The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Voice of Nigeria (VoN), Baba Ndace, has tasked journalists on the importance of professionalism and ethical excellence in diplomatic reporting.
Speaking at a two-day capacity-building workshop for diplomatic reporters in Abuja, Ndace noted that diplomatic reporting is crucial in shaping the country’s image on the global stage.
“Diplomatic reporting is the backbone of international journalism,” Ndace said. “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.”
Ndace highlighted the challenges faced by diplomatic reporters in Nigeria, including access to information, the complexity of international relations, pressure, bias, safety, and security. He advocated for capacity building, language skills, and relationship building to address these challenges.
“Enhancing diplomatic reporting requires a concerted effort,” Ndace said. “Media organizations and stakeholders must invest in training and build strong networks to ensure the safety of journalists and improve the quality of diplomatic reporting.”
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The Chinese Ambassador, represented by Charge d’Affaires Zhang Yi, praised diplomatic reporting on Nigeria-China exchanges, stating that it has deepened understanding and enhanced mutual trust between the two nations.
Also, in his presentation, the former Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ogbole Amedu-Ode, noted that the role of media in diplomacy or media diplomacy has become a significant tool in foreign policy exertions.
“Consequently, journalists are participating in diplomatic activities, procedures and in influencing foreign policy formulations more regularly and intensely.”
“Media diplomacy is the use of the media by government representatives to interact with both state and non-state actors. The media can influence diplomacy in many different ways.”
“The dominant opinion in the public space about diplomacy and journalism is that both professions are two different types of human endeavours.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Diplomats Extra Magazine, Mr. Raphael Oni, appreciated the media executives and journalists for attending the workshop. He urged them to seize the opportunity to update their knowledge and enhance their skills.
The workshop, organised by Diplomats Extra Magazine in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy, aimed to enhance diplomatic reporting in Nigeria. Participants were urged to maintain the highest standards of journalism, avoid fake stories, and provide accurate and reliable information to the public.
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