Platforms Africa’s Adeola Yusuf Mentors Young Journalists at Olabisi Onabanjo University
Adeola Yusuf, the Team Lead of Platforms Africa and a three-time Nigeria Media Merit Award winner, mentored hundreds of Mass Communication students at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
Adeola Yusuf, the Team Lead of Platforms Africa and a three-time Nigeria Media Merit Award (NMMA) winner, inspired hundreds of budding journalists at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU). Speaking to 300-level Mass Communication students, Yusuf delivered a lecture titled "Print Media Organisation in Nigeria From Conception to Economic Glory: Weaning the Young Journalists." He emphasized that creativity and adaptability to technological advancements are key to a successful career in journalism.
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Despite the challenges posed by technology to traditional journalism and print media, Yusuf assured students that technology could also be a powerful tool for career advancement. He highlighted that many untrained individuals have leveraged digital platforms to achieve significant success, citing examples such as Linda Ikeji and Instablog9ja's founder, Mr. Aruleba.
“Journalism is a trade no one can escape. You are either the seller, the product, or the buyer,” Yusuf remarked, urging students to become active sellers of information rather than passive consumers. He pointed out that while many trained journalists struggle with the industry's evolving landscape, those who adapt can thrive.
The seminar featured distinguished guests, including Nigeria’s former ambassador to the UK, HE Sarafa Tunji-Isola; former information minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; TV host Morayo Afolabi-Brown; and Chrisland University lecturer Dr. Demolu Okuneye. These experts shared their insights, further enriching the learning experience for the students.
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Professor Dele Odunlami, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, praised Yusuf for his mentorship and the innovative news writing style of Platforms Africa. “I usually see the byline as I have been reading your stories. I am happy that I am meeting you in person today,” Professor Odunlami said.
He encouraged students to heed the advice of Yusuf and other guest lecturers, emphasizing that these insights could significantly enhance their future careers in journalism and broadcasting.
