A security expert, Mr Matthew Ibadin, on Friday urged journalists to rebrand Nigeria through positive reportage.
Ibadin, the CEO/Chairman, Badinson Security Service, told the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos that journalists should celebrate Nigeria instead of destroying its image.
“The same efforts put into reporting the ills of the society should also be deployed in projecting the good image of the country.
“This is the time for every journalist to celebrate Nigeria. We should practice the kind of journalism targeted at rebranding the country and not chasing out investors.
“Everytime you pick up a newspaper, there is always a crime report. Do you think crimes are not committed in other countries? The difference is that crimes out there are hardly reported.
“They don’t focus on the ills because of their love for their countries.
“We keep blaming our leaders over everything, but many don’t even pay tax which is a statutory obligation. Now is the time for us to forgive ourselves and do better. Let us celebrate Nigeria at 61.
“Nigeria is a great country. A lovely place to live in. It is a country inhabited by wonderful people. We should rather ask the government to give us the basic amenities,” he said.
Ibadin further urged journalists to make leaders accountable by taking them up on developmental goals.
“Journalists should be asking leaders why we don’t have electricity; they should seek to know when Nigeria can have electric-train.
“It is Nigeria’s Independence Day, so we should use this opportunity to rebrand Nigeria. Nigeria is a good country. The entire African continent is looking up to Nigeria for leadership.
“Let us celebrate our leaders too. Let us pray for them. It has not been easy for them. Our leaders are not from the moon. They are from amongst us.
“We must always advise our leaders and offer suggestions that may guide them.
“Let us forgive ourselves. We have a lot to gain if we work together. That is just the truth. Let us have a better country,” he said.