Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule, has called for a robust partnership with journalists in the state toward effective reporting of government policies, programmes and projects.

Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, made the call when he visited members of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Nasarawa State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, on Saturday in Lafia.

Mr Ahemba, who was accompanied by other media aides, said that the visit was aimed at cementing the existing relationship between government and media practitioners in the state.

The media aide thanked members of the chapel and other journalists for exhibiting a high sense of professionalism in reporting government activities since the inception of the current administration in the state.

He said, “You have been doing your best in spite of the challenges of the present times to promote this government and so, we are here to solicit for more collaboration with the chapel. We urge you to sustain the collaboration and please do not allow the current challenges discourage you. The governor appreciates you and will continue to do everything possible to create an enabling environment for journalists to operate in the state without fear of intimidation.’’

Mr Ahamba further advised journalists to be professional at all times, particularly in reporting government policies and programmes.

Responding, Chairman of the chapel, Isaac Ukpoju, thanked Mr Ahamba and his colleagues for the visit, adding that it would enhance the existing relationship between the government and journalists in the state.

The chairman assured the government that as professionals, members of the chapel would effectively discharge their duties as watchdog of the society and agenda setters.

Mr Ukpoju, however, called on the government to carry journalists along in all its activities, adding that such a move would ensure easy access to reliable information by reporters.

(NAN)