“There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise.” — Bosa Sebele
In an industry defined by deadlines, headlines, and shifting narratives, Imani Odey stands out—not just as a journalist but as a phenomenon. A decade into her career, she has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most respected voices in electronic media, a woman whose grit and grace have carved a path for others to follow.
Having a career in journalism is both exciting and rewarding, but it is also unrelentingly challenging. In moments when life throws curveballs, even the strongest among us need inspiration to keep pushing forward. Imani’s story reminds us that determination, vision, and focus can transform not only careers but also communities and policies.
Today, as the Special Adviser on Electronic Media to Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State, Imani Odey is redefining media engagement in governance. But her rise to prominence is not the product of chance; it is the culmination of years of hard work, dogged investigative reporting, and an unwavering belief in the power of storytelling.
Breaking Barriers with Stories That Matter
Imani Odey’s career is a testament to the transformative power of journalism. In 2018, while international media organizations like the BBC, Al Jazeera, and AFP operated comfortably from afar, she ventured into Becheve, a remote community in Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State. There, she unearthed and documented an archaic and disturbing tradition known as “money woman”—a practice where unborn girls were pledged into forced marriages as debt repayment.
Her documentary didn’t just make headlines; it moved hearts and rattled governments. Suddenly, the world’s media turned its gaze to Becheve, and the community became a point of global interest. Journalists and activists flocked to the area, amplifying a story that might have remained buried without Imani’s fearless intervention.
But that wasn’t her only groundbreaking work. Her fearless exposure of the activities of the Bakassi Strike Force—a militant group that had annexed communities in Bakassi and Akpabuyo—sparked national conversations and pressured the government into initiating an amnesty program for the militants.
In yet another display of advocacy journalism, she drew attention to the Calabar-Odukpani-Biase road, a stretch of highway that had become a death trap for commuters. Her reporting forced authorities to carry out critical repairs, saving countless lives and reviving local economies.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Imani’s journey into journalism began during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year at the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) Sokoto Network Centre. After NYSC, she was retained by NTA and served as Government House Correspondent in Calabar before joining Channels Television to broaden her horizons.
Over the years, her work has transcended mere reporting; it has informed policies, inspired grassroots change, and earned her accolades at state and national levels. She is widely regarded as a mentor to young journalists, particularly women, encouraging them to pursue the profession with integrity and empathy.
In recognition of her talent and work ethic, former Cross River State governor Prof. Ben Ayade appointed her Special Assistant on Electronic Media. Today, Governor Bassey Otu has elevated her to Special Adviser on Electronic Media, a role she occupies not through lobbying but through sheer merit.
“Once a star rises,” says a close associate, “it dims only when the Creator demands.”
The Woman Behind the Microphone
A native of Bekwarra in Northern Cross River State, Imani holds a degree in Theatre and Performing Arts from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. She is a proud member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and is currently pursuing postgraduate studies in Development Communication at the University of Calabar.
Imani describes journalism as her life’s passion: “I have always loved to speak the minds of people,” she says. Known for her resilience and drive, she refers to herself as a “moving train, picking up speed every day.”
This philosophy underscores her belief in human capital development and her commitment to honing her craft. For now, she is on a leave of absence from full-time media practice, focusing on her advisory role in government. Yet, even in public service, her journalistic instincts remain sharp, guiding communication strategies and amplifying community voices across Cross River State.
A Legacy in the Making
Imani Odey’s story is not just about personal achievement; it is about using one’s platform to uplift others and challenge societal norms. From rural development reporting to policy-shaping investigations, she has shown that journalism, at its best, is a catalyst for change.
In an era where female voices are often drowned out in male-dominated spaces, Imani has not only risen; she has become an archetype for digital media in Nigeria—a symbol of what happens when passion meets purpose.
As Nigeria’s media landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: Imani Odey’s star is not fading anytime soon.
