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Speakers Emphasise Power of Communication at First Communication Seminar

Speakers at Adh-Dhikr Press First Communication Seminar have emphasised the central role of communication in academic success, career advancement and societal impact.

The seminar, themed “From Words to Impact,” was held on Saturday, 27th September, 2025, at the Faculty of Science Lecture Theatre (Lakeside).

Delivering the first keynote address on “Reinventing Your Communication Strategies for Critical Academic and Career Growth,” the speaker, Mr. Mutiu Iyanda Lasisi, stressed how active participation in societies and organisations on campus can significantly shape one’s career.

Mr. Lasisi highlighted the importance of communication skills in standing out in the labour market.

“Stakeholders need people who can communicate, because communication is key,” he said.

He urged students to link classroom theories to real-world challenges.

“If you can’t connect what you are learning in class to what you want to do on the job, you are playing! Apart from your grades, you need to be able to apply what you’ve learnt to the field,” he added.

He concluded by announcing that the top three winners of the oratory contest would receive scholarships to a mentorship programme valued at ₦300,000.

The second keynote speaker, Mr Tunde Onakoya, popularly known as “The Mechanic,” spoke on “Mastering the Message: Turning Expertise into Impact.”

He likened expertise to crude oil and communication to the refinery that brings out its true value.

“Expertise is like crude oil; it has value but cannot be used directly, while communication is the refinery that refines our value and skill,” he explained.

His presentation was anchored on what he described as the “five pillars of mastering the message” — clarity, storytelling, knowing your audience, personal branding, and consistency.

“The clearer you are, the more people believe you,” he noted.

He encouraged the audience to share their stories, avoid ambiguity, and understand their audience.

He further advised them to build personal brands on trust and integrity, asking, “What do people think when they hear your name?”

Mr Onakoya urged participants to embrace social platforms, join organisations, seek feedback, and keep showing up even when results seem discouraging.

“Consistency turns a message into impact. Do not only be an expert in your field; be a messenger of your expertise,” he stated.

He reminded participants: “Don’t ask, ‘Did I speak well?’ Ask instead, ‘Did my message make an impact?’”

The seminar also featured an oratory contest alongside a range of engaging activities, including a discussion session, picture prompt speech, impromptu speech, and spoken word performances.

Coverage Team: Ubaydah Najmudeen, Azeezah Durotola, Halimah Lawal, Sudais Shuaib, Azeezat Maruf, Faidah Abdulkareem