On 21-22 June 2018, the city of Ibadan did not only welcome media professionals from far and near, it became the space for intellectual discourse, networking, and career awakening. It was a two-day event that had the movers & shakers of the media world in attendance as there was so much to learn and ponder on. Here are some of the quotes that stood out for us:

“We recognise the importance of showing images of African women in positive ways….”

–Dr. Yemisi Akinbobola (Founder, African Women in the Media)

“When you break a story, don’t lay back; follow up until action is taken to correct the wrong.”

– Nima Elbagir (Senior International Correspondent, CNN)

“I’m so happy Monica Osagie’s boldness led to Professor Akindele getting sacked.”

–Stephenie Busari (Head, CNN Multiplatform West Africa)

“A naked woman is not an empowered woman”

–Eugenia Abu (Creative Director, Essential Communication)

“Nobody is going to leave the seat for you, fight for it and fight to remain there.”

–Funke-Treasure Durodola (Assistant Director, Programmes, FRCN Lagos)

“You can learn from anywhere you are, being multi-skilled is important. Leverage on the technology to add values to yourself and not only to share jokes.”

–Nsima Ogedi Alakwe (Marketing Director, Foods, Unilever West Africa)

“It is difficult interviewing female politicians but don’t give up trying.”

–Asha Mwilu (Editor, Citizen TV, Kenya)

“See women participation in politics as normal and nothing special and stop disparaging statements about women in the media.”

–Ijeoma Onyeator (Anchor, Channels TV)

“If you are of the notion that you can’t hire a woman in her reproductive years, it is important to impress on you that if women don’t give birth, you won’t have anybody to hire.”

–Prof. Abigail Ogwezzy (Head of Department, Mass Communication, University of Lagos)

“A journalist should be known for something. Scout for societal challenges and design to solve it.”

–John Eromosele (Trainer, Code for Nigeria)

“We need to see more women characters in leadership position in fictional stories. The critical years in the life of girls are ages 8-17; they need to read stories of women in leadership position. This will help to mold characters.”

–Hadiza El-Rufai (Novelist, Founder of Yasmin El-Rufai Foundation, First Lady Kaduna State)

“Beyond creating characters in leadership positions, it is important we portray female characters that chart their paths in life, and a society that supports women to be who they want to be.”

–Lola Shoneyin (Poet and Author)

“…Quitters don’t win in online media because if you do you would have lost your followers.”

–Funky Osae-Brown (Publisher, The Luxury Reporter)

“Whatever things you do, try to distinguish yourself, whether is work, family or social life.”

–Kunle Afolayan (Film Director, Golden Effects)

“…Until you reverse positions with the audience, you will not go beyond who said what and why.”

–Taiwo Obe (Founder, Journalism Clinic)

“Information is like party jollof rice or hot amala, we just want to consume it.”

–Blaise Aboh (Lead Trainer, Code for Nigeria)