Why Journalists Must Create Space For Real Conversations Across Divides

It’s truly a pleasure to be here with you today in this historic city of Enugu, the Coal City.

But Enugu is not just a city of coal and commerce. It is a city of memory. A city of journalism. A city that once gave voice to the aspirations of a region and the soul of a people.

This city was the heartbeat of eastern Nigeria. It was home to some of the bravest voices in the golden age of Nigerian journalism. Voices that used ink and paper to challenge oppression, to demand accountability, and to speak truth to power —even in the face of war and uncertainty.

Enugu carries the scars of history. It also carries the strength to heal. For many young people across this region, the shadows of the Biafra war still linger. Not just in stories passed down, but in real feelings of exclusion and pain. And we must acknowledge that.

We must listen to those who feel forgotten. We must bring them into the national conversation. Because nation-building is not just about unity – it’s about empathy. And healing begins with being heard.

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And we must remember – this coal city was once the press capital of eastern Nigeria. It was here that Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe founded the Nigerian outlook, giving rise to a vibrant tradition of public discourse and anti-colonial journalism. M.C.K. Ajuluchukwu, editor and later Biafran information chief, wielded his pen like a sword, speaking truth amid the fog of war. Men like Uche Chukwumerije, Chuks Iloegbunam, and the anonymous voices behind Radio Biafra — they did not just report history; they lived it.

From the pages of “Africa Today” by Ralph Uwechue to the underground press of the civil war, journalism in Enugu was not a profession — it was a mission. We owe these pioneers our gratitude and our respect — for showing that even in the darkest times, the light of truth can shine from the pressroom.

I would like to thank the Nigerian Guild of Editors for the great honour of asking me to chair this convention. It means a lot to me — because this gathering brings together some of the finest minds in our profession.

The theme of this year’s convention – “Building A Secure And Cohesive Nigeria: The Role of Dialogue, Inclusion and the Media” is very well thought out. This is not just a topic. It is a national conversation. A timely one. And a necessary one.

We all know the issues. Insecurity in many regions. Divisions across ethnic and religious lines. Economic hardship and rising frustration. People asking tough questions about our future.

The truth is — there can be no security without justice. No unity without fairness. And no progress without inclusion.

So, what is our role — as media professionals?

Let’s be honest —we don’t just report the news. We shape public opinion. We influence national mood. We help people make sense of the world around them. That is power. And with power comes responsibility.

Let’s talk first about dialogue. Dialogue is not just about talking. It’s about listening —truly listening. As journalists and editors, we must create space for real conversations across divides —between the young and the old. Between communities. Between government and the governed.

Let’s not only report conflict. Let’s also spotlight solutions. Let’s promote understanding. Let’s be bridge-builders.

Now let’s talk about inclusion. Inclusion is not about ticking boxes.

It’s about real representation. Too many people still feel invisible. Too many voices still go unheard. Women, youth, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities — they all deserve a seat at the table.

We, in the media, must reflect the full picture of Nigeria — not just a narrow slice. So here’s the challenge for all of us in this room:

Let’s raise the standard of our work. Let’s be fearless, but fair. Let’s pursue truth, not clicks. Let’s nurture the next generation of journalists with integrity and courage.

Let’s remind ourselves that we are not just gatekeepers — we are builders of national conscience. As we begin this convention, here in this remarkable city, let us take a moment to reflect. Not just on the problems — but on the possibilities. Nigeria is a work in progress. But it is also a land of promise. If we come together, speak honestly, and commit to inclusion and justice —there’s no limit to what this nation can achieve.

So from the coal city, may we spark a new energy — for dialogue, for inclusion, and for a media that helps rebuild Nigeria.

“The role of the media is not to reflect the nation as it is, but to help shape the nation as it ought to be — just, inclusive, and united.” May our work not just inform, but inspire. Not just report, but rebuild.