The Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has commended the national leadership of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB) for its commitment in promoting professionalism and ethical standards in the broadcasting profession.
Gov Otti said the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters under the watch of Professor Umar Pate as the National President, has not only strengthened the voice of broadcasters across the nation but has also inspired a new generation of media practitioners to see broadcasting as a powerful instrument for national development, social cohesion, and democratic consolidation.
Delivering his speech at the 2026 Annual Conference of Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, Abia State Chapter, held at the Women Development Centre, Umuahia, the Governor commended the broadcasting association for their contribution to the growth of the profession.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu, he described the 2026 theme, “Broadcasting Beyond the Signal: Community Impact in the Digital Era”, as timely and relevant, especially at the present era where technology has fundamentally transformed the way information is created, distributed, and consumed.
Otti disclosed that the traditional boundaries of broadcasting have expanded beyond radio and television signals to encompass digital platforms, social media ecosystems, podcasts, streaming services, and other emerging channels of communication.
He noted that in today’s digital age, the true worth of broadcasting is no longer determined merely by the size of its coverage or audience reach. Rather, its value lies in its ability to positively impact communities, empower citizens with accurate and credible information, promote social inclusion, encourage accountability, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.
According to him, broadcasters now shoulder a greater responsibility than ever before. At a time when misinformation and disinformation spread rapidly across various platforms, society depends on professional broadcasters as trusted custodians of truth, accuracy, and ethical journalism. The strength of democratic institutions, the unity of communities, and the education of future generations, he said, are largely influenced by the quality and credibility of information disseminated through the media.
He emphasized that the role of broadcasters extends far beyond reporting the news, they serve as educators, community mobilizers, cultural ambassadors, and catalysts for social transformation. He added that through their platforms, they shape public opinion, give voice to the marginalized, preserve cultural values, and strengthen the relationship between government and the people.
The Governor reaffirmed that the media remains a critical partner in governance and development, stressing that the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and open communication, noting that a well-informed citizenry is fundamental to building a stronger, more prosperous, and progressive society. Responsible broadcasting, he added, remains indispensable in achieving this vision.
He encouraged participants at the conference to engage in productive deliberations on how the broadcasting profession can continue to make meaningful contributions to society despite rapid technological advancements and evolving audience preferences. He urged them to explore innovative strategies that will strengthen public confidence, promote media literacy, uphold ethical standards, and harness digital technologies for the greater good.
Otti further reminded broadcasters not to lose sight of the human aspect of their profession in the midst of technological evolution. Beyond digital platforms, algorithms, and transmission signals, he said, are real people and communities whose lives can be positively transformed through factual reporting, inspiring storytelling, and responsible journalism.
Expressing confidence in the outcome of the conference, he stated that the gathering would produce practical recommendations capable of advancing the broadcasting profession and reinforcing its role as a vital driver of national development.
He congratulated the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, Abia State Chapter, the conference organizers, and all participants for making the event a reality.
The Governor, also formally declared the Conference of the association of Broadcasters officially open.
Delivering his lecture on the conference theme, the Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Abia State University, Uturu, Prof. Innocent Ihechu, charged broadcasters to prioritize accuracy and research as the foundation of public trust.
Prof. Ihechu noted that technology has made information universally accessible. However, he stressed that technology alone does not define a broadcaster.
“Credibility distinguishes a broadcaster, not the technology used”, he stated.
He stressed that manipulated content and misinformation have continued to damage public trust, urging Broadcasters to commit to accuracy, diligent research, and ethical reporting to remain relevant and respected.
Ihechu concluded by urging media professionals to uphold truth and integrity, emphasizing that these remain the key features that earn and sustain audience confidence in an era of digital disruption.
In her speech, at the third annual conference, the Chairman of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, Abia State Chapter, Comrade Chinezerem Agbakuru, called on broadcasters to remain committed to ethical journalism, factual reporting, and community development as the media landscape continues to evolve in the digital era.
She noted that broadcasters have a responsibility not only to inform but also to positively influence society through credible, balanced, and verified reports, stressing that in an increasingly crowded digital space where sensationalism often dominates, media professionals must prioritize accuracy and public interest.
The Abia State Chairman further revealed that the Conference theme was designed to reinforce the role of broadcasting as a catalyst for development, particularly in rural communities.
In their speeches, the Commissioner of Police, Abia State , CP Danladi Isah, the Director of Engineering Services, Engr. Okezie Nkpa, the Abia State Chairman of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Mrs Onyinye Ralph-Nwachukwu, the Station Manager of Flo FM, Sampson Eze, among others, addressed members on workplace safety, they urged broadcasters to prioritize studio ventilation and limit prolonged exposure to equipment, noting that poor air circulation and close contact with electrical devices can pose long-term health risks.
They emphasized the need for broadcasters to uphold neutrality, excellence, accuracy, and professionalism in content delivery, urging them to embrace continuous learning and adapt to evolving broadcast technologies to remain competitive in the industry.
For Engr. Emeka Nwogu who spoke on the use of artificial intelligence harped on the need for broadcasters to familiarize with Artificial intelligence in content creation. He urged them to update their skills to remain relevant in revolving times.
In a Communique, the association pushed for broadcastet safety and professionalism, while the SNB Abia State Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and professional development of broadcasters in the state.
Highpoint of the occasion was the induction of new members into the association to start a journey of learning, professional growth and capacity development in the broadcasting profession.
