Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima has highlighted the pivotal role of intellectuals, particularly courageous media professionals, in shaping a progressive and sustainable nation.
Speaking on Saturday at the unveiling and launch of “Persona Non Grata,” a book written by Ismail Omipidan, Shettima emphasized the critical role of journalists as a bridge between the government and the governed.
The event was held at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel.
“We cannot build an ideal state without its intellectuals, especially journalists. They serve as a bridge between the government and the governed, facilitating the free flow of information and ideas.
“While we need an army of courageous media professionals to speak truth to power, they must also serve as a point of deliberation and correction for institutions of power.
“It is essential to distinguish between antagonizing the government and speaking truth to power. The latter is guided by principles that prioritize the greater good and humanity, demanding nothing but the truth. In contrast, the former often stems from self-serving motives, driven by personal agendas rather than a genuine desire for positive change,” Shettima said.
Omipidan, the author of “Persona Non Grata,” is a former Chief Press Secretary to Adegboyega Oyetola, who is the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and a former Governor of Osun State.
In his remarks, Oyetola praised the book as a significant contribution to Nigeria’s journalistic literature, commending the author’s resilience, dedication, and commitment.
He also encouraged experienced journalists to document their professional experiences, noting the value of such efforts in fostering national development.
“The title of the book, “Persona Non Grata,” undoubtedly sparks curiosity. It offers profound insights into the complexities of power, leadership, and the unseen forces shaping public perception. I can confidently say it is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of public life.
“I encourage other seasoned journalists to emulate Ismail’s effort by sharing their experiences. This will foster a culture of introspection and deepen engagement with our shared national experience, which is vital as we work toward building a truly prosperous and sustainable country,” Oyetola said.
Expressing his gratitude, Omipidan described the book as a reflection of his journey in journalism and his experiences within the corridors of power.
“’Persona Non Grata’ is a compendium of my struggles and adventures in journalism, alongside my experiences in the Senate and state governments, including Borno, Kaduna, and Osun State.
“It captures my contributions to Nigeria’s political developments, as well as my reportage and management of key personalities and events during critical moments,” Omipidan said.
