Minister Tasks Service Image Makers, Media Teams On Effective Public Engagement

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has charged public relations officers and media teams under the ministry and its respective agencies to be honest, proactive and empathic in the performance of their duties as perception managers.

In his remarks at the opening of the ministry’s ‘Media Masterclass 2025’ workshop in Abuja yesterday with the theme: ‘Beyond Press Statements: Media As a Tool For Public Engagement’, Dr Tunji-Ojo said due to years of abuse, many Nigerians had made up their minds about uniformed officers, and therefore, service public relations officers and media teams have a big task to correct that perception by being truthful and always reporting from a point of empathy.

He advised the officers to always communicate satisfactorily with people without lies, as communication is a function of trust, especially as the ministry is responsible for citizenship integrity, internal security, protection of the border space and critical national assets.

The minister, who acknowledged the productivity of the service PROs and media officers, however, charged them to do more by leading from the front and not running a “one man show”.

He emphasised that effective service delivery should be accompanied by empathy, saying, “Always report stories from a point of empathy because you are being paid tax payers’ money. You are not doing Nigerians a favour. I have read some press statements and I had to call some of you because I didn’t see any empathy. “In writing and speaking, you must show empathy. Also, build a solid team. Media work is not something you can do alone. You should have your facts right. Be a walking encyclopedia of your agencies.

He added, “The era of hoarding information is gone, information has become oxygen, it is your responsibility to pass true and timely information.

“No matter how challenging a time or situation, it is an opportunity to prove your credibility. Never give anybody the chance to spread falsehood. For us, it is important that we communicate with people. Do not let naysayers set agenda for you.”

He said despite widespread use, he did not think social media had taken over the traditional media, but had come to complement it, and there must be a point of convergence for the conventional and new media.

The workshop aimed at equipping the officers with effective media engagement strategies, leveraging digital media for public engagement and utilising visual storytelling tools. It featured expert speakers, panel discussions and practical sessions.