Valentine Obienyem, Journey Through Communication

A Keynote Presentation by Valentine Obienyem at the Maiden Edition of the Career Development Summit organized by the Mass Communication Department of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, held at the UNIZIK ASUU Secretariat on Thursday, April 25, 2024.

PROTOCOLS

I would like to express my gratitude to the University, especially the Department of Mass Communication for allowing me the opportunity to exchange experiences with the students. Whenever I am granted such an opportunity, it reminds me that our knowledge is an expanding mirage in the desert of ignorance. It reveals to us how much more there is to learn and how valuable it is to listen to each other to expand our understanding and contribute to the growth of the society. I believe this captures the essence of our gathering.

Throughout history, communication has been inherent to all creatures, not just humans. It is an integral aspect of creation without which any species would suffer irreparably. Indeed, all animals communicate in various ways for survival, social interaction, reproduction, and the safety of their community. Consider observing monkeys, commonly found around school campuses. They utilize vocalizations, facial expressions, gestures, and more to communicate within their groups and, for instance, escape to safety when they perceive any threat.

Communication in lower animals is primarily instinctual, whereas in humans, it is guided by higher faculties of the intellect. Consequently, humans constantly strive to improve their methods of communication. While the communication methods of lower animals have remained relatively unchanged over the past century, human communication is evolving at a rapid pace, beyond what we could have previously imagined.

There was a time when communication relied solely on oral tradition for passing down stories, myths, and legends through the spoken word. The invention of printing revolutionized the dissemination of information across long distances and through time. In medieval Europe, and still in many towns and villages today, town criers delivered official messages through public announcements and proclamations. Additionally, traditional methods like the postal system, as well as visual communication through painting and sculptural artworks, have also played significant roles in communication throughout history.

Allow me to use one of the world’s most celebrated events to illustrate the evolution of mass communication. Legend has it that after the Battle of Marathon between the Athenians and the Persians, a Greek soldier named Pheidippides was tasked with delivering news of the Greek victory to Athens. Pheidippides ran non-stop from Marathon to Athens, a distance of approximately 26 miles (or 42 kilometres), to deliver the message. Upon reaching Athens, he exclaimed “Nike!” (Victory) before collapsing and dying from exhaustion. In today’s world, Pheidippides would have survived, as the news would have been disseminated globally with the press of a button.

Do any of you know the origin of the famous word “Eureka”? It is said that Archimedes was inspired to study hydrostatics by an incident almost as renowned as Newton’s apple. King Hieron tasked a Syracusan named Cellini with making a gold crown for him. Upon delivery, the crown weighed the same as the gold, but doubts arose whether Cellini had substituted some gold with silver, keeping the excess for himself. Hieron shared his suspicion and the crown with Archimedes, likely expecting a resolution without damaging the crown. Archimedes pondered the problem for weeks. One day, while stepping into a tub at the public baths, he observed that the water level rose in proportion to his immersion, and his body seemed to weigh less as it submerged further.

With his insatiable curiosity, he delved into every experience until he conceived the “principle of Archimedes” — that a floating object loses weight equal to the weight of the water it displaces. Realizing a submerged object displaces water based on its volume, he saw this as a way to test the crown’s authenticity. Bursting out into the street naked, he exclaimed “Eureka! Eureka! I have found it!” Back at home, he confirmed that silver, having greater volume per weight than gold, displaced more water when immersed. Comparing the submerged crown’s displacement to gold, he deduced it was alloyed with a less dense metal. By substituting gold with silver until the water displacement matched the crown’s, Archimedes determined the amount of silver in the crown and the extent of the gold that was stolen.
In the modern era, Archimedes might not have resorted to running naked to convey his discovery. Instead, he might have opted to call the king on his mobile line to relay the message and then tweeted it to the entire world, causing a scramble for the breaking news.
I have shared these two stories intentionally to highlight the challenges of communication and how the barrier has continued to be broken. However, today’s situation is vastly different. The study of mass communication in universities and higher institutions has been on-going for over a century, evolving rapidly due to its active role in society. It remains one of the most sought-after courses, as fond parents see it as an open sesame to wealth and renown.
Despite the world becoming increasingly interconnected, often likened to a global kitchen, communication has not shrunk proportionally; in fact, it is in higher demand than ever because it is in the nature of man. Specialists in various fields, from health to politics to sports, all seek to have their achievements or messages communicated globally. Manufacturers want their products advertised, and human rights activists strive to communicate the rights of individuals. This necessitates the use of various media, including traditional journalism and what we now call “New Media.” As a result, there is a pressing need to improve communication methods to keep pace with the times.

