By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Information Chapel, has called for renewed commitment to credibility, professionalism, and digital adaptation among government spokespersons to strengthen public trust in governance and combat misinformation in the digital age.
Speaking at the 2025 Press Week of the Chapel held at the National Press Centre, Radio House, Abuja, the Chairman, Comrade Towoju Raphael, said that the theme of this year’s celebration “Media, Public Relations and Governance: Repositioning Government Spokespersons for Credibility in the Digital Era” was carefully chosen to underscore the rising importance of truth and transparency in government communication.
Comrade Towoju stated that the credibility of any government depends not only on the quality of its policies but also on the integrity and effectiveness of its communication with citizens.
“A good government is not only judged by the policies it makes, but also by the trust it earns through clear, consistent, and credible communication,” he said. “No matter how noble a government’s intentions may be, poor communication can erode public confidence, while effective and transparent engagement strengthens democracy and deepens citizen trust.”
He urged government spokespersons to embrace digital innovation, adhere to ethical standards, and maintain accuracy and speed in disseminating official information.
Highlighting some of the Chapel’s recent achievements, Comrade Towoju disclosed that over 100 members had been trained in digital communication, media ethics, and strategic public relations within the last year under his leadership.
“We are proud of the progress we’ve made, but we are not resting on our oars,” he said. “We will continue to seek partnerships and support to further empower our members to meet the demands of modern journalism.”
He expressed appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, fnipr, who serves as the Grand Patron of the Chapel, for his continued support, as well as to the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam, and other senior officials of the ministry for their cooperation.
Comrade Towoju concluded with a call for renewed dedication to truth and transparency in public communication, noting that:
“Credibility is not given; it is earned, sustained, and guarded with discipline, truth, and transparency.”
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reaffirmed the federal government’s determination to modernize the nation’s information machinery to meet global standards. He revealed that ongoing renovations at Radio House were part of efforts to make the National Press Centre a modern media hub before the end of the year, improving journalists’ workspaces across Nigeria.
The Minister also announced plans to upgrade the National Institute of Public Information (NIPI) in Kaduna as a centre for continuous training of information officers, with a focus on building credible spokespersons capable of countering misinformation and promoting national unity.
He further charged journalists to uphold the ethics of their profession and ensure that their reports educate citizens on government policies with fairness and responsibility.
“We must all defend the truth and Nigeria’s image against misinformation,” the minister said.
Earlier, the NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, noted that rebuilding public trust in government communication was essential for effective governance. She urged spokespersons to adapt to social media realities, respond swiftly to false narratives, and provide citizens with verified information.
Also speaking, a retired Director of Public Communication in the Ministry, Charles Chikezie, emphasized the importance of empathy and timeliness in public communication, noting that government communicators must be responsive to citizens’ concerns to prevent misinformation from taking root.
The event, which drew top government officials, media executives, and distinguished personalities, had Major General Adamu Garba Laka, represented by the Head of Strategic Communication at the NCTC–ONSA, Mr. Abu Michael, as the Special Guest of Honour, while Honourable Austin Atakpu served as Chairman of the occasion.
Among the highlights were free medical testing and treatment for over 250 members and ministry staff, the decoration of the Minister as Grand Patron of the Chapel, and the presentation of excellence awards to deserving officers in recognition of their dedication and service.
The 2025 NUJ Federal Information Chapel Press Week thus reaffirmed the union’s commitment to promoting credible communication, digital transformation, and professionalism in the evolving media landscape.
