The Government of Rivers State, South-South, Nigeria, has said it will strengthen state-owned media organisations, ensuring they meet modern operational standards and better serve the public.
The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ibas, made the pledge following an extensive inspection tour of key media institutions, including Rivers State Television (RSTV), Radio Rivers FM, The Tide Newspaper, Garden City FM, and the State Printing Press.
Vice Admiral Ibas, who described the media as “indispensable to societal survival and development,” emphasised the need for urgent intervention to restore these critical platforms.
“Without the media, we wonder how society would survive, we must identify key areas requiring intervention and ensure our media houses operate at the standards expected by the public,” he said.
Highlighting the media’s pivotal role in fostering good governance and an informed citizenry, the Administrator revealed that his administration has already laid out plans for facility upgrades.
“If funds are available, I assure you that within six months, we will complete the necessary improvements. I have directed the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communications, to develop a comprehensive plan, leveraging provisions in the budget.” Ibas said.
Expressing concern over the current state of infrastructure and equipment, Vice Admiral Ibas assured citizens that revitalisation efforts would be both immediate and sustained.
He also urged media personnel to adopt a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, stressing that “longevity depends not just on the age of machinery but on proper usage and maintenance.
“It’s not only about replacing old equipment, Staff must also commit to preventive and corrective maintenance practices to maximise efficiency and lifespan,” he said.
The inspection forms part of the Administrator’s broader agenda to rejuvenate public institutions across Rivers State, ensuring they deliver optimal service to residents.
Hauwa Abu