Practitioners strive to maintain communication as an active part of development by embracing the concept known as unbundling in communication studies. This involves breaking down traditional media conglomerates or disciplines into smaller, more specialized fields. As Professor Okunna pointed out, this approach “will deepen specialization and professionalism in the field of communication and align with global best practices.”

In modern times, mass communication serves as the foundational parent that has given birth to numerous offspring disciplines, including Journalism and Media Studies, Public Relations, Advertising, Broadcasting, Film and Multimedia Studies, Development Communication Studies, Information and Media Studies, and Strategic Communication. This expansion has led to the establishment of faculties or schools dedicated to Communication studies. The question now is: Why did this unbundling occur?

The unbundling reflects the dynamic response of our world to the pervasive advancements in mass communication technology. The internet and digital innovations have democratized access to information and entertainment, empowering individuals to produce and share content independently, bypassing traditional media channels. As a result, we have witnessed a surge in niche media outlets tailored to specific interests or demographics, causing audiences and the media to fragment.

Indeed, the aforementioned developments have also influenced changes in consumer behaviour, echoing the Latin saying: “Tempus mutantur et nos mutamur in illis” (The times are changing, and we change in them). Today’s consumers have an abundance of options for media consumption, ranging from streaming services and social media platforms to podcasts and blogs. Consequently, they are actively pursuing content that resonates with their interests and preferences, driving a trend towards more targeted and personalized media experiences.

In the unbundled mass communication, most subjects studied under mass communication have now become fully-fledged courses. I think this is a seminal achievement. It reminds us of philosophy, regarded as the queen of all sciences (“Regina Scientorium”). Philosophy is the forefront in the siege of truth. Science is the captured territory, and behind it are those secure regions in which knowledge and art build our imperfect and marvellous world. Philosophy seems to stand still, perplexed, but only because she leaves the fruits of victory to her daughters, the sciences, and herself passes on, divinely discontent, to the uncertain and unexplored. This is what we are witnessing in mass communication. It has given birth to many offspring and may give birth to more. All we ask of her is to play the role of mother as philosophy does, making it possible to talk about the philosophy of other disciplines such as the philosophy of science, Philosophy of mathematics, philosophy of history, among others.

Among the offspring of Mass Communication, Journalism, and Media Studies, as I could glean from the seminal work edited by Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, titled “Communication and Media Studies: Multiple Perspectives,” which I encourage you to make your companion, is about news editing and production as related to print media. Public Relations focuses on managing reputation, building relationships, and conveying messages between organizations and their stakeholders to achieve strategic objectives. Prominent names in this field include Edward Bernays, Emeka Maduegbuna, and Yomi Badejo.

Advertising is a marketing communication strategy that aims to promote products, services, or ideas through paid messages delivered via various media channels to target audiences. Notable figures in advertising include David Ogilvy, Diodun Shobanjo, Kelechi Nwosu, and Emeka Okeke.

Broadcasting involves the distribution of audio or video content to a wide audience through radio, television, or digital platforms, typically for entertainment, information, or educational purposes. Prominent names in broadcasting include Oprah Winfrey, Christiane Amanpour, Rufai Useni, and Segun Akingbola.

Film and multimedia studies delve into the history, theory, production, and cultural influence of film, television, digital media, and other forms of visual storytelling. Notable figures in this field include Stanley Kubrick and Onookome Okome.

