By Marie-Therese Nanlong

Jos – To enhance grassroots communication and strengthen governance, a three-day capacity-building training has been held for Local Government Information Officers in Plateau State.

The training, themed “Fostering Effective Communication and Collaboration for Transformative Governance,” was organized by the Plateau State Local Government Service Commission in collaboration with Dupa Greenwave Consultancy ltd.

The event, which brought together Information Officers from the 17 Local Government Councils in the State to Jos, the State capital, was aimed at equipping participants with essential tools, techniques, and insights necessary for effective information dissemination, public engagement, and professional development.

Chairman of the Plateau State Local Government Service Commission, Mr. Emmanuel Tangni, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, describing it as a strategic effort to align local communication efforts with global best practices in governance and media engagement.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Lead Consultant of Dupa Greenwave Consultancy ltd, Mr. George Pam, welcomed participants and lauded the State government’s commitment to professional development.

“I am profoundly delighted to, on behalf of our team welcome you. Let me start by appreciating the Plateau State Local Government Service Commission for trusting our firm to facilitate this important assignment. This collaboration reflects a forward-thinking commitment to capacity development and communication excellence in governance,” he stated.

Mr. Pam highlighted the evolving role of Information Officers, noting that their duties have moved beyond just filing reports or issuing press releases.

According to him, the modern-day Information Officer plays a vital role in building trust, shaping narratives, and serving as a bridge between the government and the people.

He noted that the training was not designed to be a mere lecture-room experience but rather an interactive and practical engagement tailored to the realities Information Officers face in their daily duties.

The programme included sessions on media relations, digital engagement, crisis communication, content development, and performance reporting.

“We understand the unique challenges you face, limited tools, complex stakeholder dynamics, fast-paced media cycles, and the constant need to translate policy into public understanding. This is an interactive space where ideas are shared, tools are tested, and capacities are stretched,” Mr. Pam added.

He encouraged active participation and peer learning, urging the officers to return to their various duty posts with sharper skills, broader perspectives, and stronger networks.

Resource persons for the training included seasoned professionals and academics from diverse backgrounds.

Professor Ezekiel Adeyi of the University of Jos delivered a presentation on “Understanding the Role of Local Government Information Departments in Governance,” while Mr. James Mannok gave an overview of the roles and responsibilities of the Office of the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor.

Professor Taye Obateru, also of the University of Jos and one of the lead trainers, commended the organizers for the initiative, and described continuous training as imperative in an evolving world where technological changes are constant.

“In an era where technology shapes how people access and consume information, it is essential that information officers stay ahead through continuous learning. The topics and activities planned for this training are timely and well thought-out,” Professor Obateru stressed.

Participants expressed appreciation to the organizers, noting that the training had deepened their understanding of strategic communication and broadened their professional outlook.

As the training came to a close, there was a shared sense of optimism among attendees, who pledged to apply the knowledge and skills gained towards enhancing public communication and fostering accountability at the grassroots level across Plateau State.