'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, has affirmed
the Presidency's commitment to supporting the Association of Corporate Online Publishers (ACOE) in Nigeria. The initiative aims to promote ethical journalism and regulate the online media landscape. Onanuga pledged the federal government's future collaboration with the association.
During a courtesy visit by the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) delegation in Abuja on Friday, Onanuga expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended by the association members. The Presidency values the association's ethical standards, as outlined by its Chairman, Martins Odiete.
Onanuga stressed the importance of synergy among existing online media bodies to enhance professional competence, effectiveness, and news dissemination in accordance with global standards, especially given the online media's growing influence over traditional platforms.
"I appreciate your warm birthday wishes, albeit belated. I wish everyone here long-lasting health and prosperity, as I do for myself. Thank you."
"We have previously engaged with two other online associations, and while I can't recall their names at present, your presence is valued. The diversity of our information ecosystem necessitates such collaborations alongside existing efforts."
Responding to concerns about effective government communication, Onanuga emphasized the administration's extensive use of various channels amid the evolving media landscape, which now includes platforms like TikTok and Snapchat, alongside numerous online media entities.
The media advisor underscored the importance of collaborative and substantive reporting within online platforms. He urged publishers to consolidate their efforts for more comprehensive news coverage, emphasizing rigorous journalism practices over sensationalism.
"Effective collaboration among publishers enhances content quality, attracting more readers and advertisers alike. Operating independently in silos poses challenges," Onanuga cautioned.
Asserting his dedication to the presidential mandate under President Tinubu, Onanuga assured ongoing media support for ACOE and welcomed future engagements with its members.
"In my role, I am committed to facilitating seamless communication with your association. Please share your contacts for direct government updates and announcements, particularly during festive periods."
"I am here to support the President. Initially, I served as the campaign's publicity secretary before joining the media team. Drawing from over forty years of experience, I aim to enhance government communication effectively."
"While economic challenges persist globally, the government is actively addressing them through strategic initiatives, including agricultural revitalization. I encourage all Nigerians to cultivate homegrown solutions to alleviate current hardships."
Martins Odiete, Chairman of ACOE, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the Presidency on enhancing media collaboration. Highlighting ACOE's rigorous membership criteria and its commitment to responsible journalism, Odiete emphasized the importance of transparent communication and joint efforts in the digital age.
"We look forward to collaborating with your office on joint training programs, content standards, and crisis communication strategies to better serve the public interest," Odiete affirmed.
ACOE plans to celebrate its second anniversary with an Investiture event next February, seeking support from the Presidency in organizing the milestone occasion.
