LEADERSHIP Chairman Mrs Nda-Isaiah Laments Poverty Of Writers, Columnists

The Chairman of LEADERSHIP Media Group, Zainab Nda-Isaiah, has said that despite the immense contribution of journalists, writers, and columnists in shaping public opinion and driving change, many of them the world over were languishing in penury.

Mrs Nda-Isaiah spoke as the Chief Host at the public presentation the book entitled, ‘Writing for Media and Monetising it’ on Wednesday in Abuja. The book was authored by the editor-in-chief and Senior Vice Chairman of the LEADERSHIP Media Group, Mr. Azubuike Ishiekwene.

The LEADERSHIP chairman, however, said she believed Ishiekwene’s book will afford prospective readers, writers and columnists a veritable instrument that will “propel them out of obscurity and penury.”

She said: “writers and columnists are thought leaders, who offer greats perspectives and challenge the status quo. Their words have the power to inspire change, spark debates and mobilize action, yet it is rather unfortunate that many columnists and writers the world over in my own personal word, are ‘broke’ for lack of a better word.

“I believe that it is this conundrum that brought the idea of writing this book in the offer. This book is a comprehensive guide that covers the entire process of writing.

“This book is in a class of its own because it focuses on the craft of monetising the art of great writing. To achieve this, the author has shared insights, experience and real life accounts and from other renowned people in the industry.”

Mrs. Nda-Isaiah described the author as a “mentor, a friend a colleague,” who has spent many fruitful years in the media industry working in different capacities, the latest being his role as editor- in- chief and senior vice chairman of LEADERSHIP Group.

She also acknowledged the author’s dedication to duty and his capacity to pay attention to details and qualities that have sharpened his craft, writing articles on diverse issues which helped to produce the book which she said has become “a game changer”.

She, therefore, concluded that the book will enhance development of the practitioners encompassing the print, broadcast and digital platforms, each with its own uniqueness.

The event, chaired by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, was graced by senior journalists, writers, public relations practitioners, businessmen and women.

Others included the Senator representing FCT, Ireti Heebah Kingibe; publisher of Vanguard newspapers, Sam Amuka; Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN; four former Presidential Spokesmen, among others.

The book was reviewed by popular newspaper columnist and TV anchor, Dr. Reuben Abati.