In a strategic move to bridge the gap between government and the public, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has prioritized media innovation and capacity building as key tools for fostering transparency and effective governance. This was highlighted during a specialized training for the Government House Media Team on “Innovation in Public Policy Communication” at the Government House Media Centre in Lokoja.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, emphasized that the administration recognizes the media as more than just a tool for information dissemination—it is a critical instrument for building public trust, ensuring accountability, and enhancing citizen engagement.
“This training is not just about improving communication skills; it’s about reshaping how government connects with the people. By investing in our media teams, we are investing in public confidence and democratic accountability,” Isah stated.
Unlike traditional government media strategies that focus primarily on pushing out information, the Ododo administration is shifting towards a model that prioritizes dialogue, feedback, and public engagement.
This shift is part of a broader strategy to create an inclusive governance model where citizens are not just passive recipients of information but active participants in policy discussions.
Hon. Isah noted that this innovative approach aligns with Governor Ododo’s vision of a transparent administration that listens and responds to the needs of its people.
“Effective public policy communication is no longer about one-way messaging. It’s about creating platforms where the government and the public engage in meaningful conversations,” he added.
One of the key highlights of the training was a session led by Prof. Adams Adeiza, an Associate Professor at Sunway University, Malaysia, who introduced the concept of using emotional intelligence in public policy messaging.
Prof. Adeiza emphasized that effective communication goes beyond facts and figures; it taps into the emotions and values of the audience.
“People are driven by emotions, not just logic. To communicate policies effectively, government spokespersons must understand the emotional landscape of their audience and craft messages that resonate on a personal level,” Prof. Adeiza explained.
He commended the synergy between the Government House Media Team and the Office of the First Lady’s media team, attributing this collaboration to Governor Ododo’s commitment to professionalism and teamwork in governance.
The Ododo administration’s proactive approach to media training could serve as a blueprint for other states seeking to improve governance through effective communication. By integrating global best practices and fostering a culture of continuous learning, Kogi State is positioning itself as a leader in innovative public policy communication.
Earlier in the day, Prof. Adeiza also held a session with senior civil servants at the Office of the Head of Service, focusing on strategies to revitalize the state’s public service for greater efficiency. This holistic approach underscores the administration’s belief that effective governance starts with informed and capable public servants at all levels.
As Kogi State marks Governor Ododo’s first year in office, the focus on media innovation signals a long-term commitment to transparent governance and citizen-centered policies.
“With initiatives like this, we’re not just marking an anniversary—we’re laying the groundwork for a future where the government and the people are true partners in progress,” Hon. Isah concluded.
This approach reflects a growing trend in governance where effective communication is seen not just as a support function but as a core driver of public policy success.
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