Dr. John Momoh, OON, NPOM, Chairman of Channels Media Group, issued a powerful call to action for Nigerian journalists today, urging them to be “builders of national conscience” and prioritize dialogue, inclusion, and truth-telling to foster a secure and cohesive nation.
Delivering the keynote address at the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) National Biennial Convention in Enugu, Momoh framed the media’s critical role against the backdrop of the city’s rich journalistic history, while directly addressing contemporary national challenges.
**Honouring Enugu’s Legacy, Acknowledging Pain**
Momoh began by recognizing Enugu not just as the “Coal City,” but as a “City of Memory” and “Journalism,” highlighting its pivotal role as the “heartbeat of Eastern Nigeria” and home to brave journalistic voices during the nation’s golden age and turbulent periods like the Biafra War. He paid tribute to pioneers like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (founder of the *Nigerian Outlook*), M.C.K. Ajuluchukwu, Uche Chukwumerije, and Chuks Iloegbunam, whose work, he stated, “was not a profession – it was a mission.”
Crucially, Momoh acknowledged the lingering shadows of the past in the region: “For many young people across this region, the shadows of the Biafra War still linger. Not just in stories passed down, but in real feelings of exclusion and pain. And we must acknowledge that.” He emphasized that healing begins with listening: “We must listen to those who feel forgotten. We must bring them into the national conversation. Because nation-building is not just about unity – it’s about empathy.”
**The Media’s Critical Role in National Healing**
Linking this historical context to the convention’s theme – *”Building a Secure and Cohesive Nigeria: The Role of Dialogue, Inclusion and the Media”* – Momoh declared it a “timely” and “necessary” national conversation. He outlined the stark realities facing Nigeria: insecurity, ethnic and religious divisions, economic hardship, and widespread frustration.
“The truth is,” Momoh asserted, “there can be no security without justice. No unity without fairness. And no progress without inclusion.”
He then challenged the media professionals present, stating: “We don’t just report the news. We shape public opinion. We influence national mood… That is power. And with power comes responsibility.”
**A Call for Action: Dialogue, Inclusion, Integrity**
Momoh defined the media’s role in fostering dialogue as going beyond reporting: “Dialogue is not just about talking. It’s about listening – truly listening.” He urged editors and journalists to “create space for real conversations across divides” and to “spotlight solutions” rather than only reporting conflict, positioning the media as “bridge-builders.”
On inclusion, Momoh stressed it was “not about ticking boxes,” but achieving “real representation.” He highlighted the need to amplify the voices of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and ethnic minorities who often feel “invisible” and “unheard.” “We, in the media, must reflect the full picture of Nigeria – not just a narrow slice,” he insisted.
Momoh delivered a direct challenge to the industry: “Let’s raise the standard of our work. Let’s be fearless, but fair. Let’s pursue truth, not clicks. Let’s nurture the next generation of journalists with integrity and courage.” He reminded his colleagues they are “not just gatekeepers – we are builders of national conscience.”
**A Spark of Hope from the Coal City**
Concluding on a note of cautious optimism, Momoh described Nigeria as “a work in progress” but also “a land of promise.” He envisioned a future where honest dialogue, inclusion, and justice could unlock the nation’s potential.
Invoking a guiding principle, Momoh stated: “The role of the media is not to reflect the nation as it is, but to help shape the nation as it ought to be – just, inclusive, and united.” He called on the media gathered in Enugu to ensure their work would “not just inform, but inspire. Not just report, but rebuild.”
Momoh expressed deep gratitude to the NGE for the honour of chairing the convention, praising the gathering of “some of the finest minds” in Nigerian journalism. The convention continues today in Enugu.
