VC seeks collaboration to regulate new media content
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has urged stakeholders in the nation’s media circles to work towards regulating the activities of new media platforms through responsible self-censorship and professional gatekeeping.
Prof. Egbewole made the appeal last Monday (February 2, 2026) while receiving the Executive Committee members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) who paid him a courtesy visit in his office. He expressed concern over the absence of regulatory standards guiding online publications.
While noting that the ease of information dissemination on new media has increased the risk of misinformation and reputational damage, the Vice Chancellor observed that individuals can now publish unverified information from the comfort of their homes without considering authenticity or potential consequences.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria said while it is important for information to reach the public, such information must be accurate and responsibly handled.
He, therefore, advocated the creation of a structured forum involving both traditional and new media practitioners to develop acceptable reporting standards. He observed that while bodies such as the Guild of Editors and the NUJ exist, there is currently no dedicated platform to monitor or guide online media output.
Prof. Egbewole described journalism as a profession that determines the heartbeat of any nation, noting that Nigerian journalists have consistently demonstrated professionalism and competence. He commended the Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ for being reliable partners in national development.
The Vice Chancellor encouraged media practitioners to maintain open communication with the University, urging journalists to seek clarifications whenever necessary.
He also appreciated the visit by the Correspondents’ Chapel exco as he described the relationship between the University and the media as mutually beneficial and steadily growing.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhaji Biola Azeez, reaffirmed the commitment of the Chapel to the continued growth and advancement of the University of Ilorin.
Alhaji Azeez, who is also the Kwara State Correspondent of Tribune Newspapers, said members of the Chapel hold the University in very high esteem as he described the institution as a collective asset that has continued to contribute significantly to educational development in the country.
He commended the Vice Chancellor for consistently recognising the media as key stakeholders in the progress of the University. According to him, the strong web of interaction and professional association nurtured between the University management and the Correspondents’ Chapel over the years has strengthened mutual trust and cooperation.
