By Marie-Therese Nanlong

Jos—Plateau State governor, Simon Lalong has tasked journalists in the state to demonstrate professionalism in carrying out their responsibilities, especially while reporting crises situations, so as not to create chaos.

Lalong said though he is an advocate of free flow of information for journalists to have access to credible information, they should contribute meaningfully and create an informed public who would contribute to nation -building and development.

The governor made the challenge yesterday in Jos while declaring open a two day training workshop organized by the Institute of Governance and Social Research, IGSR in collaboration with Nigeria Stability and Reconciliation Programme, NSRP and the UK Department for International Development, DFID for editors and reporters of various media organisations in the state.

Represented by his Deputy, Prof. Sonny Tyoden, he added that ethical and professional standards are required to make the best out of the pivotal roles good journalism play in the society.

According to him, “As we all know the media plays an increasingly important role in today’s society, and that freedom of the press has a clear impact on development, democracy and security, journalists must be well informed and must have access to credible information to be able to positively form the opinion of public for nation-building and development.”

The governor pledged support and good working relations for journalists in the state .

Former Director-General, Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, NBC, Dr. Tom Adaba, who delivered a keynote address at the event, called on journalists reporting in a conflict situation to be peacemakers, peacekeepers and peace builders.