Abdulfatai Oyedeji, a distinguished Nigerian professional with vast experience in both sports journalism and law, has expressed deep concerns over the state of journalism in Nigeria. Now a barrister, Oyedeji is renowned for his unique style, competence, punctuality, and originality in journalism, particularly in sports reporting. However, despite his passion for the field, he believes that journalists in Nigeria are not adequately rewarded for their contributions to society.
In an exclusive interview, Oyedeji lamented the poor working conditions and lack of recognition for journalists in the country, stating that the profession is not as rewarding as it should be. According to him, journalists play a crucial role in nation-building by generating ideas and working for the growth of society, yet their efforts often go unappreciated.
“Journalism is not rewarding in Nigeria. The country is not giving its best to journalists. Journalists are being used and dumped,” he remarked. “They generate ideas and work tirelessly to contribute to societal growth, but their reward is so little. If you don’t have the passion for the job, you won’t be able to stay in it for long.”
Oyedeji also criticized the infiltration of untrained individuals into the profession, noting that their presence has further complicated the financial struggles of real journalists. He argued that these individuals dilute the credibility of journalism and make it harder for trained professionals to earn a decent living.
“People who are not trained but are entering the profession are making it even more difficult for real journalists to generate revenue,” he stated. “Up till today, I am not happy that journalists—who are essential tools for transformation in our society—are not rewarded accordingly.”
Calling for urgent reforms, Oyedeji urged the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to take decisive steps in addressing these challenges. He emphasized the need for the union to establish and enforce standards that will elevate the status of journalists and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.
“I think the Nigeria Union of Journalists needs to work on this. They need to create a standard for journalists, elevate their status, and ensure they are rewarded fairly for their work. The union should also take steps to prevent untrained individuals from suppressing the ideas and efforts of real journalists.”
Furthermore, he warned against the politicization of journalism, stressing that the profession must remain independent and free from undue influence.
“These changes should come from the national level. Journalism should not be played by politics; that is the only way we can upgrade the status of the profession,” he concluded.
Oyedeji’s remarks highlight a long-standing issue in Nigerian journalism, where journalists continue to struggle with low pay, job insecurity, and a lack of institutional support. His call for reforms adds to the ongoing conversation about the need to improve the welfare of media professionals and uphold the integrity of the profession in Nigeria.
