The Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., has urged members of the media to continue supporting government policies and programmes through objective, professional and balanced reportage, describing the press as indispensable partners in governance.
Ikhilor made the call when he received members of the Governor’s Press Crew, Edo State Government House, led by the Chief Press Secretary, Ebojele Akhere Patrick, PhD, who paid him a courtesy visit as part of the season’s goodwill engagements.
Expressing appreciation for the visit, the SSG described the gesture as thoughtful and symbolic, noting that the media plays a vital role in governance and public accountability.
According to him, government efforts would have little impact without effective media engagement. “Whatever it is that we do will not matter much if we do not have you as our eyes and ears to report these activities, so that Edo people and the global community can be informed. That is where you come in as very important stakeholders,” he said.
Ikhilor emphasised the strategic importance of journalists, referring to the media as the fourth estate of the realm. “Without the press, government is blind, deaf and dumb. You are the ones we see with, hear with and communicate through. We consider you critical stakeholders in governance, and that is the sincere sentiment of this administration,” he added.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by media professionals, particularly poor working conditions, and assured them that the government was aware of the situation and was taking steps to improve it. He disclosed that recommendations had already been made to Governor Monday Okpebholo, with assurances that provisions for the media would be captured in the new budget expected to take effect from January.
Explaining the administration’s initial limitations, Ikhilor noted that spending was constrained by an inherited budget. “When we came in, a budget had already been prepared. We only made minor adjustments to pass it between November and December. Without appropriation, you cannot spend; doing so would amount to a criminal offence,” he explained.
The SSG urged journalists to remain committed to professionalism and the pursuit of truth, irrespective of circumstances. “Your primary responsibility as journalists is the pursuit of truth wherever you find it. Reporting should not be influenced by special relationships. Professionalism means consistency and delivering, whether the situation is favourable or not,” he stated.
He further encouraged the media to continue supporting government initiatives through accurate and diligent reporting, stressing the importance of teamwork in effective storytelling. Commending the press crew, Ikhilor praised the quality of recent reports and visual coverage, noting that collaboration among reporters, cameramen and editors was essential to bringing stories to life.
Earlier, while presenting a gift on behalf of the Governor’s Press Crew, the Chief Press Secretary, Ebojele Akhere Patrick, PhD, expressed gratitude to the SSG for his leadership and support. “In the spirit of the season, I present this to you on behalf of the Governor’s Press Crew, in appreciation of your efforts as the engine room of government,” he said.
