The wave of criticism trailing the recently concluded Arewa Media Summit is neither surprising nor entirely unexpected. In today’s climate, public initiatives are often judged not by their intentions or long-term potential, but by the unrealistic expectation that they must achieve perfection at first attempt. That is neither fair nor constructive.
The Arewa Media Summit was the first of its kind. As a maiden edition, it should be evaluated for what it sought to accomplish: bringing together media professionals, policymakers, government officials, academics, and other stakeholders to begin a meaningful conversation about the future of media in Northern Nigeria. On that score, the summit succeeded.
To dismiss it as “just another political gathering” is to ignore an undeniable reality: the media and governance are inseparable in every democracy. The media shapes public opinion, scrutinizes leadership, informs citizens, and influences policy. It is therefore both natural and necessary for government and media practitioners to engage one another in an atmosphere of dialogue. Such engagement should not automatically be viewed with suspicion.
What is more disappointing is the tendency by some critics to focus exclusively on perceived shortcomings while ignoring the significance of the initiative itself. Institutions are not built overnight. No conference, summit, or forum has ever solved decades of complex challenges in a single sitting. The value of such gatherings lies in setting an agenda, creating networks, and establishing continuity for future engagement.
Those who genuinely desire a stronger media ecosystem in Northern Nigeria should be asking how the summit can be improved—not whether it should have existed at all. Constructive criticism strengthens institutions; cynicism weakens them.
Special commendation must go to AbdulAziz AbdulAziz, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media, whose leadership and commitment made the summit a reality. Bringing together diverse voices under one platform required vision, coordination, and courage. Rather than waiting for perfect conditions, he chose to act. Leadership is measured not by avoiding criticism but by initiating solutions.
History reminds us that every enduring institution begins with a first edition. Every respected conference, every influential forum, and every transformative movement started as an experiment before evolving into a tradition. The Arewa Media Summit deserves the same opportunity to grow.
The conversation should now move beyond criticism toward improvement. Stakeholders should contribute ideas, expand participation, deepen discussions, and ensure that subsequent editions become even more impactful. That is how meaningful institutions are built.
Northern Nigeria stands at a critical moment in its media development. It needs platforms that encourage responsible journalism, promote professionalism, foster innovation, and strengthen collaboration. The Arewa Media Summit has taken the first bold step in that direction.
Let us not become a society that discourages pioneers simply because they did not produce perfection on their first attempt. Progress belongs to those who dare to begin.
Contributor:
Ishaq Sidi Ishaq
Communication Consultant & Filmmaker
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