By Emeka Amaefula
RIVERS GOVT TASKS JOURNALISTS TO STRENGTHEN REPORTAGE ON POLICIES, PROJECTS, AND PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY
Government Calls for Stronger Media-Government Collaboration
In a spirited appeal for collaboration with the media, the Rivers State Government has urged journalists to intensify coverage of its policies, projects, and people-oriented programmes — a move aimed at bridging the gap between government and the citizens.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, made the call when he received members of the Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by Chairman Mr. Paul Bazia-Nsaneh, during a courtesy visit at the Government Secretariat, Port Harcourt.
“Journalists Are the Conscience of Society” — Anabraba
Addressing the delegation, Dr. Anabraba described journalists as “the conscience of society” and a vital bridge between policymakers and the people.
“Government depends on accurate and objective media reporting to understand how its policies are perceived,” he said.
“Journalists must go beyond headlines to explain government’s intentions, projects, and achievements. This strengthens democracy and ensures citizens are properly informed.”
The SSG emphasized that constructive journalism plays a major role in civic participation and moral reawakening. He cautioned against sensationalism, urging media practitioners to focus on balanced reportage that inspires trust, unity, and development. “When the media reports responsibly, it helps government refine its service delivery and build public confidence,” Anabraba added.
Fubara’s Administration Reaffirms Openness and Accountability
Dr. Anabraba reaffirmed the commitment of the Rivers State Government under Governor Siminalayi Fubara to transparency and inclusive governance.
He assured that the administration welcomes media scrutiny as part of its democratic principles.
“Constructive criticism is healthy. It helps us improve and remain accountable. We see the media not as adversaries, but as partners in progress,” he said.
The SSG further appealed to journalists to use their platforms to promote civic enlightenment and uphold the values of truth, morality, and fairness in public communication.
NUJ Pledges Support for Development Journalism
In his response, Mr. Paul Bazia-Nsaneh, Chairman of NUJ Rivers State Council, pledged the union’s readiness to work hand-in-hand with the government to promote development-driven communication. “The NUJ in Rivers State is committed to development journalism that supports progress, investment, and accountability,” Bazia-Nsaneh stated.
“Our role is not only to report challenges but to amplify opportunities that can attract investors and showcase the government’s achievements.”
He noted that the NUJ will continue to train journalists on professionalism and ethics to ensure that their work supports peace, stability, and the advancement of the state.
Voices from the Meeting include “We must bridge the gap between government and the governed through responsible journalism.”
— Dr. Benibo Anabraba, Secretary to the Rivers State Government while NUJ Rivers State Council chairman Paul Bazia- Nsaneh Stated “Our mission is to tell the true story of Rivers State — its challenges, its progress, and its promise.”
However, key takeaways from the engagement include Media as Watchdog which input that Journalists reaffirmed as the conscience of society and key players in governance.
And having constructive criticism as a Welcomed development as it sees Government encouraging balanced, fact-based reporting.
With transparency and commitment being put in the front burner the Fubara administration pledges continued openness and accountability.
The interaction between the Rivers State Government and the NUJ marks a renewed chapter in the communication bridge that connects leadership and the people.
At a time when misinformation and political noise threaten public discourse, the call for responsible journalism could not be more timely.
Good governance and good journalism, it seems, are two sides of the same coin — each holding the other accountable, each shaping the story of a better society.
Emeka Amaefula—–+234(0)8111813069—–.
