• Mba advocates more synergy between govt, media
From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), has urged the federal government to take concrete steps towards ending the political and socio-economic exclusion of the South-East from national affairs.
Speaking at the Guild’s 2025 Biennial National Convention held in Enugu, the Chairman of the event and also Chairman of Channels Television, Dr. John Momoh, noted that the region, particularly Enugu, still bears the scars of past neglect, especially from the aftermath of the Biafran war.
“We must bring them to inclusion as a form of national healing,” Momoh said.
He spoke on the theme, “Building A Secured And Cohesive Nigeria: The Role Of Dialogue, Inclusion, And The Media,” stressing the importance of justice as a foundation for national security and unity.
“As media professionals, we shape opinions, and that power comes with responsibility. Let us not only report conflict, but be bridge builders of national conscience,” he added.
In his speech, the governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, called for greater trust and cooperation between government at all levels and the media to drive democracy and development.
Mbah advocated more synergy between government and the media to “build a society where progress is protected, justice is pursued, and every citizen feels seen and heard.
“We know that the relationship of trust has sometimes frayed between the press and government. Too often, our engagements are shaped by suspicion or cynicism.
“Let us change that. Let us return to a shared recognition that we are co-authors of Nigeria’s future. Democratic governance cannot succeed without the participation, and interrogation of an informed public; the public relies on a press that is fair and fearless.
“Let us replace the distance with dialogue. Let us see intelligent critique as public service instead of hostility.”
He charged the media top echelon to ensure that journalism remains: “A space where truth is not compromised for sensation or political ends, where rigorous reporting triumphs.
“And secondly, we believe accountability strengthens governance. That is why, here in Enugu, we welcome scrutiny. We have opened our books, our processes, and our policies to public examination,” he added.
Mbah equally cited inclusion and innovation as pillars of a more just, progressive, and prosperous society, hence his administration’s distribution of democracy dividends such as the 260 Smart Green Schools, 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, 260 Farm Estates, among others, on the basis of the 260 wards to ensure no part or segment of the state was left behind.
“Through our policies, we are bridging the divide between urban and rural areas. No one’s location should determine access to quality education or reliable healthcare. So, in Enugu, innovation and inclusion are not slogans. They are both the foundation and pillars of our governance.
“We are connecting our people to new skills, new markets, and new possibilities. And we are doing so with an eye on the future. Our vision is bold: a $30 billion economy driven by enterprise and accountable leadership.”
On his part, former Ogun State governor and veteran journalist, Chief Aremu Segun Osoba, praised Nigerian editors for their professionalism, but called for decentralised policing to tackle insecurity.
He recalled that in the past, even minor security breaches were intolerable to citizens, irrespective of the presence of security forces.
Osoba advocated the adoption of neighbourhood and state policing to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
Similarly, former NDDC Chairman and veteran journalist, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, urged journalists to remain steadfast in their duties, giving voice to the voiceless and holding power to account.
In his remarks, NGE President and Vanguard Editor, Eze Anaba, expressed concern over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, marked by insurgency and rampant kidnappings.
He called on media practitioners to reflect on their role in the national crisis.
“Could the media have done more? Are we guilty of amplifying fear? Can we rise to the responsibility of promoting inclusion and contributing to a safer Nigeria?” he asked.