By Mercy Gadia Adi
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has called for stronger collaboration between the media, civil society organizations and parliament to enhance accountability and strengthen oversight of public debt in Nigeria.
Speaking on Tuesday at the 11th Annual Conference and General Assembly of the West Africa Association of Public Accounts Committees (WAAPAC), organised by the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee, Ike said the media remains the “mirror of society” and a vital watchdog in holding public officials accountable.
“The media acts as an intermediary between parliament, government institutions and the public. Public awareness is necessary, and how can we achieve this if not through information sharing and capacity building?” she asked.
The NUJ chairperson stressed the need for regular training of journalists to deepen their understanding of audit processes, public debt management and legislative oversight. She suggested periodic workshops, roundtables and joint briefings with Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) and civil society groups to improve the quality of reporting.
While commending the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, Hon. Bamidele Salam, for working closely with the press, she urged further engagement. According to her, before the end of the 10th Assembly, a comprehensive training session should be organized for parliamentary correspondents on debt and oversight issues.
Highlighting the growing importance of investigative and undercover journalism, Ike said reporters must be equipped with resources and specialized skills to expose corruption and mismanagement of public resources.
“Investigative journalism is not easy. It requires funding, time and skills. We need to train journalists who can confidently carry out undercover reporting on public accounts and debt management. This will ensure we provide accurate information, not misinformation, at a time when fake news dominates social media,” she said.
She also called on SAIs and parliamentary committees to make audit reports and data publicly accessible, arguing that timely and simplified information would improve transparency. She further tasked the media and CSOs with sensitization campaigns to educate citizens about public debt and their right to demand accountability from government.
“Most people do not even know they have the right to demand accountability. It is the duty of the media to remind citizens of this right and to hold those in power to their promises,” she added.
Ike also advocated legislative and policy reforms to strengthen parliamentary oversight of debt, noting that the media can drive civic engagement by publicizing both successes and challenges.
“One thing is to write reports and pass resolutions. Another is implementation. As gatekeepers of information, the media stands ready to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure citizens are empowered, public resources are protected, and sustainable development is achieved,” she said.
She expressed optimism that continued synergy between the Public Accounts Committee and the press would not only enhance transparency but also ensure Nigerians are better informed about the management of public debt.