Ondo Information Commissioner assures ACSPN of partnership to strengthen professionalism, capacity development

The Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, has assured the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) of the ministry’s readiness to collaborate in strengthening media professionalism, information management and capacity development in the state.

Hon. Ajanaku gave the assurance while receiving members of ACSPN who paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Akure.

The Commissioner described the media as central to governance and public engagement, noting that effective communication remains critical to policy implementation and public trust.

He said partnerships with credible professional bodies such as ACSPN would enhance information dissemination and raise professional standards across the state’s media landscape.

He welcomed the association’s focus on capacity building and ethical journalism, stressing that the Ministry of Information and Orientation is open to initiatives that promote responsible reporting, professionalism and continuous development of communication practitioners.

Hon. Ajanaku also acknowledged the challenges confronting journalism practice, particularly in the area of information management, and emphasised the importance of collaboration between government institutions and professional organisations to address emerging issues in the media space.

Earlier, the Ondo State Coordinator of ACSPN, Mr. Sunday Kolawole, said the visit was aimed at familiarisation and partnership building, describing the ministry as a strategic institution in shaping communication practice.

He said the association comprises scholars and practitioners, including lecturers and seasoned media professionals, committed to advancing ethical standards and professional development in journalism.

Kolawole highlighted the need for synergy, especially as Ondo State presenr administration prepares for the first anniversary. He added that the association is willing to support credible information dissemination and capacity development.

He also raised concerns about emerging challenges in journalism, including the increasing influence of artificial intelligence on content creation, and called for continuous training of media practitioners to uphold ethical standards and curb misinformation.

In his remarks, the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Lanre Akarakiri, described the presence of ACSPN in Ondo State as timely, assuring the association of the ministry’s support for initiatives aimed at improving professionalism and credible communication.