Alia pledges partnership with journalists for Benue development
Benue state governor, Hyacinth Alia, has pledged to collaborate with the media to advance the state’s development.
During a one-day capacity-building workshop on economic reporting organised by the Correspondents’ Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue state council, in partnership with the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), Governor Alia stated the crucial role of the media in his administration’s achievements over the past year.
“We will continue to support the media by creating an enabling environment for them to operate and contribute to the government,” Governor Alia stated.
The governor who was represented by his chief press secretary, Tersoo Kula, commended journalists for the support they have given to his administration so far and his government welcomes constructive criticisms.
He tasked journalists to ensure fairness, objectivity, and balance in their reportage.
He also presented a paper “Sustaining Government Media Relationship in the 21st century” and said though the media play a vital role in holding government accountable to the people, the relationship between government and media in Nigeria is most at time marred by tensions, mistrust, and conflicts.
He said sustaining a healthy government-media relationship in 21st century Nigeria required effort and commitment from both parties, adding that, “by addressing the challenges and leveraging the opportunities, we can foster a positive partnership that promotes good governance, accountability, and democratic values.”
In his key note address at the occasion, the Managing Director of the Benue State Investment and Property Company BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, said his office is ready to equip journalists with the information needed to report effectively and to foster collaborative relationship that benefits all stakeholders.
He said, “we recognise the power of the media in shaping public perception and opinion in this digital age, where information is disseminated rapidly and widely, your role become even more critical.”
