Shola Oshunkeye Urges Journalists to Prioritize Substance Over Style at 2025 World Communications Day.
Veteran journalist and media strategist, Mr. Shola Oshunkeye, has emphasized that impactful journalism is defined not by eloquent writing alone, but by the depth of content and the critical issues it addresses.
He made this assertion while responding to a question posed by Iyaji Joseph of Akahi Media during the 2025 World Communications Day celebration held in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.
Speaking at the gathering of media professionals, religious leaders, and communication experts.
Mr. Oshunkeye noted:
“What separates truly impactful journalism from well-written reporting is the substance—the content and the issues being addressed.”
He stressed that in an era marked by information overload, journalists have a moral responsibility to uphold truth and focus on stories that promote justice, peace, and human dignity.
This year’s celebration was themed “Share with Gentleness the Hope that is in Your Hearts”, a call for communicators to spread messages of hope, compassion, and truth, particularly in a time of global uncertainty and social polarization.
The event, marked by keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, drew participants from across media and faith-based institutions.
Discussions centered on the ethical responsibility of journalists, the need for constructive storytelling, and the role of the media in fostering unity and positive societal change.
Mr. Oshunkeye, a former CNN African Journalist of the Year, was applauded for his insight and unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism. His remarks served as a reminder that the press, while adapting to the digital age, must never lose sight of its core mission: to inform, uplift, and inspire.
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World Communications Day, instituted by Pope Paul VI in 1967, is celebrated annually by the Catholic Church to promote the responsible use of media in the service of truth and humanity.