In a diverse nation like Nigeria, with multicultural diversity, capturing the representation of every group is a challenge, leaving certain places underrepresented in the daily news bulletin.
Also, regrettably, numerous media stations limit their coverage to the state capitals, leaving the grassroots to navigate their fate without adequate representation in the news.
But, The Special Adviser on Civic Engagement to a former Governor, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, once described journalism as a strong catalyst for community and grassroots development.
He said, “Communication generally promotes development but does not ensure development, and as such, information in development can only be efficient when communication serves as an element of change in collaboration with all other key segments (sectors or services), such as health, education, among others to ensure development”.
Recognising the importance of grassroots representation for national development, some media platforms are now embracing it, and Boluwatife Adedokun is one of such person.
Boluwatife Adedokun, driven by a strong passion for grassroots issues, founded Harbinger News. This media organisation not only shares stories but also educates aspiring young campus journalists with essential journalism skills, making it more than just a news platform.
According to Adedokun, Harbinger is “a hub of inspiration and dedication, where we not only train the next generation of journalists but cultivate a culture that dismantles the walls of fake news, embraces unbiased reporting, and weaves the fabric of society through stories that resonate with truth and positivity.”
For her, The Harbinger, is “a name that echoes a herald of change, a messenger of truth, and a guardian of journalistic integrity.”
On what motivated her to start The Harbinger, she said, “It is not just as a response to a gap in the news but as a calling to shape narratives, foster excellence, and be the catalyst for positive change in society and the world of journalism”.
In a world saturated with biased news, The Harbinger desires to be the antidote, tackling the scarcity of expert journalists by empowering young journalists with the skills needed to champion accuracy, objectivity, and the power of uplifting narratives.
Adedokun cites funding as a major challenge, crucial for both website maintenance and the actual groundwork. The shortage of volunteers and reporters further compounds the challenges faced by her non-profit.
Additionally, she actively challenges stereotypes, notably addressing the prevailing male dominance in the media industry.
Currently, with the four volunteers, Bolu imagines a future where The Harbinger stands as a global force, not just reporting news but shaping narratives, influencing perspectives, and leaving an indelible mark on the world’s stage.
In Nigeria, the multicultural diversity poses a challenge in ensuring every group is represented in daily news bulletins. Many media stations focus primarily on state capitals, neglecting grassroots representation. Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye emphasized journalism's role in community and grassroots development, suggesting that effective development communication must integrate with key sectors like health and education.
Boluwatife Adedokun, recognizing the significance of grassroots representation, founded Harbinger News. This platform not only reports stories but also trains young campus journalists, aiming to fight fake news and promote unbiased reporting. Adedokun aspires for Harbinger to be a catalyst for positive change and a guardian of journalistic integrity.
However, Harbinger faces challenges such as limited funding and a shortage of volunteers. Adedokun also addresses gender stereotypes in the media industry. Despite having only four volunteers, she envisions Harbinger as a global force that shapes narratives and influences perspectives.
