Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called on Nigerian journalists to remain steadfast in their role as watchdogs, agenda setters, and agents of national development.
Governor Diri made the call on Thursday while declaring open the maiden edition of the Bayelsa Media Summit, organized by the Bayelsa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Yenagoa. The summit had as its theme: “Media, Culture and Identity: Promoting Indigenous Perspectives.”
Represented by his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the Governor emphasized the need for journalists to uphold the principles of investigative journalism and truth-telling as critical tools for societal progress. He noted that by holding power to account through effective reportage, journalists could play a pivotal role in national development.
Reflecting on the contributions of nationalist figures like Herbert Macaulay, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ernest Ikoli, and Dele Giwa, Governor Diri lamented the decline of investigative journalism in Nigeria. He attributed this decline to what he described as the “carry-and-go” model of journalism, marked by quackery and unethical practices.
He therefore urged stakeholders in the media industry to unite in promoting quality journalism that is credible, fearless, and professional.
Commending the leadership of the Bayelsa NUJ for its innovation, the Governor highlighted his administration’s support for journalism, including the construction and equipping of the Ernest Ikoli Media Complex in Yenagoa.
“I commend the Bayelsa State NUJ Council for organizing this summit and for its collaboration with the government over the years,” he said. “Journalists have historically played a vital role in our nation’s development. However, journalism today is being undermined by poor practices. We must now prioritize quality journalism.”
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Information, Strategy and Orientation, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, highlighted the achievements of the Prosperity Administration. She emphasized the media’s role in showcasing the ongoing transformation in the state and preserving its cultural heritage.
In his remarks, the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, stressed the power of narratives in shaping reality. He encouraged journalists to use their platforms to preserve Nigeria’s diverse cultures, languages, and identities. He praised the unity among journalists in Bayelsa and commended the government for its infrastructural strides.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Prof. Anifiok Udoudo of Journalism and Media Studies reiterated the high expectations society places on both the media and government in driving development.
Dr. Beauty Okuboere Niyekpemi of the Department of Economics, Niger Delta University, also presented a paper titled “Blue Economy: Harnessing the Socioeconomic Potentials in Bayelsa.”
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Bayelsa State NUJ Council, Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, explained that the summit aimed to enhance professional accountability across both mainstream and social media. He expressed gratitude to the state government and stakeholders for their support and announced that the summit would now be held annually, given its potential to transform journalism practice in the state.
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