Editorial: A First for Adamawa: Fintiri’s Commendable Introduction of Quarterly Media Briefing
The first-ever quarterly media briefing in Adamawa State history was instituted by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, marking a watershed moment in the state’s history towards more open and accountable government.
This effort is praiseworthy since it promotes open communication and helps strengthen the bond between the state administration and its residents.
Keeping the public in the dark about major developments and making decisions behind closed doors, one-way communication has harmed the relationship between the government and the public for far too long.
A welcome change from the usual is Governor Fintiri’s quarterly press conferences. The governor keeps his administration accountable and keeps the public informed about its successes, failures, and future goals through frequent interactions with journalists and media sources.
Because of Adamawa’s troubled political and economic past, this project is very important to the state. During the quarterly media briefings, the government is able to answer public questions, dispel myths, and explain policies that could affect the daily lives of regular people.
Additionally, it provides an opportunity for media to effectively question and examine the administration, ensuring that the public’s voice is heard. In addition to demonstrating his dedication to good administration, Fintiri has decided to institutionalise this media involvement in the sake of keeping the public informed.
The public gains insight into the decision-making process and the implementation of important projects through regular interactions with the media, which enhances the transparency of government operations.
Also, the governor gains the trust of the voters when he shows he is prepared to examine and respond to criticism. The fact that this program has the ability to promote media professionalism in Adamawa is another important feature.
More educated, critical, and balanced reporting may result from the state’s journalists’ new organised forum for engaging with the government. The media has a significant impact on public opinion, and Fintiri is doing her part to strengthen and diversify the state’s media landscape by building relationships with journalists.
If the governor and his administration are serious about holding open and honest conversations, the quarterly media briefing, while a nice idea, will only work if they stick to it.
Giving people information isn’t enough; the government also needs to hear them out, resolve their problems, and react quickly to new problems as they arise.
In turn, it is the duty of the media to expose corruption in government and bring attention to problems that affect the Adamawa people. Finally, it’s great news for Adamawa State that Governor Fintiri is holding quarterly media briefings.
This forward-thinking step demonstrates a dedication to being open, accountable, and including the public. This program has the potential to be an important instrument in the state’s ongoing struggle to address complicated issues by keeping the government in touch with the hopes and dreams of its citizens. This method has the potential to revolutionise governance in Adamawa and the nation as a whole if its proponents remain committed and keep communicating openly.