Development communication entails the utilization of communication strategies and processes to advance social and economic development. Information and media studies explore the production, dissemination, reception, and impact of information and media content across diverse platforms, including print, broadcast, digital, and social media. These are mostly professionals who have made contributions to understanding the media such as Onuora Nwuneli, Prof Chinwe Nwuneli, and Dr. Chioma Agbasimelo.

Strategic communication involves the deliberate planning, implementation, and evaluation of communication strategies to attain specific organizational objectives, manage reputation, and cultivate mutually beneficial relationships with stakeholders. Esteemed individuals in this realm include Everett Rogers, Amartya Sen, Idowu Sobowale, and Chinyere Stella Okunna.

In addition to financial gain, engagement in various forms of communication has bestowed renown upon individuals. One significant avenue within the media that has propelled many to prominence is Journalism and Media Studies, particularly in the realm of print media, where numerous practitioners excel. Notable figures such as Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, Dr. Rueben Abati, Mr. Segun Adeniyi, Mr. Simon Kolawole, Mr. Dan Onwukwe, Madam Comfort Obi, Dr. Robert Obioha, among others immediately come to mind.

As someone entrenched in this field myself, I can draw from my own journey in journalism to showcase the boundless opportunities it offers. While it may seem immodest to discuss personal achievements, Dr. Emeka Odogwu Emeka, one of the organizers of this programme, encouraged me to do so in order to inspire you to break through barriers. Through harnessing the power of media effectively, we can elevate ourselves without compromising the integrity of the profession.

Allow me to reminisce about an exchange I had with Father Basil Ekwunife. Upon reading one of my submissions, Father reached out and spoke in Latin: “calamus gladio fortior” (The pen is mightier than the sword). In response, I added: “Tu me Defende gladio, et ego te defendam calamo” (Defend me with the sword, and I will defend you with the pen). This should not be interpreted literally, but rather understood that one leverages with what one has got.

My journey in journalism began during my days in the seminary when I served as the president of the school’s press club. As president, I was responsible for approving articles before they were published on the notice board. On one occasion, there was a dispute with a teacher, and students wrote articles against him. Despite being advised by the supervising teacher not to approve any articles on the subject, driven by youthful impulsiveness, I proceeded and was subsequently suspended for two weeks. However, in my SS3 year, I was appointed as the School Journalist, after the pioneer appointee, Martin Nwalie now a professor at the University of Port Harcourt was moved to another function. During our weekly conferences, our rector, Msgr Luke Anamaeze, consistently praised the way I reported events in my weekly submissions. Recognizing my dedication, he granted me permission to officially join the school bus for external events such as sports competitions, quizzes, debates, and diocesan gatherings. It was evident that journalism had opened doors for me at an early stage in life.

Recognizing my passion for the profession, I remained committed to it. While pursuing my undergraduate studies in Law at Lagos State University, I worked as a reporter on the Education Desk of the “Post Express” newspaper, covering activities of schools across the country. I had the opportunity to request funding to visit different schools for special reports, which contributed significantly to my training in university.

Starting from my second year (200 level), I maintained a weekly column on our Faculty’s notice board where I published articles every Monday. This role distinguished me, as even lecturers sought my favour to avoid being written about in bad light though they later discovered that I was essentially guided by the truth. One particularly formidable lecturer, known as “Mama Susu,” who taught us Law of Torts, was the subject of one of my articles. Despite the risks involved, I portrayed various students’ perspectives on her, carefully weaving my own thoughts into the conclusion. When she called me to her office, she acknowledged that the last paragraph redeemed me. This tactical approach prepared me for future endeavours in the field. Start now to prepare yourself for the task ahead.

During my tenure as a student at Lagos State University (LASU) in the 1990s, I had an indirect encounter with the then Gov. Bola Tinubu. It was Prof. Okey Ikechukwu (then a Doctor), that I owe this experience to. Prof. Ikechukwu, then Chairman of the Editorial Board of” Comet” newspaper (now “The Nation”), demonstrating his unwavering mentorship, urged me to write articles weekly which were published. During the strike by LASU lecturers, I supported then in an article titled “Lest LASU be Forgotten” and “Still on Lasu.”

