Prince Chinedu Okafor, Chairman of Awka South Local Government Area in Anambra State, has called for stronger measures to uphold the integrity and professionalism of journalism. He made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the Anambra State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), led by its Chairperson, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika.
Addressing the delegation from his office, Prince Okafor expressed concern over the growing trend of misinformation spread by individuals on social media platforms. He warned that the unchecked dissemination of unverified news by untrained individuals risks eroding public trust in the journalism profession. “Journalism must be safeguarded from the intrusion of every Tom, Dick, and Harry who peddle falsehood online. It is a profession that demands ethics, accuracy, and responsibility,” he stated.
Comrade Ifejika, in her remarks, commended the local government’s ongoing developmental initiatives, particularly in healthcare. She mentioned efforts to monitor and upgrade Primary Health Centres (PHCs), aimed at ensuring accessible and quality healthcare services for the people of Awka South.
She also proposed a partnership between NAWOJ and the local government, which she said would help raise public awareness of the administration’s achievements and strengthen communication with residents.
In response, Prince Okafor welcomed the idea, affirming the council’s readiness to work with NAWOJ and his media team to improve public information efforts. “This partnership will ensure robust coverage of the good works of His Excellency, Professor Chukwuma Soludo. The recent visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the state is a testament to the governor’s impact,” he said.
The Chairman also encouraged NAWOJ to continue playing an active role in promoting positive narratives about Anambra State, portraying it as a progressive and livable region.
Offering a vote of thanks, Monic Okechukwu, General Manager of Kpakpando FM, expressed gratitude for the Chairman’s support and commitment to collaborating with NAWOJ. She further applauded his leadership and the developmental progress being recorded across the local government area.
