The Director of Media and Corporate Communication at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr Felix Ale, has urged members of the Ondo State Governor’s Press Corps to prioritise human-interest storytelling in reporting government activities to deepen public trust and understanding.
Speaking at the end-of-year get-together of the Joint Media Team of the Governor’s Press Corps in Akure on Tuesday, Dr Ale said modern government communication must go beyond official statements to show how policies affect the daily lives of citizens.
“Information is not just about reporting events; it is about shaping narratives that inspire confidence, build trust, and foster transparency,” Ale said.
Drawing from his experience as NASRDA’s pioneer Director of Media and Corporate Communication, Ale explained that simplifying complex information and presenting it in relatable terms was key to effective public engagement.
“In science communication, we translate complex technical subjects into everyday realities. The same principle applies to governance. Government programmes must be told in ways that resonate with the people without losing accuracy or depth,” he stated.
Ale stressed that human-angle reporting helps citizens connect emotionally with governance and see themselves in public policies.
“Narrative journalism that focuses on human interest stories makes government programmes real. When people see how policies touch lives directly, trust is strengthened,” he said.
He added that journalists must balance professionalism with empathy, noting that credibility remains the most valuable asset in government reporting.
“Your role is not to embellish reality but to present it with clarity, fairness, and integrity. Truth is the foundation of credibility,” Ale said.
The NASRDA spokesman also encouraged the use of digital platforms, interactive engagement, infographics, and storytelling to complement traditional media, especially in reaching younger and rural audiences.
Commending Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ale described his administration as people-oriented and praised the cordial relationship between the government and the media.
“Governance is most meaningful when it touches lives directly, and it is your responsibility as communicators to ensure the people see, understand, and appreciate that impact,” he told the press corps.
He concluded by urging journalists to see themselves as bridges between government and citizens.
“Until the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter. You must tell the true story of governance from the people’s perspective,” Ale said.
Media–Government Relations Improving, Says Adeniyan
In his remarks, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, acknowledged the challenges facing media practitioners but urged them to remain committed to their duties.
“Not everybody will ask whether you have collected your salary or the challenges you are facing, but if you continue to do your job diligently, people will appreciate your efforts,” Adeniyan said.
He described Governor Aiyedatiwa as media-friendly, noting that the governor consistently supports media-related requests.
“More often than not, about 80 to 90 per cent of the time I approach Mr Governor on media matters, he approves them. He has always given us the support we need,” he said.
Adeniyan noted that while some challenges persist, not all are attributable to government, stressing that the administration remains open to engagement.
“I operate an open-door policy. Anyone can walk into my office. I have worked to improve the relationship between the government and the media and created an avenue for all sectors of the media industry to relate with government,” he stated.
Looking ahead, the CPS warned that 2026 would be a demanding year for the media due to political activities, anniversaries and upcoming elections.
“This is going to be a very busy year. There will be politics, primaries and intense engagements. I urge all of us to prepare for the challenges ahead and continue to do our work professionally,” he said.
He reminded journalists that they were playing a role in history.
“No matter how short the journey is, nobody will be here forever. We are all writing history, and the foundation we lay today will be built upon by those coming after us,” Adeniyan added.
