,,,, State Records Over 6,000 media mentions.
,,,,,Generates media engagements of Advertising Value Equivalent valued at over N309 million.
,,,, Records Public Relations Value of more than N1.5 billion all in 1 year.
By correspondent in Lokoja.
Dr..Folashade Ayo Arike, who represented Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo at the occasion raised a copy of the media report while others rendered helping hand.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo,ot the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Lokoja on Wednesday, unveiled the state’s first-ever Annual Media Performance Report in a landmark event aimed at fostering openness and collaboration.
This initiative, which covers the administration’s media engagements from January 2024 to January 2025, highlights the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and improved communication with the people.
Governor Ododo, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, emphasized that the media report marked a turning point in how governance would be communicated.
He noted that the administration is building a system that documents achievements while keeping citizens well-informed and actively engaged.
He said,”The launch of this report signals a new era of communication .Good governance isn’t just about delivering projects—it’s about ensuring citizens understand the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind every government decision.”
The governor disclosed that over 6,000 media mentions had been recorded across print, digital, radio, and television platforms within the year under review. This media footprint, he noted, is evidence of an administration that prioritizes constant and open communication.
Governor Ododo pointed out that the quality of the media coverage matters as much as the quantity.
“What we say, how we say it, and how it is received by the people all contribute to building trust,” he added.
The governor also praised the collaboration between various government departments and the Office of the Special Adviser on Media.
He noted that such teamwork was instrumental in achieving the success of the report and called for continued synergy in the interest of the state’s development.
He said:”“We believe that effective governance is not just about delivering services but ensuring that our people are connected and informed every step of the way.
“This Annual Media Performance Report is the first of its kind in Kogi State. It tracks and evaluates media coverage of our administration from January 2024 to January 2025, providing us with valuable insights into how well we are communicating with the public
and shaping perceptions.
“Over the past year, the State has recorded more than 6,000 media mentions across television, radio, print and digital platforms.
” This demonstrates our commitment to transparency and continuous flow of information to the people of Kogi State and beyond about our policies and programmes.
“However, is not just the quantity of media coverage that matters, but the quality. The sentiment behind these mentions, how our Messages are framed, and their impact on public discourse are equally critical.
“Through a combination of advanced media monitoring tools and traditional metrics, this report shows that our messages are not only reaching the audience but also fostering trust and positively shaping the narrative around governance in Kogi State.
“I am aware that this report is the result of a collective effort, a collaboration between Various ministries, departments, agencies, and working with the Special Adviser on Media.
” His leadership and tireless dedication have been key to the success of this initiative, and I want to take this opportunity to personally commend him and his team for their outstanding performance.
“As we look at the future, the insights derived from this report will help us refine and enhance our communication strategies. It will guide us in continuously improving how we engage with the people, ensuring that our messages are clear, impactful, and aligned with our goal of open, transparent, and accountable governance.
“Let me take a moment to extend my sincere gratitude to the media, the journalists, reporters,and editors who play pivotal roles in keeping the public informed about the activities of our administration.
“Your professionalism, commitment, and partnership have been indispensable in ensuring that Kogi State remains connected to its citizens. Let me also use this medium to reaffirm our commitment to an open and responsive governance”.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Ismaila Isah, highlighted that the media report was developed not just to celebrate success but to assess and refine the government’s communication strategy.
“It’s a learning tool, “helping us improve how we interact with the people,”he said,
He disclosed that the media engagements generated an Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) of over N309 million, and a Public Relations Value (PRV) of more than N1.5 billion, underscoring the reach and credibility of the administration’s messaging.
Isah lauded the role of journalists and media professionals, describing them as “unsung heroes” who have helped amplify the voice of the administration while holding it to account.
He stressed that their contributions have played a pivotal role in shaping public perception and trust.
He urged media practitioners and stakeholders to see the report as a resource to guide future collaboration, pointing out that the media’s role in governance goes beyond reporting, adding that it is a vital tool in development, accountability, and civic engagement.
“This report “is not an end but the beginning of a renewed partnership between the government and the media, anchored on mutual respect, public service, and the shared goal of a better Kogi State,’Isah said.
Many top government officials and media stakeholders attended the occasion .
Our correspondent recalls that kogi state was carved out of Kwara and Benue states on August 27,1991.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
