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Interview: "I am the first graduate in my immediate family" — Mojeed Ajibola, Former Editor-in-Chief

This interview features Mojeed Ajibola, a recent graduate of Communication and Language Arts (CLA) and two-time Editor-in-Chief of Adh-Dhikr Press Organisation under the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, University of Ibadan (MSSNUI). He shares deep insights into his academic journey, his passion for writing and journalism, and the leadership experiences that shaped his time on campus.

Congratulations on the successful completion of your bachelor's degree programme. What does it feel like to be a graduate?

Thank you so much. I honestly feel fulfilled. There was a time I never believed I would make it to the university, even though I had always been among the brilliant students back in secondary school. I was the Senior Prefect Boy.

Coming from a family that didn’t place much value on western education, I had almost given up on the dream of furthering my studies. But here I am today—by Allah’s grace—the first graduate in my immediate family.

Alhamdulillah for the journey.

Brief us on your academic journey in Communication and Language Arts.

Well, I had never intended to study Communication and Language Arts. I wasn't even aware of the course until I was about to register for yet another JAMB in Lagos. After my attempt to study Mass Communication failed at Unilorin, I was advised to try UI, and that was when I got to know that UI doesn't offer Mass Communication but CLA. So, I had to opt for the latter.

You've been a great writer and public speaker. What motivated you to pursue these interests?

Thank you for the kind words. I’m still learning and growing in the two arts you mentioned. From a young age, I’ve always desired to make a meaningful impact. One of the clearest paths I discovered to etch my name in the sands of time and effect change in my environment is through writing and sharing my ideas. That’s why I’ve become intentional about developing my writing and public speaking skills.

How do you think your background and upbringing influenced your passion for writing and public speaking?

I'm from a family where nothing is really valued more than Islamic knowledge. Almost everyone in my family is an Alfa, a Muslim cleric. So, I was trained to be vocal right from childhood. But writing came to me as a passion, which I later developed to the stage I am at the moment.

As a student, how did you manage to write and publish four books? Tell us a bit about some of the books you've written and what inspired you to write them.

Like I said, writing is like a passion to me, and it's one of the ways I believe I can contribute to the society. Some of the books I wrote address prevalent issues in the society. For instance, The New Normal is a dramatic narration of incidents during the Coronavirus pandemic in Nigeria, while The Breakfast slightly discusses the effects of the ASUU strike on the lives of varsity students.

You served as the Editor-in-Chief of MSSNUI twice. What skills do you think led to your appointment, and what did you learn from the experience?

I don’t believe I possess any rare skills that made me a two-term Editor-in-Chief. What I can say is that I stood by the E-in-C who came before me and remained committed to the Press—always ready to learn and grow. During my time in the role, I learnt the importance of being open to corrections, collaborating effectively with team members, and paying close attention to detail.

You were engaged in many extracurricular activities while in school. Tell us some of them and how you balanced these responsibilities with your studies.

In my early days on campus, I immersed myself in various engagements. I was actively involved in the Press—both ACLAS Press and Adh-Dhikr Press—and also served as part of the UCJ publicity team. I held roles such as General Secretary of the Faculty of Arts, MSSN Weekly Meeting, and PRO I of NAOS UI. I was a member of Okigbo Poetry and even ventured beyond campus, working as a news reporter for an online newspaper, CityHill Online News. At the same time, I was authoring books, marketing them to schools, and hosting events as an MC both within and outside the university.

I have no hidden secret for balancing all these with my academics—except that I tried to carry out each task at its appropriate time, even though I admit I was occasionally negligent.

How do you handle criticism or negative feedback on your work?

Criticisms can be constructive or destructive. I take the former with good hearts and make amendments, while I ignore the latter most times.

What's the most exciting moment and worst moment, if any, that you experienced while in school?

I had my days of commendations and award winnings, as I had my days of loss, sickness and sadness. Everything is now in the past. We look forward to the future with an optimum optimism.

How do you think the skills you've developed from being an editor and serving in various organisations have prepared you for the future?

The skills I've developed from being an Editor-in-Chief and serving in various organizations have significantly prepared me for the future in several ways. As an editor, I've honed my ability to pay attention to detail, ensuring that every piece of writing is clear, accurate, and aligned with its intended message. This skill has not only sharpened my critical thinking but also improved my communication skills, enabling me to convey ideas effectively and make informed decisions.

Serving in organizations, particularly in leadership roles, has further developed my time management, team coordination, and problem-solving abilities. These experiences have taught me how to navigate different perspectives, collaborate effectively with diverse teams, and adapt to changing circumstances. My involvement in organizations has also nurtured my capacity to manage projects, meet deadlines, and handle pressure, all of which are essential in any future career.

Overall, these skills have prepared me for the future by equipping me with a strong foundation in leadership, communication, and adaptability, which are invaluable in any professional setting.

What are some of the most important things you're looking forward to achieving in the next phase of your career?

At this moment, I choose not to discuss the next phase, as it remains uncertain and not yet fully defined.

What advice would you give to others who are hoping to build a career in writing and public speaking?

To those aspiring to build a career in writing and public speaking, I advise you to be consistent and patient with your growth. Read widely, practice regularly, and find your unique voice. Understand your audience, seek feedback, and never stop learning. Success in this field comes with time, persistence, and a genuine passion for what you do.

Now that you've graduated, what's next? Postgrad?

Only if postgraduate will bring fortunes, it had better come later on. Let’s make money first.