Elections: NPC reiterates commitment to improve media performance

The Nigerian Press Council (NPC) has reiterated its commitment to improve media performance in subsequent elections in the country.

The Executive Secretary of the council, Mr Francis Nwosu, stated this at a workshop on Post 2023 General Elections Assessment held in Mararaba, Nassarawa State on Thursday.

It was reported that the workshop was organised by the NPC in collaboration with Aveesga International, to assess media performance of the 2023 general elections.

According to Nwosu, the gathering is to carry out a post mortem on the performance of the media during and after the 2023 general elections.

”What are the criticisms that trailed the coverage and reportage of the election processes that needed to be interrogated, with a view to chart a pathway of addressing identified shortcomings.

”This is with a view to improve media performance in subsequent elections alongside strengthening democratic values and institutions.

Also speaking, Dr Chris Isiguzo, President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), said that democracy thrives when the media upholds the principles of fairness, objectivity, and accountability.

Isiguzo said the workshop would assess media compliance with constitutional provisions, electoral laws and codes of ethics as a pivotal for ensuring that the media remains a beacon of truth and transparency.

He said the 2023 general elections marked a significant chapter in Nigeria’s history.

The president said the media as a key stakeholder, was entrusted with the responsibility of guiding the electorate through the intricate web of our electoral processes.

He expressed hope that the workshop would contribute to a roadmap for enhancing media coverage of elections in the future.

Isiguzo said that criticisms are stepping stones to improvement, adding that, it’s through constructive dialogue and shared commitment that democratic values and institutions could be fortified.

He commended the NPC for promoting high professional standards for the media in subsequent elections through this workshop.

“The focus will reflect a dedication to introspection and improvement, a testament to the vital role journalists play in our democratic journey.

“This workshop focuses on a post-mortem analysis of the media’s performance, provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on our achievements and identify areas where improvements are needed,” he said.

Mr Isaac Nyam, in a paper on Appraisal of Use of Mass Media for Nigeria’s 2023 General Elections’ Mobilisation, said there was a need for the creation of law for rules and regulations.

He said that the nature of evolving of Nigeria ought to be taken more seriously, and reckoned with in relation to cogency of mass media use in Nigeria.

“There is an increasing need for respect for ownership types and performance models, as well as consciousness and conscientiousness about frames and framing.

“There is also the need for strict use of code of media conduct as guiding Modus operandi,” he said.