The President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Dr. Chris Isiguzo, has urged journalists to be more creative to find alternative sources of income.
He made this appeal at the unveiling of “Petals of Life,” a collection of poems written by Lilian Ario, a Broadcast Journalist at Voice of Nigeria (VON) in Lagos.
It was an evening of glitz and glamour as the NUJ President and other distinguished guests launched “Petals of Life” at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
In his address, Dr. Isiguzo said, “I am happy to be here today because I have an idea of how this journey started, and I am thrilled it has finally become a reality.
“Poetry is not fictional; it deals with emotions, reality, truth, and life. Whenever you are down, turn to literature because it helps convey your thoughts appropriately.
“This work is from one of us, a journalist. Against this backdrop, I urge members of the pen profession to be creative outside our job.
“Social media is a place where people are also getting information. To make ends meet and beyond our unity, we need to be creative if we must succeed,” Isiguzo added.
Dr. Olatunbosun Taofeek, an academic and creative writer, reviewed “Petals of Life.” He praised the author for her creative writing style.
“I read the book from the first poem, ‘I Found Me,’ to the last poem titled ‘Inspired Inclusion.’ Many issues were raised in the collection, such as the position of a girl child, her place in the world, and her relevance.
“Other parts focused on memories, the ‘Japa’ syndrome, depression, and many other topics. These works are great, and any lover of books will want to read them over and over again because the messages are deep and engaging.
“I recommend this collection for schools, institutions, social commentators, and many others.”
The author, Lilian Ario, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and inspiration, sharing how her literary journey began after earning a degree in English and Literary Studies. Ario provided a brief summary of the work.
“I want to thank God for making today a reality. I am also grateful to everyone for taking the time to be here to celebrate with me.
“‘Petals of Life’ contains about 70 poems and 12 subtitles. The poems focus on themes such as faith, reflections, memorials, and depression, just to name a few.
“The collection also addresses social vices and societal ills, aiming to shed light on these grey areas,” she emphasized.
Hajiya Ayisat K. Ibrahim Bura, the National Chairperson of NAWOJ, commended Lilian on the launch of “Petals of Life.” In her goodwill message, read by Dr. Adeola Ekine, Chairperson of NAWOJ Lagos State Chapter, she said, “As women journalists, we understand the significance of telling authentic stories that resonate with the realities of our diverse society. Lilian’s work is a shining example of how literature can bridge gaps, foster understanding, and inspire change.”
The event featured a dance drama that conveyed some messages from the collection and thrilled attendees.
Also in attendance were Executive Members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Lagos State Council, Demola Babalola, Chairman NUJ Oyo State Council, Mrs. Mary Atolagbe, Director of Public Affairs Department, and Mrs. Christie Joseph, Deputy Director of Languages, both from Voice of Nigeria. Rev. Clem Iwegbu and Rev. Olatunji Agbaje of TREM Zone 2 churches, Chief Dr. Felix Ike, a businessman based in the USA, Sir and Lady Innocent Obi Nwume of Numeric Tech, and Dr. Stephen Fatonji, a lecturer from Lagos State University, among many others.
Lilian Ario is the Secretary of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos State Chapter.
