By Seyi Odewale
Seplat Energy has equipped 50 Nigerian journalists with the skills to transition from newsroom reporting to building sustainable media businesses, as it concluded the second leg of its Annual Media Training Programme in Lagos.
The two-day intensive programme brought together correspondents from the judiciary, energy, and business beats for expert-led sessions, practical workshops, and networking opportunities, aimed at reshaping how journalists approach the business side of media.
Speaking at the event, Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, Mrs. Chioma Yvonne Afe, said the initiative reflects the company’s long-term vision for media empowerment.
“This training allows journalists to deepen their understanding of business principles, explore new revenue models, and leverage digital tools to expand their reach and impact,” Afe said.
“By embracing entrepreneurship, journalists can build ventures that inform, educate, and empower communities, while contributing to economic growth,” she added.
The programme featured a diverse faculty of experts.
Dr Solomon Avbioroko, in his session on self-awareness and networking, urged journalists to strengthen personal development alongside professional growth.
Mrs Uloma Okoro trained participants on crafting business models and winning business plans, warning against starting ventures solely dependent on family or friends’ support.
On financial discipline, Mr Olu Onakoya stressed smart investing, risk assessment, and mastery of business numbers.
At the same time, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, urged journalists to uphold neutrality and rigorous fact-checking amid declining readership.
Multimedia producer, Mr Nnamdi Uwaemelulam, showcased emerging technologies and personalised content strategies, while Lagos State DSS Director, Mr Babajide Adisa, addressed national security, intelligence gathering, and media-security collaboration.
Closing the sessions, renowned political economist, Prof Pat Utomi, described journalists as natural entrepreneurs who can spot and fill societal gaps.
The training fused strategic thinking, self-leadership, and mentorship with technical skill-building, encouraging participants to innovate, monetise content, and diversify income streams.
By helping journalists see themselves as both storytellers and entrepreneurs, Seplat Energy’s programme aims to strengthen not just the media industry, but the economic resilience of those working within it.
