World Press Freedom Day: U.S Consulate harps accurate dissemination of information
Chima Azubuike, Gombe
United States Consulate General, Claire Pierangelo, says correct and accurate information have the potency to save lives and make Nigerian society better.
Pierangelo noted that the advantages of free press can not be overemphasized, adding that it enthrones healthy democracy which enable citizens hold leaders accountable.
The consulate General made this disclosure on Monday, in a webinar commemorating World Press Freedom Day with the theme: “Frontiers of Health Reporting: New Insights, Fresh Perspectives.”
She said, “United States will continue to emphasis the value of promoting a free press because media plays such an essential role in preserving Democracy. As we can witness this days; including my own country providing correct and accurate saves lives.
“We all know that a free press is essential to a healthy Democracy and media can be a powerful force for change. It can effectively fulfill the role of a watchdog, gatekeeper and agenda setter. It can also improve governance by raising awareness on social issue by enabling citizens to hold government to account to curb corruption and create civic form for debate.
“As media professionals you must continue to track institutional processes. Your report must critically analyse because the public depends on your reports in print, audiovisual and online. You can assess as Journalists, how health budgets are managed and whether there are adequate checks and balances in for effective governance. This is what allows citizens to know whether their local officials are fulfilling their promises and meeting their obligations.”
According to Pierangelo, United States government remains committed to initiatives that would build capacity in Nigeria.
“For years US mission has funded training programme for journalists, hundreds of Nigerian journalists on topics ranging from health, defence and National security reporting. This demonstrates long partnership enjoyed with Nigeria. Unfortunately because of Covid-19 we have not been able to do those programmes in person for the last two years and they will be coming back strong and our commitment remains solid.
“It is our hope that this webinar will increase your capabilities on how to provide some accurate information to Nigerians from your improved reporting on health, governance and other critical issues. Let me close with this quote from the American philanthropist Warren Buffet, he said ‘the smarter the Journalists are, the better the society gets’. And I think that is really true because you play critical role in preserving democracy and the truth that people need to hold their government’s accountable,” she added.
