The Kano State Government has renewed its partnership with the Online Media Chapel as part of efforts to curb misinformation and promote responsible reporting, particularly on security-related issues.
The commitment was restated on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, during a special meeting with members of the Chapel at the ministry’s conference hall.
Waiya said the engagement became necessary due to emerging security concerns in some local government areas bordering Katsina State. He noted that collaboration between the government and online media practitioners is vital to ensure residents receive factual, verified, and timely information, especially on sensitive security developments.
He cautioned journalists against narratives that could distort the actual security situation or undermine ongoing operations by security agencies. According to him, media practitioners have a responsibility to support efforts aimed at addressing insecurity rather than amplifying rumours or unverified content capable of heightening public tension.
The Commissioner emphasised that the influence of digital platforms makes accuracy, professionalism, and adherence to ethical standards indispensable for sustaining peace and promoting economic stability.
To improve coordination between government, security operatives, and online journalists, Waiya disclosed that the state is considering the creation of a Joint Information Platform that would provide verified updates before publication. The initiative, he said, is expected to significantly reduce the spread of fake news, particularly from social media sources.
He commended the Online Media Chapel for its commitment to professionalism and urged its members to remain steadfast in promoting credible reporting and safeguarding public interest.
Responding, Chairman of the Kano State Online Media Chapel, Abubakar Abdulkadir Dangambo, assured the government of the Chapel’s dedication to ethical journalism. He pledged continued restraint from publishing reports that could escalate insecurity or mislead the public, affirming their readiness to collaborate with the government on issues of peace and development.
The statement was signed by Sani Abba Yola, Director of Special Duties, Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs.