FULafia Don Calls for Stronger Media Responsibility

A Professor of Mass Communication at the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia), Thomas Alemoh, has urged Nigerian journalists to uphold truth, professionalism and responsible reporting to promote national development and social cohesion.

Alemoh made the call while delivering the University’s 48th Inaugural Lecture, titled “Media in the Quest for National Development in Nigeria: Catalyst or Caterpillar?”

He said the media could serve as a catalyst for development through credible information, public education and social mobilisation, but could also undermine national unity through misinformation, bias and unprofessional practices.

The don noted that the Nigerian media had played significant roles in the country’s nationalist struggle and democratic development, with journalists making sacrifices in the defence of press freedom.

He, however, expressed concern over the dangers journalists face while covering conflicts and other sensitive events.

Alemoh warned that social media and citizen journalism, despite expanding access to information, could accelerate misinformation, disinformation and mal-information.

He called for stronger media literacy, information verification and reporting that promotes tolerance, unity and responsible citizenship, particularly amid the growing influence of artificial intelligence.