…canvasses better welfare for media practitioners

By Ephraim Oseji

A Nigerian broadcast journalist, Judeh Ikami Judeh has decried what he calls, the unfavourable conditions at which journalists in the country work. The soft spoken Judeh, in a chat with vanguard reveals the life and challenges of being an ‘On-air-personality. He noted that the industry looks prestigious but lacks adequate welfare patronage by some employers.

According to Judeh, his career journey in broadcasting is a testament to passion, perseverance, and dedication. From a young age he knew broadcasting was in his blood. Growing up, he was actively involved in his church choir and school drama club, experiences that nurtured his love for speaking and performing. His fascination deepened as he listened intently to his father’s transistor radio, imagining himself one day being the voice on those airwaves.

This youthful dream guided him to study Theatre and Media Arts at the Ambrose Alli University, deliberately choosing a path that would help him achieve his lifelong ambition.

In the course of his 20 year career span, Judeh has traversed, working with some respected media houses in Nigeria that include African Independent Television (AIT), Orange 94.5 FM, Jordan 93.9 FM in Abuja, as well as Rainbow 94.1 FM and Voice of the People (VOP) 90.3 in Lagos. His specialties, news, politics, and entertainment, are delivered with a unique style that captivates his audience, earning him a reputation as a broadcaster, actor, scriptwriter, and voice-over artist all rolled into one.

But Judeh’s talents stretch beyond the microphone. Known affectionately as the “sweet emcee,” he commands event stages with the same energy and innovation he brings to radio shows. Embracing the principle of “innovate or go extinct,” he continually seeks fresh ways to engage audiences through new technologies and creative content.

Recognizing a critical gap in the industry, Judeh founded Ikamedia, a company dedicated to training and recruiting media professionals. Through Ikamedia, Judeh addresses the scarcity of skilled hands in the employment market by turning workers into intrapreneurs, individuals who act with an ownership mindset, drive innovation, and take initiatives.
His outfit not only supplies talent but also produces professional media services and also offers consultancy services for establishing and managing radio stations.

Despite his success, Judeh has faced challenges, particularly with employers who fail to appreciate talent or offer fair remuneration. He recalls experiences with managers who demand the effort of Fortune 500 CEOs but provide little support or recognition in return. Such conditions, he believes, harm the media industry’s growth and integrity.

Looking ahead, Judeh aspires to ascend to the pinnacle of broadcasting by owning and running his own radio station. Armed with extensive experience in every aspect of the industry and a ready pool of well-trained talent from Ikamedia, he dreams of either launching his station outright or partnering with like-minded individuals to bring this vision to life. Once equipped with the necessary license and equipment, he is confident that his station will thrive.

To young broadcasters, Judeh offers heartfelt advice: be prepared for hard work, long hours, and a focus on forming genuine connections with your audience. He urges interns to be respectful, listen carefully, and develop resilience in the face of criticism. Remaining calm under pressure and continuously honing foundational skills are essential. Above all, he encourages budding broadcasters to network actively and embrace feedback as a gateway to growth.

Judeh Ikami Judeh’s story is one of passion transformed into excellence, innovation, and a clear vision for the future of media in Nigeria. Broadcasting truly runs in his DNA.