Upon my return to school, my name was posted all over the notice board, summoning me to see the Dean. The Dean informed me that the then Governor Tinubu had requested the Vice-Chancellor to caution me regarding the article in question. This was due to my habit of signing off my articles with the phrase: “Mr. Obienyem is of the Faculty of Law, Lagos State University.” Tinubu, perplexed, mistakenly believed that I was a lecturer.
When the Vice-Chancellor was informed by the Dean, he clarified that there was no such lecturer within the faculty. He instructed the Dean to identify and send whoever it might be to him. Comfortingly, the Dean assured me, “I am very close to the VC. I shall meet him on your behalf and convey that you require encouragement, not harassment. I am confident he will handle the situation tactfully with the Governor.” This incident marked the beginning of my friendship with Prof. Olusegun Yerokun. Eventually, when he authored a book on Insurance Law, I had the honour of reviewing it in the newspaper. Additionally, the Dean insisted that I continue to edit the LASU LAWS magazine until my departure from the school. This incidence exposed me to how powerful journalism is, to have rattled a sitting Governor through the apostolate of the pen. This reminiscence is intended to let you know how powerful you will become if you learn the ropes diligently and become good in whatever sphere of the media you will specialise.
Even when I sought admission to the Abuja Law school, the power of the pen continued to work in my favour. I had previously written a full-page article about the Director General of the law School, Chief Kayode Jegede, SAN. Upon being posted to Kano campus, and on being presented with the article by late Chief Debo Akande, SAN through Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, he directed my re-posting to Abuja immediately. Thereafter, we maintained contacts. He summoned me now and then to discuss ways in which I could contribute to promoting the Law school positively.
It was as a student, that I authored the biography of Ojukwu titled “Ojukwu the Last Patriot,” which granted me unfettered access to him whenever I desired—a testament to the influence of journalism. When I required letters of introduction, he readily provided them to me. It is evident that my actions were motivated by a passion for the profession, yet along the way, I reaped rewards as well.
Having a worthy mentor to look up to is both advantageous and beneficial. A mentor who comprehends the essence of mentoring and exhibits patience is invaluable. In my case, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu filled this role exceptionally. Under his guidance, many of my journalistic accomplishments were realized. This experience is reminiscent of my encounter with Mr. Peter Obi.
I supported him believing that our state needed relief from ineffective governance. Virtually every article I wrote during that period included expressions of support for him. It was during a gathering of Agulu people in Abuja that his younger brother overheard me mention my name while contributing to the meeting. After the meeting, he approached me and asked if I was the Valentine Obienyem who frequently wrote in support of his brother. I confirmed, and this encounter occurred in November of 2005. He mentioned that his brother had been eager to obtain my contact information to express gratitude for the support. Later that evening, Mr. Peter Obi reached out to me directly. A few months later, following a victorious court case, he called me again and inquired if I would consider working with him. I eventually realized that I was the only individual supporting him at that time without any sort of benefit.

Numerous instances have further demonstrated my rise through the power of the pen. My articles caught the attention of Alhaji Abubakar Jijiwa, the then Director General of Voice of Nigeria, who invited me to work with him. I subsequently headed the Corporate Affairs Department of Voice of Nigeria (VON) and served as the DG’s Special Assistant before being seconded to work with Mr. Peter Obi as his Personal Assistant and later Senior Special Assistant, and currently as his Media Adviser. This is why I firmly believe that journalism has played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. If it has done so for me and many others, I am confident it can do the same for you. However, it is essential to learn from experienced media practitioners and adhere to certain dos and don’ts. I have already commended you to the guidance of seasoned professionals to emulate as part of the dos. There are also many don’ts, including recognizing individuals who bring the profession into disrepute through their unprofessional conduct and double standards.

Recently, a seasoned journalist asked me to provide materials to counter an article by Reno Omokiri about my boss. Our exchange went as follows:

My friend: Did you see the nonsense Reno wrote about Mr. Obi?

