Since democracy cannot exist without a free, independent, and credible press, Nigerian journalists have faced challenges in upholding the ethics and values of their profession.
During a media Thanksgiving service hosted by ERCC Gloryland in Lafia on Sunday, Dr. Mike Omeri, the former Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), made the call.
Omeri cautioned that when journalism is undermined by “brown envelope” tactics or excessive influence, the harmony and peace of society continue to be in jeopardy. He underlined that maintaining media independence is essential to upholding democracy and promoting national growth.
In order to preserve justice, professionalism, and freedom of speech, he also urged practitioners to broaden their knowledge of democratic ideals. By pointing out that the growth of junk journalism has led to the harassment and intimidation of journalists in Nigeria and elsewhere, Omeri also urged the political elite to view the media as “a partner in progress.”
Dr. Danladi Jatau, the speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, also spoke at the event and praised the press for helping to maintain Nigeria’s 25-year democratic streak since the Fourth Republic began.The State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Salihu Mohammed Alkali, represented by Juliana Ofokwu, and Mr. Ibrahim Addra, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abdullahi Sule, commended the media’s dedication to professionalism and promised ongoing support for programs that advance good governance.
Dr. Nawani Aboki, the chairman and CEO of Breeze FM Lafia, asked the congregation to assist journalists in providing high-quality services to the public during his sermon. He emphasized that effective performance depends on the public and media working together, and he cautioned against unethical behavior that erodes public confidence.
In a similar vein, church Associate Reverend Rev. John Godiya urged responsible journalism that promotes social harmony rather than polarization, emphasizing that a solid collaboration between the public and the media is still essential to the advancement of the country.
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