First City Monument Bank (FCMB), has trained media practitioners on how to leverage social media platforms to generate sustainable income.
The training, a one-day masterclass titled “The Monetised Content: A Media Masterclass,” with the theme “Elevate & Earn: The Media Entrepreneurship Masterclass,” was held on Monday at FCMB’s office in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Mr Diran Olojo, Divisional Head, Corporate Affairs at FCMB, urged journalists and content creators to rethink the traditional practice of media as solely a public service, encouraging them to see it also as a viable business.
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Olojo noted that the media landscape is rapidly evolving due to digital technology, creating new opportunities for professionals to build platforms that are both impactful and financially rewarding.
He explained that beyond informing the public, content creators can now monetise their skills through various digital channels, including advertising, sponsorships, and audience subscriptions.
According to him, strategic communication has become a powerful tool globally, citing how countries deploy digital media to shape narratives and influence public opinion.
Also speaking, Chris Ihidero, a filmmaker and former journalist, encouraged participants to embrace the shift from traditional media models to digital-first platforms.
He described the transition as moving from “media that is paid” — where journalists depend on salaries — to “media that pays,” where creators earn directly from their content.
Ihidero highlighted platforms such as YouTube and TikTok as key avenues where creators can build audiences and generate income through views, engagement, and partnerships.
He stressed the importance of building a strong personal brand, noting that credibility and trust are valuable assets in the digital age.
“Focus on a niche, create quality content consistently, and diversify your presence across platforms,” he advised.
He also emphasised that despite the shift to digital platforms, core journalistic principles such as research, accuracy, and fact-checking remain essential.
In his remarks, Fisayo Soyombo, Editor-in-Chief of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), highlighted the need for strong institutional values in media organisations.
Soyombo said that credibility, ethical practices, and staff welfare are critical to building sustainable media outfits and retaining talent.
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He added that media organisations must prioritise transparency and accountability to maintain public trust and contribute meaningfully to society.
The initiative, organisers said, is part of ongoing efforts to equip media professionals with the skills needed to adapt to the changing media environment and tap into emerging economic opportunities.
Ravenewsonline reports that the growing influence of social media has transformed how information is produced, distributed, and consumed, creating new pathways for journalists and content creators to earn income while reaching wider audiences.
