Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has called on members of the Guild of Editors to collaborate with the Southeast region in its development efforts. Speaking at the opening of a two-day workshop for Editors and Media Executives from the Southeast and South-South geopolitical zones, held in Owerri in partnership with UNICEF, Uzodimma, represented by Deputy Governor Chinyere Ekomaro, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and development-focused journalism.
While addressing the editors, Uzodimma advocated for stronger political and economic alliances between the Southeast and South-South regions to effectively negotiate national matters. He urged the media to embrace “Developmental Journalism,” focusing on promoting ideas and actions that foster growth and guide citizens in understanding government policies.
The governor emphasized the need for the media to engage in balanced, solution-oriented journalism that goes beyond simple reporting and actively contributes to the region’s progress. Uzodimma stressed the importance of unity among states in the old Eastern Region to revive the powerhouse of development it once was.
Chairman of the event, Professor Stella Okunna of Paul University, Awka, applauded the initiative and highlighted the power of the media in societal change, calling for focused research and attention on the region’s challenges, including governance issues in the Southeast.
The President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Eze Anaba, reiterated the summit’s objective of strengthening the media’s role in fostering accountability, development, and inclusive growth. He emphasized the need for the media to play a transformative role in addressing the challenges facing the region, from economic inequality to social unrest, by highlighting solutions and driving collaboration.