Media Has Big Role to Play in Uniting the People – Commissioner

“The power of the media is like two sides of the same coin. On the one hand, independent and pluralistic media provides a platform for healthy debate and sharing of opinions.

On the other hand, media can be grossly misused and abused for the purposes of propaganda, to incite hatred, spread rumours and divisive narratives and therefore create tensions. It has become even more pervasive in recent times with technologies like the internet, social media and instant messaging.

“It is now very easy for vast sections of the public to be sold fantastic narratives of ethno-religious conflict as substitutes for the stark reality of banditry, criminality, terrorism, and economic tensions. Terrorists and criminals are now given ethnic tags, which only serve as cloaks to further protect them from the glare of truth.

“As members of this elite group, the media, we must ditch the divisive narratives sold for decades by desperate power mongers. We can no longer buy into denigration and dehumanization. We must not buy into ethno-centric politics and narrow sentiments.

Lamenting, the Commissioner encouraged journalists to engage in peace journalism as that will go a long way to help stem the situation.

“Journalists must eschew judgmental representations and describe reality without exaggeration and sensationalism.

“I believe that at this critical stage of our national development, lt is time for the media to unite our people with a shared hope and a shared vision. No more of bickering and bitterness. We can and will become a thriving community that celebrates its diversity as its most compelling reason to come together.

Earlier in his opening remark, the acting Chairman, correspondent chapel, Moses Kolo had challenged his colleagues to continue to strive harder despite their challenges as their role is critical in moving the country forward.

“As Journalists and watch dogs of the society, let us cooperate with security agencies to douse the fears of the masses and build confidence in the people.

He appreciated the contributions of the awardees while urging that others emulate their good work for the advancement of the nation.

“Today, I feel very privileged and honoured to stand here in front of you all to acknowledge the achievements of our Awardees who have made distinct strides in their respective frontiers.

This event is held to recognize individuals who have made immense contribution to our society. These brilliant individuals exhibit such qualities that have not only helped them in achieving their goals, but also bring glory and success to spheres of influence.

we have gathered here not just to celebrate the achievements of the Awardees, but also to give due regard to our values and morals which these awardees exemplify, like discipline, compassion and zeal for the upliftment of humanity.

Awards he added are meant to ginger one to a greater height and to do more.

Speaking on behalf of the Emir of Zauzau, Amb. Nuhu Bamali, the District Head of Gabasawa, Dan Wazirrin Zazzau Hakimin gabasawa, Alhaji Datti said, the media is the mouth piece of the society and tools with which government can achieve peaceful coexistence. Journalists therefore must remain independent.

Also speaking, representative of the NDLEA,  Deci David, expressed the role of media in helping to fight crime. He said majority of the criminal acts being perpetrated are caused by drugs. Once it is taken , they commit all manners of vices.

Such he said exposes Nigerians to high risk and danger because information are dished out to criminals without restrain. He therefore called for more collaboration with the agency in order to help fight crime.