Prof. Abiodun Adeniyi, the Deputy Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Baze University, Abuja, has tasked journalists on professionalism and adherence to the code of ethics.
Adeniyi made the call during his paper presentation at the 2023 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Radio Nigeria, Abuja Chapel, on Wednesday.
The event, themed “National Socio-economic Development: Roles of Media Professionals”, was organised by the chapel under the leadership of its chairperson, Mrs Shakirat Alabi.
In his paper presentation titled “Role of the Media in the Sustenance of the Nation’s Democracy”, Adeniyi described media professionals as critical stakeholders in the nation’s democratic system.
The don enjoined journalists to always exhibit balance, objectivity, display professionalism, adhere to Code.of Ethics and give priority to national interest while reporting issues of politics.
“The professional struggles with tomorrow and evidence of facts; the professional is a shaper of thought. Bring in professionals and you will have a fertile land for information and knowledge.
“The role of the media is fundamental to economic progress. The professional enlighten to eliminate ignorance and keep records for posterity.
“Therefore, there is the need to exhibit professionalism and adherence to the code of ethics of the profession to achieve the desired results of the purpose and role of the media,” Adeniyi said.
Similarly, the Executive Director of OJA Development Consult, Abuja, Mr Jide Ojo, in his presentation, “Emergency of Online Media and the Challenges of Fake News”, said technology has made the practice of journalism easy.
According to him, journalism practice is now done differently from the way it used to be many years back, and that ICT has revolutionised the practice unlike the analogue era.
He advised journalists to always avoid fake news, fact check their information before publication to avoid setting the country on fire.
In a remark, the Director, FRCN Abuja Operations, Alhaja Sherifat Ahmed, also advised media professionals to always be diligent and ethical in the conduct of their duties.
Earlier, the Chairperson, NUJ, FRCN Abuja Chapel, said the press week was organised to remind journalists of what is expected of them in the task of national socio-economic development.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of NUJ, FCT Council, Mr Emmanuel Ogbeche, represented by Mr Amos Duniya, commended the union for the press week.
Ogbeche expressed the council’s commitment to the welfare of journalists in the territory.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that awards of excellence were given to the Director General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Mr Joseph Ari, and the Executive
Director, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Dr Ezra Yakusak.
Others were Sen. Uzor Kalu, the Executive Secretary of NICO, Mr Ado Yahuza, among others.
King Franklyn put up a musical performance with a song “Turn Around”. (NAN)