The Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of Congress TV/Newspaper, Hon. Comrade Ozobo Austin, has appealed to the Federal and State Governments, security agencies and other critical stakeholders to uphold the press freedom and strengthen the principles of good governance, describing a free and independent media as indispensable to democracy and national development.
He made the appeal during the 5th Anniversary celebration of Congress TV/Newspaper in Warri, Delta State, themed “The Role of Media in Governance,” where he also reaffirmed the organization’s unwavering commitment to ethical journalism, truth, accountability and responsible reporting.
Reflecting on the media organization’s journey since its establishment in 2021, Ozobo said Congress TV/Newspaper was founded to amplify the voices of the Niger Delta, promote transparency, justice and balanced reporting, and provide a credible platform for public discourse. He noted that the organization has grown from a modest digital newspaper into a respected multimedia platform that continues to highlight developmental issues, advocate environmental justice, promote peace initiatives and encourage accountable governance across the Niger Delta.
The publisher acknowledged that the organization has weathered significant challenges over the past five years, including financial constraints, rising operational costs, inadequate technological infrastructure, security concerns, legal threats, cyber attacks and the spread of misinformation. Despite these obstacles, he maintained that Congress TV/Newspaper has remained resolute in its mission, insisting that the organization would never compromise its core values of professionalism, accuracy, fairness and ethical journalism.
The Publisher, other speakers emphasized that the media remains a vital pillar of good governance and democratic development, serving as the voice of the people by promoting transparency, exposing corruption, holding public office holders accountable and ensuring citizens have access to accurate, balanced and timely information.
Ozobo stressed that press freedom remains a cornerstone of democratic governance, urging governments and security agencies to protect journalists, respect freedom of expression and ensure that attacks, intimidation and harassment against media practitioners are not tolerated.
He pledged that Congress TV/Newspaper would continue to embrace digital innovation, strengthen investigative journalism, empower young journalists and remain a dependable voice for the Niger Delta and Nigeria while holding leaders accountable and promoting peace, justice and sustainable development