Ugo Nosiri, Owerri
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has emphasised on the urgent need for media literacy, fact checking initiatives and responsible use of social media platforms to curb fake news.
Governor Uzodimma stated this while addressing delegates at the Nigeria Union of Journalists’ 8th Triennial National Delegates Conference in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
Speaking on the theme of the conference, “Media and Democracy, the Journalist Role in Holding Leaders Accountable,” Governor Uzodimma made it clear that anyone who engages in journalism whether professional or citizen journalism should adhere strictly to standard of accuracy, fairness and accountability.
He urged the delegates to take proactive steps to promote ethical reporting, combat the spread of misinformation and ensure that all journalists are equipped with skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the digital age.
The governor who was decorated as the Grand Patron of Nigeria Union of Journalist Imo State Chapter, maintained that his administration is fully committed to support free independent Press and has taken steps to establish the Governor’s Media Excellence Award to celebrate outstanding journalism work.
Earlier the Chairman of the occasion, Senator Osita Izunaso, represented by Dr Maxwell Ngene, acknowledged the critical role the journalist plays in shaping our democracy, promoting transparency and holding those in leadership positions accountable.
In his valedictory speech, the outgoing president Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr Chris Isiguzo, explained that without free, fair and functional media, democracy will be at risk of being undermined.
Mr Isiguzo thanked the union for supporting him throughout the six years as president of Nigeria Union of Journalists and encouraged those coming in to work assiduously to ensure that the union remained stronger.
