The Benue Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) chairman, Joseph Kwaghba, has urged journalists to be apostles of tax remittance to support the ongoing massive infrastructural development in the state.

Mr Kwaghgba made the call on Wednesday in Makurdi at the opening of a two-day capacity training on digital literacy and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) for enhancing journalism in Benue.

The training was organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Benue Council in conjunction with Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC).

The chairman stated that Governor Hyacinth Alia’s massive infrastructural projects were only possible because of his resolve and revenue generation in the state.

He described journalists as the bedrock to enlighten the public on prompt tax payment to enable the government to carry out projects.

“It is the responsibility of journalists to enlighten our people who do business in the state and those who have small-scale businesses to live up to expectations and pay up their taxes,” he said.

The chairman said digitising journalism is critical in the profession’s practice, as the use of AI is also useful in conducting business.

“All over the world, business engagements and government functions have moved towards digital and AI, and Benue NUJ cannot be an exception. Journalism is one of the strongest pillars of democracy. Most importantly, journalism shapes the opinion of members of the public through the policies of the government, so it is in place that you are having this workshop at this critical time. Benue journalists are known for professionalism, doggedness and accurate reportage; today is also a phase to add to what they have been doing with this training,” Mr Kwaghba said.

He called on the NUJ to up their game, as this is not just a training but a critical aspect for the practice of journalism, and such training should be a daily occurrence in the union. 

(NAN)