Cross River Deputy Governor Urges Media Aides to Embrace Modern Communication Techniques

The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Dr. Peter Odey, has called upon media aides and communications managers working for government functionaries in the state to actively embrace and implement lessons derived from modern communication techniques.

Dependable NG reports that Dr. Odey made this charge during his visit to a two-day training session organized by the Agba Jalingo Foundation for Investigative and Accountability Journalism Masterclass. The training, which focused on Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, and Law in Communication, was designed for journalists and media aides attached to the State Governor, the Deputy Governor, and local government chairmen over the weekend.

Odey emphasized that such training is crucial for participants to become more effective, efficient, and relevant within the governmental system. “We need you to be well trained, more effective and efficient in order to guide your principals in modern communications,” he stressed, highlighting the critical role communication plays in guiding government leadership.

Meanwhile, a lead trainer and media consultant, Dr. Monday Ashibogwu of Quick News Africa, urged the media aides to enhance their official input and effectiveness in line with current trends. More pointedly, Dr. Cornelius Ellah, the acting head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Cross River State, advised government spokesmen to show greater allegiance to the public rather than prioritizing their principals.

Ellah reminded the media aides that they are ultimately serving the public, stating, “You are servants to your principals who are servants to the people. Even though you are paid to protect and promote their public image, you owe greater allegiance to the public than to your principals or your pockets.” He cautioned them against using harsh or bitter language when responding to criticisms of their principals, advising them to temper their responses with public interest and fairness, especially when principals make derogatory comments. However, he also gave a balancing caution, reminding them not to undermine their employers, saying, “You cannot also bite the fingers that feed you.” Ellah clarified that media aides function as public relations officers, not journalists, and must therefore approach their roles with tact, deliberation, and extensive consultation with their principals before issuing official statements.