From Law to Media: Aniekeme Finbarr’s Bold Journey in Reshaping Nigerian Journalism

From Law to Media: Aniekeme Finbarr’s Bold Journey in Reshaping Nigerian Journalism

Aniekeme Finbarr, Edward Murrow Journalism Fellowship winner, standing wearing a blue and red plaid shirt, black plants, and a white shirt. He’s standing to the left of a blue sign on the wall that reads “Pew Research Center.” There are white cabinets beneath the large, glossy blue sign.

Aniekeme At the Pew Research Center, Washington, DC.

From his early days sharpening debate skills at a Catholic seminary to becoming a Special Assistant on Media for his State Governor, Aniekeme’s journey is a story of resilience, passion, and purpose. His pivot from law school to a career in communications has taken him to esteemed platforms, including the Edward R. Murrow Fellowship and the 2024 IVLP Impact Award. A firm believer in the power of journalism to drive social change, Aniekeme has dedicated his career to amplifying voices and upholding journalistic integrity. These prestigious awards reflect his unwavering dedication to journalism and his impact on his community. In this interview, Aniekeme shares how these experiences have shaped his career, his vision for fostering ethical and innovative journalism in Nigeria, and his inspiring “Next Generation Journalists” project.

Q: Can you give us some insights about your background? What led you to pursue communications as your area of study?

Growing up, my life was shaped by the values of discipline and hard work, courtesy of my parents. My father, a surveyor, and my mother, a high school teacher, instilled in me the importance of education and integrity. Our household was a hub of activity, with my parents balancing their careers and family life. My childhood was pretty straightforward – my three main stomping grounds were home, school, and church.

I attended Queen of Apostles Seminary in Abak, a Catholic school originally intended for grooming future priests. Although I wasn’t destined for the priesthood, the school’s emphasis on academics and extracurricular activities helped shape my skills and interests. I excelled in Classics, English Language, and English Literature, which laid the foundation for my future pursuits. As the Master of Readings and Lead Debater, I developed my public speaking skills and learned to articulate my thoughts effectively.

After completing high school, I was admitted to study law at the University of Uyo. However, during my second year, I discovered my true passion—communications and broadcasting. I was captivated by the world of radio and television and began exploring opportunities in the field. A veteran broadcaster at the state radio station took me under his wing and offered me a chance to guest present on his show. That moment marked the beginning of my communications career.

Although my law studies suffered, I couldn’t shake off the excitement of sharing stories and connecting with audiences. The thrill of live broadcasts, the rush of adrenaline, and the sense of responsibility that came with shaping public opinion drew me in. I eventually made the difficult decision to drop out of law school.

Years later, I returned to the University of Uyo, this time to pursue Communication Arts. It was a defining moment, as I finally aligned my academic pursuits with my passions. While at university, I continued to hone my broadcasting and public speaking skills.

My big break came when I was appointed to the media team of my State Governor as a Special Assistant on Media. This was an incredible opportunity to apply my skills in a real-world setting. Four years later, I was promoted to Special Assistant on new Media, overseeing the governor’s online presence and communications strategy.

My hard work and dedication culminated in my nomination for the prestigious Edward Murrow Fellowship, part of the United States Department of State’s International Visitors Leadership Programme (IVLP). This recognition validated my choices and opened doors to new experiences, networks, and knowledge.

Looking back, I realize that twists and turns marked my journey, but each step led me closer to my true calling. My advice to younger versions of myself and undergraduate students would be to remain open to opportunities, take calculated risks, and stay true to your passions. The path may not always be linear, but with persistence and dedication, you’ll find your way to a fulfilling career.

Aniekeme Finbarr observing a librarian wearing a blue dress shirt and black pants, with shoulder length dirty blonde hair. She is holding a book above a table. On the table are books and maps and other Edward Murrow Fellowship winners standing around the table.
Aniekeme with his colleagues during a visit to the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum, Ohio State University.

