Eid-el-Fitr: AWALCO urges journalists to champion peace, unity in West Africa
The President of the Association of West African Legislative Correspondents, Mr. Innocent Odoh, has called on journalists across the sub-region to take a leading role in promoting peace, unity, and regional cohesion as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.
In a goodwill message marking the end of Ramadan, Odoh congratulated Muslim journalists and the broader media community for successfully observing the holy month, while commending their resilience and commitment to truth and accountability despite challenges confronting the media landscape in West Africa.
This was contained in a statement by the association’s Publicity Secretary, Princess-Ekwi Ajide on Friday
He described Eid-el-Fitr as a period that embodies sacrifice, discipline, and spiritual renewal, urging media practitioners to reflect these values in their professional conduct and day-to-day engagements.
The AWALCO President stressed the critical role of journalists in shaping narratives at a time when the region is grappling with complex security and socio-political issues, noting that the media must rise to the occasion as agents of positive change.
“At a time when our region faces complex security and socio-political challenges, the role of journalists has never been more critical.
“You are not just storytellers, you are bridge-builders, agenda-setters, and custodians of public trust,” Odoh stated.
He further urged journalists to prioritise responsible reporting that promotes understanding, counters misinformation, and fosters unity across diverse communities.
“Let your reports promote understanding over division, truth over misinformation, and unity over discord. West Africa needs a media that inspires hope, fosters dialogue, and strengthens the bonds that hold us together,” he added.
Odoh also emphasised the need for journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, including accuracy, fairness, and ethical reporting, describing credible journalism as essential to democratic growth and sustainable development in the region.
He encouraged media practitioners to use the spirit of Eid as an opportunity to recommit to impactful storytelling that advances peacebuilding and strengthens democratic institutions across West Africa.
The AWALCO President concluded by wishing Muslim faithful a peaceful and fulfilling Eid celebration, expressing hope that the season would usher in renewed prosperity and unity across the region.
