Use journalism to strengthen community, friendship, not division – former governorship aspirant

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Akpan David, Calabar

Nigerian journalists have been urged to use their profession to cultivate and strengthen relationships between individuals, communities and countries. 

The call was made by a business tycoon and former APC governorship aspirant in the 2023 guber election in Cross River State, Mr Ben Akak.

Akak gave the advice when he spoke informally with some journalists in Calabar, emphasizing on building bridges and diversification.

He cautioned them not to practise journalism for years and become disillusioned in their later years.

He stressed that journalists are the hope of the society, especially the less privileged who are in the majority.

“You should help to build up the fabrics of the society for greater peace.

“As journalists, you are the hope of the common people. You must help to balance issues in the society, but do not forget to use your profession to make new friends and consolidate on the relationship for tomorrow.

“What’ll count for you when you strike the sore news is your relationships with people.

“Some politicians will tend to use you to destroy others. Distance yourselves from such people. When you find yourselves in such a situation, always think of the future, so that when you enter your houses you’re at peace with yourselves.”