Seplat Energy Advocates Entrepreneurship For Media Professionals

By Naija Enquirer Staff

The two-day intensive training brought together 50 journalists from various media organizations in the capital city for expert-led sessions, hands-on learning, and transformative discussions on emerging opportunities within the evolving media and business landscape.

Participants were exposed to practical business ideas and value-creation strategies designed to help media professionals expand their horizons and thrive as entrepreneurs while maintaining their professional careers.

Encouraging Journalists to Think Like Entrepreneurs

Delivering a keynote on “Can Managers or Professionals (such as Journalists) Make Good Entrepreneurs?”, political economist and management expert, Professor Pat Utomi, examined the difference between entrepreneurial and managerial mindsets. He emphasized that entrepreneurship represents a quantum leap in value creation and urged journalists to see innovation and problem-solving as critical tools for economic independence.

Also speaking, Dr. Solomon Avbioroko, former Director of the Lagos Business School, delivered a session on “Ego States Profile and Impact on Transactional Analysis.” He explained how understanding ego states can improve communication, collaboration, and self-awareness among media professionals. Avbioroko further explored “Second Phase of Life: Overcoming the Phobia,” encouraging participants to view retirement as an opportunity for reinvention and purpose-driven pursuits.

Exploring Digital Marketing and Business Strategy

In another session, Abiola Adedeji, a seasoned trainer, discussed “Understanding Digital Marketing: With a Focus on Customer Journey Mapping.” She highlighted the importance of digital marketing in audience engagement and brand building, stressing that media professionals must leverage customer journey mapping to craft more effective communication strategies.

Uloma Okoro, a lawyer and serial entrepreneur, presented on “Developing a Business Model and Writing a Winning Business Plan.” She advised participants to approach business as a learning journey—testing ideas, embracing mistakes, and continuously evolving through learning and adaptation.

Finance, Leadership, and Technology in Media

Seasoned chemical engineer and trainer, Olu Onakoya, facilitated two sessions: “The Socio-Economic Environment and Challenges of Entrepreneurial Ventures: Entrepreneurial Leadership & Venture Financing” and “Financial Intelligence – Key Enabler of Prudent Investment.” He emphasized that financial literacy and leadership acumen are vital for entrepreneurial success.

In a session titled “Media Technology: Trends, Importance & Adaptability,” video editor and multimedia producer, Nnamdi Uwaemelulam, urged journalists to embrace innovation and emerging technologies. He discussed evolving content formats, cross-platform storytelling, and the impact of algorithms and personalization on audience engagement.

Seplat Energy’s Commitment to Media Development

In his remarks, Stanley Opara, Manager of Corporate Communications at Seplat Energy, who represented Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs & Social Performance, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to strengthening partnerships with the media. He commended journalists for their commitment to continuous learning and assured them that Seplat Energy would continue to invest in capacity-building initiatives for media professionals.

“Seplat Energy remains committed to supporting the professional development of our media stakeholders. This initiative is part of our long-term vision to foster innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship within Nigeria’s media industry,” Opara stated.

The two-day event blended thought leadership, practical exercises, and interactive discussions. It featured brain teasers and group challenges that created a dynamic learning environment for journalists aspiring to explore entrepreneurship—both within and beyond the media space.