The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) conferred the prestigious Media-Friendly Governor of the Year Award upon Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, in recognition of his administration's enduring partnership with media practitioners and steadfast dedication to press freedom.
This national recognition was formally presented on Saturday during the fourth edition of the NUJ Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Nigeria, which took place at the Abuja Continental Hotel in the Federal Capital Territory. The event centered on the theme, “Strengthening Democracy Through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance.”
Governor Oborevwori, who delegated his Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Erijo, to represent him at the ceremony, also delivered the keynote address. In his speech, he underscored the vital function that responsible journalism serves in fortifying democratic structures and advancing good governance across the country.
What did the governor emphasize regarding press freedom?
Addressing the audience, the governor characterized a free and unfettered press as a cornerstone of democratic society. He emphasized that citizens rely entirely on access to trustworthy information to make sound decisions and effectively hold elected leaders accountable for their actions.
Oborevwori explained that the connection between democratic governance and journalism is mutually reinforcing. While democracy creates the legal framework that safeguards press freedom, professional journalism acts as a stabilizing force that sustains democratic institutions and keeps the government responsive to the populace.
Furthermore, the governor pointed out that the historical sacrifices made by veteran Nigerian journalists highlight the continuous need to protect the profession and maintain the ethical benchmarks that underpin its credibility.
Where must media professionals draw the line?
While championing press freedom, the Delta State leader cautioned that it must always be paired with professional accountability. He challenged reporters and editors to prioritize accuracy, fairness, and absolute integrity in their daily storytelling.
He specifically warned against the proliferation of unverified stories, hate speech, and digital misinformation. In the modern era of fast-paced online publishing, the temptation to break news quickly often threatens the core values of factual, objective journalism.
“Public trust is the foundation of journalism. Once lost, it is difficult to regain,” Oborevwori stated, encouraging practitioners to maintain their independence, bravery, and dedication to the common good.
Why was the Delta administration specifically commended?
Earlier in the proceedings, NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, explained that the annual event was established to honor figures whose efforts have positively influenced journalism, societal welfare, and national progress.
Yahya lauded the Oborevwori administration for fostering a peaceful and cooperative environment for media workers. He noted that union records showed no instances of journalists facing harassment, intimidation, or arrest while carrying out their duties in Delta State.
The NUJ president also highlighted the administration's broader developmental achievements, including infrastructural investments in road networks, clearing of inherited financial liabilities, and targeted social welfare packages designed to support widows and economically vulnerable households.
Dr. Chris Isiguzo, a former NUJ President who served as the chairman of the event, praised the current union leadership for maintaining the tradition of the annual awards ceremony, noting that institutional continuity remains essential for organizational growth in Nigeria.