Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has called on journalists across Nigeria to leverage digital technology to improve their efficiency in an evolving media landscape. The Governor made this statement on Friday while inaugurating the 2024 News Summit of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) in Jalingo.
Represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, Governor Kefas emphasized the importance of embracing the opportunities offered by rapid technological advancements and social media to enhance news and information dissemination.
“As we navigate an era marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting audience expectations, and evolving journalistic practices, the role of news production has never been more crucial,” Kefas remarked. He urged journalists to not only reflect on these changes but also to seize the opportunities they present.
The Governor also stressed the need for journalists to uphold the core principles of truth, accuracy, balance, and fairness, which define the profession’s integrity. He noted that the summit’s theme, “News Production in a Transitional Media Landscape,” is timely, given the significant changes in the media landscape over the past decade, largely driven by the rise of digital platforms.
Governor Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting a robust, independent, and responsible press, recognizing the media’s vital role in strengthening democracy and good governance.
Earlier in the summit, FRCN Director General Dr. Mohammed Bulama highlighted his commitment to repositioning the organization through improved content and the integration of cutting-edge technology. He underscored the importance of technology in reshaping news production, noting that while digital platforms have democratized information dissemination, it is crucial for public broadcasters like Radio Nigeria to prioritize accuracy, credibility, and ethical reporting.
Dr. Bulama expressed gratitude to Governor Agbu Kefas and the Commissioner for Information and Re-Orientation, Barr. Zainab Usman Jalingo, for their support in hosting the summit in Jalingo and encouraged participants to fully utilize the opportunities presented by the event.
