Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi state says that the Nigeria Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has taken the leading role in journalism with relevant skills and competence in facts finding across the nation.
The governor who was represented by his deputy, Chief David Edward Onoja said this at the 2-day workshop organized by the NGIJ with the theme "Investigative and Solutions Journalism in the Digital Age’ at Rabison hotel Ikeja, Lagos.
He noted that NGIJ played a critical role in saving and changing the bad reputation of Kogi state adding that `with this group in the profession, we have hope in journalism.
``I will use this medium to challenge this professional body to investigate the source of insecurity in the country, criminals are very much around us, but we will not allow them to thrive’’.
He urged other states to emulate the pattern Kogi state used in tackling criminal activities so they can prosper.
The Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa also while speaking warned journalists against media trial to avoid jeopardizing the anti-corruption efforts of the agency.
Abdulrasheed who was represented by the Deputy Head of Lagos Zonal Office, Emeka Okonjo, called for revival of investigative practices among journalists with a view to unraveling deep layered corruption cases and strengthen collaborations towards sustaining the ongoing anti-graft campaign of President Muhammadu Buhari led administration.
The agency expressed its readiness to partner with the NGIJ in areas of reportage of trials, noting that investigative journalists have great roles to play in the fight against corruption in the nation.
Oba Adeoye, one of the speakers advised journalists especially investigators to always balance their reports and proffer solutions.
He emphasised the need to adopt new modern media techniques for multi platforms, media branding and digital media Entrepreneurship and rub minds together on how to push journalism in the future.
" Don't let your breaking news always be about breaking people's hearts. Whatever rot you uncover, speak to experts to also get solutions to the issue. Solution journalist aims to uncover truth and goes beyond beat, he said.
Another speakers, an award winning investigative journalist, Fisayo Soyombo also shared his passion and experience with NGIJ members.
He said that his zeal for social change, justice and equity in the society made him embrace investigative journalism despite the challenges.
Other facilitators at the event include foremost rights activist and HEDA Chairman, Mr Olanrewaju Suraj, Financial Analyst and Communicator, Dapo Daramola and Barrister Ayo Odukale of Ayo Odukale Chambers who delved into media laws, FOI Act, Whistle blowers and other relevant laws guiding and related to media practice in Nigeria.
In his remark, the NGIJ President, Ayoyemi Mojoyinola said the workshop was designed to further enhance efficiency for members and refresh their skills and competencies towards achieving the guild’s mission of promoting good governance, public accountability and probity in the country through promotion and practice of investigative journalism with excellence.
President TeamNigeria4Change, Bestman Nze-Jumbo, UBA Head of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Nasir Tunde Ramon, Polaris Bank Corporate Affairs Head, Rasheed Bolarinwa and other dignitaries also in their goodwill messages highlighted the roles of media in engendering good governance.
