By Jimmy Jackson
The Investigator Journalism Development and Innovation Centre (TIJDIC) on Friday, August 16, 2024, organised an engagement session on Environmental and Accountability Governance at The Investigator Hub in Calabar, Cross River State.
The event brought together representatives from Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the media to discuss the pressing challenges and opportunities in environmental and accountability issues within the state.
Mr. Archibong Jeremiah Ojanga, Executive Director (ED) of The Investigator Journalism Development and Innovation Centre in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of enhancing environmental and accountability governance in Cross River State.
Also speaking, Mr Arinze Gideon, a multiple award-winning journalist delivered a key presentation on the strategies for enhancing environmental and accountability governance.
He stressed on the need for journalists not relent in asking for accountability in governance despite minimal efforts to address environmental degradation in our communities.
Participants were engaged in group discussion with four basic topics; Strengthening media reporting mechanisms, promoting public engagement, enhancing accountability, and integrating data into policy and decision-making.
Each group presented their ideas, contributing to a rich exchange of perspectives aimed at driving positive change in governance practices.
A significant highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Help Desk by The Investigator Journalism Development and Innovation Centre. This initiative aims to support journalists and CSOs in accessing crucial information for reporting and advocacy.
