Nigerian lawmakers urge media to balance accountability with positive stories

Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives, has called on the nation's journalists to adopt a more balanced approach to reporting. He urged them to showcase the country's progress and investment opportunities, in addition to their essential role of holding the government accountable.

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I recently held discussions outside Nigeria, including with ambassadors of the European Union, and one of the issues they raised was why reports about Nigeria tend to emphasise our weaknesses rather than the many opportunities the country offers.

Speaking at the inauguration of the House of Representatives Press Corps executive in Abuja, Kalu argued that journalism should extend beyond exposing government shortcomings. He believes it must also highlight achievements that can positively influence Nigeria's image both domestically and internationally. Kalu shared insights from recent discussions with foreign partners, including European Union ambassadors, who expressed concern that negative narratives often overshadow Nigeria's strengths and potential.

"I recently held discussions outside Nigeria, including with ambassadors of the European Union, and one of the issues they raised was why reports about Nigeria tend to emphasise our weaknesses rather than the many opportunities the country offers," Kalu stated. He encouraged journalists to tell stories that reflect both the nation's challenges and the concerted efforts being made to overcome them. "Can we write about what makes Nigeria good? Can we project the opportunities in Nigeria? Can we tell the good stories of what this administration is doing?" he asked, advocating for reporting on what is working alongside areas needing improvement.

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Can we write about what makes Nigeria good? Can we project the opportunities in Nigeria? Can we tell the good stories of what this administration is doing? Journalism should not be only about where government is failing. It should also inform people about what is working and the steps being taken to correct what is not.

Kalu described this approach as the essence of balanced journalism, asserting that it would provide citizens with a more comprehensive understanding of national development while upholding the media's vital watchdog function. He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the parliamentary press, noting his close working relationship with journalists covering the National Assembly. The deputy speaker underscored the legislature's foundational role in Nigeria's democracy, urging the press corps to deepen public understanding of its constitutional responsibilities through comprehensive reporting on oversight, lawmaking, and representation.

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The parliament may not always be able to tell its own story, but you remain our voices. Your reports shape public understanding of what we do and have the power either to unite or divide the nation.