Can we meet you?
My name is Abdulwahab Muhammad Awwal, a final-year student at the University of Ilorin, Department of Religions, Comparative Religious Studies Unit. I'm a student and also into journalism.
I am the newly elected Editor-in-Chief of the Union of Campus Journalists, University of Ilorin, and the current President of RPI (Religions Press Initiative) for my department, among other roles. I juggle these with my studies and, let me say, I am privileged to be one of the best in my department.
When did you join UCJ?
I joined the University of Ilorin Union of Campus Journalists in 2022. If I'm not mistaken, that should be during the 2022 session under the administration of Amazing Grace.
How did you come about UCJ?
I first came across UCJ when I was in 100 level. The first piece I read that made me question, “What is this about journalism?” was an article about the then SU president, Faji Tobiloba. I can never forget it. It was about him being suspended due to misappropriation of funds.
I can never forget that sentence: “misappropriation of funds.” I read the piece and thought, what is this about? How come? That curiosity pushed me to know more about what UCJ does and what journalism is all about.
I also attended their press night, and it was really enlightening. I promised myself then that I would join this community, become part of the panelists, and one day serve on their board. That promise has kept me going.
I couldn’t join in 100 level, but I eventually joined in 200 level.
Tell us, how has UCJ contributed to your growth as a journalist?
Oh yes, what I learnt as a UCJ member served as a strong foundation for me. In my first year as a member, I had over 30 published articles on the website, and that gave me leverage when I wanted to work with other people outside the student community.
Through UCJ, I had the opportunity to work with Hope Newspaper in Akure, the best and number one newspaper in the city, and I’m still working there as a reporter. Indirectly, I also work for the former chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists in the state and I still contribute to blogs and newspapers like Images News, Informat247, among others.
So, how do you balance it? I mean, your studies and UCJ? You mentioned that you are one of the best in your department, which I find very interesting. So tell us, how do you balance everthing?
It has not been easy at all, but one thing I’ve learnt is that what is worth doing at all is worth doing well. And to whom much is given, much is expected.
one thing I’ve learnt is that what is worth doing at all is worth doing well. And to whom much is given, much is expected- Muhammad Abdulwahab
One of the things I love most is being at the University of Ilorin. Most of my siblings went to state and private universities, but I was adamant—it had to be the University of Ilorin or nowhere.
Although I wanted to study Law, I was given Comparative Religious Studies instead. I had to tell myself that even in my department, I could still excel and do great things. That mindset keeps me going.
I don’t just do UCJ; I am also involved in other things but one thing I can say is this: if you have a positive mindset, it will keep you pushing. Life is like a football field. There will always be a goalkeeper to defend, but you must learn how to score your goals. Your target should always be to get the ball into the net. That’s the power of a positive mindset.
Secondly, time management. You have to manage your time very well. I don’t skip classes, even if I have an event to attend. I prioritize my classes first because every other thing can wait. I make sure I dont miss classes because I know that what I get directly from my lecturers can never be replaced by what I might get from colleagues.
From your perspective, what can UCJ offer an aspiring student journalist?
You have a lot to gain as a member of UCJ. The organisation often organise webinars and trainings that'll not only help you improve your research and writing skills but also your speaking skills. They also recommend books that will sharpen the way you write and speak. .You can also get access to internship opportunities.
I personally got an internship opportunity through UCJ. That experience broadened my perspective and also my network. So, if you ask me if there is anything to gain from joining UCJ, I would say you have a whole to gain if you join the community and you are intentional about growing.
Muhammad's Message to Readers
If you are looking for a way to hold the student union politicians accountable, UCJ is the best way to do that. Even if we can't publish it on our blog, we have other ways to which we can hold them accountable for their actions.
If you are also wondering whether you can do it with your academics or not, I can assure you that you can but it all comes down to time management: attend your classes, know what you’re doing, and always pray. Put God first in everything you do.
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Connect with Muhammad here:
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Muhammad Abdulwahab
If you are also interested in joining UCJ, they are currently taking new member. You can reach out to them @UCJ Unilorin on X or simply search UCJ Unilorin on Google.
All the best champ
