The Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON), has called on media managers to end media commercialisation both in broadcasting and print, in order to achieve good governance in the country.
The association made the call during its 3rd International Conference and Annual General Meeting, held in Lagos with the theme “Communication, Mass Media and Governance in Africa: Trajectories, Expectations and Realities’.
In a communiqué, signed by the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Prof. Ralph A. Akinfeleye; President, Prof. Eserinune McCarty Mojaye and Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Prof. Adepoju Tejumaiye, AMCRON emphasised the role and responsibility of the Nigerian media for making the government accountable for their actions and policies, just as the citizens have the right to demand good governance and hold the government responsible for their shortcomings.
The communique reads, “The watchdog role of the media despite the capture is still evident, as was noticeable during the 2023 general elections. Media managers should bring an end to the commercialisation of the media, both broadcasting and print, particularly regarding advertising.
“The media should uphold the ethics of reporting political news and be wary of the undue influence of political advertising during elections. The Nigerian media and security agencies need to work in concert if the objectives of reducing security challenges in Nigeria are to be achieved.
“Media literacy is important in civic engagement and in fostering a discerning electorate; hence, there is a need to promote responsible journalism that educates people. There is a need to intensify efforts on media education and media literacy among the Nigerian populace.
“Free media and freedom of expression are two essential ingredients of democracy and good governance that the media and government should uphold.”
Earlier while speaking at the opening ceremony, the Conference Chairman and Head of Trokya Holdings, Dr Biodun Shobanjo, touched on the relevance of AMCRON and the need for the conference to highlight and identify solutions to political and media capture.
The two-day event which was AMCRON’s first hybrid conference, featured six panels, three on each day and 60 presentations, 48 of which were in person and 12 online/Zoom presentations.
There were over 200 attendees, including academics, media professionals, representatives of regulatory agencies, representatives of professional bodies, members of the University of Lagos management, postgraduate and undergraduate students, and well-wishers. Participants came from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Malaysia, Germany, and the U.S.A.
The Board of Trustees requested that AMCRON implement the creation of a website for the association to enable members to communicate and receive regular updates. To develop and disseminate weekly/monthly newsletters for communication between members.
