Investigative journalism key to democracy, national development – NOA
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has reaffirmed its support for investigative journalism, describing it as a cornerstone of democracy in Nigeria.
Speaking during a recent meeting with the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ), NOA Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, commended the Guild for taking on what he termed a “huge and necessary responsibility” amid a period of decline in investigative reporting.
Issa-Onilu further expressed concern over diminishing professionalism, depth, and factual accuracy in parts of contemporary media, noting that superficial reporting often fuels division rather than fostering national unity.
He stressed that investigative journalism is essential for fairness, objectivity and balanced reporting, which he described as “critical for national development and restoring credibility to the profession.”
“Facts remain sacred in nation-building,” he warned, highlighting that ignorance and misinformation, if unchecked, could create dangerous societal gaps capable of destabilising the country. According to him, rigorous, fact-based reporting is indispensable for maintaining public trust and promoting accountability.
The Director-General called for deeper scrutiny in governance reporting, citing discrepancies in voter education funding during the 2023 general elections as an example of how inadequate investigative oversight allows structural irregularities to persist. He urged journalists to move beyond routine reporting and interrogate policies, legislative processes and governance issues with thoroughness and clarity.
He stressed that investigative journalism should act as a watchdog, ensuring transparency and protecting the public interest.
Issa-Onilu assured the Guild of the Agency’s commitment to collaboration, promising institutional support to enable investigative journalists to perform their duties effectively. He encouraged the NGIJ to leverage NOA’s grassroots network to enhance reporting and engagement on matters of national importance.
