By Obaje Daniel
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) has inducted 209 newly recruited staff members, urging them to uphold professionalism and integrity in the discharge of their duties.
The induction ceremony was held at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.
The Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali M. Ali, said the new employees should consider themselves privileged to begin their careers with Africa’s largest news content provider.
“You should feel elated that you are joining this media organisation which is Africa’s biggest news provider.
“We resisted a lot of pressure for you all to be here today. Those of us seated here today are here on merit.
“Few people have the opportunity to begin their careers with the News Agency of Nigeria. We will, therefore, not sacrifice merit for other considerations”
Ali charged the new employees to justify the confidence placed in them by maintaining the agency’s standard of professionalism.
“Others rely on NAN for news, it is now on you to live up to expectations and keep up with the professionalism.
“You must uphold the trust placed in you and carry out your duties diligently,” he said.
The Head of Administration, Mrs Amadi Uba, formally presented the new recruits to the management, noting that they had completed all necessary documentation.
“Here we have the newly recruited members of staff of the agency. They are about 209 in number.
“We have them across various departments, including editorial, finance and accounts, legal, procurement, administration/human resources, marketing and technical units.
“The journey started a long time ago, but on March 16, we had the first batch, who came in for documentation and they have been duly processed.
“All of them here have been documented and are ready to serve the agency. So, I present them to you, sir,’’ she said.
Also speaking, a retired Director of Human Resources in the Office of the Head of Service, Musa Sale, emphasised the need for discipline and adherence to public service rules urging the new recruits to be active in their duties.
“Everyone has a unique responsibility, and so does the News Agency of Nigeria.
“You must all uphold the public service rules, work hard to have your appointments confirmed and be proactive while avoiding disciplinary measures arising from misconduct” he said.
In his remark, the Special Adviser to the Managing Director on Editorial Operations, Mr Ephraim Sheyin, stressed the importance of integrity in journalism and public service.
“A good name is better than silver and gold. Integrity is our watchword here.
“You do not have the luxury of guessing or spreading rumours. Accuracy and credibility must guide your work at all times,’’ he said.
Sheyin noted that the agency was experiencing one of its largest intakes of staffers, describing NAN as a place of opportunity for professionals across different fields.
“As a journalist, this is the ultimate place. As an accountant, you are going to have a lot to do here. As a researcher, we have opportunities for you,” he said.
The induction marks a significant step in strengthening NAN workforce as the agency continues to expand its role in news gathering and dissemination across Nigeria and beyond.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
