By Emmanuel Alabi

Veteran Nigerian actress and media professional, Mrs Gloria Young, on Wednesday (27 January, 2026) delivered a lecture to HND I students of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), where she shared her career journey in journalism and acting, while underscoring the importance of professionalism, credibility and integrity in media practice.

Mrs Young, who studied journalism at NIJ after earlier training in Mass Communication abroad, revealed that she began her journalism career at Daily Times, working first in the sports desk before moving on to serve as an energy correspondent. She later worked with Classique Magazine, where she focused on stories centred on social issues and matters of public interest.

She explained that although she had an early passion for drama, acting was not initially a priority. However, after working as a scriptwriter with Charlie Boy on the Charlie Boy Show, she gradually built an acting career that has spanned more than 31 years. Her debut film, Glamour Girls, in 1995, marked the formal beginning of her professional acting journey.

During the session, Mrs Young emphasised core ethical values essential for journalists and media practitioners. She advised students to always “read the room” when reporting, noting that emotional intelligence is crucial in news gathering and storytelling. She also warned strongly against accepting inducements, commonly referred to as “brown envelopes,” stressing that journalists must never compromise their credibility.

“As a reporter, you have to be able to read the room, avoid brown envelopes, and never compromise your credibility,” she said.

She further encouraged students to remain committed to their chosen careers and to work diligently despite early challenges, adding that professionalism and integrity are the foundations of long-term success in both journalism and the entertainment industry.

The interactive session concluded with students engaging the veteran actress in discussions on career development, ethics, and the realities of working in Nigeria’s media and entertainment sectors, leaving many inspired by her experiences and practical insights.

(Other members – Media Coverage (Print & Online): Akogun Esther, Ogunribido Toluwalope, Taiwo Oladele, and Precious Adenle.)