News Editor
Timbuktoo Media Services (TMS), led by Hon. Labaran Maku and Dr. Mike Omeri, has launched a strategic media immersion in Benue State, aimed at spotlighting silent milestones and developmental achievements recorded by the government over the last two years.
Kehe Hon, Benue State Government House Director of Information stated that the media engagement, held at the Press Conference Hall of the Government House in Makurdi, brought together journalists and media professionals in a collaborative session focused on amplifying the state’s governance strides under Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Dr. Mike Omeri, former Director-General of the National Orientation Agency and a core member of Timbuktoo Media Services, highlighted the motivation behind the initiative. According to him, TMS was drawn to Benue by the quiet yet impactful projects being undertaken across the state.
“We are in Benue State to examine and amplify the development the government has initiated. We have seen milestones that deserve national attention and could even serve as models for the federal government and other states,” Omeri noted. “Our goal is to create a Grand Alliance around governance, amplifying policies, strategies, and the dividends of good governance for the benefit of all.”
Dr. Omeri emphasized the critical role of journalists in shaping public discourse. He urged the media to go beyond political reportage and instead, focus on developmental journalism that aligns with the aspirations of the people.
“We must be critical, but not destructive. Our responsibility is to set agendas, check excesses, and align government actions with the will of the people,” he said.
Hon. Labaran Maku, former Minister of Information and ex-Governor of Nasarawa State, reiterated the purpose of the immersion, putting the spotlight on development rather than political bickering.
“Politicians will always quarrel over power, but our focus as journalists must remain on freedom and development,” Maku stated. “Democracy loses its meaning if it doesn’t translate to development for the people at the grassroots.”
He stressed that the media must serve as the eyes and ears of the ordinary citizen who may never have access to the corridors of power. By documenting tangible projects like roads, boreholes, and social infrastructure, he said, journalists reaffirm their commitment to national development and truth.
Maku also recognized the efforts of the Alia-led administration, noting that despite security challenges, significant development had been recorded in the past two years.
“Even amid insecurity and national challenges, it is the responsibility of the media to raise patriotism and truth-telling. Development projects are for everyone, irrespective of political party, and they must be given visibility,” he said.
The TMS Media Immersion program is set to run over the course of several days, beginning with a tour on Saturday and concluding on Tuesday. During this period, the team, working alongside local journalists, will visit major project sites and also facilitate a town hall meeting, providing stakeholders with an opportunity to express their opinions on the administration’s progress.
It is also significant to highlight that Governor Hyacinth Alia will celebrate his second year in office on May 29, 2025, a period marked by numerous commendable accomplishments.
