Media
THE Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Malam Jibrin Ndace, has said that effective diplomatic reporting is critical to demystifying and enhancing Nigeria’s foreign policy decisions.
Ndace stated this while delivering a keynote address as a special guest of honour at a capacity-building workshop organised for diplomatic correspondents by Diplomats Magazine in Abuja.
Speaking on the topic: Enhancing Diplomatic Reporting in Nigeria, Ndace described diplomatic reporting as the backbone of international journalism, which he said is crucial and challenging.
According to him, in today’s increasingly interconnected world, the role of diplomatic reporting has never been more important, adding that it is the bridge between nations, fostering understanding, cooperation, and peace.
“It provides the public with insights into the complexities of global relations, international policies, and diplomatic negotiations.
“Effective diplomatic reporting helps demystify our foreign policy decisions and presents the nuanced perspectives of different countries.
“This type of reporting is essential for promoting transparency and accountability in international affairs,” he said.
The VON boss, however, noted that effective diplomatic reporting in Nigeria was facing several challenges, such as gaining access to accurate and timely information from diplomatic sources.
Ndace explained that such challenges emanated from the fact that foreign embassies, consulates, and international organizations often have strict communication protocols.
Another challenge, he said, was the need for diplomatic correspondents to acquire specialized knowledge and training to understand and accurately report on the intricate web of international relations.
“Diplomatic reporters may also face pressure from various stakeholders to present a certain narrative, which can lead to biased reporting.
“Covering diplomatic events, especially in conflict zones, poses significant risks to journalists,” he said.
Ndace said that to address these challenges, diplomatic journalists should receive specialized training in international relations, foreign policy, and diplomatic protocols, as well as workshops, and seminars, to acquire valuable skills.
He also urged diplomatic reporters to acquire proficiency in multiple languages to enhance their ability to gather and interpret information from various sources, and also establish strong rapport with embassies, consulates and international organizations.
The VON DG also urged the journalists to leverage digital tools and platforms for research, communication, and dissemination of information, adding that online databases, social media, and virtual interviews enhance reporting capabilities.
Ndace defined diplomacy as the art of managing international relations, which requires a deep understanding of different cultures, customs, and perspectives, hence diplomatic reporters must understand and respect the nuances of international diplomacy.
“This understanding will enable them to report accurately and fairly on diplomatic affairs.
“As diplomatic reporters, you are not just journalists; you are also ambassadors of your country.
“Your reporting reflects on your nation, and it is crucial to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
“By doing so, you contribute to a positive image of your country on the global stage,” Ndace said.
Rep. Wole Oke, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, said the event was apt and timely because communication was critical in the diplomatic environment, and pledged lawmakers’ support going forward.
Also speaking, former spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bolaji Akinremi, urged diplomatic correspondents to ensure responsible, patriotic and developmental journalism by projecting themselves as public speakers, who work for public good and the national interest.
Earlier in his address of welcome, Raphael Oni, Publisher, DiplomatsXtra Magazine, challenged the journalists to strictly observe professionalism and ethics, by separating facts from fiction, to shape the narrative with accurate information.(NAN)
A.I
July 18, 2024 @ 07:26 GMT|
Tags: Amb. Bolaji Akinremi Malam Jibrin Ndace PRep. Wole Oke Raphael Oni