Val: No reply

My friend: I’m surprised you didn’t respond, allowing Reno to spread lies that Obi didn’t achieve anything as governor.

Val: Doesn’t that assertion sound ridiculous? Should we dignify him by responding to his nonsense? In Anambra, during Obiano’s tenure as governor, we helped many people become aides by simply shouting Obi’s name. When we replied, his aides would send the publication to Obiano, who appointed them. He ended up with over 3,000 aides, the likes of Adichie Izuchukwu. Sadly, he couldn’t pay their severance allowances. Many people are using the same tactic, writing against Obi and waiting for us to reply so that their collaborators can send it to relevant persons for appointments. This is evident in the writings of individuals like Joe Igbokwe, Peter Clever Oparah, Obi Trice Emeka, and Oraegbunam Moses Pajimo, among others. Their strategy is to appear as opponents to gain appointments and I am not ready to aide them.

My friend: You have a point!

Such individuals are a danger to the profession and should be avoided at all costs.

In conclusion, my dear students, you are on the right path. As the event begins, I urge you to listen to the experienced media practitioners assembled to share their insights with you. Knowing most of them personally, including our esteemed teacher, Prof Chinyere Stella Okunna, I am confident that by the time they finish, they will encourage you to explore diverse opportunities in journalism, public relations, advertising, and broadcasting. They will emphasize the importance of gaining practical experience through internships, part-time roles, or volunteering to enhance your skills and gain valuable insights. They will stress the need to remain focused on developing transferable skills like communication, critical thinking, and teamwork, which are highly valued across industries. To stay informed about industry trends, attend workshops, webinars, and professional networks to remain competitive in the evolving job market. Seek mentorship from experienced professionals or faculty to shape your career decisions. Embrace flexibility and adaptability in the dynamic field of communication, and set clear short-term and long-term career goals. Seek guidance from career counsellors, advisors, or industry professionals for valuable insights and support, and remain committed to personal and professional growth for long-term success. How can one achieve all this?

Once again, it is by maintaining focus at all times that we achieve success. During my undergraduate days, when I was at an age where many young people today indulge in reckless behaviour such as what they call “sagging”, I chose not to follow suit. Instead, Professor Okey Ikechukwu would assign me to write opinion articles on Friday, which I would submit to his office on Monday. This task would occupy my entire weekend, as it took me several days to produce a single article, which the professor would then refine to make it publishable. Over time, I improved significantly.

As a media assistant, Professor Okunna would frequently visit my office after EXCO meetings to commend me on my work as a writer, reporter, photographer, and more. She would take the time to point out areas that needed improvement. I took these interventions seriously. At that time, many of the reporters present here today were just starting their careers, including Dr. Odogwu, who prioritized professional growth over personal appearance. As I conclude, I urge you to remain focused and avoid distractions in the world and we have plenty of them these days. Finally, always remember the Socratic dictum: “Know thyself.” And allow it to be your guide.

Thank you for your attention. God bless you abundantly on your journey through communication.

The Man Valentine Obienyem in brief:
Mr. Valentine Obienyem hails from Agulu in Anaocha Local Government of Anambra State. He pursued his education at various institutions including St. Dominic Savio Seminary, Akpu; St. John Bosco Seminary, Isuaniocha; Lagos State University (LLB); the Nigerian Law School at Bwari, Abuja (BL). Additionally, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (First Class) and a Master of Arts in Philosophy (First Class), as well as another Master’s in Public Administration and a Doctorate in Public Administration, all from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

He holds distinctions in both the Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism and the Professional Diploma in Journalism and Media Practice from Paul University, Awka. He also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the National Teachers Institute, Kaduna.

Furthermore, Obienyem, a seasoned journalist who worked with the defunct “Post Express Newspaper”and “Voice Of Nigeria” (VON), has contributed over 1000 published articles and research papers to various Nigerian newspapers and reputable journals.

Currently, he serves as the Special Adviser in Media to the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 General Elections, Mr. Peter Obi.