Prof. Pate Ignites Adamawa Broadcasters: Enhance Competence, Expand M’ship for Global Relevance

By Emmanuel Kwada

Members of the Society of Nigeria Broadcasters (SNB) in Adamawa were energized by the recent visit of the organization’s National President, Professor Umar Pate.

In an interactive session held at the Nigerian Union of Journalists’ secretariat, Pate underscored the critical importance of personal development in delivering compelling content for audience engagement.

The fundamental goal of the SNB is to promote professional competence among broadcasters, thereby enabling them to uphold a dignified career that meets international standards

Pate, an esteemed broadcaster and internationally recognized media scholar, articulated that the fundamental goal of the SNB is to promote professional competence among broadcasters, thereby enabling them to uphold a dignified career that meets international standards. He highlighted that while the SNB has existed since the 1960s, it has only recently gained momentum, thanks to the collaboration of like-minded individuals who overcame historical divisions and vested interests within the organization.

During his address, Pate urged SNB members to embark on a robust membership drive aimed at facilitating the induction of new professionals into the society. He emphasized the necessity of training to equip broadcasters to tackle emerging technological challenges effectively. “Technological advancements have transformed broadcasting into a global enterprise. Anyone can access and leverage technology to practice, making it essential for broadcasters to stay relevant,” he stated.

Technological advancements have transformed broadcasting into a global enterprise

As the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Kashere, Pate further stressed that well-trained broadcasters possess the ability to generate sought-after content in the media landscape. He noted, “Information can be stored and recalled at any time, allowing audiences worldwide to connect with your work. Therefore, raising the bar in training and investing in oneself is crucial.”

Pate remarked on the paradox of contemporary broadcasting: “There is now more equipment available, yet fewer skilled individuals to operate them. Past experiences with limited resources have made professionals more disciplined and committed.” He asserted the need for additional skills and qualifications to thrive in the broadcasting industry, urging members to leverage institutional connections for international opportunities.

“We must retool and equip ourselves, or risk becoming obsolete in an industry facing existential threats,” Pate cautioned. He called on the Adamawa chapter to cultivate a strong professional body, emphasizing that the foundation of such institutions requires dedication, sacrifice, and resources from committed individuals.

Differentiating the SNB from traditional trade unions, Pate reaffirmed its focus on fostering personal development and promoting the profession of broadcasting. He urged members to embrace the ongoing computer technology and internet revolution, noting that the lines between print and broadcast media continue to blur. “In the near future, media may predominantly consist of audio and video formats,” he predicted.

The objective of SNB is to ensure that we produce high-quality broadcasters capable of reaching any corner of the globe

“The objective of SNB is to ensure that we produce high-quality broadcasters capable of reaching any corner of the globe,” Pate concluded, leaving members inspired and motivated to elevate their professional standards and expand the society’s membership base.