Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun has assured that the State Government would sustain a robust relationship with journalists and media organizations to effectively provide information to individuals and groups on Government’s policies, programmes and activities that would help bridge the gap between the governed and the Government.
Rt. Hon. Olatunbosun gave the assurance in Ado Ekiti while receiving the newly elected Executive members of the Ekiti State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists led by its Chairman, Mr. Kayode Babatuyi during a courtesy visit to his office.
Describing the visit as a demonstration of the body to partner Government in the effort to develop the State, Olatunbosun stressed the commitment of the Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to freedom of the media where journalists operate freely in society without undue government control, restriction or censorship.
The Commissioner noted Governor Oyebanji’s abhorrence for crass propaganda adding however that the inclusive type of governance currently in operation in the State makes it imperative for Government to carry all stakeholders along in the scheme of things.
He said that “Mr. Governor does not believe in propaganda but has an inclusive style of governance that makes accountability important”.
“it is not about us, it is about the State. A State of honour with people of integrity. We believe that we have the capacity to be in the forefront as vanguards. Leadership must therefore be selfless and tailored to engender unity and development that transcends personal motives and pecuniary gains”.
“We are therefore ready to partner with journalists in relationships that surpass respective organizations but concentrate on development of the State and welfare of the people”.
Olatunbosun congratulated the new leaders and prayed that God would give them wisdom to steer the ship of the union.
He promised to encourage Information Officers to utilize the opportunity provided by the establishment of a campus of the International Institute of Journalism in Ado Ekiti to sharpen their professional skills, adding that the Ministry was particular about professionalism and smooth career progression.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Olusesan Alabi said that no stone would be left unturned towards engendering professionalism in the Ministry in line with global best practices.
Mr. Alabi assured that the leadership of the Ministry would continue to support efforts at stimulating smooth career progression for members of staff.
Earlier, the Chairman of the State Council of the NUJ, Mr. Kayode Babatuyi had lauded the State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji for his support for the union since inception of his administration which he described as unprecedented.
Babatuyi however solicited for more synergy between the State media apparatus and the union as well as more support from Government to boost the working relationship between the duo for improved management of information in the State.
He pledged the continued support of the union for Government’s efforts to develop the State.