The Ekiti state commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun has tasked Ekiti journalists on balanced and developmental reportage, urging them to project the activities of the state government to the world.
The commissioner gave the charge while playing host to the leadership of Nigeria Union of Journalists in his office on Monday, he reiterated the need for journalists to work harmoniously with government. He stressed that Governor Biodun Oyebanji had since his emergence been supporting the NUJ, while urging the union to reciprocate the kind gesture.
The commissioner assured the leadership of NUJ of continued robust working relationship that would fast track more developments to the state. He pledged the unwavering support of Governor Oyebanji towards having a befitting press centre in place in Ekiti state. He said” Governor Oyebanji Is known for keeping and honouring promises, he will not promise what he can not fulfill, so as for the press center, if you put the necessary requirements in order, by this time next year, we should be thanking the Governor for the successful completion of the center for the use of all of us”
According to the commissioner, “Mr. Governor does not believe in propaganda but has an inclusive style of governance that makes accountability important”.
“it is not about us, it is about the State. A State of honour with people of integrity. We believe that we have the capacity to be in the forefront as vanguards. Leadership must therefore be selfless and tailored to engender unity and development that transcends personal motives and pecuniary gains”.
“We are therefore ready to partner with journalists in relationships that surpass respective organizations but concentrate on development of the State and welfare of the people”.
Speaking on certification of information members, Hon. Olatunbosun concurred that it’s imperative for members of the pen profession to upscale their skills and knowledge so as to effectively discharge their duties. While promising leadership of the NUJ to look into how government could sponsor those that are diligent and willing to acquire more knowledge among information officers in the state.
Hon. Olatunbosun who said one of his dreams was to see a member of the pen profession becoming a permanent secretary in no distance time , adding that their proficiency and critical roles in the society qualified them to attain permanent Secretary .Hon Olatunbosun further advised the union to at all times stand for things that are right rather than cutting corners .
Earlier, the chairman of NUJ, Comrade Kayode Babatuyi had commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s love for the union to operate freely in Ekiti State without hinderance or censorship.The chairman however solicited government support for the actualization of a befittng press center in the state.
The chairman who enlisted the support of the commissioner to encourage information officers to avail themselves the opportunity of International institute of Journalism to upgrade themselves academically.
On his part, the permanent secretary, Ministry of information, Mr Olusesan Alabi charged journalists to be constructive in criticism , saying it’s effect would bring out the best in government or individuals. While urging the new executives to be more united as they pilot the affairs of Ekiti journalists.