Philanthropist Calls on the Media to Support Govt Programmes, Policies

A philanthropist, Mr Valentine Ugbala, Chief Executive (CEO) of Valentino Da Vinci Ltd. has called on journalists to join hands with Gov. Hope Uzodimma to realise his dreams for a better Imo.

Ugbala made the call when he presented items worth over N3 million to members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Imo council as part of the organisation’s social responsibility to the union.

The items were delivered at the Secretariat of the council in Owerri on Wednesday.

He urged the journalists to be honest in their news coverage as well as avoid fake news and hate speech.

Ugbala also advised the NUJ members to always verify their news before publishing saying that hate speech and fake news could destroy both the people, the state and the nation in general.

“The gift items given to members of the union are 100 per cent hand made with best quality Italian fabrics and leather.

“It has a monetary value of N3.5 million,” he said.

The Valentino CEO thanked the executive of the council for their dedication to the course of journalism practice in the state saying that the gesture would be a yearly affair.

Our correspondent reports that the items delivered include a big box of 52kg with customised suites, shoes, T Shirts, trousers, shirts, bangles, face caps, exercise books and pens.

Ugbala said that the gesture is in appreciation of efforts of the journalists in supporting the state government.

Mr Innocent Igwe, the NUJ National Trustee expressed gratitude to the CEO of Valentino Ltd. for the gesture describing it as a form of service to the union and the first of its kind in the history of the NUJ Imo council.

He commended Ugbala for the wisdom in partnering with journalists saying it would be rewarding relationship.

Earlier, Chairman of the Council, Comrade Chris Akaraonye thanked Ugbala for the gesture and promised on behalf of members of the union to do all that was necessary to support Gov. Uzodimma to move the state to greater height.

He said that the union would continue to partner with Valentino Ltd. in its efforts towards the development of the state and in empowering the masses.

…CCA