The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi has urged journalists to dwell more on solutions or developmental journalism which amongst others encourage practioners to attempt proffering useful tips on how to resolve issues than mere writing for fun or for the love of the profession.
Malagi spoke at the Investiture of Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger state, as the Grand Patron of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Award/Launching of the union’s Magazine which is part of the lined up events for the 2023 Press Week.
The Minister, represented by the Managing Director Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba Ndace however encouraged all tiers of government to support journalists in their efforts to change the narratives in the sector to support practitioners towards achieving set objectives.
Also speaking, the Chief Host and President of the NUJ, Chris Isiguzo regretted that the situation in Nigeria, including poor remunerations, failure of governments to make the needed information available as at and when needed has made it almost impossible for practitioners to carryout their statutory responsibilities.
Isiguzo however encouraged members not to be discouraged but continue to take the lead to new developmental journalism said challenges on the course of dicaharge of duties should serve as additional motivation to excel in their chosen career.
He however cautioned that, “Journalism practice should not be reduced to acts of antagonizing governments but working hand-in-hand with government as the Fourth in Estate of Realm to achieve desired objectives of serving the citizenry better”.
The Emir of Minna, Umar Farouq Bahago, who spoke through Alhaji Mohammed She encouraged practioners to be conscious of their reportage of developing events in country, particularly the prevailing security situation to avoid overheating the system.
He told the gathering which took place at the Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference centre, Minna that journalists play pivotal roles to the making and/or marring of the society hence practioners should dwell more to promote peaceceful coexistence through their reports.
