By Rose Oranye
The Anambra State Government has pledged to partner with journalists in the state on welfare and health, even as it urged media practitioners to uphold responsible and development-driven reporting.
The Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, stated this on behalf of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, at the Grand Finale of the 2026 Press Week, 35th Anniversary Celebration and the 2026 Man of the Year Awards Ceremony of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, held at the Annabel Event Centre, Awka.
Dr. Mefor noted that Anambra is currently witnessing massive infrastructure development across all sectors. “To a very reasonable extent, Anambra is a construction site. Things are happening. All manner of projects are ongoing,” he said.
Responding to the NUJ National President’s call for “cheap and cheerful” healthcare for journalists, the Commissioner mentioned the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme, saying that for just ₦12,000, any resident can access health interventions, with a few exceptions like cancer. He added that government would work with the NUJ State Chairman, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu and the council to explore group enrollment for journalists in the state.
Speaking on the role of the media, Dr. Mefor noted that Journalism is the only profession mentioned in the 1999 Constitution with the specific mandate to hold government accountable.
“In a democracy, Journalism is irreplaceable. Democracy is a marathon, not a dash. Nigerian democracy is still evolving and journalists must play their role,” he pointed out.
He, however, charged journalists on responsible reporting, cautioning against sensationalism that could cause chaos.
“Yes, you must report the truth. But is there a way it should be reported so that it does not cause mayhem? When you say ‘people were killed’ and when you say ‘people were massacred’, there is a difference. That is all government is pleading for: report responsibly.”
Dr. Mefor commended NUJ Anambra for 35 years of growth, noting that the council was founded after the state was created and assured journalists of government’s support, urging them to reach out whenever they face challenges.
The event was attended by some NUJ National Officers led by the President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, Zonal Officers, NUJ Chairmen and Secretaries from the South East, as well as State media stakeholders, and awardees honored for their remarkable contributions to Journalism and society.
