‘If you can work in Tribune, you can work anywhere’
Pastor (Mrs) Temitayo Gesinde, a graduate of Linguistics from the University of Ibadan, worked with the Nigerian Tribune for 20 years. She disengaged and set up a fashion business. She also pastors at the Charis Family International Church, Ring Road, Ibadan. Recently, she clocked 50 years and published two books–“Finding Purpose: From the Newsroom to the Pulpit” and “Abba’s Favourite.” In this interview with TheTabloid.net, Geshinde reflects on media, business and the church. Excerpts
What made the Nigerian Tribune both entry and departure points of your media career?
My journey into journalism was divinely ordained by God. I studied Linguistics at the University of Ibadan. Shortly after completing my youth service, Dr Dotun Okubanjo, a friend of my late father, visited us and asked whether I wanted to pursue a Masters degree or get a job. I told him I preferred to work so I could support my mother in raising my siblings. As the first of five children, we lost our father while I was writing my final examinations. He then asked if I would like to work in a media organisation and I said I was willing to try. He gave me a note to the then Executive Director of Publications, Mr Folu Olamiti. When I got to Tribune, I wrote the entry test and passed. That was how I was employed in 2001. Since I did not study Mass Communication, I had to learn on the job. My senior colleagues and editors were very supportive throughout the process. I truly enjoyed being part of the Tribune family. After 20 years of service, I resigned to pursue my dream of becoming an entrepreneur.
Nigerian Tribune is often described as an informal media classroom, do you share this view?
I completely agree. I learnt a great deal at Tribune. If you can work in Tribune, you can work anywhere. It is a true training ground where you must always be on top of your game. The editors have no patience for excuses, they expect results. As a reporter or columnist, you cannot afford to rest on your oars, you must constantly go in search of news. There was no room for laziness. I handled specialised pages, so I was always on the move looking for women to interview. It was not easy, but God helped me.
Why did you choose to disengage from journalism at that particular stage of your career?
Journalism is time consuming, and I chose to step away so I could devote more time to my ministerial assignment, my family, and my business. Moreover, the Bible says in Ecclesiastes chapter 3 verse 1 that to everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven. I believe it was time for me to leave. Twenty years of working in a private organisation is no joke, and I am grateful for the experience and lessons gained.
How would you describe life as an entrepreneur in today’s Nigeria?
Entrepreneurship is a completely different ball game. I started the business while I was still at Tribune as a side hustle, but it is only now that I am fully into it that I have truly realised the challenges involved. To be an entrepreneur in Nigeria today, you need patience, perseverance, and resilience. Inflation, low purchasing power, and other economic pressures are real challenges, but with patience, perseverance, and prayers, things will surely get better. We will not give up. We will keep praying and believing that Nigeria will get better in our time.
Do you miss the newsroom experience at all?
Not really. I am happy with where I am and what I am doing now. The only thing I miss is the people, not the newsroom itself. I do not miss the pressure that comes with production.
How did your journey into pastoral ministry begin?
I was born and raised in the Anglican Church, but I never imagined that I would one day become a pastor. I joined the choir as a child and later became a children’s church teacher. I served in the children’s church for many years before I received the pastoral call. I must confess that it took me some time to respond. Contrary to what many people think, pastoring is not easy. As a pastor, you are entrusted with the destinies of people, and God will hold you accountable. With the guidance and support of my spiritual parents, Pastors Tunde and Moji Jaiyebo, and my mentor, Pastor Olu Odubanjo, I eventually heeded the call and was ordained a pastor on May 16, 2021. Prior to my ordination, I attended the Charis Ministry Training Institute. It was there I discovered my purpose.
Is there a connection between the newsroom and the pulpit?
Yes, I believe there is. While one is secular and the other is spiritual, both serve as powerful platforms for teaching, influencing minds, and shaping lives. In different ways, each speaks to people’s values, perspectives, and everyday decisions.
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