By Harriet Ijeomah
The National Orientation Agency (NOA), Imo State, has called on media organizations to strengthen their partnership with the Agency in promoting its activities and ensuring the public is well-informed about government policies. This appeal was made during a media parley held with journalists in Owerri, Imo State, on Tuesday, 8 October 2024.
The Director of NOA Imo State, Stellamaris Demian Igwe, while addressing the press, acknowledged the media’s pivotal role as the “Fourth Estate of the Realm.” She praised their ongoing efforts in driving awareness and contributing to the growth and development of the State. Igwe specifically highlighted the media’s involvement in promoting the importance of Digital Birth Registration, a project supported by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), which has already yielded positive results in improving birth registration across the state.
“We understand that the impact of our work cannot be fully effective without the contributions and expertise of your profession. Your involvement in raising awareness for Digital Birth Registration has encouraged a strong public response,” she said.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA), which was established to promote civic responsibility, educate citizens on government policies, and foster national unity, has been working tirelessly to inform the public about the responsibilities of citizenship and the benefits of government programs. Through campaigns on voter education, digital literacy, environmental sanitation, and economic development initiatives, the Agency has sought to bring government policies closer to the people.
The Director also emphasized the importance of partnerships between the Agency and media outlets to ensure the government’s development policies and initiatives are clearly communicated to the general public.
“A strong media partnership will amplify our work and ensure that government programs are not only heard but understood by the people. The media’s role is vital in dispelling misinformation and ensuring the people are well informed about what the government is doing for them.”
In response, the journalists in attendance affirmed their commitment to supporting the work of the Agency, agreeing that a collaborative effort between the media and NOA is crucial to advancing the development of Imo State. They also acknowledged the need for more public enlightenment campaigns, especially in rural communities where access to information is limited.
The media parley concluded with a renewed sense of commitment to ensuring the state’s development agenda is effectively communicated to every citizen.
