By Onomiguren Agbamu
The Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Innocent Esewezie, has called on community newspaper publishers to uphold professionalism, objectivity, and factual reporting in order to strengthen democratic governance and promote grassroots development.
Esewezie made the call on Thursday while receiving the leadership of the Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Council, during a courtesy visit to his liaison office in Ibusa.
While speaking during the visit, the council chairman described community newspapers as critical partners in public enlightenment, noting that accurate and balanced reporting remains essential in combating misinformation and keeping citizens informed about government programmes and policies.
On national development, Esewezie attributed many of the ongoing developmental strides across the country to the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy. He described the policy as a difficult but necessary decision aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy for sustainable growth.
He also highlighted ongoing constitutional and institutional reforms, including efforts toward the establishment of state policing, saying such initiatives would strengthen security and improve governance at all levels.
He said the alignment between the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Delta State Government’s M.O.R.E. Agenda has created opportunities for local governments to execute impactful projects and improve the living conditions of residents.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, grassroots development, and continued collaboration with the media in advancing community development across Oshimili North.
Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Community Newspapers, Comrade Prince Joseph Orhomonokpaye, commended the council chairman’s leadership style, saying he is accessible, humble, and result-oriented, adding that the LGC should sustain the ongoing developmental efforts in the local government.
Separately, the Chairman of ACNPN, Delta State Council, Comrade Ike Philip Abiagom, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to responsible journalism and pledged continued collaboration with the government in ensuring that accurate information on public policies and programmes reaches communities across the state.
Abiagom described community newspapers as an important link between the government and the grassroots, adding that the association would continue to promote constructive engagement between public office holders and citizens.
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