Prof. Osita Ogbu, a renowned economist and former Economic Adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo, has advocated for the establishment of a Chartered Journalists institution. This institution would distinguish professional journalists from non-serious ones.
While delivering a lecture at the NUJ Enugu State Council Press Week on Monday, Professor Ogbu emphasised the importance of integrity, attitudinal change, and professionalism in journalism.
He noted that journalism is not an “all-comers” affair and that practitioners must cultivate a reading culture, be knowledgeable, and package themselves professionally.
Professor Ogbu also highlighted the crucial role journalists play in shaping public discourse and acting as intermediaries between the government and the governed. He advised journalists to continually seek knowledge to distinguish themselves from quacks.
He said: “Journalism is not an all comers affairs and practitioners must imbibe reading culture, be knowledgeable, package and develope themselves, dress well as well as serve public interest through shaping public discourse.
“The role of Journalists is to interface and act as intermediary between the government and the governed as well as shape the society for the better.”
The lecture’s theme, “Journalism in a developing Economy: the dignity of Professional Practice,” resonated with the audience, and Professor Ogbu’s words of wisdom are expected to inspire journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
The lecture featured questions and answers session.
Earlier in a Remark, the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Sam Udekwe explained that the press week was an annual event meant to bring members together to explore ways of improving on their profession and sharing conviviality as well as honouring those who distinguished themselves in their fields of endeavour, hence the investiture of icon of Democracy on Dr. Chidi Obetta, House of Representatives Member Representing Igboeze South Federal Constituency.
The Secretary of the Press Week Committee, Comrade Ignatius Okpara, while thanking members for their time especially the guest lecturer, announced that the Grand finale of the Press Week comes up on Friday 6th December at the Council headquarters.
