Yemisi Izuora
The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), has urged journalists to adhere to balanced and fair reporting.
Speaking in Lagos during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC) led by its new Chairman, Olatunde Dodondawa, the Head of Public Affairs Department, Mr. Paul Osu, encouraged Nigerian journalists, especially those covering extractive industry to be balanced, fair and accurate in their reporting.
According to him, “Energy reporters are critical stakeholders in the oil and gas sector and polity of the nation in general, who must thread with more caution while telling their stories.
“As critical partners, we seek for better mutual understanding of our business environment, its challenges and its growth potentials. I encourage you, as our critical stakeholders, to be balance, fair and accurate as you tell our stories and do your investigations.”
Speaking on capacity building for Energy correspondents, Mr Osu reiterated the commitment of his management towards training journalists that cover the extractive industry for efficiency and optimal news delivery.
“We know the challenges Energy reporters face in the field and as regulators we will continue to provide necessary information that will help them do seamless reportage of the industry,” he assured.
He added that DPR recognises the essence of working together with its stakeholders, as its success is connected with the success of the larger society.
“As an agency we recognise the essence of co-operating with energy reporters and other stakeholders, and that our business success is deeply intertwined with the success of the larger society and we believe it is in our long-term interest to add value to stakeholders, as we create value for Nigeria.
“DPR seeks to make effective regulation that deliver long-term, transformative returns and that which will strengthen the society” he added.
In his speech, NAEC Chairman, Olatunde Dodondawa thanked the management of DPR for its continued support for energy reporters.
He noted that the visit is to reiterate energy reporters’ commitment to assist government agencies like DPR and others to instill prudent and efficient regulatory management system.
He commended DPR in its commitment to train journalist who covers extractive industry.