The MacArthur Foundation Director in Nigeria, Dr. Kole Shettima, has expressed the Foundation’s commitment to supporting journalism, especially investigative journalism, that will positively impact the society.
Shettima, who gave the assurance at a recent AFF IMPACT SERIES Programme, held virtually, explained that such support has become imperative if the media industry is to maintain its independence , especially at these trying economic times.
He noted that the nation’s media space is presently witnessing little investigative journalism due to the enormous financial costs attached to such tasks, and the lack of financial wherewithal of media organisations to foot such bills.
Shettima stated that the Foundation, in its own little way, has continued to intervene in those areas, by providing grants for credible media organisations, to enable them perform such task, without compromising their principles, independence and ethics of the profession.
The Founder, Akin Fadeyi Foundation (AFF), and organiser of the event, Mr. Akin Fadeyi, explained that the Impact Series with Kole Shettima was put together not only to celebrate the anti-corruption investor, but to create a forum for members of the media, and the civil society to engage, evaluate and give advice where necessary on good governance and fight against corruption.
Speaking at the event, Publisher of The Cable Online, Simon Kolawole, commended Shettima’s contribution to the advancement of press freedom and media development, citing the various leadership qualities in Dr. Shetima which all leaders who wish to succeed must imbibe.
Publisher of Premium Times, Dapo Olorunyomi, in his contribution, described Shettima as one of the few individuals the media industry should appreciate for the growth and development of investigative journalism and media in general in this modern age.
Others, who extolled Shettima and the various ways the MacArthur Foundation has impacted on their sectors, comprised former First Lady of Ekiti State, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; television host, Kadaria Ahmed; and a host of others.
READ ALSO: South-West hunters threaten strike over alleged victimisation
