Kwara Online Publishers Association of Nigeria (KOPAN) on Monday paid a courtesy visit to the newly elected chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State chapter, Mr Abdullateef Ahmed, at the Press Center in Ilorin.
The courtesy visit was the first the new chairman received from an organised group.
Ahmed expressed the readiness of his administration to partner with KOPAN, noting their visit demonstrates clearly their well-meaning intention to partner with the Union.
According to him, with the advancement in technology, it behooves media practitioners to be well-grounded in the current trends of the profession in the 21st century.
“There’s no doubt that the advancement in technology has changed the way we operate in the media sphere. And for those of us who are progressive minded, we have no choice but to go along with the trend in our chosen profession,” the chairman said.
“Whether we like it or not, we have to recognise the fact that technology has changed the way we operate in the media industry, and I want to assure you that this administration holds you in high esteem.
“It is for this reason that I want to assure you that we will partner with you in your efforts to better inform and educate members of the society.”
Ahmed, however, urged members of KOPAN to team up against fake and sensational news, stressing that shunning fake and sensational news will help to boost the self-esteem of the publishers.
In his words, “I also need to say this, though with the caliber of persons before me I am assured, we are safe. However, I want to plead with you as we are in the era of fake news. Try as much as possible to be cognizant of the ethics of the profession.
“This is what will help you stand out and also generate traffic for you. Maintaining a high esteem and professionalism will not only sanitize the industry but help to boost your self-esteem among colleagues and readers alike. I will therefore urge you to be firm and steadfast in being a professional.”
Earlier, the interim chairman of KOPAN, Ogbeni Hammed Adedayo Said, who is also the publisher of Kwara Reporters, said the visit was to identify with the new administration.
“We are elated with the outcome of the state NUJ election and have come to identify with you as partners in progress and to assure you of our readiness to continue to be partners in progress.
“The nature of your emergence is a great proof of your acceptance among practicing journalists in the state, and we pray for a resounding success for you and your executive members,” he said.
Said said KOPAN is the registered body for all publishers, editors or owners of general news platforms resident in any part of Kwara State.
He said the aim of establishing the association was to safeguard the freedom of the press and the freedom of online publishers to engage in legitimate professional activities, among others.
