Interview: “I Was Determined to Graduate as a Campus Journalist” – Opemipo Olukoga, Former AFAS Press Deputy Editor-in-Chief

Abdullateef Isa

In this interview, AFAS Press features its immediate past Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Opemipo Olukoga. Opemipo, who recently completed her final first degree exams in the Department of Linguistics, shares her experiences studying at the University of Ibadan, her roles in campus journalism, and more

Can we get to know you?

My name is Olukoga Opemipo, the second of my parents’ three daughters. I was born in Ogun State, Sagamu. As an introvert, I am quiet and reserved, expressing myself more fluently through writing than speech. I appreciate art, literature and I am a writer. I’ve written a number of poems, fictional and non-fictional stories and I’m a good artist as well. Although it has been a while since I did fine art, I hope to begin again, soon. I love creativity and I appreciate many creatives because it is not an easy job to think and make your thoughts an art. I am an hardworking individual who values diligence and timing. People think I am tough and strict yet I also have a soft and sentimental side.

As the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of AFAS Press, you navigated a faculty with a dramatic political landscape. What was that experience like?

Our faculty is no stranger to political drama. When I joined the press, I deliberately avoided the Politics desk because I never liked politics and wanted to steer clear of the controversies. However, I soon realized that even as a features writer, certain articles still required input from student leaders, whether through interviews or manifesto reviews.

It became evident that many student leaders view journalists as adversaries, which is disheartening. Despite this, we have remained committed to doing what is right and advocating for what matters. I have witnessed student leaders insulting our role, dodging interviews, evading questions, and expecting us to be silenced—despite the repeated emphasis on press freedom.

My experience in campus journalism has been both exciting and challenging. One key lesson I have learned is the importance of leadership qualities and patience when dealing with people. Journalism demands patience, logic, and reasoning to navigate the inevitable dramas that come with reporting at our esteemed university. Also, students must make informed decisions and elect leaders who are critical thinkers, driven by passion and compassion, and genuinely committed to social impact—not those seeking leadership merely for status

Who are those campus journalists that you admire and inspire you with their works?

I appreciate the work of many campus journalists and I love their drive and zeal. These are the people who have made an impact through writing stories that matter and I believe they deserve to be honored. Some of the campus journalists that inspire me are: my boss, Ogunrinu Olanshile, Tijani Abdulkabeer, Aduwo Ayodele, Eriomala John, Agnes Oyedokun, Ayeye Tolulope and many more.

How were you able to balance being a departmental Editor-in-Chief, AFAS Deputy E-I-C with your academic life and dabbling into other activities on campus?

I was the Editor-in-Chief of my departmental press, LINSA press, when I was AFAS press features editor. I handed over to Adebayo Wisdom before I became the deputy Editor-in-Chief of AFAS Press but I was still actively involved in my departmental press. Before then, LINSA Press had been inactive for years. It wasn’t until I was in my 300 level that a senior encouraged me to revive it.

I am a hardworking and passionate individual and I think I have mastered the art of juggling multiple responsibilities over the years. I put my heart into any task or job I am passionate about, and I strongly believe in making an impact. Being a principal member of the press editorial board while managing other commitments was challenging, especially during my time as Features Editor. However, I remained dedicated because I had seen many campus journalists excel in both journalism and academics, and I believed I could do the same. Quitting was never an option for me as I was determined to graduate as a campus journalist, not as someone who gave up along the way.

Balancing my role as Deputy Editor-in-Chief with academics was not too difficult since I was in my 400 level, which was less stressful than previous years. At the same time, I was the Chief Librarian in my department and I also had to be proactive there. But, I had a supportive and hardworking boss, Mr. Ogunrinu, who made balancing all the responsibilities both easier and more fulfilling. His wisdom and guidance is invaluable. The other members of the editorial board, especially Praise and Agnes, were incredibly zealous and contributed significantly to the organization.

What were the biggest achievements and challenges of your administration?

The Ogunrinu-led administration has been one of the best in AFAS Press history. We achieved significant wins. We were able to amplify voices, covering pressing issues that demanded reform, and made an impact. We introduced the front cover initiative, a format widely used by media organizations, to highlight the top headlines of published articles under each desk. We also launched the AFAS Press podcast, which I believe will continue next session and cover even more important topics. Also, we successfully published our magazine, which focused on a critical issue—the decline in education. The contributions to the publication were truly remarkable.

