By Adekunle Williams and Adeyemi Adeleye
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr Bashir Adeniyi, has pledged to build a multimedia resource centre and radio station for the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ).
Adeniyi made the pledge during his acceptance speech after receiving a fellowship award at the institute’s special convocation on Wednesday in Lagos.
The event drew academics, media professionals, alumni and students, celebrating excellence and contributions to journalism, education and national development.
“I hereby commit to construct and deliver a two-storey building to house a multimedia resource centre for the institute.
“I want to assure you that construction will begin as soon as we obtain the required approval,” he said.
He explained the centre would equip students with relevant industry skills and provide immersive, practice-driven learning experiences aligned with global media standards.
“It is aimed at equipping students with the practical skills required to function as 21st-century journalists.
“It will enable them integrate text, images, audio, video and animation into their work,” Adeniyi said.
He said the facility would include production studios, modern classrooms, digital laboratories, offices and a lounge for academic staff collaboration.
According to him, the project would bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving media landscape.
Similarly, Adeniyi pledged to establish a campus-based radio station with appropriate transmission equipment to support student training and content production.
“It is now time to bring this platform home. The new centre will provide a dedicated space.
“An appropriate transmitter suitable for the station’s terrestrial licence will be provided,” he said.
He noted that the radio station would serve as a training hub for broadcasting, reporting, editing and programme management skills.
The CGC said the initiative formed part of a broader corporate social responsibility framework of the service.
“This commitment is part of our broader corporate social responsibility efforts,” he said.
He added that the Nigeria Customs Service remained committed to investing in education and youth development nationwide.
Reflecting on his journey, Adeniyi recalled his student days, noting the institute shaped his professional values and career trajectory.
“My mind returned to a young man who walked through these gates in 1989.
“This institution instilled in me professionalism, discipline and continuous self-development,” he said.
He said the training he received at the institute laid the foundation for his achievements in public service and leadership.
Describing the fellowship as meaningful, Adeniyi expressed gratitude to the institute’s leadership, alumni and supporters.
“I see this not only as recognition but as a full-circle moment. I am grateful to the governing council, faculty, staff, family and colleagues,” he said.
He stressed the need to empower future generations beyond inspiration, urging stakeholders to provide practical opportunities for growth.
“We owe them the tools and environments to translate inspiration into capability,” he said.
He encouraged students to remain committed to personal growth, innovation and ethical standards in their professional journeys.
“I urge you to invest in yourselves; the world awaits what you will build,” he said.
Adeniyi reaffirmed his commitment to the institute’s legacy, assuring continued support for its development and academic excellence. “We will not let you down,” he said.
Conferring the award, Governing Council Chairman, Chief Olusegun Osoba, cited the institute’s authority in bestowing the fellowship.
“By the authority of the Academic Board and Governing Council, I confer on you the fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism. Congratulations,” he said.
Osoba said the award recognised Adeniyi’s landmark achievements across public service, administration and national economic development.
He added that the honour followed four years of deliberation and was based strictly on merit beyond wealth or social status.
The former Ogun governor said Adeniyi’s contributions to education, community development and institutional reform remained noteworthy.
He noted that the CGC significantly increased internally generated revenue from billions to trillions of naira.
Osoba, assisted by NIJ Provost, Mr Gbenga Adefaye, said the institute would continue to uphold excellence in journalism training.
In his remarks, Adefaye praised Adeniyi’s leadership, noting his commitment to education, integrity and professionalism in public service.
He added that Adeniyi had attended several national and international courses and represented Nigeria in high-level engagements globally.
He said the CGC’s achievements reflected discipline, vision and a strong dedication to national development.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NIJ alumni presented a framed portrait to the fellow in recognition of his accomplishments.
The presentation symbolised appreciation from the alumni body and reinforced Adeniyi’s enduring connection with the institute. (NAN)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
