From Taiye Joseph Ilorin.
Media practitioners in Nigeria have been charged to prioritise truth, fairness and accountability in their reportage as part of their contribution to building a better society.
Speaking at an interdenominational service to flag off the 2025 Press Week and 45th anniversary/award ceremony of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Chief Imam of Al-Waheed Central Mosque, Imam Mustapha Lukman, stressed the need for journalists to verify their sources before publishing.
“God created us to have good relationships through a strong system of communication. Journalists must follow the rules of their profession, be just, and do good among themselves,” Imam Lukman said.
In his message, Pastor Adedoyin Adeyemi of Exodus Bethel Bible Church International, Ganmo, drew lessons from Proverbs 23:3, urging journalists to maintain good conduct both in and out of duty. He reminded them that their time in the profession would not last forever, so they must leave a positive impact on people’s lives.
“Love one another, do good at all times, and have a spirit of forgiveness. We must pray for our leaders so they can receive divine guidance to lead the nation in the right direction,” Pastor Adeyemi added.
The event, themed “Renewed Hope Agenda: Mid-Term Appraisal of Tinubu’s Reforms, Success and Prospects,” brought together media professionals and religious leaders to reflect on the role of the press in Nigeria’s development.