The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ughelli Correspondents Chapel, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode JP FCIA, at his office in Otor-Udu. The visit aimed to strengthen the relationship between the media and the council in promoting transparency and effective governance.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Chairman of NUJ Ughelli Chapel, Chief Sunday Apah, congratulated Hon. Oyibode on his recent appointment as the Chairman of Udu Local Government Council. He lauded Oyibode’s leadership qualities and his commitment to driving positive change in Udu Kingdom.
In his address, Chief Apah expressed gratitude for Oyibode’s appointment of Comrade Henry Ubus, a respected journalist and member of the Ughelli Chapel, as the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Chairman. He praised Ubus’s dedication and professionalism, stating that the appointment would foster better communication between the council and the public. Apah emphasized that with Ubus’s proven track record, the values of integrity, transparency, and accountability would remain key pillars of the administration.
Further, Chief Apah highlighted the need for a conducive working environment for journalists, urging the council’s support in equipping their secretariat. He noted that a well-furnished space would enhance the capacity of journalists to deliver accurate and timely reports, ensuring the public remains well-informed.
In response, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode expressed his delight in receiving the NUJ members, acknowledging the critical role of the media in disseminating government policies. He emphasized the need for balanced reporting and urged journalists to provide robust, evidence-based information to the public. “The media can make or mar; therefore, it is essential to always ensure balanced reporting with empirical evidence,” Oyibode stated.
The Udu Council Chairman shared his administration’s commitment to the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, which focuses on holistic development. Oyibode noted that since assuming office, his priority has been ensuring peaceful coexistence in Udu, evidenced by his successful resolution of the Okpaka and Opete communities’ crisis.
Highlighting his administration’s achievements, Oyibode revealed ongoing remedial work on several roads in Udu, as well as the construction of a new Executive Chairman’s Office with Exco Chamber.
The Executive Chairman’s office has a reception hall, executive exco chamber, media office, offices for personal assistants, secretaries, and the Chairman’s private office. He also mentioned the procurement of computers and photocopiers for key departments to enhance operational efficiency, with plans to extend this to all departments.
Oyibode disclosed further that he has worked in synergy with the state government to resolve long-standing issues in Udu, including putting an end to the two-faction leadership crisis among the President Generals. Additionally, he announced that the foundation for the council’s chapel had been dug, with musical equipment purchased for the temporary Chapel. The Chairman dedicated morning devotion from 8:00 am to 8:30 am daily, handing over the affairs of Udu to God.
The Chairman also revealed that three official cars had been ordered for the principal officers of the council, signifying his administration’s commitment to operational effectiveness. He pledged to work closely with the media, ensuring that their partnership would be mutually beneficial and contribute to the overall development of Udu Kingdom.
The visit marked a significant step in fostering collaboration between the media and the council, ensuring that the public is kept informed about the ongoing projects and initiatives aimed at improving Udu Local Government Area.
