Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to media empowerment and cultural transformation through responsible journalism, as he lent his full support to the 2025 edition of the Vision Africa Radio Media Institute in Umuahia.
The state Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, who represented Dr Alex Otti at the event delivered a keynote speech underscoring the media’s pivotal role in shaping society. Themed “Image Makers: Shaping Culture, Inspiring Change Through Media,” the institute brought together journalists, trainers, and stakeholders for an intensive programme focused on ethical, purpose-driven journalism.
In his remarks, Governor Otti, through the Commissioner, praised Vision Africa and its founder, Bishop Dr. Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, for sustaining what he called “a vision factory and launchpad for conscience-driven communicators” over the past twelve years. He described the media as more than just storytellers, but as architects of public perception and co-creators of societal values
“The media does not just reflect culture, it reconstructs it,” the governor’s message stated. “In today’s Abia, where we are rebuilding not only roads but trust, we need storytellers who report with truth, depth, and a sense of duty to inspire action.”
He emphasized the administration’s New Abia Agenda, which seeks to rebuild integrity, strengthen governance, and empower citizens. According to the statement, the media remains a vital partner in this journey of “restoration, transformation, and renewal.”
Reverend Ojo Uduma, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Abia State in his remarks urged media professionals to “disseminate truth and inspire change,” commending Bishop Onuoha for building a platform that shapes young journalists into responsible and ethical image makers with greater impact in the society.
Prince Kanu further stressed that empowerment transcends material support, noting that “the enlightenment of the mind is the greatest form of empowerment,” particularly in today’s information-driven age.
Barrister Sarafina Nwokenta, Chief Operating Officer of Vision Africa, thanked participants and encouraged them to apply their new knowledge practically. She explained that the institute’s goal is to equip journalists not just with technical skills, but with the intellectual tools to elevate public discourse and promote national welfare.
In a time of rising misinformation and shrinking trust in media institutions, initiatives like the Vision Africa Media Institute provide critical support to the foundation of democracy: a well-informed public. The Abia State Government’s support for ethical journalism signals a forward-thinking approach that values transparency, public engagement, and storytelling as catalysts for sustainable development.
This event reflects not only a state administration seeking to deepen its social contract with the people but also a call to action for journalists across Nigeria to embrace their role as nation-builders.
Participants from various media outlets expressed appreciation to Vision Africa for what they described as a transformative and insightful training. Comrade Emeka Okafor, Assistant Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, praised the curriculum’s emphasis on ethical reporting and community impact.
Sir Emmanuel Ejiogu of Lumen Newspapers and Comrade Divine Nwankwo, Vice Chairman of the NUJ Information Chapel, highlighted how the training has reshaped their perspective on journalism as a tool for positive change. Other journalists including David Maduako of Announcer Express, and Kate Ekemini of National Ambassador, echoed similar sentiments, calling the programme “timely and mission-driven.”
