Journalists from across Nigerians with decades of experience and fresh-faced digital reporters returned to classroom last Thursday for a one day training courtesy of Polaris Bank of Nigeria PLC..
It was the bank’s 10th Annual Media Capacity-Building Seminar titled “Empowering Journalists in the Digital Age: Storytelling, Tools, and Transmission.”
For Polaris Bank, this wasn’t just another corporate event. It was a statement, a bold investment in the future of Nigerian journalism.
The event kicked off with an impassioned welcome speech from Mr. Rasheed Bolarinwa, Polaris Bank’s Group Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communication.
“A nation’s progress depends on its stories,” he declared. “And who tells those stories better than you—the media?”, he told the audience.
Bolarinwa revealed that over 5,000 journalists had been trained through Polaris Bank’s initiatives over the years. “This isn’t just CSR for us,” he added. “It’s about shaping narratives that move Nigeria forward.”
The first session, led by Taiwo Obe, founder of The Journalism Clinic, was a masterclass in survival.
“Let’s be real,” Obe said, pacing the stage.
“You’re not just competing with The Punch or Channels TV anymore. You’re up against TikTok, AI-generated news, and 10-second Instagram reels. If your story doesn’t grab attention fast, it’s dead.”
He drilled the room on story structure, audience psychology, and digital tools,emphasizing that while platforms change, the power of a well-told story never fades.
Then came Abayomi Adisa from BBC Africa, who dropped truth bombs about AI in journalism. “AI isn’t the enemy,” he said. “It’s your new co-writer, researcher, and fact-checker if you know how to use it.”
His session sparked fiery debates.
As the event wrapped up, Bolarinwa returned to give his closing words
“We want your stories to travel. To reach hearts. To inform, inspire, and reform. Thank you for showing up. Nigeria needs your voice.’
Polaris Bank, known not just for its digital banking solutions but also its social impact, once again proved that it is more than a financial institution. It is a platform that builds people and by extension builds the nation.
With a deep-rooted commitment to capacity-building, Polaris Bank continues to raise the bar for corporate involvement in media development. And through events like this, the bank positions itself not just as a digital leader in finance but a progressive force for storytelling, truth, and national growth.
… Courtesy Owutunews.com
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