Polaris Bank Limited, a leading digital retail commercial bank in Nigeria, has successfully trained more than 5,000 journalists across the country through its annual media capacity-building workshops over the past decade. This commitment highlights Polaris Bank's dedication to supporting the Nigerian media as a vital pillar of informed society and public discourse.
The 2024 edition of the media workshop, held on Thursday in a hybrid format, centered around the theme: "Integrating AI Tools in Contemporary Media Practices for Innovation and Excellence." Rasheed Bolarinwa, Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communications at Polaris Bank, reiterated the bank's commitment to empowering journalists, emphasizing the critical role of media in shaping public perception and fostering a well-informed citizenry.
“We believe that journalists play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and fostering informed citizenship,” said Mr. Bolarinwa. “Our commitment to training journalists across the media spectrum is rooted in our belief that they deserve the best possible support to excel in their profession.”
The initiative, which began with Polaris Bank partnering with Journalism Clinic and holding workshops across various Nigerian cities, has provided journalists with the tools to adapt to an evolving media landscape. Facilitated by veteran journalist Mr. Taiwo Obe, the workshops have addressed media diversification and the integration of new technologies in journalism.
With more than 500 journalists registering for the 2024 edition, Bolarinwa expressed hope that Polaris Bank will continue to support the media sector by bringing top industry experts to address contemporary issues in future workshops.
This year’s program covered an array of topics, including creativity, AI tools, and critical thinking. Dr. Chike Mgbeadichie, Senior Lecturer at the Pan African University, led a session on the application of AI in media, while Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director of the Media Career Development Network, discussed trends such as multimedia journalism, fact-checking, and data journalism.
Dr. Mgbeadichie noted that the workshop provided journalists with the skills to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information critically and to explore AI tools that can enhance storytelling and streamline news gathering.
Mr. Otufodunrin emphasized the importance of solutions journalism and the use of new tools such as OSINT, Geo-journalism, data analysis, digital forensics, and multimedia platforms like blogs, social media, newsletters, and podcasts, which are reshaping modern journalism.
Journalists from across Nigeria, attending both in-person and online, expressed gratitude for Polaris Bank’s ongoing investment in their professional growth. Segun Adeleye, publisher of Worldstage, commended Polaris Bank for its commitment to advancing media excellence in Nigeria.
Polaris Bank’s media training workshops underscore its dedication to building a vibrant, well-informed society and setting a high standard for corporate responsibility within Nigeria’s media landscape.
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