Oyo SSG Bags NUJ Award for Excellence in Public Administration, Urges Journalists to Uphold Ethics

The Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, has urged journalists in the state to uphold the ethics and professional standards of journalism in their daily reportage, particularly during the electioneering campaign period.

Professor Babatunde gave the charge while receiving an award presented to him by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, during a courtesy visit to his office at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Professor Musibau Babatunde who was honoured with the NUJ Excellent in Public Administration Award as part of activities marking the union’s 60th anniversary, advised journalists to always verify the authenticity of information before publishing stories on their respective news platforms.

The Secretary to the State Government urged members of the union to maintain effective communication with the state government to ensure that facts are properly established before stories are disseminated to the public.

Professor Babatunde enjoined Oyo NUJ to establish a credible mechanism for checking the activities of journalists involved in spreading fake news, hinting that, the practice could threaten public peace and undermine societal harmony.

He admonished journalists to embrace developmental journalism, noting that, their reportage should contribute meaningfully to societal growth, promote good governance and improve the social and economic well-being of the people.

Professor Babatunde explained the importance of responsible journalism in building a peaceful and progressive society, particularly at a time when the country is approaching another electioneering season.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the NUJ, Oyo State Council, Comrade Akeem Abass, disclosed that the union had embarked on several developmental projects at the NUJ Press Centre as part of efforts to improve its facilities and strengthen the union.

He listed some of the projects to include the renovation and facelift of the NUJ Press Centre's main gate and the establishment of a postcard studio, which he said would soon be ready for commissioning as part of activities marking the first anniversary of the present executive administration.

Comrade Abass pointed out that his administration had organised various training and re-training programmes for journalists across the state to equip them with the requisite skills and knowledge to meet the demands of modern journalism.

The NUJ chairman explained that the decision to honour Professor Babatunde was in recognition of his outstanding leadership, exemplary public service and remarkable contributions to societal development.

The NUJ Chairman commended the Secretary to the State Government for his contributions to governance and service delivery in Oyo State, describing the award as a testament to his commitment to public administration and the advancement of society.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

November 12, 2026.