Veteran broadcaster and media development expert Moji Makanjuola has built a formidable legacy as one of Nigeria’s foremost voices in health journalism and women’s advocacy. With a career spanning several decades, she has consistently used the media as a powerful tool to educate, inform, and drive social change.
Makanjuola rose to national prominence through her work with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she became a household name and later pioneered the Health and Gender Desk. In this role, she championed critical reporting on public health issues, helping to raise awareness on diseases, maternal health, and preventive care at a time when such conversations were limited.
Her impact extended beyond the newsroom into national and global health advocacy. She played a significant role in promoting immunisation campaigns, particularly in efforts to eradicate polio in Nigeria, using her platform to counter misinformation and encourage community acceptance. Her work demonstrated how journalism can directly influence public health outcomes and save lives.
A passionate advocate for women in media, Makanjuola also served as President of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), where she worked to advance gender equity, mentor young female journalists, and create opportunities for women to thrive in the profession. Her leadership helped strengthen the presence and voice of women within Nigeria’s media landscape.
Beyond broadcasting, she is an author and institution builder. Her book, Health Journalism: A Journey with Moji Makanjuola, chronicles her professional experiences and contributions to the field. She also founded the International Society of Media in Public Health, further cementing her commitment to advancing the role of media in improving health systems and outcomes.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to journalism and national development, she was conferred with the prestigious national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), a testament to her enduring impact and service.
Today, as Moji Makanjuola marks her 70th birthday, she is celebrated not just for her years, but for a lifetime of influence, leadership, and transformation. Her journey continues to inspire generations of women to pursue excellence, use their voices for good, and contribute meaningfully to society.
At 70, her legacy stands as a powerful reminder that journalism, when driven by purpose, can shape narratives, change lives, and build a better future.
