Members of the On-Air Personalities (OAPs) Forum have been urged to contribute to societal development by ensuring the dissemination of accurate and factual information, while also remaining constructive in their criticisms of government activities.
The Commissioner for Information, Rt Hon. Aniekan Umanah, assigned the task on Wednesday, August 27, at the ministry’s conference room, when he hosted a team of On-Air Personalities, led by the Coordinator, Mr Emmanuel Edet of Inspiration FM, Uyo.
Acknowledging the crucial role of the organisation in sensitising, mobilising, advocating, and educating the public on government activities and programmes, Rt Hon. Umanah also advised the team on responsible broadcasting for people to be properly informed and for the growth of the state.
He applauded the OAPs members, particularly for supporting and showcasing the ARISE Agenda of the Governor Umo Eno administration, which he noted was delivering the dividends of democracy to the people in many ramifications, thereby providing enough materials for the media to showcase.
Describing the administration as media-friendly, the commissioner maintained that it has sustained media stations for information dissemination, stating that the government remained the backbone of every broadcast station in the state.
He assured OAPs of support and constant engagement, even as he stressed the need for training and mentorship in order to sustain quality presentations by members.
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Appreciating the cordial relationship sustained with the media community over the years, the coordinator of the OAPs, Mr Emmanuel Edet, notified the commissioner that the forum was a body of practising radio and television presenters across the state and beyond, with the core objective of building professionalism, promoting unity among practitioners and creating avenues where media personalities can collaborate to contribute positively to society.
Mr Edet, while highlighting the critical roles of the forum in shaping public opinion and bridging the gap between the government and the people, referenced the crucial role played by members during the 2023 general elections.
He said the essence of the visit was to strengthen the bond with the Ministry and explore ways of collaboration towards promoting government policies, programmes and initiatives.
Listing the forum’s challenges, including training and mentorship, the coordinator sought collaboration on media campaigns and sensitisation, capacity building, recognition platforms and regular engagements, even as he solicited support for their upcoming Ibom Broadcasters Symposium 2025, meant to celebrate broadcasting excellence in Akwa Ibom.
In a vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, Akparawa James Edet, lauded the Commissioner for granting the audience and the OAPs for contributing to propagating government information.
While reminding the OAPs of their critical role in society beyond the good voice, he called on them to uphold professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
The visit was attended by the Directors of Information and Public Communications, Mr Aniekan Ukpong; Archives and Documentary, Dr Eunice Egharevba; Public Relations and Advertising, Mr Nsikan Essien; and New Media and Strategy, Mr Edem Okon.
