OMPAN Abia Chapter Unveils New Secretariat In Umuahia (Photos, Video)

…….Deputy Speaker Kalu Commends OMPAN Abia Chapter for Unity and Progress

The Abia State chapter of the Online Media Practitioners of Nigeria (OMPAN) has made history with the unveiling of its brand new secretariat, located at No. 53 Eket Street, by Enugu Road, Umuahia.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who was the special guest at the event, expressed his pride in the association’s unity and progress. He emphasized the crucial role of the media in shaping public discourse, informing citizens, and holding those in power accountable.

Kalu urged the association to uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity, resist the temptation to prioritize sensationalism over substance, and embrace data-driven journalism. He also encouraged them to use their platform to promote patriotism, educate citizens, and contribute to the nation’s development.

Chairman of the association, Chief Promise Uzoma Okoro, thanked Kalu for his efforts in ensuring the signing of the South East Development Commission bill into law. Members of the association expressed their gratitude and commitment to responsible journalism.

Mr. Ifeanyi Okali, the National Editor-In-Chief of OMPAN and the Director of ABN TV/Radio praised Kalu for his media-friendly approach, stating that he is always open to conversations and has made significant contributions to the growth of the association.

“Benjamin Kalu has been a strong supporter of OMPAN Abia chapter, and his efforts have helped to elevate the chapter’s reputation within the association,” he said.

Dignitaries present at the event included former federal house of representatives member Hon. Sam Onuigbo, former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka, Rt. Hon. Martins Azubuike, and Hon. Emmanuel Onwuchekwa, among others.

Member representing the South East on the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), Rep. Sam Onuigbo stated that the greatness of a country’s future can be shaped through responsible reportage.

Describing the media as key to shaping people’s thoughts and actions, the two-time Member of the House of Representatives, said that with the current dominance of online media, OMPAN now bears the weight of using responsible reportage as a brick in building patriotism, perseverance, honesty, integrity, and dedication, in Nigerians.

He stated that this can only be done when media practitioners focus on factual reportage arrived at by interrogating every aspect of a story before publication.

Rep. Onuigbo thus charged OMPAN and other media practitioners to be aware of their important role in history and leverage on it to support the building of a strong, virile, and prosperous Nigeria.

He commended the Deputy Speaker for making out time from his very busy schedule to honour OMPAN.

The unveiling of the new secretariat marks a significant milestone for OMPAN Abia State chapter, symbolizing their collective commitment to responsible journalism and serving as a hub for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development.