The Chairman of Delta State Local Government Service Commission, Dr Joseph Otirhue says the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori will remain media-friendly to keep Deltans informed of government policies and programmes.
Otirhue stated this when the leadership of the Nigeria Union Of Journalists, NUJ, Delta State Council paid him a courtesy call in his office in Asaba.
He said the media played crucial roles in ensuring the success of any government and commended the state council for its support for the state government.
Otirhue appealed to the media to give the Oborevwori’s administration maximum support to effectively deliver on its MORE agenda mantra.
“For us at the Delta State Local Government Service Commission, we want to thank you (Delta NUJ) on behalf of the present government of Delta State for all the support you have been giving to this government by projecting the good works and making a good representation of journalism practice.
“Right from the administration of the immediate past governor of Delta State till now the Union has been doing very well. I want to commend your effort.
“I want to state categorically that we are media-friendly. I want to assure you we are going to partner with you because government is about synergy. We need the media to always project the image of government. Even the immediate past governor took you people very seriously. I remember that not too long before the governor left office he commissioned a new Press Centre, which I think is one of the best in the country.
“The present government is also doing wonderfully well in that area. The administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is also maintaining that same relationship that is already in place. His MORE agenda is already going wide even beyond Delta State, you have also been working collectively to see how the government succeeds.
“So, on behalf of the government, I want to solicit that cooperation that you gave to our immediate past governor to be extended to this present government,” said Otirhue.
While encouraging media practitioners to remain firm in their reportage, Dr Otirhue promised to partner with the state council of the NUJ to achieve its set goals and objectives.
He commended the leadership of their NUJ for the high level of professionalism displayed by union members and urged them to sustain the tempo.
For his part, the Chairman of NUJ, Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe in his written address said the visit was to collaborate with the local government service commission to report its activities effectively.
“We recognize the crucial role that commission plays in the governance and administration of our councils and local communities, and we are committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between our organizations for the betterment of our society.
“The NUJ, as the professional body of journalists in Nigeria, is dedicated to upholding the principles of press freedom, ethical journalism, and the promotion of good governance at all levels. We understand the vital role that local government councils play in the development and welfare of our communities, and we are keen to collaborate with the commission to ensure that the activities and achievements of local government councils in the state are effectively communicated to the public.
In our efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance, the NUJ, Delta State Council seeks to work closely with the Local Government Service Commission to facilitate access to information, engage in constructive dialogue, and provide a platform for the dissemination of accurate and timely information to the public. We believe that an informed citizenry is essential for the success of local government initiatives and policies, and we are committed to playing our part in ensuring that the public is well-informed about the activities of local government councils.
“Furthermore, we recognize the importance of highlighting the successes, challenges, and aspirations of the local government service in our media coverage. By showcasing the impactful work of the local government and promoting constructive discourse on local governance issues, we aim to contribute to the overall development and progress of our communities.
“As we look to the future, we envision a collaborative partnership between the NUJ and the Local Government Service Commission that is built on mutual respect, understanding, and a shared commitment to the welfare and advancement of our society. We are open to exploring avenues for capacity building, training, and knowledge sharing that can enhance the effectiveness of both our union and the commission in serving the public interest,” Oyowe stated.
He noted that the NUJ was determined to make a difference by working with relevant stakeholders to publish accurate information to enlighten the people.