The House Leader of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Barrister Oba Abdulkadir Magaji has advised journalists to prioritize national interests when presenting critical views on government actions.
“When you criticize the government, do it constructively, in a way that will build the nation, promote unity, and support development,” Magaji said.
He emphasized the need for partnerships between the media and all levels of government to drive nation-building and uphold good governance.
Speaking at a seminar organized by the Sobi FM chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in collaboration with the Nigeria Media Parliament, he stressed the vital role of the media in fostering democratic values and promoting national unity.
The event, themed “Nigeria Parliament and Nation Building: The Role of Media,” highlighted the media’s responsibility in shaping democratic discourse.
Acknowledging the critical influence of journalists in nation-building, Magaji urged media professionals to be mindful of the potential impacts of divisive reporting.
“Any government, military or civilian, that wants to succeed must partner with the media in nation-building,” he stated, calling on journalists to use their platforms to promote unity and development.
Magaji acknowledged the essential role of journalists in shaping the nation, alongside legislative contributions, and cautioned against news reporting that could potentially divide the country.
In his opening remarks, Acting Chairman of the Sobi FM NUJ chapel, Kayode Adeoti, noted that the seminar aimed to strengthen journalists’ capacity to understand parliamentary functions in Nigeria’s nation-building process.
He emphasized the media’s role as a bridge between the government and the public, promoting transparency and civic engagement.
“This training empowers journalists to report on parliamentary affairs and advocate for accountability in governance,” Adeoti added, highlighting the seminar’s focus on enhancing media professionals’ skills to support democratic governance in Nigeria.
“The seminar will equip media professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to strengthen public understanding of parliamentary functions and support democratic governance in Nigeria”, he said.
