The Nigeria Union of Journalists has recognised Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for what it described as his administration’s cordial relationship with journalists and respect for press freedom.
The union presented Oborevwori with the Media-Friendly Governor of the Year Award at its fourth Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Nigeria, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel in Abuja on Saturday.
The governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Government House, Prince Johnson Erijo, also delivered the keynote address at the event, which had the theme, “Strengthening Democracy Through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance.”
Oborevwori said a free press was essential to democracy because it enabled citizens to access credible information, make informed decisions and hold public officials accountable.
He, however, urged journalists to balance press freedom with professional responsibility, warning that misinformation, hate speech and unverified reports could undermine public confidence in the media.
The governor said the pressure to break news and attract attention, particularly on digital platforms, should not come at the expense of accuracy and fairness.
“Public trust is the foundation of journalism. Once lost, it is difficult to regain,” he said.
He urged media practitioners to remain independent, courageous and committed to reporting in the public interest.
Oborevwori said democracy and journalism depended on each other, noting that while democracy guaranteed press freedom, responsible journalism strengthened democratic institutions and kept government accountable to the people.
He also said the sacrifices of veteran journalists should encourage media practitioners to protect press freedom and maintain professional standards.
Earlier, the NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, said the recognition programme was established to celebrate individuals whose contributions had made lasting impacts on journalism, humanity and national development.
Yahya commended the Delta State Government for maintaining a cordial relationship with journalists, saying the union had not recorded reports of journalists being intimidated, harassed or arrested in the state while carrying out their professional duties.
He also praised the administration’s investments in road infrastructure, efforts to settle inherited debts and contractual obligations, and welfare programmes for widows, indigent families and other vulnerable residents.
The NUJ president said Oborevwori’s acceptance of the invitation showed his appreciation of the media’s role in society and the importance of constructive engagement between government and journalists.
The Chairman of the occasion and former NUJ President, Dr Chris Isiguzo, commended the current leadership of the union for sustaining the annual recognition programme.
He described continuity in leadership as important to building strong institutions.
