Bayelsa: Governor Diri urges media to embrace investigative journalism 

From Amgbare Prince in Yenagoa

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has called on media professionals to reclaim their role as societal watchdogs by embracing investigative journalism to drive development and accountability.

Speaking at the inaugural Media Summit organized by the Bayelsa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Yenagoa, the governor emphasised the need for quality reporting to shape the state’s narrative.

The summit, themed “Media, Culture and Identity: Promoting Indigenous Perspectives,” brought together journalists, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss the media’s role in preserving cultural heritage and fostering development.

Governor Diri decried the decline of investigative journalism in Nigeria, blaming the rise of “carry-and-go” journalism marked by unethical practices and quackery.

In his address, Diri urged media professionals to hold those in power accountable through rigorous reporting.

He stressed that quality journalism is essential for societal progress and called for collaborative efforts to restore the profession’s integrity.

The governor also praised the state NUJ leadership for organizing the summit, describing it as a step toward innovation in journalism.

The Bayelsa State government has demonstrated its commitment to supporting journalism, Diri noted, citing the construction and equipping of the Ernest Ikoli Media Complex as a landmark achievement. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to provide journalists with the resources needed to excel in their work.

Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the Commissioner for Information, Strategy, and Orientation, echoed the governor’s sentiments. She urged the media to highlight the transformative projects of the Assured Prosperity administration and showcase Bayelsa’s rich cultural heritage to a global audience.

Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, National President of the NUJ, emphasized the power of media narratives in shaping societal perceptions.

He called on journalists to preserve indigenous languages, cultures, and heritage through their reporting, ensuring that these elements remain vibrant in the face of modernization.

The summit featured keynote lectures, including one by Prof. Anifiok Udoudo, a professor of journalism and media studies. Udoudo reminded attendees of the media’s responsibility to meet society’s expectations in fostering development. Another lecture, delivered by Dr. Beauty Okuboere Niyekpemi of Niger Delta University, explored the socioeconomic potential of Bayelsa’s blue economy.

Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, Chairman of the Bayelsa State NUJ Council, outlined the summit’s goal of promoting professional accountability across mainstream and social media platforms.

He expressed gratitude to the state government and stakeholders for their support, announcing that the summit would become an annual event to drive a paradigm shift in journalism.

The event has been hailed as a turning point for journalism in Bayelsa, setting a new standard for media practice in the state.

Organizers and participants expressed optimism that the summit’s outcomes would reshape the media landscape, fostering greater professionalism and cultural preservation.

Governor Diri’s call for investigative journalism comes at a critical time, as Bayelsa seeks to strengthen governance and transparency. His administration’s support for media development is expected to empower journalists to meet the challenges of modern reporting while serving the public interest.

As Bayelsa continues to grow, the media’s role in promoting accountability and good governance will become increasingly vital.

The summit has laid the groundwork for journalists to take on this responsibility with renewed vigor, ensuring that the state’s progress is accurately documented and scrutinized.

The summit also opened doors for collaboration between the government, media, and other stakeholders. These partnerships are expected to foster innovation and create opportunities for journalists to thrive in an evolving industry.

The Bayelsa State NUJ remains committed to advancing quality journalism and preserving the state’s cultural identity. With the annual summit now established, the council is poised to lead transformative change in the media sector, ensuring that Bayelsa’s story is told with integrity and pride.