By Joseph Joy Chidindu

In a significant development, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, has officially upgraded the Department of Mass Communication to a fully-fledged faculty, solidifying its commitment to academic excellence. This transformation was recently ratified during a pivotal session of the university’s senate held on Thursday.

The strategic move resulted in the expansion of the Mass Communication department to encompass Media Studies, leading to the establishment of the Faculty of Mass Communication and Media Studies.

Professor Muhammad Rabiu has been appointed as the inaugural Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.

Under the faculty, three distinct departments have emerged, each with a designated head. Professor Kaior Samuel Akpede heads the Department of Broadcasting; Dr. Tsegyu Santas takes the helm of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, and Dr. Anthony Ogande assumes leadership of the Department of Public Relations.

During the announcement, Dean Rabiu shared the vision for the future, quoting the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Suleiman Bala Mohammed. The Vice-Chancellor affirmed that, ”in due course, the remaining five departments within the unbundled Mass Communication programme would be unveiled for academic activities.”

These upcoming departments include Advertising, Development Communication Studies, Film and Multi-Media Studies, Information and Media Studies, and Strategic Communication Studies. This expansion not only broadens the academic offerings but also signifies Nasarawa State University’s dedication to staying at the forefront of contemporary communication studies.

The establishment of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies reflects the university’s commitment to providing a comprehensive and diverse education in the dynamic field of communication. With this move, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, is poised to make significant contributions to shaping the future of media and communication professionals.

Nigeria’s Universities regulatory body, the National Universities Commission, NUC had directed full implementation of the unbundling of the Mass Communication department to take effect from 2021.

Some Universities such as Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo; Lagos State University, (LASU), Lagos; Imo State University, (IMSU), Imo; University of Uyo, Bayero University, Kano (BUK), among others have elevated their Mass Communication Departments to Faculties.