By Olumide Awofesobi
January 14, 2025
Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, since its debut on December 22, 2023, has now emerged as a pivotal platform for addressing critical national issues with depth and insight.
Initially airing Fridays at 9:00 am on Channels Television, the programme’s popularity-perhaps quickly led to a shift in schedule, now broadcasting at 11:30 am on Fridays with an additional Sunday slot at 6:00 pm.
Hosted by Laolu Akande, a seasoned journalist and former presidential aide, Inside Sources has distinguished itself with in-depth interviews featuring influential figures from politics, business, and civil society.
Akande’s interviewing style, his articulate and thoughtful disposition seem to have earned widespread praise, bridging the gap between policymakers and the public while raising the bar of top-notch, global standard journalism in Nigeria.
The programme’s impact extends far beyond television screens, sparking vibrant discussions across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Nairaland.
The response has been notably positive, with viewers commending Akande’s professional anchoring and the show’s substantive discussions. Indeed it is now clear that the former presidential aide who has been a reporter since 1989 is no neophyte in public affairs by any stretch of the imagination.
On X, @AdeagboOpeyem17 applauded the show, saying, “I followed every bit of the discussion. #InsideSources is worth the time of anyone interested in governance in Nigeria. Awesome one from Laolu Akande.”
Another viewer, @ademolaaofolajuwonlo1044z, described Akande as “the best anchor ever,” highlighting his ability to let guests express their views without interruptions, yet bringing meaningfully insights to public discourse.
The diversity of guests featured has also drawn praise. From prominent leaders and politicians like General Ibrahim Babangida, Chief Bisi Akande, Chief Edwin Clark, to radical advocates such as Omoyele Sowore and Aisha Yesufu, the programme has tackled pressing national issues with depth and balance.
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Viewers like @declanmbachu7222 appreciated the inclusion of the “right voices,” while @granddaddychillicheez7394 humorously referred to Sowore and Aisha as “the greatest non-musical duo of all time.”
Akande’s ability to bring both Aisha and Sowore on the same edition was a brilliant effort and it yielded perhaps one of the highest views on YouTube on manners regarding commentary on national affairs and current issues, with over 800k.
The show’s influence has also been reflected in media coverage, with outlets like Daily Trust, The Guardian, and Tribune Online spotlighting its key episodes. Indeed every edition of INSIDE SOURCES WITH LAOLU AKANDE attracts significant news coverage in the media especially online & digital platforms.
From discussions on youth engagement in politics to economic challenges and President Tinubu’s policies, Inside Sources has cemented its place as a forum for critical national dialogue.
The programme thrives on audience participation, with live social media interactions during broadcasts fostering a sense of community. Hashtags like #InsideSources trend regularly, as viewers share insights and memorable quotes from the show. One tweet by @Jaziny1 encapsulated the sentiment of many: “This conversation should continue to the next election. Great minds are coming together to revolutionize our country. Mobilization should start now.”
As it continues to captivate audiences and shape public discourse, Inside Sources is redefining what it means to engage meaningfully with national issues.
With its growing acclaim and evolving format, the show promises to remain a vital force in Nigeria’s democratic and media landscapes.
It seems a worthy idea to stay tuned to INSIDE SOURCES WITH Laolu Akande for updates and insights by following him on X at @akandeoj & other social media platforms.
