Our reporter
The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to fostering a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the media, emphasising the crucial role of journalists in a thriving democracy. This was the central theme at the 2025 Journalists Classic Dinner, held on Saturday, 8 January 2025, in Benin City.
The event, established in 2022 under the leadership of Dr Festus Alenkhe, Chairman of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), was conceived as a platform for journalists in the State to relax and socialise while fostering professional unity.
Representing Governor Monday Okpebholo at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon Paul Ohonbamu, highlighted the importance of synergy between the media and the government. He reaffirmed the Governor’s unwavering support for press freedom and open governance, assuring media practitioners of the State’s backing in their duties.
“That is it. You must ensure you bring the news to the people. You give them the information they need to know. In fact, the global world will be information contaminated. Let them know, let them hear everything. The government is prepared to support you,” Hon Ohonbamu declared.
He further stressed the administration’s commitment to a free press, stating, “And it’s a Democracy. So we cannot do anything to stifle the press. Or to bully the media to censor it. We will work together as we continue to do our work. I hope you all know successful societies don’t wait for their leaders to succeed. They’re accountable. Is that not true?”
Also speaking at the event was the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, who was making his first visit to Edo State since assuming office. He underscored journalists’ welfare as a core agenda of his leadership and commended the Edo NUJ Executive for prioritising this through initiatives such as the Journalists Classic Dinner.
“The Edo NUJ Executive remains the best in the country,” Yahaya remarked, lauding the State Council’s efforts in promoting the well-being of media professionals. He also praised the Edo State Government for its strides in infrastructural development and maintaining peace.
“I want to say that let me also appreciate as well the government for transforming the State, especially in the area of peace,” he said.
Reiterating his commitment to the welfare of journalists nationwide, Yahaya assured that his administration would work to improve their working conditions and professional security.
In his address, the Edo NUJ Chairman, Dr Festus Alenkhe, expressed gratitude to the guests for their presence at the dinner and urged journalists to uphold the highest ethical standards in their profession.
A major highlight of the evening was the formal installation of the State Governor as the Grand Patron of the Edo State Council of the NUJ. Additionally, several distinguished guests were honoured for their contributions to journalism and their support for the media’s role in national development.
The 2025 Journalists Classic Dinner once again reinforced the critical importance of media-government collaboration in Edo State. It provided a platform for journalists to be celebrated for their vital role in informing and educating the public while ensuring government accountability.
