Kalu urges journalists to promote balanced reporting, national development

By Gift Chapi Odekina, Abuja

ABUJA — Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has called on Nigerian journalists to embrace balanced reporting by highlighting the country’s achievements while continuing to hold government accountable.

Speaking on Thursday during the inauguration of the newly elected executive of the House of Representatives Press Corps at the National Assembly, Kalu said the media plays a vital role in shaping public perception and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

He encouraged journalists to report not only the nation’s challenges but also its progress and opportunities.

Kalu said balanced journalism should reflect both areas requiring improvement and efforts being made to address them.

He described parliamentary correspondents as important partners in the democratic process, noting that their reports help citizens understand the work of the legislature, including lawmaking, oversight and representation.

According to him, responsible journalism can promote national cohesion, patriotism and public confidence in democratic institutions.

The Deputy Speaker also commended members of the House Press Corps for their professionalism and commitment to reporting legislative activities, saying their work has helped improve public awareness of the National Assembly.

Earlier, Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs and House Spokesman, Hon. Akin Rotimi, praised the leadership of the House for maintaining access for journalists to legislative proceedings.

He described the parliamentary press as a key partner in deepening democracy and urged journalists to uphold the principles of accuracy, fairness and professionalism in their reporting.

In his inaugural address, the re-elected Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Comrade Gboyega Onadiran, pledged to build on the achievements of the outgoing executive while maintaining the independence and professionalism of the parliamentary press.

He also appreciated the House leadership for its support, including the introduction of a health insurance scheme for members of the Press Corps.

The newly inaugurated executive comprises Gboyega Onadiran (Chairman), Christiana Ekpa (Vice Chairman), Nicholas Kalu (Secretary), Gift Chapi Odekina (Assistant Secretary), Saheed Badmus (Financial Secretary), Adah Onah (Treasurer), Nsikak Evans Udoukpong (Welfare Secretary), and Tope Balogun (Welfare Officer).

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