DELTA State Orientation and Communications Bureau Director-General, Dr. Fred Oghenesivbe has underscored the importance of collaborative media engagement in the promotion of the landmark achievements of the Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration in the State. Dr Oghenesivbe gave the advice, when he hosted the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in his office. To this end, Oghenesivbe highlighted the significant developmental strides of Gov Oborevwori’s administration, citing the construction of three flyovers, located at the DSC Roundabout, PTI Junction, and Enerhen Junction in Warri and the on-going dualization of the Asaba-Ughelli Express Road, which have significantly reduced travel time.
He also listed other projects like the Obo River Bridge and urged journalists to accurately portray the positive transformation underway in Delta State. Dr. Oghenesivbe disclosed Gov Oborevwori’s administration impact beyond infrastructure, citing the payment of bursaries to Delta State Law students, a comprehensive student health care scheme, and the empowerment of SMEs through D-CARES programme and the State Wealth and Job Creation Bureau.
He stressed the importance of balanced reporting, emphasizing constructive criticism and highlighting the good alongside areas needing improvement.
“Our media writing shouldn’t only focus on the negative,” he said, “but should present a balanced view of our state’s activities,” he added. The Director-General urged the journalists to seek clarification on any issue from the Hon. Commissioner for Information, his office (as D.G Orientation and Communications Bureau), the Chief Press Secretary to the governor or the Communications Manager. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong collaborative relationship between the government and the media, adding that, it was crucial for building a better Delta State.
While acknowledging the correspondents’ requests, he assured them that he would discuss them with his management team and the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza.