VoN DG Advocates for Ethical Excellence in Diplomatic Reporting

By Iyojo Ameh

Diplomatic reporters in Nigeria have been urged to uphold and maintain ethical standards of professionalism in reporting to contribute a positive image of the country on the global stage.

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Voice of Nigeria (VoN), Jibrin Baba Ndace, emphasized this point while speaking at a two-day capacity-building workshop for diplomatic reporters on Tuesday in Abuja.

The workshop was organized by Diplomatic Extra Magazine in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria.

Ndace, who spoke on the theme “Enhancing Diplomatic Reporting in Nigeria,” noted that diplomatic reporting is the backbone of international journalism, providing the public with insights into the complexities of global relations, international policies, and diplomatic negotiations.

He added that effective diplomatic reporting helps demystify foreign policy decisions and presents the nuanced perspectives of different countries.

“Today, we gather to discuss an area of journalism that is as crucial as it is challenging: diplomatic reporting. In our increasingly interconnected world, the role of diplomatic reporting has never been more important. It serves as the bridge between nations, fostering understanding, cooperation, and peace.

“Diplomatic reporting is the backbone of international journalism. It provides the public with insights into the complexities of global relations, international policies, and diplomatic negotiations. Effective diplomatic reporting helps demystify foreign policy decisions and presents the nuanced perspectives of different countries. This type of reporting is essential for promoting transparency and accountability in international affairs,” Ndace stated.

According to him, diplomatic reporting in Nigeria faces several challenges, including access to information, complexity of international relations, pressure and bias, and safety and security among others.

He also maintained that addressing such challenges through key strategies like capacity building, language skills, and building relationships can provide valuable skills and enhance effective diplomatic reporting.

The DG urged media organizations and stakeholders to invest in training and build strong networks to ensure the safety of journalists and improve the quality of diplomatic reporting. This, he said, would contribute to a more informed public and an accountable international community.

On his part, the Chinese Ambassador, represented by Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy, Zhang Yi, noted that diplomatic reporting on Nigeria-China exchanges and cooperation has played a key role in deepening understanding and enhancing mutual trust between the two countries. He highlighted that Nigeria has become China’s biggest contractor market, third-largest trading partner, and a major investment destination in Africa.

“At present, the intertwining destinies of China and Nigeria highlight a complex narrative of development, ambition, and challenges in the modern era. Both nations, characterized by their vast populations and rich cultural legacies, strive to carve their paths in an ever-changing global landscape. As diplomatic reporters, we have a lot to cover in each other’s development,” Zhang Yi said.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Diplomats Extra Magazine, Mr. Raphael Oni, appreciated the media executives and journalists for their presence and for deeming it fit to update their capacity. He urged them to seize the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills.

“We have carefully curated this program to ensure that it is informative, engaging, and relevant to your needs. Our goal is to create a supportive learning environment that fosters growth, creativity, and innovation,” Oni stated.

He emphasized that diplomatic reporters must maintain the highest standards of journalism and avoid getting entangled in fake stories.
Diplomatic reporters, he said, are responsible for providing accurate and reliable information to the public. If they perpetuate fake stories, they risk damaging their credibility and losing the trust of their audience.