Digital Tools Key to 21st Century Journalism – Ajara Tells Sports Writers

Digital Tools Key to 21st Century Journalism – Ajara Tells Sports Writers

Sports journalists have been urged to embrace continuous learning and upgrade their digital tools to remain relevant in the fast-evolving media landscape.

This charge was given by Mr. Tijani Ajara, Chief Executive Officer of 132 Media, while facilitating a Digital Media Refresher Session organised by the Kwara State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Centre, George Innih Stadium Complex, Ilorin.

Ajara stressed that sports reporting in the 21st century requires both modern knowledge and digital gadgets, describing high-resolution phones and quality cameras as essential tools, not luxuries.

“A high-resolution phone is not a luxury; it is a tool needed to serve the community. Don’t leave your community in the dark,” he admonished.

Highlighting the dynamics of sports coverage, Ajara urged journalists to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to reduce errors but cautioned against overreliance.

“A digital media professional who cannot use AI is still backwards in operations. Exploring AI is not a crime, but never allow it to think for you. Al Jazeera, BBC, and CNN use AI, but they refine it to align with their editorial standards,” he explained.

He further advised SWAN to build a formidable digital platform, explore automation tools like Hootsuite, and consider establishing an online radio and television channel dedicated to sports.

Ajara also emphasized the importance of mastering camera settings such as composition, speed, resolution, and depth of field.

“If you are using your phone to take still or motion pictures, position yourself as the cameraman. That is how to be useful to the community,” he said.

In his opening remarks, Kwara SWAN Chairman, Mr. Ismail Ayodeji, who welcomed members to the training session said the training reflected the association’s commitment to equipping its members for the realities of modern sports reportage.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, commended SWAN’s leadership for prioritising capacity building and urged participants to apply the knowledge to improve their craft.

Similarly, Chairman of Kwara United FC, Mr. Kunbi Titiloye, praised SWAN for fostering professional growth among members and promised continued partnership. 

He also expressed appreciation to Taiwo Awoniyi for donating the media centre, describing the facility as “a beautiful edifice for the advancement of sports journalism.”