By Daniel Obaje
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and Novel Communications Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a comprehensive political information compendium.
This is aimed at promoting informed voter participation and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, Chairman of Novel Communications, Dr Abubakar Jimoh, said the initiative would be a creative and innovative contribution to the entrenchment good governance in the country.
Jimoh said the project would provide Nigerians with accessible information on political office seekers, their track records and antecedents, enabling voters to make informed decisions during elections.
“We are taking a silent revolution, a giant stride and a very creative innovative approach towards contributing to the entrenchment of democracy and good governance in Nigeria.
“We are starting a great leap forward, we are trying to show the way and the direction that can help refine our political process and improve voter education in the years ahead.”
According to him, the absence of readily available information on candidates often leaves voters with little basis for evaluating those seeking elective offices.
He said the proposed compendium would help reduce voter ignorance, discourage vote buying and promote issue based political participation.
Jimoh commended NAN’s management for embracing the initiative and aligning with efforts aimed at promoting innovation, accountability and democratic development.
He also praised members of the agency’s management team for their support in facilitating the partnership.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, said the agency is confident in the partnership because of Jimoh’s proven track record and professional reputation.
He said the proposed compendium would serve as a reliable reference material for voters, researchers and academics seeking information on political candidates and electoral processes.
“This project will not only guide voters in making informed choices but will also become a valuable resource for research and academic purposes.
“We are looking beyond immediate gains, we believe this is an initiative that can outlive all of us and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s democratic development.”
Ali said the agency would deploy its extensive network and resources to ensure the success of the project.
“The News Agency of Nigeria is the largest news content provider in Africa, we have more than 500 reporters spread across the country and beyond our shores.
“All our reporters and human resources will be deployed to support this initiative because we believe in its value and its potential contribution to democratic development.
“We are not looking at immediate gains, this is an institutional project and we hope it is something that will outlive all of us,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz