MultiChoice, CNN train media practitioners

Leading premium pay-TV provider, MultiChoice in partnership with the Cable News Network (CNN) recently, held a two-day media workshop for Nigerian journalists operating in both electronic and print media organisations in the country, reports CHARLES OKOH.

The training which seeks to enhance their skills as well as to help increase their chances of winning at the annual CNN/MultiChoice African Journalist Awards, also afforded the journalists the opportunity of interacting with some veterans of the profession.

Managing Director, MultiChoice Nigeria, Mr. Joseph Hundah, declaring open the training said, MultiChoice is excited with the prospect of adding value to Nigerian media practice.

Hundah who was represented by Head of Sales, MultiChoice Nigeria, Elizabeth Amkpa, said Nigerian journalists have demonstrated excellence and professionalism in the practice of their trade through their records at different international media awards, especially the CNN/MultiChoice Africa Journalist Awards.

“Hardly is there a year Nigerians do not emerge winners in the various categories. Nigerian journalists have also won the ultimate prize. Our aim is to sustain the tradition and make Nigerian journalists aware of the skills and techniques of the trade so they can contend with their peers anywhere in the world,” he said.

He also said the media have been quite supportive of MultiChoice, and deserved any assistance MultiChoice can render to make journalism practice more beneficial to the society.

Former Director General, Nigerian Television Authority Dr Tonnie Iredia, led other notable top media practitioners to facilitate this year’s workshop.

Others include Senior Lecturer, Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, Dr Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika,; former Director, Minaj Broadcasting International and Lecturer, Pan-African University and Kwara State University Dr Issah Momoh, Sunday Editor, The Guardian; Jahman Anikulapo, Editor, Independent Newspapers and member of the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist Awards Panel of Judges; Ikechukwu Amaechi, Editor, former Sunday Editor, Nigerian Tribune, Tunde Laniyan, as well as veteran photo trainer, Gbenga Osadipe.

Head, Corporate Communications, MultiChoice Nigeria, Mr. Segun Fayose, said, this year’s workshop imparted great knowledge on the over 140 journalists who took part.

“Participants at the workshop gained insights from experienced panel members that facilitated the project,” he said, urging participants to maximize the opportunity provided by MultiChoice and CNN by upgrading their skills to benefit the society.

Themes considered at the workshop include ‘Ethical reporting and politics – The Minefields to avoid in April 2011 General Elections; the place of facts and figures in effective business and economic reporting; and Exploring the myriad opportunities for a sustainable journalism career: Staying relevant outside the newsroom, among others.

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