Faith and Journalism: Nigerian Writers Urged to Inspire Social Change Through Storytelling

In a powerful call to action, Nigerian writers have been challenged to harness the transformative power of storytelling to drive positive change in their communities. The Media Associates International (MAI) recently organized a three-day Short Story Writing Workshop in Lagos, bringing together writers, pastors, missionaries, and journalists to explore the role of faith in shaping narratives.

Veteran journalist Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, Founder of Journalists for Christ, urged writers to prioritize prayer and discernment in their work, emphasizing that their ultimate goal should be to please God and amplify His ideals. “God gave the Word, and great was the company of those that published it,” he reminded participants.

Mrs. Emike Oyemade, CEO of Jotham Publishing, encouraged writers to pursue clarity and intentionality in their work, sharing her personal experience with her book “Cry for Help.” She challenged participants to sincerely answer the question, “Why am I writing what I am writing?” and offered practical insights on crafting engaging fiction.

Evangelist Pusonnam Yiri, a seasoned writer and author, emphasized the importance of contextual storytelling, urging writers to “think locally and share globally.” He encouraged African writers to use familiar settings and engage readers as partners in the storytelling process. “Don’t write a story for your audience; write a story with your audience,” he said.

The workshop featured interactive sessions, writing exercises, and expert insights on crafting compelling stories. Participants were challenged to produce short fictional stories reflecting the principles and insights gained during the sessions.

As people of faith, Nigerian writers have a unique opportunity to shape narratives and drive positive change in their communities. By combining their faith with journalistic excellence, they can create stories that inspire, educate, and empower readers.

The workshop was part of MAI-Africa’s efforts to promote transformative storytelling across the continent. The organization is committed to meeting the world’s hunger for the written word through biblically-inspired publications that promote lasting impact and inspire hope.

The success of the workshop has inspired plans for future editions, with the next event scheduled to take place in Burkina Faso, led by Mrs. Joanna Ilboudo. As Nigerian writers continue to develop their craft, they are poised to make a significant impact on the global literary landscape.