs Officer, US Consulate General, Lagos, extended a warm welcome to participants, recognising their role in society to help demand transparency and accountability from the government. He emphasised that the workshop was part of the Mission’s effort to commemorate the World Press Freedom month.
Similarly, Adnan Siddiqi, Counsellor for Public Affairs, US Embassy, Abuja, explained that the workshop was part of efforts to build bridges between the US Mission and the Nigerian Press, adding that an independent media is the foundation of strong democracy.
The facilitator, Steven Reiner, Associate Professor/Director of Broadcast and Digital Journalism at Stony Brook University in New York, shared valuable insights into audience engagement strategies for radio using sound and storytelling. The workshop featured immersive listening sessions, allowing participants to experience first-hand the power of compelling storytelling and its impact on audience engagement. Furthermore, the workshop fostered a collaborative environment as participants were divided into six groups of four. In these groups, they worked to develop story ideas and produce captivating radio stories, putting into practice the lessons learned and honing their skills in real-time.
Samson Ademola, Programme and Research Officer, shed light on the centre’s work to promote investigative journalism in Nigeria and beyond. He highlighted the crucial role of evidence gathering in investigative journalism.
Some of the participants shared the one thing they have picked from the workshop. Tokunbo Oloruntola of Rock City FM, Abeokuta, learnt to localise stories. Deborah Ivie of Independent Radio, Benin City, how to sustain audience interest through effective use of soundbites. Chidera Obijiofor of Radio Maria highlighted the positive impact of group work on her sound production, considering it her best work to date. For Francis Okoliko of Raypower, gained insight into the significance of scripting before production to maintain focus in reporting.
Motunrayo Alaka, the Executive Director/CEO of WSCIJ, conveyed her enthusiasm and gratitude for the collaboration with the US Mission in Nigeria during the workshop. Alaka recognised the value of the workshop in enhancing the skills and knowledge of the participants and urged them to make the most of the lessons to elevate their work and make a meaningful impact in the radio industry.
