By Okeoghene Akubuike
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says it is committed to sustained collaboration with the media and civil society for effective communication of statistical data.
Adeyemi Adeniran, Statistician-General of the Federation and CEO of the NBS said this at a Retreat for Journalists and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Keffi on Friday.
Adeniran, who was represented by Dr Biyi Fafunmi, Director, Agric and Business Enterprise, NBS, said the media and CSOs played an indispensable role in national statistics production.
He said the media and CSOs served as a bridge between statistical agencies and the public.
Adeniran said the media served as both facilitators and disseminators, influencing the way statistical information was collected, interpreted, and communicated to the public.
“In reporting, we recognise you as a partner in progress; we urge you to be objective and patriotic in reporting our data as disseminated by NBS.
“By facilitating communication, promoting understanding, and fostering accountability, the media not only enhance the credibility and relevance of national statistics but also empower citizens to appraise more meaningfully with the data that shape their lives.
“As technology and media landscapes continue to evolve, the role of media in this context will continue to expand.
“This will require ongoing collaboration between NBS, the media, and innovation to ensure effective communication of statistical data for planning and development on sustainable bases.”
Adeniran commended the media and CSOs for their role in making NBS improve in data deliverables in spite of the challenges they encountered in their daily endeavours.
Mr Joel Ichedi, the Bureau’s Director of Communication and Public Relations, said the objective of the retreat was to equip journalists and CSOs with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate statistics to the public.
“We recognise that the media and civil society play a critical role in shaping public discourse and holding institutions accountable.
“However, we also acknowledge that reporting on statistics can be complex and nuanced.
“This retreat aims to bridge the gap between data producers and data users, ensuring that statistical information is accurately conveyed to the public.
”Our team of experts will provide insights into the latest developments in statistics production, data sources, and methodologies.”
Ichedi emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure statistical information was presented concisely and without bias, thus avoiding misinformation and enhancing public understanding.
Ewache Ajefu, Editor, Business Africa who spoke on behalf of the media, thanked the NBS for organising the retreat, adding that it should be sustained.
Johnny Emmanuel, National President, National Council for CSOs, commended the NBS on its role in improving the economy and the country through its production of accurate and timely data.
Emmanuel stressed the need for collaboration between the media and civil society noting that CSOs could not achieve their mandate without the media.
NAN reports that there was a business session on Trends in Development Journalism, Consumer Price Index and GDP Rebasing Update, and Compilation of Trade Statistics.
Other sessions include Methodology for Generating Labor Force Statistics in NBS and A Critical Appraisal of Statistical Reporting and Data Interpretation by Journalists.
(NAN)