Beyond our media efforts, we nurtured outstanding journalists who are now driven to create change through journalism. One of our members was recognized as the best UCJ inductee, while our graduating members won the prestigious Kola Tubosun Prize. We also held our annual workshop, which was just as insightful as those from previous years. Of course, we faced challenges along the way. Some members initially lacked the drive to work, but many eventually caught up and became more committed. Funding was another hurdle. Actually, we spent a significant amount on our magazine and other projects. However, despite these challenges, we made the most of the resources we had and accomplished so much.

I am grateful to have worked with an incredible and responsible leader like Olanshile

Reflecting on your time as a campus journalist, which are your favourite, most challenging, and most memorable stories?

I’m not sure if I have a favourite or the most difficult, but I believe I’ll pick my article on “Students Express Dissatisfaction with Challenges in Large General Studies (GES) Classes,” as the most difficult. For most memorable, I’d pick an article I wrote (when I was a UCJ correspondent) during one of the NASU strikes, when we had to look into the causes of the ongoing strikes. I was excited to work on the article although it was not later published because the strike, as usual, ended early. However, it is my most memorable because it was rigorous and I had fun interviewing the Chairman of the Union and also talking to other individuals concerning the issue.

How does it feel to leave an organisation where you’ve moved through the hierarchy, from Features Editor to Deputy Editor-in-Chief?

I’ve always known this day would come, but leaving an organization that has been a part of my entire academic journey makes me emotional. Still, I take pride in my contributions to the press and believe my efforts have left a lasting impact.

I am confident that AFAS Press will continue to thrive, thanks to the dedicated journalists who are still there. I wish them all the best and hope they stay resilient, always remembering the core purpose of journalism. May they never grow weary but find the strength to keep up the good work.

If not campus journalism, what would you have been involved in during your time at university?

Hmmm. I could have joined JCI. I believe this organization or union is doing a great work too at grooming young people to be great leaders and responsible individuals in the society.

Outside campus, is journalism something you’d love to venture into?

Yes, I enjoyed campus journalism although it was challenging too. While I understand that mainstream journalism might even be more challenging, I’m prepared. I’ll take on being a mainstream journalist with much zeal and drive as I did while on campus. Journalism is impactful and with it, we can change the world and make it a better place.

Also, being a journalist sharpened my ability to think critically. I developed my investigative, networking, and leadership skills. I worked with others to address urgent concerns inside the school and faculty. I learnt from campus journalism that writing has the power to effect change, and promote social justice. I’ll take these lessons with me wherever I go next and keep advocating for these principles.

As a writer and campus journalist, who are your top three favorite writers, and what are your top three favourite books?

Yes, I’m an avid reader. I love reading and I enjoy reading fictional stories more. I completed a 50 books reading goal last year but I read more fictional stories because that’s my niche. I wouldn’t say I’ve favorite books. It’ll take me a long time to decide that but my favorite writers at the moment are Chimamanda Adichie, Ayobami Adebayo, Chika Unigwe. They are amazing writers and I hope one day I can have a curation of thrilling novels like them.

What changes would you like to see in campus journalism going forward?

As far as campus journalism is concerned in the University of Ibadan, we are doing well. Yet, certain changes are necessary. First, I’d like people to be determined and understand the purpose of journalism before joining any press organization on campus. We are adults and when we take up a job or a skill, we should be committed and not be pursued before we do our part. I hope that people dwell on why they want to become a campus journalist before joining, show commitment and put in their all so that the organization can grow and not suffer because of some people who are weary, inactive and drawing the press back.

Also, I would like that press freedom is realized and promoted. There’s no press freedom in the university again. Campus journalists are victimized, brutalized, backlashed just because they are doing what is right, being the watchdog and the voice of the people. It is ridiculous that people like us whose contributions to the campus drive change, are belittled and victimized. There ought to be a change so that budding journalists won’t shy away from journalism or give up. Lastly, many journalists need training. I commend the Union of Campus Journalist’s erstwhile President members of the UCJ 36th administration for the rigorous training which was held last session, first semester. I was one of the trainers and the trainings were insightful and impactful. I also commend all Editors who have groomed journalists and have at one point organized training and workshops for their members. With workshops and trainings like this, campus journalists will write better, be more disciplined and driven to work.

What is your parting message for remaining campus journalists?

I would like them to know that they matter and they contribute a lot to the development of their department, hall, local press organization, our umbrella body – UCJ and even the school at large. They should never feel belittled but be proud for being one of those who uphold justice. They should persevere and embrace the positive influence of this field. Although it can be demanding and challenging, the lessons learned from being a part of this organization and the knowledge they would gain during the process, far outweigh the hardships.

Thank you so much for speaking with AFAS Press