The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun-East Independent Chapel, and Editor of The Issues Magazine, Comrade Oluseun Oduneye, has described resilience as the driving force behind his success in journalism.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with OgunSpeaks Magazine, Oduneye traced his journey in the media industry, reflecting on the evolution of journalism in Nigeria, the challenges facing publishers, and the values that have guided his leadership.
Oduneye, who serves as Editor at The Issues Global Communications, publishers of The Issues Magazine, said his passion for truth and commitment to professionalism have sustained him through the ups and downs of the profession.
A graduate of History and Diplomatic Studies from the Tai Solarin University of Education, Oduneye later trained in Journalism at the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), Ibadan. Before founding The Issues Magazine 14 years ago, he worked with Africa Vent Magazine as Senior Reporter for three years.
According to him, the journey of building The Issues Magazine has been far from easy. “No journey is ever smooth, especially in a business that deals with the public, politics, and current affairs. Journalism requires courage, resilience, and determination,” he said. “Challenges such as economic hardship, rising production costs, and political pressures are part of the terrain, but with focus and consistency, success becomes achievable.”
The veteran journalist recalled how printing costs have skyrocketed over the years. “When we started in 2011, we could print 500 copies of a 40-page A3-size magazine for ₦300,000. Today, the same quantity costs over ₦1.4 million,” he said. “It’s tough paying staff salaries and sustaining operations, especially as advertising revenue has dropped drastically due to the shift toward social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp.”
To stay afloat, Oduneye said The Issues Magazine has embraced digital innovation through its online and YouTube platforms. “Flexibility is the key to survival,” he noted.
On his vision for journalism, Oduneye emphasized the need for professionalism and mentorship in the Nigerian media space, particularly in Ogun State, regarded as the cradle of journalism. “My vision is to see the practice grow stronger, more professional, and better respected. I want young journalists to learn from our journey—the struggles, sacrifices, and victories,” he said.
As Chairman of the NUJ Ogun-East Independent Chapel, Oduneye expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their support and commitment. He praised the leadership of the State Council, particularly Comrade Adewale Olanrewaju, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, and senior members such as Baaroyin Dayo Rufai, Comrade Femi Adeleye, Baba Moses Oladipo, and Baba Victor Sokoya, for their guidance and encouragement.
“Our members are mature, professional, and cooperative. Naturally, disagreements may occur, but we handle them with wisdom and understanding,” he said. He also commended his executive team, including Comrade Oluwafunmilayo Suleodu, Secretary, and Comrade Charles Adegbite, Vice Chairman, describing them as “seasoned professionals with rich experience.”
Highlighting his priorities in office, Oduneye said the fight against quackery remains central to his leadership agenda. “We are determined to sanitize the profession and curb the menace of fake journalists. In addition, we are planning regular training and workshops to enhance capacity and professionalism among members,” he revealed.
Assessing the performance of Governor Dapo Abiodun, Oduneye commended the Ogun State Government for its infrastructural development. He particularly cited the Ijebu-Ode to Epe Road, which has reduced travel time from two hours to fifteen minutes, as well as the ongoing Gateway International Airport project, renovation of school buildings, and improved security logistics.
However, he urged the government to ensure strict supervision of contractors to prevent substandard road construction. “It’s disheartening when newly completed roads deteriorate within months. Quality control is essential,” he advised.
On mentorship, Oduneye acknowledged the influence of late journalists such as Abiodun Onafuye and Ayomide Giwa, as well as living mentors including Kayode Fasua, Comrade Kunle Olayeni, Comrade Razaq Ayinla, Comrade Bankole Taiwo, and Ademola Adegbamigbe of TheNEWS Magazine.
He described his personal philosophy as one rooted in integrity and humility. “Integrity and good character last longer than wealth. I strive to uphold honesty and humility in everything I do,” he said.
Oduneye also credited his wife, Olori Adejumoke Oduneye, a graduate of Mass Communication from Olabisi Onabanjo University, for her unwavering support. “She has been both a wife and a mother in every sense. Her encouragement has been my greatest strength,” he said.
As he continues to lead the NUJ Ogun-East Chapel, Oduneye hopes to leave behind a legacy of integrity, professionalism, and mentorship. “A good name is better than gold or silver,” he concluded.
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