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AS EDITORS MEET IN ENUGU, GOVERNOR MBAH CALLS FOR CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM
The Governor of Enugu State, Mr Peter Mbah, has advocated greater synergy between government at all levels and the media to drive democracy and development.
Gov Mbah spoke during the opening of the 2025 Biennial Convention of the Nigerian Guild of Editors in Enugu on Friday.
Mbah, who spoke on the theme, ‘Building a Secure and Cohesive Nigeria: The Role of Dialogue, Inclusion, and the Media’, said the collaboration between the two bodies would “build a society where progress is protected, justice is pursued, and every citizen feels seen and heard.”
According to him, “We know that the relationship of trust has sometimes frayed between the press and government. Too often, our engagements are shaped by suspicion or cynicism.
“Let us change that. Let us return to a shared recognition that we are co-authors of Nigeria’s future. Democratic governance cannot succeed without the participation, and interrogation of an informed public. The public relies on a press that is fair and fearless.”
He called for what he called “intelligent critique as public service instead of hostility” to enthrone a better collaboration between the government and the media.
Mbah charged the media to ensure that journalism “remains a space where truth is not compromised for sensation or political ends, where rigorous reporting triumphs.”
In his words, “We need a media that is inclusive; that gives voice to the margins; that reflects the diversity of Nigeria’s people – not one that dilutes or silences dissent. A press that excludes democracy itself.
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“Secondly, we believe accountability strengthens governance. That is why here in Enugu, we welcome scrutiny. We have opened our books, our processes, and our policies to public examination.”
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Mbah described inclusion and innovation as pillars of “a more just, progressive, and prosperous society”.
He said the inclusion philosophy of his administration informed the citing of 260 Smart Green Schools, 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, 260 Farm Estates, among others, across all the wards in the state.
He stated, “Enugu is not just building roads, schools, and hospitals. We are restoring public trust. We are expanding the civic space and fostering robust dialogue, because we know governance without inclusion is fragile, and democracy without scrutiny is hollow.
“Since assuming office, inclusion has underpinned our policies. Enugu’s transformation is not confined to our urban centres.
“Every one of our 260 political wards is home to projects that reflect our core belief: no community is too remote, no citizen too marginal, to deserve dignity and opportunity.
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“This ethos stems from our belief that a society is only as strong as its most vulnerable members. Through our policies, we are bridging the divide between urban and rural areas. No one’s location should determine access to quality education or reliable healthcare.
“In Enugu, innovation and inclusion are not slogans. They are both the foundation and pillars of our governance.”
He added that his administration is also connecting Enugu people to new skills, new markets, and new possibilities. In his words, “Our vision is bold: a $30 billion economy driven by enterprise and accountable leadership.”
