The immediate past Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, has urged media practitioners to take control of the social media space to restore public trust in journalism.
Ikeogwu made the appeal while speaking on “The Role of Social Media: A Tool for Democratic Consolidation” at a one-day capacity-building workshop organized by the NUJ Sapele Correspondents’ Chapel in collaboration with the Sapele Local Government Council.
He warned against the growing influence of misinformation and fake news, stressing that professional journalists must assert themselves in the digital space.
Ikeogwu who is also the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Delta Sate Governor, highlighted the basic role of the media in governance, social enlightenment, and mobilization. He noted that journalism serves as a critical bridge between the government and the people, making it indispensable for good governance, democratic consolidation, and national development.
The chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, emphasized the importance of continuous training for media professionals. “In today’s fast-changing digital world, journalists must constantly update their skills. Ethical reporting and digital literacy are essential in combating misinformation and ensuring responsible journalism,” he said.
Ikeogwu, Oyowe, and the immediate past Secretary of the NUJ Delta State Council, Comrade Patrick Ochei, were presented with awards of excellence. The NUJ Sapele Correspondents’ Chapel described them as outstanding media leaders committed to press freedom, professionalism, and capacity-building in the industry.
Ochei commended the NUJ Sapele Correspondents’ Chapel for organizing the workshop and pledged to continue supporting initiatives that enhance journalism standards in Delta State.
The workshop, attended by journalists, government officials, and media experts, focused on the role of social media in shaping democratic governance. Participants applauded the initiative, stressing that such engagements are necessary to combat fake news.
