Veteran media practitioner and Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre, has stepped up to lead the editorial advisory direction of The Spark, an upcoming publication by trainees at the International Institute of Journalism Ado-Ekiti Campus.
A three-person delegation delivered the official notification on Thursday, September 10, 2026. The group comprised Adebomi Idowu, Chairman of The Spark Magazine board; Oluwakemi Folarin, Secretary; and Victor Ogundipe, Secretary of the IIJ Student Representative Council (SRC). The student representatives presented the letter during a formal meeting at the Director-General’s office in Ado-Ekiti.
Recognition of Wale Ojo-Lanre in Media and Ekiti Tourism
The Student Representative Council explained that it chose the veteran newsman for the role after considering his long career in mainstream press circles, distinct literary voice, and enduring passion for newsroom practice. The council praised his continuous effort to mentor emerging media professionals across Nigeria, noting that many of his proteges now occupy prominent roles in national press houses.
In a letter signed by Idowu and Folarin, the SRC stated that the appointment also honours his work promoting Ekiti tourism, local heritage, and cultural development. His leadership at the state tourism bureau has consistently placed regional travel assets into the national headline space.
The International Institute of Journalism and Student Magazine Launch
The maiden edition of The Spark carries the official motto “Inspire, Inform, Empower.” Student editors designed the project to showcase their investigative reporting, writing standards, and creative layout skills. The publication will feature in-depth coverage of regional affairs alongside profiles of public figures who have influenced contemporary media and public service.
“The appointment was formally conveyed to Ojo-Lanre on Thursday, September 10, 2026, by the Chairman of The Spark Magazine, Adebomi Idowu; its Secretary, Oluwakemi Folarin; and the Secretary of the IIJ Student Representative Council (SRC), Victor Ogundipe, at the office of the Director-General in Ado-Ekiti.”
Student leaders expressed strong confidence that his guidance will boost the visibility of the student magazine launch and give confidence to young reporters entering a changing press landscape.
The SRC said Ojo-Lanre was chosen for the prestigious position in recognition of his extensive experience as a veteran journalist, distinctive writing style, personality and enduring passion for journalism. The council also highlighted his contributions to mentoring and nurturing young professionals who have gone on to establish themselves in journalism and media practice.”
Commercial Partnerships for The Spark Publication
The publication committee confirmed that commercial space is now open to local businesses, corporate brands, and public institutions. The magazine will circulate across academic faculties, newsrooms, civil service departments, and community hubs throughout the South West region.
“The Spark, themed ‘Inspire, Inform, Empower,’ is designed to provide a platform for IIJ students to demonstrate their creativity, intellectual capacity and journalistic skills while celebrating individuals whose contributions have impacted journalism and society.”
The council called on corporate supporters, media veterans, and civic leaders to back the production stages. They described the project as a direct investment in training young journalists who will protect public interest reporting tomorrow.
The committee further appealed to well-meaning individuals, organisations and stakeholders to support the production and official launch of The Spark, describing the initiative as an investment in the development of the next generation of journalists and media professionals.”