Q: How did you hear about the Edward Murrow Fellowship? And what made you a successful candidate?

The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), which the Murrow Fellowship is a part of, doesn’t have an application process. I was nominated for it by the staff at the U.S. Embassy in my country in Nigeria.

Instead, U.S. Embassies around the world identify and nominate emerging leaders who positively impact their communities.

As someone passionate about communications and broadcasting and working in the field for several years, I was honored to be recognized and nominated for this opportunity. My experience as a Special Assistant on Media to my State Governor, and later as Special Assistant, New Media, likely caught the attention of the embassy staff.

Being selected for the Edward R. Murrow Fellowship was a testament to the value of my work in promoting effective communication and governance in my home country. The fellowship allowed me to connect with American counterparts and colleagues from 22 countries, learn from their experiences, and share my perspectives on the intersection of media, policy, and democracy.

The IVLP’s goal of fostering mutual understanding between the U.S. and other nations resonated deeply with me. Participating in the program aimed to expand my professional network, gain new insights, and contribute to developing more effective communication strategies that can benefit my country and the global community.

Key factors that I think made me a successful candidate were:

Demonstrated leadership; my experience in governance and media roles showcased my ability to lead and inspire others.

Passion for communications: My commitment to promoting effective communication and governance is aligned with the IVLP’s goals.

Community impact: My work positively impacted my community, making me a strong candidate for the fellowship. I wrote my first book, Dare It, Do It, which narrated my experience after dropping out of university and picking up the pieces of my life.

Overall, being part of the Edward R. Murrow Fellowship was an incredible experience that broadened my horizons, challenged my assumptions, and empowered me to make an even more significant difference in my community.

Aniekeme Finbarr standing at the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum, wearing a blue dress shirt, blue stripped tie, and dark blue pants. He is standing with other fellowship winners, taking a tour of the building.

Aniekeme visiting the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum.

Q: Then, tell us about your time as a journalism fellow. What did you do during the fellowship? And what was the biggest takeaway from that experience?

As an Edward R. Murrow Fellow, I had the privilege of embarking on a transformative journey through the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). Over several weeks, I traveled across the United States, engaging with renowned media organizations, academic institutions, and journalism experts. Here’s a glimpse into my fellowship experience:

I took part in professional study tours, including stops at Voice of America and WAMU 88.5 in Washington, D.C., where I explored the intricacies of international broadcasting and public radio storytelling. Here, I gained insights into media strategy at the Strategy Group for Media in Delaware, Ohio, and discovered the impact of visual storytelling at the Billy Ireland Political Cartoon Library at Ohio State University. Public broadcasting’s role in fostering community engagement came to life during visits to WOSU-TV in Columbus and WEDU-TV in Tampa, Florida. I saw the power of local journalism at Florida This Week newspapers and community-driven radio at KGNU 88.5 in Boulder, Colorado, and innovative approaches to storytelling at Longmont Public Media.

The fellowship also took me to prestigious academic and training institutions, where I engaged with journalism’s intellectual and practical dimensions. At the City University of New York (CUNY) and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, I learned from leading faculty and alumni about urban reporting and cutting-edge research. The International Center for Journalists provided training in investigative techniques, while the Pew Research Center offered insights into data-driven journalism. Programs like the Kiplinger Program at Ohio University and the Poynter Institute in Florida enhanced my skills in digital journalism, ethics, and fact-checking. At the same time, institutions such as NYU’s Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute and the University of Colorado, Boulder, explored the intersection of media, technology, and society.

The Edward R. Murrow Fellowship was a life-changing experience that transformed my approach to journalism and deepened my understanding of the field. One of the biggest takeaways was engaging with journalists, academics, and media experts from diverse backgrounds, which broadened my perspective on global journalism. I encountered innovative storytelling techniques, from data-driven journalism to compelling visual narratives, that redefined how stories can be crafted and shared.

