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2023: Fact-Check, US Ambassador Tells Nigerian Media
According to the US Ambassador, access to accurate, unbiased information was critical to democracy.
As 2023 general elections approach, the Ambassador of the United States of America to Nigeria, Mary Beth Leonard, has urged the Nigerian media to always fact check their stories before publication as such will reduce fake news issues.
According to the ambassador, media right to press freedom by countering propaganda and disinformation through regular and impartial fact-checking is a key professional factor.
Speaking on Thursday in Lagos during a Town Hall Meeting hosted by the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Leonard said that team approach was needed to help improve public trust in the media.
The media-focused Town Hall meetings and two-day workshops for over 200 editors will take place in turns in the six geopolitical zones across the country and is supported by the US Embassy in Nigeria.
Leonard said one of the challenges that democracies around the world are faced with is an “unfortunate, pervasive lack of trust in the media.”
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She decried financial inducement of journalists, saying that the “practice corrodes the institutional position of the media as what we refer to as the Fourth Estate or one of our pillars of democracy.
“Brown envelope journalism undermines the public’s trust in the media, erodes journalistic integrity, and defeats the media’s ability to play a transparent oversight role over government actions,” said the US Envoy.
According to the US Ambassador, access to accurate, unbiased information was critical to democracy.
“It ensures that citizens make responsible, informed choices rather than acting out of ignorance or misinformation.
“Information that is publicly accessible to all ensures that elected representatives uphold their oaths of office and carry out the wishes of those who elected them.”
She said that the Nigerian media could ensure that citizen voices were heard and this in turn, might help reverse voter apathy.
“Too often Nigerian elections are personality based and lose focus on critical issues such as unemployment, inflation, and lack of health care,” Leonard said, adding that the media could hold the candidates accountable for discussing issues.
In his speech, Mustapha Isah, President of the NGE, said one of the major roles of the media was agenda setting, adding that the more stories the media did on a particular subject, the more importance the audience would attach to it.
According to him, what is currently dominating headlines in the media on the 2023 general elections is zoning or power rotation.
“As the politicians talk about zoning, the media should remind them that citizens are more interested in the issues of development, education, insecurity, youth unemployment and poverty ravaging the nation.
“The media as a watchdog of society owes it as a duty to monitor governance and hold public office holders accountable to the people who elected them.” Isah said.
Human Rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), who was the guest speaker, said that Nigerian Editors had failed to ask pertinent questions while addressing topical issues that affected democracy in the country.
According to him, an assault on democracy can occur anywhere in the world and the political elite play a major role in the institutional degeneration.
Falana also urged Nigerian journalists to strengthen their disciplinary bodies in order to fish out and punish those who were bringing the profession into disrepute.
President Bola Tinubu has announced that he will address Nigerians by 9 pm on Monday ahead of Christmas celebrations.
The spokesperson of the president, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.
According to him, this will be the first presidential media chat.
“The first presidential media chat with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be broadcast at 9 pm on Monday, December 23, on the Nigerian Television Authority and Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria.
“All television and radio stations are requested to hook up to the broadcast,” he stated.
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has urged residents to adopt responsible behavior during the festive season and also raise awareness on the spread of HIV in the state.
Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, Dr Folakemi Animashaun who made this disclosure during a virtual interview recently, encouraged Lagosians to engage in meaningful discussions, responsible practices and reflect on ways of maintaining a healthy and productive life style.
“As the Christmas season approaches, it’s a time of joy, celebration, and connection with loved ones. it is also an important opportunity for raising awareness about HIV & AIDS .While festivities often focus on giving and sharing, it is crucial to remember that this season can also serve as a reflective moment to engage in conversations about health, safety, and the importance of responsible behavior.” she said
Dr. Animashaun emphasized the importance of maintaining safe practices and being mindful of actions that could impact negatively on both personal and public health during the celebrations adding that taking all necessary precautions such as practicing safe sex, avoiding substance – induced risky behavior, being mindful of new relationships and encounters will go a long way in preventing the spread of HIV in the community.
She noted that the fight against HIV is an ongoing battle and can only be won through collective responsibility as the struggle demands unwavering determination, resources, and commitment from all stakeholders.
“As we continue to raise awareness and work towards prevention, treatment, and support for those affected, it is crucial that we recognize and fulfill our collective responsibility in practicing safe sex and ensuring that every one is properly informed on how the virus is transmitted “. She said.
The Chief Executive Officer added that Lagos State AIDS Agency remains committed to the Health and Environment Mandate of the THEMES PLUS AGENDA as the agency has been instrumental in coordinating HIV & AIDS control programs in the state and has also intensified efforts in upscaling Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) Programs, Public Awareness and Sensitization as well as free screening and counseling services across the state.
She noted that HIV testing and counseling services remain free at all designated healthcare facilities in the state, highlighting the government’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare, particularly in the fight against HIV&AIDS.
However, she urged all residents to adopt proactive health-seeking behaviors to improve their overall well-being.
President Bola Tinubu has officially flagged off the 2024 main Christian pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.
This was contained in a statement by the Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations of Christian pilgrimage, Celestine Toruka, and published on the Commission’s official X handle on Monday.
The president, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, urged pilgrims to view their journey as an opportunity to strengthen their faith in God.
He noted that the theme of the 2024 pilgrimage, “Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration,” aligns with the vision and agenda of his administration.
The president called on the intending pilgrims to pray for the progress of Nigeria, Lagos State, and their families.
Tinubu warned the pilgrims against absconding while in the Holy Land, stressing that there is no better place than home.
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