By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
Journalists in Bayelsa State have been urged to embrace the rapidly evolving media landscape by leveraging social media and rtificial intelligence (AI) tools to strengthen investigative journalism and enhance accountability.
The call was made by Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha during a two-day capacity-building workshop organized by the United Correspondents Chapel (UCC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, in Yenagoa.
The workshop, themed “Re-enacting Investigative Journalism: The Role of Correspondents,” featured discussions from media professionals, government officials, and communication experts on strengthening ethical journalism in the digital age.
Represented by the NUJ Vice Chairman, Dr. Preye Enebraton, Yemoleigha emphasized the importance of objectivity and balance in investigative reporting. He urged journalists to view investigative journalism as a catalyst for sustainable development, not merely as a tool for criticism.
“Investigative journalism should be used to drive progress and transparency in society,” he said, adding that both government and private sector leaders need to appreciate its relevance in promoting good governance.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the Director of Public Enlightenment and Orientation, Dr. Sophia Obi, described the workshop’s theme as “timely and relevant.”
She urged journalists to go beyond conventional reporting and to develop proficiency in AI tools, show courage in uncovering facts, and hold public officials accountable. Dr. Obi also assured participants that the ministry would consider the chapel’s appeal for expanded media coverage slots at government events.
Delivering the keynote address, veteran journalist Mr. Enideneze Etete defined investigative journalism as “thorough, evidence-based reporting that exposes wrongdoing.” He stressed the need for research, observation, integrity, and fairness as core values for uncovering truth and building public trust.
Also speaking, Mr. Chris Odi, a retired Director of Information, delivered a session on news writing techniques. He highlighted the key elements of news—timeliness, significance, conflict, and prominence—and encouraged reporters to adopt the inverted pyramid structure for clarity and impact. Odi also advised journalists to write concise leads of 30–35 words and use strong, active verbs in headlines.
Earlier in his welcome address, UCC Chairman Prince Ekaunkumo Amgbare described the workshop as a major milestone since his administration assumed office on July 1, 2025. He noted that the adoption of new bye-laws had strengthened discipline and professionalism within the chapel.
Amgbare expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for Information, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Douye Diri, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, and the NUJ state executives for their continued support. He also renewed calls for an increase in the number of UCC members permitted to cover official state functions.
In a solidarity message, the Director General of New Media, Dr. Kola Oredipe, commended the UCC for organizing the workshop and encouraged journalists to pursue fearless, fact-based investigative reporting to expose corruption and correct societal ills.
