The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to sustaining and strengthening its relationship with the media, promising improved engagement and transparency in governance.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Musibau Babatunde, gave the assurance while playing host to the Executives of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State, on a farmiliarisation visit to his office.
Correspondents’ Chapel is an umbrella body for journalists of media houses whose offices are domiciled outside Oyo State.
Prof. Babatunde said that the working relationship between the government and the media over the past six to seven years had been anchored on trust and mutual respect.
He expressed appreciation for the professionalism of journalists, noting that the government would continue to address issues raised by the media.
“Our working relationship over the past six or seven years has been built on trust and mutual respect. That confidence has been very important to us, and we value it greatly. We do not take that for granted,” the Economics Professor said.
The SSG assured that challenges, including criticisms and negative perceptions, would be addressed through sustained collaboration and open communication.
“Once again, I want to thank you for your support and for being here today. This is not just a meeting; it marks the beginning of even better collaboration. We look forward to working more closely together in the future,” Prof. Babatunde added.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Yinka Adeniran, said the executives visited the SSG following their election last month. He commended the strides of the Oyo State Government over the past six years, describing the administration as redefining governance. Adeniran also lauded the SSG’s simplicity despite his academic and political stature.
In his remarks, the Vice Chairman of the Chapel, Comrade Remi Koleoso, noted that the media values its partnership with the government. He disclosed plans to relaunch the Chapel’s monthly quality guest forum, which brings distinguished individuals to engage with journalists in interactive sessions.
He urged the government to view the media as partners, emphasising a commitment to constructive engagement and sustained collaboration.(First Weekly)
—Kunle Bakare.
