Experts Discuss Media’s Role in Good Governance at Pan-Atlantic University Roundtable
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that they reached a consensus that effective media engagement by government officials is crucial for fostering trust and transparency, which is vital for societal development.
The panelists emphasized that restricting media freedom or silencing journalists only exacerbates the existing trust deficit between the government and the media, ultimately harming the public interest and overall societal progress.
These insights were shared during the second annual Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) Media Roundtable, themed “Beyond Critique: The Importance of Constructive Media Engagement in Governance and Nation-Building.”
The diverse panel, which included experts from print, broadcast, investigative, and online platforms, highlighted that even critical media should be constructively engaged by the government. They stressed that providing accurate information and context enables journalists to convey the government’s initiatives effectively to the public, as their reporting is often shaped by the information available to them.
The panel featured notable figures such as Magnus Onyibe (Public Policy Analyst and Author), Fisayo Soyombo (Founder, Foundation for Investigative Journalism – FIJ), Sherriff Quadry (Broadcast Journalist, Nigeria Info), Margaret Agada-Mba (Lecturer, School of Media and Communication, PAU), Jonathan James Lyamgohn (Media Consultant), and Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun (Head of Programmes, News Central).
Each participant offered unique perspectives on the significant impact of media on governance and society. Moderators Onyinyechi Aderibigbe from Nigeria Info and Elizabeth Musa from Business Day facilitated the discussions.
The panelists noted that it is primarily the responsibility of government information officials to engage with the media constructively, rather than expecting journalists to initiate contact.
Media representatives expressed frustration at being obstructed in their efforts to reach out to government, emphasizing that it is their duty to balance diverse news and viewpoints in pursuit of professional journalism.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, Dr. Peter Bamkole, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin) of PAU, underscored the importance of truthful and transparent reporting. He stated, “What you see, say, and write must be truthful, transparent, and reliable. Speaking the truth will change the narrative and promote constructive engagement instead of blind criticism.”
Fisayo Soyombo, a prominent investigative journalist and Founder of FIJ, shared his concerns about ongoing harassment faced by journalists, advocating for increased investigative work as a solution.
“The answer to harassment is more journalism because the idea of harassment is to get the journalist to stop pursuing the truth,” he asserted. He stressed that journalists should remain impartial and that it is the government’s responsibility to initiate constructive dialogue with the media.
Sherriff Quadry emphasized the demanding nature of journalism, asserting that democracy cannot thrive without a free press. He urged the government to provide sufficient information that journalists can work with, rather than resorting to intimidation. He also encouraged aspiring journalists to thoroughly understand the foundations of the profession before entering the field.
Margaret Agada-Mba questioned whether the government views the media as a partner in national development, highlighting the need for collaboration. Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun called for unrestricted press freedom, emphasizing the importance of honest and transparent reporting.
Magnus Onyibe advised journalists to maintain their integrity when engaging with government opportunities, advocating for a collaborative approach where the government shares information and shapes narratives alongside the media.
Jonathan James Lyamgohn emphasized three principles for engaging with the government: respect, patriotism, and press independence. He reminded attendees of the vital role journalists play as the fourth estate of the realm.
The panelists concluded that journalism transcends mere profession; it is a commitment to truth, transparency, and societal progress. As media practitioners navigate complex reporting landscapes, they must remain vigilant in holding power accountable and fostering positive change.
The event called for both the media and government to cultivate a relationship rooted in mutual respect and a shared vision for national development while ensuring the integrity of an independent press.
