Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has charged radio stations and other media outlets on innovative programming to promote democratic debates and facilitate dialogue on peacebuilding and conflict resolution. The governor gave the charge in commemoration of World Radio Day, marked February 13, each year, by the United Nations and its sister agencies. The theme of this year’s celebration is, “Radio in Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding.” Obaseki, who identified the indispensable role of radio in the socioeconomic growth of any society, urged the media on better programming to promote conflict prevention and peacebuilding, ensuring that all citizens have access to the information they need to make informed decisions. He said, “On this World Radio Day, we join the rest of the world to celebrate the critical role that radio and the media play in society, especially conflict prevention and peacebuilding. Radio, in particular, has been instrumental in providing access to accurate and timely information, promoting understanding and tolerance, and fostering dialogue and reconciliation in communities around the world. “In these times of increasing polarization and conflict, it is more important than ever that we recognize and support the role of the media in promoting peace, stability, and security. Whether it is through providing a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard, promoting dialogue and understanding, or simply serving as a source of reliable and trustworthy information, the media has a unique and powerful role to play in preventing and resolving conflict.” Obaseki added, “In Edo State, we are committed to supporting the media and promoting a free, independent, and diverse media landscape, particularly during this critical time in the run-up to the presidential election. We will continue to work with radio stations and other media outlets to promote peace, stability, and security and to ensure that citizens have access to the information and perspectives they need to make informed decisions.”
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