By; RALPH OKHIRIA, Benin.
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has told journalists that his government is open to constructive criticisms, even as he charged them to always upgrade their knowledge and skills to meet with the challenges of the 21st century.
Governor Obaseki who stated this while declaring open activities to mark the 2016 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ, Edo State Council commended the journalists for sustaining the Press Week initiative and stressed the need for improvement.
The Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq. appreciated the cordial relationship existing between the media and the Edo state government, right from the days of the Adams Oshiomhole administration and sued for its sustenance.
Chairman on the occasion, Chief Sam Igbe, the Iyase of Benin Kingdom who was represented by Chief Eduwu Ekhator congratulated the NUJ for the laudable activities lined up for the Press Week, urging them to continue to practice development journalism by supporting the state to succeed.
He advised that journalists must cross check and confirm facts before publishing, adding that they must work to contribute to the sustenance of peace in our society by promoting the things that unify us as a people.
In his welcome address, the Chairman Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Edo State Council, Comrade Roland Osakue said the essence of the Press week was to provide a platform for practicing journalists to refresh their knowledge on ethics of the profession and to know the latest trends in the profession with a view to meeting its obligation as the fourth estate of the realm to society.
Osakue appealed to the state government to implement Weigh-in Allowance for journalists under the employment of the state government to enable Edo journalists enjoy the package which has since been approved by the National Salary Wages Commission following the proposal made by the National body of the NUJ.
