GOCOP 2025 : JOURNALISM MATTERS: MOJEED URGES GOVERNMENT TO SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS”
GREATRIBUNETVNEWS–THE Editor-in-Chief and Chief Operating Officer of Premium Times, Mr. Muskilu Mojeed, has made a passionate plea for the Nigerian government to provide sustained support for professional journalists, highlighting their critical role in holding power accountable and bridging the gap between campaign promises and governance realities .
Speaking at the 9th Annual Conference of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) in Lagos, Mojeed lamented the minimal support journalists receive from the government despite their indispensable role in democracy.
Key Highlights of Mojeed’s Appeal.
– Indispensable Role of Media: Mojeed emphasized the media’s crucial role in democracy, particularly in holding those in power accountable.
– Minimal Government Support: He expressed dismay at the lack of support from the government, noting that journalists are often left to struggle on their own.
– Need for Sustained Support: Mojeed urged the government to provide sustained support for professional journalists, recognizing their importance in promoting transparency and good governance.
– Challenges Faced by Journalists: He highlighted the challenges faced by journalists, including limited resources and government indifference.
Mojeed’s Powerful Words.
“The government hardly gives us support. The fact is, everyone needs the media, especially when in power and even more when out of power,” Mojeed stated, underscoring the importance of a free and independent press in Nigeria’s democracy .
The award-winning journalist stressed that the media must be empowered to effectively serve as the voice of the people and watchdog of society.
While acknowledging the palliatives extended to some media houses during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly through debt waivers, Mojeed argued that such gestures were not enough and urged the government to do more to strengthen the sector.
He also decried the poor quality of leadership in the country, noting that many politicians come into office unprepared for the responsibilities of governance.
“There’s a clear disconnect between campaign promises and actual delivery,” he lamented.
Mojeed further encouraged journalists to embrace technology and innovation, describing them as vital tools for enhancing accountability and reinforcing the media’s role in promoting transparency and good governance.
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