By Monday Ijeh

The Chairman, Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN), Mr Festus Fifen, has called for investment in the welfare and operational development of journalists to enhance effective and efficient news reportage.

Fifen made the call on Wednesday in Abuja, at the annual conference and award of CCAN themed: “Navigating Security Challenges in the 2027 General Election, the Role of the Media in Combating Fake News.”

According to him, journalists, on a daily basis, work through high-risk environments and invest in military and police operations to bring to citizens vital security updates.

Fifen said the media had over the years held security institutions accountable to operational standards and human rights through accurate and non-sensational reporting.

He noted that journalists had turned complex operations into clear public awareness, calm anxiety and deny criminals the opportunity for propaganda.

According to him, peace and security are the bedrock of economic growth, foreign investment and democratic governance.

He said investors bring security reports before they consider any business environment, adding that crime correspondents help to shape the reports.

Fifen said at security events, workshops and briefings across most sectors of the country that so much money was always spent on decorations, souvenirs and others that would not enhance security architecture.

According to him, while it is fine to invest in decoration and others, it is also proper that journalists in whom public communication depends are not treated like unwanted guests.

“Crime correspondents risk their life and everything that they have, often without adequate weapons, protective gear, specialised training or life insurance.

“If we are serious about defeating fake news and strengthening national security, resources must be redirected.

“Investing in the welfare and professional development of journalists will yield far greater returns for national security than any event brand in orchestra,” he said.

The CCAN chairman commended the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olatunji Disu, for his fatherly leadership and visible strife against crime across the federation as well as his steadfast support for the association.

According to him, under Disu’s guidance, the Nigerian Police Force has kept an open door and recognised the media as an indispensable partner. (NAN)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola