• Stakeholders laud Ododo administration for transparency, media innovation
By Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a historic move that has set a new benchmark for public communication in Nigeria, the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in Kogi State has unveiled its inaugural Annual Media Performance Report — a pioneering document that tracks the state government's media coverage from January 2024 to January 2025.
The report, widely hailed by media experts, political leaders, and scholars, is seen as a bold step toward building a brighter future for Kogi through effective and transparent communication. It captures the administration’s strategic communication efforts, achievements, and media engagement, earning it praise as the first of its kind in the state.
Speaking on the significance of the report, Governor Ododo said it reflects his administration's commitment to open governance and public accountability.
“This report is not just a record of our media coverage,” he said. “It is a bridge between the government and the people—a tool to deepen trust, promote transparency, and foster a future where information flows freely and meaningfully.”
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, described the initiative as “a shining example” of using media analytics to improve governance.
“Tracking media performance helps government identify its strengths and areas for improvement,” he said. “This report is a smart and timely innovation that will inspire other states to follow suit.”
The Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ismaila Isah, led the team behind the report. The work was commended for its depth, accuracy, and strategic importance by stakeholders across the board.
Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, Secretary to the State Government, noted that the report has “reshaped the narrative” of how government activities are reported in Kogi.
“It ensures that the government’s work is properly documented, and future generations will have a reliable account of our development journey,” she said.
Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, emphasized the role of teamwork in producing the report.
“This was not the effort of one office alone. It was a collaborative success,” Fanwo said. “It shows that when government and media work together, the result is clarity, trust, and progress.”
Former Commissioner for Information and Chairperson of the Blueprint Editorial Board, Hajia Zainab Suleiman Okino, echoed the sentiment, describing the report as “a historic document.”
“This is how you secure a legacy,” she remarked. “By documenting achievements and communicating them clearly, this administration has set a new tone for governance in Kogi.”
For Professor Abiodun Adeniyi of Baze University, Abuja, the report is an academic and professional benchmark.
“This is an exceptional effort that offers a model for media advisers, communication scholars, and PR professionals nationwide,” he stated. “It will redefine how government communication is structured.”
The journalism community has also expressed strong support. Ademu Seidu Haruna, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi State Council, said the report fosters a better working relationship between the media and government.
“It promotes transparency, provides data for credible journalism, and encourages mutual respect,” Seidu said.
Yabagi Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the State Assembly, suggested the report could become teaching material for mass communication students.
“This is a goldmine of media strategy and evaluation,” he said. “It raises media literacy and sets a high standard for reporting.”
Michael Abu, publisher of *The Nigerian Post*, and a media veteran of over two decades, praised the report's meticulous nature.
“It provides clear insight into the government’s visibility and public engagement. This is how to earn trust,” he said.
Comrade Yusuf Itopa, MD of *Graphics Newspaper*, said the initiative is “a major achievement in media history.”
“This report is a gift to the people of Kogi. It gives them access to how their government is seen and perceived in the media,” he said.
Hajia Yusuf Nana Hauwa, DG of the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation, highlighted how the detailed evaluations empower the public.
“It’s an eye-opener for the public and the media alike. It sets a new benchmark for media accountability in governance,” she said.
Also weighing in, Yahaya Adam, GM of NTA Lokoja, described the report as “a reliable tool for ensuring accurate and balanced reportage.”
“It gives journalists and the public a transparent view of how the government operates,” Adam stated.
With its innovative approach to performance tracking and communication, the Annual Media Performance Report is already being viewed as a transformational tool in governance. Stakeholders agree that if sustained, it could catalyze a more transparent, engaged, and hopeful future for Kogi State.
As Governor Ododo put it, “When people are well-informed, they become active participants in governance. That is the future we are building—together.”
