The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris has urged the Media professionals to exercise freedom of press with a sense of duty, ethics and patriotism as they champion the cause of a free press.
The Information Minister gave the advice at a book Launch entitled “Writing for Media and Monetising it,” written by a renowned Journalist, Mr Azu Ishiekwene, in Abuja, Nigeria’ capital.
Idris explained that there was the need for the media to ensure that information disseminated to the public is accurate, balanced, and devoid of sensationalism.
He said; “We must all strive to ensure that this role is played with the utmost responsibility while we work closely to advance the course of good governance in our country. We must be wary of fake news, misinformation and disinformation and indeed, new cankerworms that destroy individual and corporate reputation, and above all, destabilise the society.’’
According to Idris, Ishiekwene has done a huge favour of distilling his great skill, talents and experience into the 280 pages of valuable, monetisable advice.
He said; “I am very glad about the enthusiastic reception that the book is getting from a wide range of quarters. Stellar reviews and comments, from some of our most respected media practitioners. This initiative represents a meaningful way for the author to give back to the media industry by offering valuable guidance and support to the next generation of journalists. Indeed, the way Azu has creatively deployed the Internet for this new book is a testament to how well he has kept up with changing times and technologies.”
The Minister further reiterated the Government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for journalists and the media profession to thrive in the country.
He said; “As we celebrate this milestone, it is also important to reaffirm the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration to a free and responsible journalism.We understand that a society can only flourish when its media organs are free to report the truth without fear of retribution and to equally hold those in authority accountable. The President Tinubu’s administration is therefore, dedicated to creating an environment where journalists can work freely, without intimidation, and with the assurance that their rights will be acknowledged and protected.’’
Speaking, the Chairman, Leadership Newspaper Group, Mrs Zainab Nda-Isaiah said the author has been honing his craft, writing articles that educate, inform and entertain on various and diverse topics.
Mrs Nda-Isaiah said; “This book is not just a collection of tips and tricks, but a comprehensive guide that covers the entire process of writing for media from idea generation, to publication. this book is in a class of its own, because beyond what I just mentioned as its focus, the book also focuses on monetizing the craft of great writing.’’
The Author of the launched book, Mr Azu Ishiekwene, shared his reason for choosing the title of his book .
He said; “I thought about about it. One of the challenges that professionals of journalism and also the whole eco system of content creation faces recently is how to be able to place some value or monetise what we do and get some profit from it. It’s s not all about writing or creating content, it’s also getting value from the content you create, that was the basis of my title. There is a principle that says money flows in the direction of value, what ever you doing, as long as you put effort and create value money flows in that direction.”
In a similar vein, the owner of Trust TV and Daily Trust Newspaper, Mr Ahmed Shekarau encouraged the Media to focus on human angle reports that would create traffic in the media space.
The book Launch, featured panel discussion and the official unveiling.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
