The Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa has emphasised the critical role of the media in shaping Nigeria’s image and addressing national security concerns.
She called for media engagement to provide accurate and constructive narratives about Nigeria.
Speaking at the 4th International Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON) at the University of Abuja, Nigeria, Dr. Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the multifaceted security challenges facing the country.
Represented by the Commision’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocol Unit, Mr. Abdur-Rahman Balogun, she said the challenges includes insurgency, terrorism, inter-communal violence, cybersecurity threats, economic inequality, social unrest, and external threats.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa said;”the media, as a powerful tool for information dissemination, plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing the government’s response to these challenges.”
She urged the Media to maintain a high level of responsibility, ethics, and professionalism in their reporting, as well as ensuring accurate and objective information dissemination.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa also called for the media to partner with the government to foster a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.
Also, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of AMCRON, Professor Ralph Akinfeleye echoed the importance of national security, stating its role in protecting lives, property, and the nation’s interests.
Professor Akinfeleye highlighted various threats to the country’s security, including kidnapping, banditry, fuel subsidy issues, strikes, economic struggles, mass migration, and others.
He urged the Press to be free and independent in their roles of informing, setting agendas, monitoring, and educating the masses.
Professor Akinfeleye also called for fair regulation of both traditional and online media to ensure responsible news dissemination.
The Chairman, Governing Council, University of Abuja, Saddiq Kaita underscored the significant role of the media in sensitising the public and promoting active participation in electoral and government activities.
He emphasised the importance of accurate news reporting in dispelling fear and fostering a sense of duty in the face of crises.
Also, the Acting Vice Chancellor of University of Abuja, Prof. Aisha Maikudi, highlighted the evolving nature of national security and the need for the media to combat vices that threaten it.
She stressed the importance of accurate, balanced, and ethical reporting and warned against ‘the dangers of propaganda, sensationalism, and the misuse of social media.’
Prof. Maikudi called on the Media to act as watchdogs in society, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
Goodwill messages were received from security and Media experts as well as other stakeholders in the Media Industry.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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