A publisher, Mr Jimoh Ibrahim, last Tuesday, urged Nigerian business reporters to focus on the bright side of the country’s economy.

Delivering a lecture in Ibadan on, “Lifting the Nigerian Economy: The Power of the Pen”, at the press week of  Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Ibadan chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ibrahim advised journalists to be positive minded.

Ibrahim, who was represented by the Managing Director of National Mirror newspaper, Mr Steve Ayorinde,  said such reports could be on Nigeria as “an emerging global market.’’

He cited oil and gas, telecommunications, agriculture as well as media and entertainment as good areas of focus which, if given publicity, would bring investors to the country.

The guest lecturer said it would be in the country’s interest if the strengths in the economy were highlighted.

Ibrahim advised that journalists should “engage in business reporting that enhances the understanding of business in Nigeria.’’

He also called for more reports that would drive the business community in meeting its corporate and social responsibilities while holding leaders accountable.

Ibrahim further called on business reporters to promote developmental journalism by writing and editing with responsibility and publishing with conscience.

He said the media could make or mar the country’s economy, adding that it was in the interest of every Nigerian for the economy to improve.

Earlier, the Chairman, FRCN Ibadan chapel of NUJ, Mr Tunde Oluwanike, said the week was to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the union.

Oluwanike said the occasion called for sober reflection.

“It is true we need to celebrate, but more importantly is the fact that we need to examine ourselves to know where we are coming from, where we are and what we need to do to forge ahead as a union, “ he said.

Senior managers of the radio station, veteran journalists and some members of the public were present at the occasion.