The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has called for a renewed synergy between the media and government to promote transparency, professionalism, and improved welfare for journalists in the state. The appeal was made during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, at his office in Akure.
Leading the delegation, the NUJ Chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite, said the visit was to familiarize with the commissioner whom he had met as far back as 2012. He expressed joy that a seasoned media professional now heads the Ministry of Information, a development he believes would bring better recognition and support to journalists across Ondo State.
Adegbite raised several issues affecting the media in the state, including the urgent need for support to rehabilitate parts of the NUJ Press Centre, especially its dilapidated roof. He also called for the proper integration of Owena Press into the government structure to ensure its workers become pensionable and the outfit repositioned for efficiency.
Touching on OSRC, the state-owned broadcast outfit, the NUJ chairman lamented the shortage of staff, stating that the few hands available are overstretched. He further noted that the Information Ministry is top-heavy and needs injection of young, vibrant professionals to improve coverage of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Adegbite also urged the commissioner to engage the state governor on the need to prioritize career progression for media professionals within the ministry, especially in the appointment of Permanent Secretary, as many qualified directors are often overlooked in favor of non-media personnel.
In his response, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku acknowledged the concerns raised and apologized for not meeting the NUJ earlier. He assured that the welfare and motivation of journalists will take a front seat in his agenda, and all issues raised would be presented to the governor, who has assured him of full support for the media.
The commissioner pledged to revive the dwindling relationship between government and the media and promised frequent media engagements to keep the public informed. He also announced plans to visit OSRC and Owena Press for an on-the-spot assessment, and hinted at future recruitment of professional journalists once employment windows open.
The visit ended with a vote of thanks by the Ministry’s Administrative Secretary, Mr. Lanre Akarakiri, who praised the NUJ for the visit and assured them that the commissioner’s commitment would yield visible progress in the months ahead.
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