When a Visit Becomes a Turning Point — Lessons from DG VON
By Luqman Awwal Agono
There are moments in a young professional’s journey when a simple conversation becomes something deeper — a reminder that the road ahead is possible because others have walked it, stumbled, learned and still found a way forward. For the 10‑member Abuja cohort of the 2026 PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship, our visit to the Voice of Nigeria (VON) headquarters on August 19, 2026, became one of those defining moments.
The visit was part of the fellowship’s institutional learning programme, designed to expose young communicators to the realities of the industry and help us understand how major media organisations operate. What we received was mentorship.
A Director‑General Who Turned a Meeting into a Masterclass
The Director‑General of VON, Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace, welcomed us warmly. But beyond the official reception, he spoke to us as young people at the beginning of a long professional journey. His words were not rehearsed corporate statements — they were lived experiences distilled into guidance.
His first lesson was simple:
“Take yourself seriously, and people will take you seriously.”
For young professionals often waiting for recognition, this message struck deeply. Recognition begins with how we see ourselves, how we prepare and how seriously we approach our craft.
Careers Are Not Straight Lines
Ndace shared his own story — how journalism and public relations shaped his worldview and broadened his communication skills. His journey reminded us that careers rarely unfold in straight lines. Different experiences, skills and relationships eventually connect to create opportunities that may not be visible at the beginning.
Life, he told us, is a journey. And relationships matter.
In professional life, what we know is important, but how we relate with people, the value we bring to those relationships and the reputation we build over time often determine how far we go.
Never Underestimate Yourself
In Nigeria’s competitive media and communication space, self‑doubt can quietly limit potential. Ndace urged us not to underestimate ourselves. We must recognise our abilities, keep learning and position ourselves for opportunities rather than waiting for external validation.
His message was not only about ambition — it was about responsibility.
“Take Nigeria Seriously.”
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In an era where social media amplifies negativity, Ndace challenged us to understand the weight of communicating about our country. The stories we tell, the narratives we amplify and the information we share contribute to how Nigeria is perceived.
For a generation working in journalism, PR, digital media and strategic communication, this responsibility cannot be ignored.
Understanding Content Before Creating It
One of his most important lessons was about content creation in the age of AI, instant publishing and viral information. Producing content is no longer enough. A communicator must understand the information, question it, verify it, contextualise it and consider its consequences before publishing.
This is the difference between noise and communication — a distinction every young communicator must master.
Stay Open‑Minded. Seize Opportunities.
Ndace encouraged us to remain open‑minded. Opportunities often come disguised — in conversations, introductions, assignments, difficult tasks or unfamiliar environments. Being prepared to recognise and embrace them can change a young professional’s trajectory.
Then came the moment that transformed the meeting:
He told us we are now his mentees.
Mentorship is often imagined as a formal arrangement. But sometimes it begins with a conversation, a word of encouragement and the willingness of someone experienced to say: I am willing to guide you.
A Human Touch to a Professional Encounter
The engagement took a warm turn when the fellowship team presented a birthday cake to the Director‑General. Samira Muhammad, our team lead, made the presentation as we joined in celebrating Ndace. A group photograph followed — a cheerful end to a meaningful visit.
A Fellowship That Opens Doors
The PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship, established by Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), continues to give young Nigerians access to training, exposure and institutional experiences. Ndace commended the fellowship’s founder, Alhaji Yushau A. Shuaib, for his commitment to developing young communication professionals.
Lessons We Carry Forward
As we left VON, the lessons were clear:
– Take yourself seriously
– Do not underestimate yourself
– Understand what you communicate
– Stay open‑minded
– Seize opportunities
– Build meaningful relationships
– Take Nigeria seriously
For us, the visit was more than an institutional tour. It was a reminder that as we begin our own journeys, there are people willing to share the lessons they have gathered along the way.
And perhaps the most important responsibility now belongs to us: to carry those lessons forward — and someday, become mentors to someone else.
Luqman Awwal Agono is a PRNigeria Fellow and writes from [email protected].