The fellowship also offered a comprehensive look at the rapidly evolving media landscape, including the growing influence of social media, podcasts, and online publishing, reshaping how information is disseminated and consumed. Along the way, I built a network of lasting connections with fellow journalists, academics, and media professionals, each offering unique insights and inspiration.

Ultimately, I returned home with new skills and knowledge and a renewed enthusiasm to drive positive change through journalism. The experience strengthened my commitment to innovation, excellence, and ethical practices, equipping me to tackle the challenges of modern journalism with confidence and purpose.

Aniekeme Finbarr wearing traditional Nigerian clothes standing next to a green sign that read “Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism.” The image is taken outside the building.

Aniekeme at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, City University of New York.

Q: You also won the 2024 IVLP Impact Award! Can you tell us about this project?

I’m thrilled to share my experience winning the 2024 IVLP Impact Award and my “Next Generation Journalists” project. The IVLP Impact Award is a grant program recognizing outstanding alumni of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). As one of the 120 alumni from 101 countries to receive this award, I felt honored to be selected for this prestigious recognition.

Participation in the Edward R. Murrow Fellowship qualified me for the IVLP Impact Award.

This recognition honored my work as a journalist and provided a unique opportunity to give back to my community.

As an Edward R. Murrow Fellow, I had already benefited from the IVLP’s transformative experience, engaging with renowned media organizations and academic institutions across the United States. The IVLP Impact Award grant enabled me to launch the “Next Generation Journalists” project to equip 60 fresh journalism graduates with essential skills in digital media, AI, and ethical reporting.

The project’s objectives were clear: enhance digital media literacy, build capacity in AI-driven journalism tools, and foster ethical reporting practices. To implement the training, I partnered with three tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria: the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State University, and Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic.

Over several sessions, participants learned about digital media tools, including social media management, content creation, and analytics. They were also introduced to AI applications in journalism, such as data analysis, automated content generation, and fact-checking. Ethical reporting practices were also emphasized, including media ethics, conflict of interest, and responsible journalism.

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Participants described the training as “eye-opening” and “practical,” expressing gratitude for the opportunity to acquire skills that would enhance their journalism practice. One trainee, Faith Aniekan, noted, “This has surely equipped us well as we set out to practice.”

This project represents a way of giving back to society, leveraging the knowledge and expertise gained during my IVLP experience. I hope to contribute to a more informed and responsible media landscape in Nigeria by empowering the next generation of journalists.

The IVLP Impact Award and the “Next Generation Journalists” project have defined my career, underscoring the power of international exchange programs and the importance of paying it forward. I am grateful to the U.S. Department of State for this recognition and look forward to continuing to promote excellence in journalism.

I think I have inspired a new wave of journalists equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital age, uphold the highest standards of ethics, and tell the stories that need to be told. The future of journalism looks brighter, and I am proud to be part of shaping it.

Q: What are your plans and goals? How have these past experiences shaped them?

My immediate focus is expanding the “Next Generation Journalists” project, which aims to equip emerging journalists with essential skills in digital media, AI, and ethical reporting. I plan to extend this initiative to other regions in Nigeria, targeting a minimum of 200 participants annually. Additionally, I seek to establish partnerships with local media organizations to provide internship opportunities, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

In the long term, I envision establishing a Center for Journalism Excellence in Nigeria, offering comprehensive training programs, workshops, and resources for journalists. This center will serve as a hub for professional development and foster a culture of excellence and ethics in journalism. Furthermore, I plan to launch an online platform for investigative journalism, focusing on in-depth reporting and storytelling that sheds light on critical issues affecting Nigerian society.

On a personal level, I remain committed to advocating for press freedom and media independence in Nigeria. I aim to share my expertise with global audiences through public speaking and thought leadership, inspiring others to join the quest for journalistic excellence. I also intend to publish research papers and articles on journalism and media development, contributing to the ongoing conversation about the role of media in shaping society.

My experiences have taught me invaluable lessons. I’ve learned that collaboration and partnerships are essential for achieving meaningful impact. Investing in the next generation of journalists is crucial for sustainability. Moreover, adaptability and resilience are vital for navigating the ever-changing media landscape.

