Journalist Urges Colleagues To Prioritise Professionalism Over Financial Gain

Celebrated journalist, Charles Opurum, of Channels TV has called on his colleagues to focus on giving a voice to the voiceless and incorporating human angle stories into their work, rather than prioritizing financial gain.

Speaking at the Distinguished Media Organisation Merit Award (DMOMA) in Port Harcourt, where he won the Best Television Reporter award, Opurum emphasized that journalism is a call to service, not just a means to earn a living.

“Journalists should find a way to incorporate other human angle stories, give a voice to the voiceless, even if they cannot pay for it,” Opurum said. “We know that politicians pay for airspace, but those who cannot pay should also be given a voice.”

Opurum, who has won the award twice in just three years in Port Harcourt, attributed his success to hard work and dedication, and urged his colleagues to remain focused and prioritize service over financial gain.

“If you want to get into journalism, you must focus, you must know why you’re getting into it,” he said. “If it’s money you’re pursuing, you’ll be disappointed. This is a call to service, and if you put in the work, recognition will follow.”

Opurum’s sentiments were echoed by fellow award winner Ann Godwin of Guardian Newspaper, who won the Media Personality of the Year award.

The DMOMA Awards Heritage Edition recognised outstanding journalists and media personalities who have made significant contributions to the industry.