Online Journalism has been described as the future of media practice as such journalists have been urged to uphold ethical values and professional conduct, to lay a legacy that would be remembered for decades to come.
The Honourable Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya made the declaration at a 2 Day Retreat with a theme: Strengthening Digital Journalism through ethical practices and responsive online engagement in Dutse, Jigawa state.
He said, the upcoming journalists in the State as the pioneer drivers association of the online journalism practice in the State, the least the citizens expect from them are diligence in the sourcing, publication and development of news content, professionalism and accuracy in narration, and avoidance of information dissemination, which is driven by the sentiment of sensationalism, quick breaking syndrome.
Waiya therefore reminds the, online journalists that they are not the same as social media users. That, online journalism must be guided by legal and ethical decorum which distinguishes it, from citizens’ journalism which is not guided by any extant laws or regulations.
Consequently, he said digital journalism has come to stay, and it must therefore be seen and accepted as one of the critical component of journalism practice in the country, hence deserves every form of recognition.
“As you are all aware, the World is revolving fast towards sophistication, especially through the application and use of ICT on every section of human endeavor”.
He said, competitiveness has become an order of the day, especially with the advent of Al, and other advanced technologies, hence the need for self development, professionalism upholding the ethical values and conduct, for easy recognition in the profession. In the practice of digital journalism, creation of brand is critical and instrumental, within the local, national and global context.
” this can only be achieved, where professionalism, integrity and honesty have become a glaring symbols of a brand. Some individuals in the online media practice have already created a name for themselves, and have now been recognized for that, however, these milestone are not by chance or miracle, it is by deliberate commitment, dedication and consistency. I therefore urge you to follow the same route and success shall be your story”.
He congratulated online journalists on the establishment of the Kano Online chapel and appreciate the Kano State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalist, for their support in seeing this dream come true, as well as all other stakeholders who have supported this course to its logical conclusion.
He beseech the chairman and executive members to remain steadfast and concentrate on promoting the capacity of their members as it is key to attaining every height in the profession. And to explore every opportunity for the benefit of the members, as pioneer executives of the chapel.
On the part of the Government, he assures the Union of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alh. Abba Kabir Yusuf, continuous support to journalism development and practice in Kano, as well as upholding press freedom.
“We shall continue as a democratic Government to respect the freedom of expression, and it is in line with this, the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, is working to lead the advocacy for the establishment of State Law on the Freedom of Information, which is going to be a replica of the Freedom of Information Act”.
He requested for a continued support of the practicing journalists in the State, by sustaining responsible journalism and ensuring the avoidance of sensationalism in journalism practice in Kano, being a cosmopolitan, and politically sensitive, and that ethical journalism, should not be compromised
