Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River state and Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, have urged Nigeria's broadcast media to adopt an ethical reorientation. They made the call at the 82nd General Assembly of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) in Calabar. The duo emphasized the need for media practitioners to uphold accuracy, balance, responsibility, and professionalism in their duties. This, they believe, can be achieved by promoting and enforcing professional standards across public and private radio and television stations.
Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, highlighted BON's critical role in promoting professional standards. He noted that the organization has a responsibility to ensure that broadcast media adhere to best practices. Otu expressed concern over the declining professional standards among some operators, which he believes can have far-reaching consequences for society. He urged BON to develop practical frameworks that strengthen ethical broadcasting and promote responsible editorial judgment.
The governor warned that poorly verified content can deepen social polarization and expose young minds to conflicting and harmful ideologies. He emphasized the need for BON to take a proactive role in regulating the broadcast media. Otu's concerns were echoed by the VON DG, Mallam Ndace, who charged journalists to uphold professionalism, particularly when reporting political and security-related issues. Ndace emphasized the importance of balance and fairness in reporting.
Ndace urged journalists covering security matters to exercise restraint and compassion. He stressed the need for senior editorial officers to take responsibility for reports emanating from the field. According to Ndace, journalists have a responsibility to hold the ground by being professional. He called on colleagues, particularly those at the strategic level, to take ownership of reports and ensure that they are accurate and balanced.
The VON DG emphasized the importance of professionalism in reporting politics and security issues. He warned against maligning individuals or undermining states or individuals in the race. Ndace's remarks were in line with Otu's call for a reorientation of the broadcast media. The duo's concerns reflect a broader need for reform in Nigeria's media landscape.
The 82nd General Assembly of BON provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the challenges facing Nigeria's broadcast media. The event brought together media practitioners, regulators, and policymakers to explore ways to promote professionalism and ethics in the industry. Otu and Ndace's remarks set the tone for a renewed focus on ethics and professionalism in Nigeria's broadcast media.
The call for ethical reorientation in Nigeria's broadcast media comes at a time when the industry is facing significant challenges. The need for reform has become more urgent in view of the observable decline in professional standards among some operators. Otu and Ndace's advocacy for ethics and professionalism is expected to resonate with media practitioners and regulators.
Key points
- Governor Bassey Otu and VON DG Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace call for urgent ethical reorientation in Nigeria's broadcast media.
- The duo emphasizes the need for media practitioners to uphold accuracy, balance, responsibility, and professionalism in their duties.
- Otu and Ndace's concerns reflect a broader need for reform in Nigeria's media landscape.
