Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso has called for greater synergy between media organisations and Lagos State Government for enhanced reportage of the numerous programmes, initiatives and goals of the administration, especially towards achieving the Greater Lagos dream.
Omotoso made the call when the management teams of two broadcast stations, the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) Channel 10 and Bond FM paid him courtesy visits in his Alausa office, Ikeja.
The Commissioner explained that due to the increasing population of Lagos State, a partnership between various media organisations has become necessary to widen the reach of government news and also further enlighten the public about the focus of the present administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda.
He noted that the administration is already taking significant strides to ensure that it’s first year in office witnesses significant changes in infrastructural development, transportation, health and housing, emphasising the importance of media partnership in educating residents about the activities of Lagos State Government.
“Your candid support will immensely provide the impetus towards achieving government’s objectives on the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda because we believe that the media is a vital partner in our developmental journey”, he added.
While commending the efforts of the two broadcast stations, Omotoso acknowledged their contributions to national development, stating that they have built a reputation that stands them apart in the industry as well as in the perception of Lagos State Government.
He averred that the radio stations have been supportive of the recent move by the State Government to restrict the operations of Okada and Tricycles in six Local Government Areas, adding that the reforms in the transportation sector of the State will eventually bring relief to the people.
Explaining that the restriction order was in compliance with recommendations of the State Security Council, the Commissioner pointed out that the urgent need to arrest the impending security challenges that confronted Lagos made the government take prompt action to halt the menace of commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators.
“We urge you to make it clear to our people that the decision was taken in their best interest and we are making a decisive effort to improve on the current situations in the sector. We are providing 400 buses in addition to the existing ones on the road”, he stated.
Speaking during the visit, the General Manager of Nigeria Television Authority, Channel 10, Mr. Kamarudeen Adegbindin stated that the team embarked on the visit to create more space for the outfit in the information structure of the State Government.
“Partnership with the Lagos State Government is critical to the operations of our outfit as it is our core responsibility to develop a symbiotic relationship with the government of our host State and propagate their activities and programmes”, he stated.
He affirmed that the Station is one of the largest TV Stations in Africa with over 100 stations in the country and millions of viewers within and outside Nigeria, adding that a strong collaboration between the two institutions will ultimately enhance news about Lagos in the public space.
Also making her remarks, the General Manager, Bond FM, Mrs. Adenike Adegoke, remarked that establishing a coordinated and seamless relationship with the Government is vital to the development of the State.
“Our efforts as a broadcast station are to deliberately support the State Government’s strides towards building a formidable city and also encourage Lagosians to support this mission. We have supported this cause through our programme called “Eko Ile” and part of our proposal to the State Government is to continue sponsorship of the programme, she disclosed.
