NET at 2: Wedlock of promise and passion

By Kunle Bakare

It’s becoming increasingly difficult, in fact, very rare, to find young men of promise and passion in journalism, who can double as reporters and writers. Many times, you run into a crack reporter who manages to string passable pieces. Other occasions, you encounter a gifted writer who cannot investigate a story to save his life. And when you come across a writer and reporter, when you stumble on anyone, with some degree of seriousness and talent who is doubly blessed, you almost break into a dance. That was my impression when the young Ayeni Adekunle Samuel decided to call ENCOMIUM home many years ago.

He came with hunger and determination, was interested in building a career in journalism. And I watched keenly as he developed his craft and contacts, went about his job like a man with a mission. As the years rolled by, he made an impressive mark as an entertainment reporter. With many scoops and engaging interviews under his belt, the entertainment column, NOTES & TONES, wore a gorgeous garb. It became one of the most read segments in the journal – and its followership became addicted. Even when Ayeni the Great, as he’s fondly addressed, left the Post-graduate School of Journalism, as we in ENCOMIUM love to refer to our company, we knew he would be a good ambassador.

From THIS DAY to PUNCH, and now the Nigerian Entertainment Today, he has made a remarkable impact. NET, the journal, and its online version, thenetng.com, are doing a beautiful job of recording history in entertainment. Breaking new grounds and redefining entertainment journalism, they lead on many fronts. And in two years, NET and thenetng.com have done so brilliantly well.

The journal will improve with better graphics, and the on-line version, with colourful designs. For Nigerian Entertainment Today, I know the future is bright and beautiful. But they should always be hungry and determined, and care about making a difference. Congratulations! Like the colourful people of South-west Nigeria say, Igba o dun,o dun kan…

*Kunle Bakare is a veteran celebrity journalist and publisher of ENCOMIUM magazine