From Amgbare Prince, Yenagoa
Journalists in Bayelsa State have been charged to adapt to the changing media landscape, leveraging the social media and artificial intelligence as tools to enhance investigative reporting.
Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha made the call at a two-day capacity building workshop organised by the United Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Bayelsa State Council in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The workshop with the theme “Re-enacting Investigative Journalism: The Role of Correspondents,” featured key remarks from government and media stakeholders.
Represented by the Vice Chairman of NUJ, Dr. Preye Enebraton, Yemoleigha stressed the importance of objectivity in investigative journalism.
He advised journalists to view investigative journalism as a tool for sustainable development, not just criticism, and urged leaders both in government and private sector to have a reorientation on the essence of investigative reporting..
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the Director of Public Enlightenment and Orientation, Dr. Sophia Obi, described the theme as “highly relevant.” She urged journalists to go beyond conventional reporting, acquire AI proficiency, show courage in investigations, and hold public officials accountable.
Dr. Obi promised to forward the chapel’s appeal for expanded coverage slots at government events to the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy…
The lead Guest speaker, Mr. Enideneze Etete defined investigative journalism as thorough, evidence-based reporting that exposes wrong doing.
He emphasized the need for research, observation, integrity, and balanced presentation to uncover truth.
In his presentation on news writing, retired Director of Information Mr. Chris Odi outlined the core elements of news as timeliness, significance, conflict, and prominence.
Paramilitary CBT: FG advises candidates to log in 30 mins early
He explained the inverted pyramid format and advised journalists to use strong, active verbs in headlines, avoid articles, and crafting concise leads of 30–35 words for maximum impact.
Earlier in his welcome address, UCC Chairman, Prince Ekaunkumo Amgbare hailed the workshop as a major achievement since his administration took office on July 1, 2025.
He noted that the recent adoption of bye-laws has enhanced member conduct and professionalism.
Amgbare thanked the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Douye Diri, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, NUJ state executives, and chapel members for their support, while renewing the call to raise the current limit of three UCC members allowed to cover official events.
In a solidarity message, the Director General of New Media, Dr. Kola Oredipe commended the UCC for the initiative and encouraged fearless investigative reporting to correct societal ills.
Stay ahead with the latest updates! Join The ConclaveNG on WhatsApp and Telegram for real-time news alerts, breaking stories, and exclusive content delivered straight to your phone. Don’t miss a headline — subscribe now!
