The Rivers State Government (RSG) on Wednesday charged journalists to act as a crucial link between the government and the citizens by reporting on state policies, projects, programmes, and achievements.
Juliana Masi, the Head of Information and Public Relations Unit, Office of Secretary to the State Government (SSG) in a statement said SSG Dr Benibo Anabraba gave the charge during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, led by its Chairman, Paul Bazia-Nsaneh, in Port Harcourt.
Dr Anabraba emphasised the important role of journalists as the fourth estate of the realm. He also underscored journalists’ responsibility to keep the public informed on government activities.
Dr Anabraba highlighted that the media has a dual duty: to serve as a watchdog of society and to provide a platform for constructive criticism of the government.
Furthermore, he noted that public opinion, as channelled through the media, is significant for the government to gauge public perception and effectively create awareness about initiatives that affect the citizenry.
“As a government, we also appreciate the fact that you are our partner in conveying government policies and activities to the people, for their consumption, appreciation and review”, Dr Anabraba stated.
Three SSG further implored the media to continually publicise important governance matters and encourage civic participation on crucial issues such as civil rights, voters’ registration, and actions against gender-based violence. He urged the media to maintain morality and balanced criticism in their reporting.
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However, Bazia-Nsaneh thanked the State Government for the reception and conveyed the Union’s commitment to collaborating with the administration.
He noted that the NUJ is determined to promote a positive image of the state by embracing an agenda of development communications.
He said the union has outlined strategic projects to achieve this goal, noting: “As a union, we need to change the narrative and to talk about development communication.” Bazia-Nsaneh stressed that showcasing the state’s investment opportunities is essential.
“If we don’t put out the opportunities that are available in River State, then we can not have people who will be interested in investing in the opportunities that are available to us.”
