The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the media, pledging improved engagement and greater transparency in governance.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Musibau Babatunde, made the pledge on Wednesday while hosting the executives of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State, during a familiarisation visit to his office.
The Correspondents’ Chapel comprises journalists representing media organisations whose headquarters are located outside Oyo State but maintain reporting presence within the state.
Prof. Babatunde described the relationship between the government and the media over the past six to seven years as one anchored on trust, mutual respect, and professionalism. He commended journalists for their constructive role in governance and assured them that issues raised by the media would continue to receive prompt attention.
“Our working relationship over the past six or seven years has been built on trust and mutual respect. That confidence has been very important to us, and we value it greatly. We do not take that for granted,” the SSG said.
He acknowledged that governance inevitably attracts criticism and differing perceptions but stressed that such challenges would be addressed through sustained dialogue and open communication.
“Once again, I want to thank you for your support and for being here today. This is not just a meeting; it marks the beginning of even better collaboration. We look forward to working more closely together in the future,” Babatunde added.
Earlier, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Yinka Adeniran, said the visit formed part of the executives’ engagement strategy following their election last month. He commended the administration for what he described as significant strides in governance over the past six years, noting that the state government had set new standards in public administration.
Adeniran also praised the SSG for his humility and accessibility despite his academic and political accomplishments.
In his remarks, the Vice Chairman of the Chapel, Comrade Remi Koleoso, reiterated the media’s commitment to constructive partnership with the government. He announced plans to relaunch the Chapel’s monthly guest forum — a platform that features distinguished personalities who make presentations on governance and other public issues, followed by interactive sessions with journalists.
Koleoso urged the government to continually see the media as strategic partners in development, emphasising that sustained collaboration would enhance accountability, deepen public trust, and strengthen democratic governance in Oyo State.
The renewed commitment signals a deliberate effort by the Oyo State Government to institutionalise media engagement as a core component of its governance framework, reinforcing transparency and public communication.
