Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) recently hosted its second annual Media Roundtable, themed “Beyond Critique: The Importance of Constructive Media Engagement in Governance and Nation-Building.”
The event brought together prominent media leaders, practitioners, students, academics, and media stakeholders. In his welcome address, Dr. Peter Bamkole, PAU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin), emphasized the power of truthful and transparent reporting.
“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,” Dr. Bamkole stated.
The event featured an engaging panel discussion led by esteemed media professionals, who offered unique insights into the vital role of the media in governance and society.
Sherriff Quadry, Broadcast Journalist at Nigeria Info, emphasized the demanding nature of journalism, stating that it requires more than simply identifying as a journalist. “Democracy cannot survive without journalists, and without a free press, it becomes impossible,” Quadry asserted.
Margaret Agada-Mba, Lecturer at the School of Media and Communication, PAU, questioned the government’s view of the media, posing the critical question: “While the media strives to partner with the government, does the government consider the media a partner in national development?”
Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun, Head of Programmes at News Central, argued that there should be no restraints on the press, stating that journalists have a responsibility to present news with honesty and transparency.
Magnus Onyibe added that if journalists are ever offered the opportunity to work with the government, they should ensure they do so with a clear conscience, maintaining their integrity in the face of such challenges.
Fisayo Soyombo addressed the issue of harassment faced by investigative journalists, highlighting that the solution to such intimidation is more investigative journalism. “The answer to harassment is more journalism because the idea of harassment is to get the journalist to stop pursuing the truth,” Soyombo said.
Jonathan James Lyamgohn emphasized three key principles when engaging with the government: respect, patriotism, and press independence. “We are the fourth estate of the realm,” he noted, underscoring the vital role of journalists in upholding democracy.
The event called on both the media and government to foster a relationship grounded in mutual respect and the shared goal of national development while preserving the integrity of a free and independent press.
