Fubara Seeks Media Support Towards Rivers Dev …Commends National Network For Vibrancy 

The Rivers State Government has called on the media to support its efforts towards the promotion of good governance and development of the State.

The State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, made the call during the 21st anniversary celebration of The National Network newspaper in Port Harcourt, last Wednesday.

The governor, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, urged the media to be responsible in its reportage, and contribute towards the growth and development of the State.

He said the government relies on the media to tell the story and enlighten the people on the activities of the government, promote good governance in the society, while at the same time playing the role of a watchdog.

He also urged the media to ensure clarity, honesty and transparency in the discharge of it functions.

Speaking on the theme of the anniversary, “Media Governance and Public Good, 21 Years of National Network in Shaping Civic Participation”, the governor commended the National Network newspaper for its vibrancy and consistency in contributing to the state democratic landscape.

He noted that the media outfit has emerged as one of the strongest pillars in the growth and development of the State.

The Chairman of the anniversary celebration and former Commissioner for Information and Communications in the State, Pastor Paulinus Nsirim, also commended the staff and management of the National Network for their resilience, and for remaining professional in the last 21 years.

He particularly praised the publisher of the newspaper, Pastor Jerry Needam, for demonstrating professionalism in the discharge of his duties, urging him to sustain the tempo.

In his remarks, the Editor-In-Chief of the National Network, Dr Chris Okonkwo, said for the past 21 years, the newspaper has maintained its constant presence in the newsstand, and also contributed so much towards the improvement of the society despite the economic downturn in the country.

According to him, “we are celebrating 21 years of uninterrupted presence in the newsstand despite the economic downturn and paucity of funds.”

He commended the state government for its support to the newspaper over the years, adding that the celebration was also a victory over police harassment.

The highpoint of the anniversary was the presentation of awards to some individuals for their contributions towards the growth of the media.