Working in a bank does not automatically make one a banker. In the same vein, possessing excellent interview skills or being adept at collecting and interpreting information does not confer the professional title of *Journalist* unless one has acquired the requisite formal training in Journalism or Mass Communication.
To clarify, there are undoubtedly many individuals delivering exceptional work in reporting, broadcasting, and print media. However, no matter how many years they may have spent in the field, their dedication and experience alone do not qualify them as *Journalists* in the legal or professional sense
According to the Nigerian Press Council Act (originally a Decree), a *Journalist* is defined as a person who is not less than 18 years of age and has *attended* an accredited institution offering journalism or mass communication, and is actively engaged in the collection, collation, and interpretation of information. This definition clearly excludes so-called *citizen journalists* or passionate practitioners without formal education in the field.
The argument is similar in law. One might possess a law degree and demonstrate exceptional legal acumen, yet still not be considered a *Lawyer* under the Legal Practitioners Act (Section 2). Only individuals who have been certified by the Council of Legal Education, deemed fit and proper by the Body of Benchers, and formally called to the Bar can claim that title regardless of talent or academic prowess.
The same principle applies across professions. There are gifted mechanics whose skills rival those of formally trained engineers, but without accredited engineering qualifications, they cannot rightly be called *Mechanical Engineers*. Just as matrons in maternity homes, no matter how experienced, cannot claim the title of *Gynaecologist*.
This discourse is not meant to diminish the contributions of passionate individuals who transition into professional roles through practice. Their work is valid and often valuable. However, without the necessary formal qualifications, they perform professional duties without assuming the professional status.
*— Bar. Ben Udechukwu*
03 May 2025
