Students from the Department of Mass Communication, Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) yesterday, won the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) Capacity Building Challenge, defeating contenders from other institutions.
The event, held at Afe Babalola Hall, University of Lagos (UNILAG), featured students from leading institutions including UNILAG, Lagos State University (LASU), Trinity University, and Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH).
LASUSTECH’s Agbonware Favour emerged as the overall winner, receiving a cash prize of ₦100,000. While her colleague, Williams Peniel, placed sixth and won ₦25,000.
The programme, tagged Media Literacy and Capacity Building, included training sessions on filmmaking disciplines such as directing, cinematography, acting, and screenwriting. The challenge required participants to create videos under the theme Naija Spirit, which were shared on social media using the hashtag #NFVCBCAPACITYBUILDING.
A highlight of the event was a speech by a public affairs officer from the US Embassy, Mrs Julie McKay, who emphasized the importance of media literacy in combating misinformation and disinformation.
"Media literacy is essential in today's digital age. It equips us to critically evaluate information and make informed decisions," the official noted, urging students to become critical thinkers and informed content creators.
Mrs. Toki Mabogunje a lawyer, broadcaster, and poet Mrs. Toki Mabogunje expressed optimism about the future of Nollywood and encouraged students to embrace networking opportunities.
"The NFVCB has played a vital role in setting standards for the media industry. As students, you are the future of Nigeria’s creative sector. Take every opportunity to learn and grow," she advised.
In his contribution, Nollywood actor, Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr. Latin and the president of TAMPAN, also advised the students on the value of combining academic qualifications with practical experience.
"There will come a time when, despite your practical experience, people will ask you for your certificate," he said.
Amusan revealed that he returned to school to study cinematography and film studies at the National Open University of Nigeria. He urged students to embrace both theoretical and practical learning to succeed in the creative industry.
Reacting to the outcome of the challenge, the Head of the Department, Dr. Steven Anu Adesemoye, expressed pride in the students’ achievements. "To other institutions, we may just be one of the schools running Mass Communication, but to us, we are exceptional. Today, they see rookies, but I see champions. Let us continue to strive for excellence and leave a lasting legacy wherever we go," he said.
Dr. Adesemoye also commended Mr. Ibrahim Fatoyinbo, the department’s lecturer and studio manager of LASUSTECH 101.9FM, for his role in the success.
Dr. Aderogba Adedamola, Dean of Student Affairs, encouraged the students to continue building their portfolios. "Your undergraduate degree alone is not enough. Certificates like this give you an edge in the real world. Start accumulating them now," he advised.
Agbonware Favour, speaking on her victory, said:
"I’m immensely grateful to God, the author and finisher of my faith. A huge thank you to NFVCB for this recognition, which means the world to me. I extend my gratitude to LASUSTECH, the Mass Communication Department, and especially Mr. Ibrahim Fatoyinbo for believing in me. This award is proof that our efforts were not in vain."
Williams Peniel also shared her joy, stating:
"Winning this award is one of the many milestones I’ll achieve. I was already saving for content creation tools, and getting them as gifts makes me happier than words can describe. My heartfelt thanks go to my lecturers, colleagues, and Favour, who supported and motivated me throughout this journey."
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