Media Volunteers Strengthen Understanding of Government Policies
A network of media volunteers, under the aegis of Fancy Media Team (FMT), has emphasized the importance of deeper understanding of government policies and programs to refine narratives for a better society. This initiative aims to enhance communication strategies that align with the vision of the current administration.
The Leader of the FMT, Sanni Abubakar Suleiman, shared these insights during his address at the closing ceremony of a two-day Media Engagement and Capacity Building Workshop organized by the group in Lokoja at the weekend. The workshop was designed to equip members with a comprehensive understanding of government policies and programs, enabling them to communicate more effectively and advance the administration’s goals under Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo.
Participants from across the state attended the event, including Public Affairs Analysts, representatives of government, civil society groups, and the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Kogi State chapter, among others. This diverse participation highlights the collaborative nature of the initiative and its potential impact on the community.
Suleiman described the workshop as ‘a defining moment’ for the group, emphasizing it as a platform to deepen their commitment to the administration’s vision of distributing the dividends of democracy to the people of the state. He also highlighted the program’s role in preparing youth for life beyond politics, making them media-savvy, creative, and employable in a digital world.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” he quoted Nelson Mandela, stating that the group aims to achieve this through knowledge and understanding.
The FMT acknowledged the achievements of Governor Ododo’s administration within just two years in office, noting progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, and youth empowerment. The group specifically praised the governor’s proactive approach to security and peacebuilding, which has contributed to stabilizing communities across the state.
Suleiman stressed that FMT was born out of conviction, and the group remains committed to promoting the vision of hope, unity, and progress for the state, as reflected in the administration’s narrative. However, the group appealed to Governor Ododo to support their efforts in training young people in digital communication, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration.
In a unanimous decision, the group passed a vote of confidence on President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo, commending their ‘people-centered leadership, bold economic reforms, and infrastructure drive’ that are set to improve citizens’ welfare. FMT added that, in view of the developmental posture of the present administration at both federal and state levels, they have declared their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to continue in office beyond 2027.
Meanwhile, FMT recognized Hon. Siyaka Yakubu Adabenege as ‘a humanitarian and visionary leader’ for his support and mentorship. Suleiman noted that Adabenege believed in the team when others overlooked them, financed them when others doubted their relevance, and inspired them when they felt weary.
In his remarks, Hon. Siyaka Yakubu Adabenege commended the team for its consistency and professionalism, noting that FMT has become ‘a household name in Kogi and beyond’ due to its innovative media engagement. He reaffirmed his commitment to youth development, praising Governor Ododo’s inclusive governance style while emphasizing that ‘youth empowerment remains at the heart of the administration’s agenda’.
He expressed confidence that the workshop would ‘further sharpen their skills in marketing the administration’s achievements’. The two-day event featured Public Affairs Analyst, Mr. Majeed Dahiru, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, and others as resource persons.