Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom and the creation of an enabling environment for journalists to thrive.
Governor Otti stated this during the official opening of the Abia North zonal office of Abia Think Tank (ATT) Online News held at the SKOG Complex,Amaekpu Ohafia LGA.
The Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, described the event as a significant milestone in the collective effort to build an informed, progressive, and transparent Abia State.
He noted that the Media has continued to play a crucial role in shaping public perception, holding leadership accountable and fostering development.
“As an administration that prides itself on transparency, good governance, and inclusivity, we recognize the media as a vital partner in our mission to transform Abia State for the better,” he added.
Governor Otti urged ATT News to uphold ethical journalism, serve as a voice of truth, and a catalyst for societal transformation.
“We believe that a well informed society is a progressive society and as such we will continue to encourage professionalism ,factual reportage and integrity in media practice.
“As ATT News expands its presence, I charge you to remain steadfast in your mission of ethical journalism, be the voice of truth, a beacon of hope and catalyst for societal transformation”, he charged.
Governor Otti lauded the Management and Editorial Team of the ATT News for their dedication to credible journalism and objective news dissemination.
The Governor highlighted that his administration since it’s inception, has made remarkable progress in various sectors including; Infrastructural Renewal, Economic revitalisation, Youth Empowerment, Healthcare, Civil Service reforms and Security enhancement.
“Today in Abia State, as part of the reforms of Civil Service, the payment of Workers’ Salaries and 100 per cent payment of Monthly Pension of our pensioners happens on or before 28th of every month.
“Our investment in Healthcare has seen the revitalisation of Primary and Secondary Healthcare Centers equipping them with modern Medical Facilities to provide quality Healthcare Services for our citizens.
“In the area of Education, we have continued to reposition our schools through strategic interventions ensuring that Abia remains at the forefront of academic excellence in Nigeria” the Governor stated.
The Governor emphasized that his Government has strengthened Security architecture of the state through huge investments in technology, and credited Operation Crush for reducing crime rates and restoring public confidence in safety.
Governor Otti acknowledged the constructive partnership between the Government and the Media, which has helped ensure responsible and balanced reportage.
He congratulated ATT News on the opening of its new office, expressing hope that it would serve as a hub for impactful journalism that advances the cause of Abia State.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Ohafia LGA, Chief Eleanya Kalu, commended the publisher for providing a platform for the dissemination of verifiable information and urged the organization to ensure accuracy in reporting and avoid propaganda and character assassination.
Also, the Chairman Abia State Harmonized Taskforce on Petroleum, Air Commodore Ifeanyi Azubuike (Rtd.) emphasized the role of the Media in information dissemination, Education, Advocacy, and holding leaders accountable, describing the the media as the bedrock of any society.
Azubike, represented by a member of the Taskforce Sam Odita, commended the ATT News for its commitment to societal development through public engagement and urged the publisher to uphold journalism ethics.
Earlier, the Publisher and CEO of ATT Online News, Mr. Uduma Nnate, reiterated his organization’s dedication to objective and unbiased reporting.
“We are here to pass on genuine and accurate information to the public,” Nnate said.
He explained that while ATT News has it’s headquarters in Umuahia, the expansion into Abia North and South Senatorial Districts reflects a strategic push to promote grassroots journalism.
Nnate also revealed plans to establish radio and television stations in Abia North Senatorial District to further strengthen media presence and information dissemination across the State.
