By Adeyinka Akintunde

President of Journalists for Christ, Lekan Otufodunrin has advised journalists against working hard alone. For him, a journalist should not just work hard, but also work smart.

Speaking on the topic “Purpose-Driven Journalism” at the January Fellowship of  JFC  held on Saturday, 20th January 2018 at the International Press Centre, Lagos, the Online Editor of The Nation Newspaper said it is risky for any one, particularly journalists to live life without purpose.

Based on the biblical text from 2 Kings 2:1-15, Otufodunrin said journalists should  have a vision of what they want to accomplish on the job and do what is required to accomplish their goals.

“ A Journalist of purpose cannot afford to be lazy and complacent. Don’t just work hard, work smart. Acquire the necessary skills to improve your effectiveness and efficiency and build your personal brand and online presence, ” Otufodunrin advised.

Recognizing that there are challenges in the media, the former Sunday Editor of The Nation urged journalists to “Identify the challenges in the media sphere and find out what you can do to prepare for and adapt to the expected changes.”

He suggested enrolling for online courses to upgrade their skills and boost their chance of getting new jobs.

Otufodunrin admonished journalists to maintain a high moral standard in accordance with the ethics of the profession and biblical standards.

“We are journalists, but we must also remember that we are Christians,” he stated at the Christian journalists forum.

The February edition of the fellowship  will hold on 17th of February 2018.