The Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, has stressed the need for stronger collaboration between government institutions and the media to promote democratic governance, accountability, and public trust.
Olukoju stated this while delivering a special address on Wednesday at the grand finale of the 2026 Press Week organised by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Chapter.
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Director of Information, Mr. Ademola Olarewaju, described the theme of the event as timely, saying that the modern communication environment is characterised by rapid information flow, expanded public participation, and growing expectations for transparency and accountability.
She commended the Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ, Kwara State Chapter, for creating a platform that encourages reflection and professional dialogue on governance and communication-related issues.
According to her, government and the media occupy different but complementary roles in a democracy, with the government responsible for communicating policies and programmes, while the media informs citizens, provides context, and promotes accountability through professional journalism.
The Commissioner stated that accountability remains central to democratic governance, stressing that journalism plays a legitimate role in scrutinising public issues and fostering informed public discourse.
Speaking on strategic information management, Olukoju described information as a critical public resource that must be properly generated, verified, organised, and communicated to strengthen institutional credibility and build citizens’ trust.
She further highlighted the importance of journalism in sustaining information integrity and democratic accountability, describing the profession as a vital public service that informs citizens, amplifies community concerns, and contributes meaningfully to democratic development.
Olukoju also stressed that professional values such as accuracy, fairness, verification, and proper context remain indispensable, particularly in an era dominated by fast-paced digital communication.
The Commissioner urged both public institutions and media practitioners to prioritise responsible communication, transparency, and a culture of verification in the collective interest of society.