The Edward R. Murrow Fellowship exposed me to global best practices in journalism, sparking a desire to replicate these standards in Nigeria. The IVLP Impact Award granted me the resources to launch the “Next Generation Journalists” project, demonstrating the potential for impactful community engagement. Interactions with international journalists and media experts broadened my perspective on the role of journalism in promoting democracy and social change.

As I embark on this journey, I’m guided by a deep commitment to promoting excellence in journalism and contributing to a more informed, engaged, and democratic society. My past experiences have illuminated the path ahead, and I’m eager to make a lasting impact.

Aniekeme Finbarr fellowship winner standing in group photo with other Edward Murrow Fellowship winners. The group is all standing in front of the same blue Pew Research Center sign.

Aniekeme (fourth from the left), with his colleagues at the Pew Research Centre, Washington DC.

Q: Finally, can you share any advice for our readers?

As aspiring journalists and current practitioners, develop a strong writing, reporting, and storytelling foundation. Stay curious and keep learning, as journalism is a constantly evolving field. Building a professional network through workshops, conferences, and journalism organizations will serve you well. Consider specializing in a niche, such as investigative or environmental journalism, to differentiate yourself. A graduate degree can also provide advanced skills and credentials.

When applying for fellowships, research thoroughly to understand the program’s goals, eligibility, and requirements. Tailor your application to showcase relevant skills and experiences, highlighting your passion and commitment to the field. Secure strong letters of recommendation and persist through rejections, using them as opportunities to improve.

Beyond these practical tips, I urge you to cultivate resilience. Journalism can be challenging, and criticism and rejection are inevitable. Stay true to your values and ethics, maintaining integrity and objectivity in your work. Collaborate and seek feedback, recognizing that journalism is a team effort. Adapt to changing technologies and platforms, staying ahead of the curve. Prioritize self-care, acknowledge the emotional demands of journalism, and take care of your mental and physical health.

I’ve faced setbacks, including dropping out of law school, but I’ve stayed focused on my journalism goals. Seeking mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals helped me navigate challenges. I’ve learned to persevere, using failures as opportunities for growth and improvement.

To those embarking on this journey, journalism is a noble profession with the power to shape society. Stay open-minded and willing to explore new perspectives and ideas. Engage with your community, recognizing that journalism is about telling stories that matter to people’s lives. Celebrate successes, acknowledging and celebrating your achievements, no matter how small. Keep learning, and embracing the lifelong journey of journalism.

In conclusion, pursuing a journalism career requires dedication, resilience, and passion. Fellowships like the Edward R. Murrow Fellowship and IVLP Impact Award can provide valuable opportunities for growth and development. Believe in yourself, your abilities, and the power of journalism to shape the world.

As you navigate this journey, remember that every setback is an opportunity for growth and a challenge to learn. Stay committed to your goals, and with persistence and determination, you’ll make a meaningful impact in the world of journalism.

Interested in pursuing a journalism fellowship yourself? Be sure to create a free ProFellow account to access the database with numerous similar opportunities.

Headshot of Aniekeme Finbarr wearing a blue suite, a dark and light blue stripped tie, and white dress collared shirt underneath.

Aniekeme Finbarr is a distinguished Nigerian broadcast journalist, public servant, and professional speaker. Currently, he is the Chief Executive at Finbarr Consults Limited. He recently resigned as Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Government on Social Reorientation, where he leveraged his expertise to drive positive change. Previously, he spent eight years as a Special Assistant on New Media, harnessing the power of digital communication to engage citizens. With a versatile career spanning media, communications, and public service, Aniekeme has worked as a newspaper columnist, radio on-air personality, programs manager, sports editor, business coach, and brand ambassador. He advises top CEOs and governments across Nigeria. Aniekeme holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts from the University of Uyo and is completing his Master’s in Public Relations and Marketing Communications.

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