Journalists are masters of storytelling, whether delivering breaking news with short, direct sentences or crafting elaborate feature stories with compelling narratives. When these skilled professionals write books, they bring their expertise to full scale on a broader canvas, offering readers a wealth of knowledge and insight through impeccable storytelling and narrative techniques.
Here are five books recently authored by Nigerian journalists that you need to read.
- “Command Your Stage” by Bimbo Oloyede
Bimbo Oloyede, a veteran broadcaster and public speaking expert, unveiled her newest book on public speaking “Command Your Stage” last week Thursday.
This twelve-chapter book, with its extras, offers a comprehensive guide perfect for both beginners and professionals looking to enhance their public speaking skills.
Oloyede breaks down the thought process, techniques, and strategies for commanding a stage and acing presentations using her several decades’ worth of experience compering and speaking at occasions.
In the foreword, former Lagos state governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) describes the book as essential for overcoming the fear of public speaking and mastering speech presentations.
- “Writing for Media and Monetising It” by Azu Ishiekwene
Editor-in-Chief of Leadership Newspaper, Azu Ishiekwene, offers a comprehensive guide in “Writing for Media and Monetising It” published by the Premium Times Books in May 2024.
This book is essential for anyone in the media industry looking to create valuable content and monetize it effectively. Ishiekwene blends autobiography, personal reflections, and practical advice from analysing case studies and interviewing successful 
journalists and media professionals in producing this material for people of any level in the media profession.
The book has several insightful chapters covering topics like choosing a ni
che, cultivating an audience, handling legal issues, riding on controversy and stirring debate and profiting from media writing.
It’s a must-read for media professionals seeking both passion and profit.
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- “We Are Priceless” by Juliana Francis
Award-winning crime reporter Juliana Francis explores the grave issues
of child trafficking in her book “We Are Priceless.” released in August 2023.
Through the inspiring stories of five children who escaped sex slavery, Francis escapes the confines of journalistic guides and house styles and employs literature to highlight the vulnerabilities of children exploited by selfish adults.
The book is well praised and recommended for reading by industry experts like Former Media Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari, Femi Adesina and former Inspector General of Police Dr Solomon Arase for its advocacy and valuable contribution to the literature on human trafficking in Nigeria.
Dr. Godwin Morka of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and Other Related Matters (NAPTIP) also commended the author’s efforts in raising awareness about this critical issue.
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- “My Story of Many Colours” by Azuh Arinze
Azuh Arinze, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Yes International Magazine, shares his 30-year journalism journey in “My Story of Many Colours.” This book compiles Arinze’s reflections on his professional encounters with prominent Nigerian personalities from different walks of life.
According to Dr. Uche Nworah, former MD of Anambra Broadcasting Service, the book is a valuable resource that sheds light on the life of a journalist and inspires younger generations.
- “Anything & Everything Journalism” by Azuh Arinze
In “Anything & Everything Journalism,” dedicated to iconic Nigerian journalists Dele Giwa and Dimgba Igwe Azuh Arinze reveals the success secrets and strategies of journalism masters such as Segun Osoba, Ray Ekpu, Mike Awoyinfa Lekan Otufodunrin, Musikilu Mojeed and many others.
Arinze calls it a “Bible” for Nigerian journalists and his contribution to the media industry having studied the craft back in schools through the lens of stories of foreigners.
The book was described by Dr Nworah, the reviewer during the book presentation, as an encyclopaedia of journalistic wisdom, a valuable companion for journalists and professionals seeking knowledge in media, leadership, and related fields.
These five books offer a treasure trove of knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice from seasoned journalists. Whether you’re in the media industry or simply interested in the art of storytelling, these reads will provide valuable insights and enrich your understanding.
