House Inaugurates Committee On Information For Effective Oversight of Sector

The House of Representatives has inaugurated a committee on Information, to enhance the dissemination of accurate and meaningful information about Nigeria.

The Chairman of the Committee, Honourable Olusola Steve Fatoba while inaugurating the committee said that the committee has immense significance in shaping the ethical and moral foundation of the nation.

“Our committee holds a critical role In a time when the world is experiencing rapid change and transformation, our responsibilities have never been more important,” Honourable Fatoba said.

He said that the agency would have an interactive session with the minister of Information and heads of the media organisations under the agency.

“We need to equip ourselves very well with information about the agencies before we go on oversight visits,” he said.

“We all know, the Jurisdiction of our Committee covers: Oversight of the Ministry responsible for Information and its Parastatals save those assigned to other Committee; Oversight of the print and electronic media owned by the Government Public relations, public enlightenment and information services; Oversight of the National Orientation Agency (NOA); 

Promotion of discipline, integrity, dignity of labour, social justice, religiot tolerance, self-reliance and patriotism; The civic duties of every Nigerian; Oversight of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Oversight of the National Press Council. Oversight of the Nigerian Television College, Jos; Oversight of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA); Oversight of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN); Oversight of the Federal Radio Nigeria(FRCN); Oversight of the Films and Video Censors Board; Oversight of all Parastatals under the Ministry of Information and National Orientation; Regulation of importation of obscene literature and photographs. Annual budget estimates,” he said.

The Chairman said that he was confident that each of the members bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and dedication to the committee.

” It is through our collective wisdom and shared commitment that we will make a lasting impact on the well-being of our nation and its citizens, through legislation, policies and our oversight functions,” he stated.

He urged the members to embrace the challenges as opportunities to make a tangible difference as they embark on the journey.

“We shall collaborate with diligence, open-mindedness, and a sense of unity, addressing the intricate issues surrounding information, national orientation, ethics, and values,” he explained

He noted that he has complete faith in the ability to navigate all the complex matters and guide Nigeria towards a brighter future.

” Together, we will work towards creating a society that is well-informed, ethically grounded, and deeply united. I look forward to working closely with each one of you, and | am confident that, through our collective efforts, we can bring about positive change for our nation. Together, we will contribute to a stronger and more prosperous future for our beloved country,” he maintained.

A member of the committee, Hon Timilehin Adelegbe, promised to work closely with the chairman towards the success of the committee.

Other members called for better budgetary allocation for government media agencies for enhanced performances.

Lateefah Ibrahim