The Executive of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Warri Chapel, has organized a one-day capacity-building workshop for journalists in Warri and its environs to enhance professional and responsible coverage of the 2027 General Elections.
The training, held at the Government House Annex, Warri, was themed “Journalism for Credible and Responsible Election Coverage.” It brought together media practitioners to strengthen their understanding of election reporting, journalistic ethics, and the Electoral Act.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chairman of the NUJ DBS Warri Chapel, Comrade John Glover, said the workshop was designed to equip journalists with the knowledge and skills required to discharge their constitutional responsibility professionally during the forthcoming general elections.
According to him, “The credibility of any election depends significantly on responsible media reportage. This training is intended to deepen journalists’ understanding of the Electoral Act and prepare them to report the 2027 General Elections accurately, fairly and professionally.”
Comrade Glover appreciated the sponsors of the programme and expressed confidence in the resource persons, describing them as seasoned professionals with the capacity to adequately address the selected topics.
In his remarks, the General Manager of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Warri, Pastor Malcolm Oteri, commended the Chapel Executive for organizing the timely initiative.
Pastor Oteri noted that the training would better position journalists to counter misinformation, disinformation and fake news, particularly the false narratives that often circulate on social media during election periods.
“As journalists, we have a responsibility to verify information before publication. Programmes like this are essential in strengthening professionalism and safeguarding the integrity of our electoral process,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited, Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, represented by Mr. Martins Avuara, applauded the NUJ DBS Warri Chapel for investing in the professional development of media practitioners.
He emphasized that credible journalism remains indispensable to democracy and urged journalists to uphold truth, fairness and objectivity in their election coverage.
Mr. Avuara also highlighted the contributions of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited to national development, particularly in the surveillance and protection of crude oil and gas assets across the country.
The second session of the workshop featured lectures by veteran journalists, Dr. Godwin Orhedawhe and Mr. Linus Chima, both former Deputy General Managers in the News and Current Affairs Department.
The resource persons extensively discussed journalistic ethics, professional conduct, appropriate dress code, safety during election coverage, and the importance of strengthening professional journalism to ensure credible and balanced election reporting.
Members of the station’s management team delivered goodwill messages, describing the workshop as timely and impactful while commending the Chapel Executive for its commitment to continuous professional development.
The training also featured interactive question-and-answer sessions, providing participants with the opportunity to seek clarification on election reporting, ethical challenges and other professional issues expected to arise during the 2027 General Elections.
