Kogi: Appoint female journalists in your cabinet- NAWOJ begs Gov. Ododo
The Nigeria Association of women Journalists, (NAWOJ) has appealed to Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo to consider more journalists for appointments in his cabinet especially female practitioners in the State.
The Chairperson of NAWOJ Comrade Stella Edoka made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Managing Director and Editor in Chief of the Graphic Newspaper Mr Y.J. Itopa.
Edoka noted that female journalists in Kogi State have remained committed to the success of many administration, stressing that when
given opportunities to serve, they will deliver effectively.
“We are really excited with the commitment of his Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo in exceeding 35 percent affirmative actions for women in governance. NAWOJ is grateful for this laudable gesture.
“Female Journalists in Kogi State want to make a passionate appeal to his excellency for appointment of some of us to serve in the present cabinet. We will forever the grateful to his excellency when this appeal are is given immediate attention” she stated.
Edoka commended Governor Ododo for his remarkable achievement in Kogi State since he assumed office, stressing that, under his watch, the State has witnessed unprecedented development in all sector.
She pledge the unalloyed support of NAWOJ for the success of the present administration in Kogi State. “NAWOJ will continue to pray for Governor Ododo to succeed because he is doing well for the State despite the little resources available. Governance is about the people. The present administration is fully committed to impact positively on the people with their policies, and programs. That is why we are calling on all and sundry to give the government all the needed support to succeed in the State”.
Edoka lauded the State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for appointing one of their own Itopa as Managing Director and Editor in Chief of the Graphic.
While expressing confidence in Itopa’s ability to steer Graphic Newspapers towards greater height, Edoka highlighted the importance of strong leadership in the media industry.
Edoka said “We are here to celebrate a remarkable milestone in the history of Graphic Newspapers. Itopa’s appointment is not just a personal achievement but a significant step forward for the entire media community in Kogi State. We believe his leadership will bring about positive changes and foster a more vibrant and inclusive media landscape,” Edoka stated.
Responding, the newly appointed Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, Itopa reiterates his commitment in maintaining the integrity and quality of journalism at Graphic Newspapers.
“It is indeed an honor to be entrusted with this responsibility. I am dedicated to upholding the highest standards of journalism and ensuring that Graphic Newspapers continues to serve as a reliable source of information for our readers. I look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to achieve our shared goals,” Itopa said.
He also appreciated Governor Ododo for the opportunity to lead the corporation, advocating for more journalists in the administration. “Journalists are competent and can use the media to promote the governor’s image,”he added.
He commended the Commissioner for Information, Evangelist Kingsley Fanwo, for his support and the medium through which the Kogi State broadcasting media are thriving.
Itopa assured NAWOJ of his support, adding that the corporation is ever ready to render its services for the cause of journalism in the state.
In his speech, James Oyewole, the Executive Editor of Graphic Newspapers, also shared his thoughts during the visit. He praised Itopa’s extensive experience and vision for the future of the publication.
“Having worked with Mr. Itopa, I can attest to his unwavering dedication to excellence in journalism. His leadership will undoubtedly propel Graphic Newspapers to new heights. We are excited about the future and the positive impact his leadership will bring,” Oyewole remarked.
“The MD/Editor-in-Chief is a selfless person, and I am certain that his selflessness will lead to significant progress for the corporation.”
Oyewole also appreciated NAWOJ for their visit and assured the association of continued support and collaboration for the betterment of the profession.
The visit of NAWOJ Kogi State chapter to the Managing Director and Editor in Chief of the Graphic Newspaper underscores the unity and mutual support within the journalism community, as well as the collective commitment to advancing the profession and promoting high standards of journalism in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the NAWOJ Chairperson in Kogi led a delegation for a courtesy visit to the Kogi State Commissioner for information and Communication Kingsley Fanwo.
During the visit, Edoka called for more collaboration and support from the Kogi State Government to enable the association function well in the state.
Edoka, equally commended the Commissioner for his efforts in projecting and defending the Government as there is no room for speculations in the state.
Earlier in his remarks the Kogi State Commissioner for information and Communication Kingsley Fanwo called on Journalists to be proactive in propagating the activities and programmes of the State government.
Fanwo, who stressed the important roles Journalists play in the development of the state , emphasized the need for working journalists to be up and doing in the discharge of their duties without bias, sentiment or emotional attachment.
He pledged the ministry’s total support and collaboration with Kogi State NAWOJ for the growth of the Association.
The Commissioner argued that the State Government is always ready to work with the journalists in a bid to move Kogi State forward.
