The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has charged reporters covering the National Assembly to engage in accurate, fair, and balanced reporting of activities of the House.
Speaking while inaugurating the newly renovated media centre in the House and the new Executive of the House of Representatives Press Corps, the speaker said the efforts of the media to keep the public informed about the work of the parliament were valuable.
He assured that the leadership of the House would continue to provide a conducive environment for the media to carry out its assignment of holding the lawmakers’ accountable to the Nigerian people
According to him, “The role of the media within a democracy cannot be overstated. As the fourth estate, the media plays a pivotal role in fostering public engagement and upholding democratic values.
“The cooperation and collaboration between the media and the legislature, as outlined in our House Legislative Agenda, are essential for promoting transparency, accountability, and effective governance. By working together, we can ensure that the public remains well-informed and actively engaged in the democratic process.
“A well-resourced press centre within parliament is crucial for enabling the media to perform its duties effectively. This renovated press centre is yet another evidence of our commitment to providing you with a conducive work environment.
“I encourage you to make full use of this facility to enhance your reporting and facilitate meaningful dialogue between the legislature and the public. I commend the press corps for your dedicated reporting on the activities of parliament.
“Your efforts to keep the public informed about our work are invaluable. It is essential that your reportage remains well-researched and balanced, providing accurate and fair coverage of our proceedings. This commitment to journalistic integrity helps to maintain public trust and ensures that citizens receive reliable information.”
While assuring continuous capacity building for the press corps covering the National Assembly, the Speaker said the House was committed to supporting the professional development of members of the press covering the House.
He said: “We will work together to provide training programs and resources that will enhance your skills and ensure high-quality reporting on parliamentary activities.”
Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Akintunde Rotimi appealed to the Speaker to Institute an Insurance policy for Journalists covering the activities of the House.
Rotimi also spoke of the need for leaders of the House standing committees to carry members of the press corps along in their oversight assignments rather than engaging consultants.
In her remarks, the outgoing chairman of the House Press Corps, Comrade Grace Ike commended the leadership of the House for the provision of the modern media center and solicited for its full digitalisation.
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
Tinubu to Labour: Cut your coat according to available cloth
