The Kano state government has described information officer as body linking government’s policies to the public, saying “the importance/role of information officers cannot be overemphasized.”
The state commissioner for information and internal affairs Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya disclosed this at a 2-day capacity building workshop for local government information officers and interactive session with news managers themed: Enhancing communication skills and stakeholders synergy for effective grassroots information flow” held in Kano on Wednesday.
According to Waiya, the workshop as well as training are timely and relevant considering their role in shaping narratives and promoting transparency and accountability.
His wards “This gathering brings together our frontline Information Officers and key stakeholders in the media sector for a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening the flow of credible, timely, and impactful information at the grassroots level.
“The theme of this workshop — “Enhancing Communication Skills and Stakeholders’ Synergy for Effective Grassroots Information Flow” — is both timely and relevant. It speaks directly to our collective responsibility in ensuring that communication from government to the people is not only clear and accessible, but also collaborative and consistent.
“In today’s fast-paced information environment, the role of Information Officers cannot be overemphasized. They are the direct link between policy and the public, between intention and perception. Therefore, building their capacity and aligning their work with that of media managers and editors is essential to shaping narratives, managing public expectations, and promoting transparency and accountability.
“This workshop is not just about learning; it is about building synergy — across ministries, across media institutions, and most importantly, between government and citizens. We must continue to work as a unified system that values truth, professionalism, and service.
“On this note, I wish to express special appreciation to the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, for funding this workshop through the ministry’s training programme. Your support demonstrates a strong commitment to human capital development and effective grassroots communication.
On behalf of the Kano State Government, I appreciate your presence and your commitment to public enlightenment. I encourage all participants to fully engage, contribute meaningfully, and take away actionable strategies that will strengthen our communication channels across all 44 local government areas.
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In a remark, the state commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs Muhammad Tajo Usman described the grassroots as the foundation of inclusive governance.
Tajo Usman highlighted the need for information officers to share accurate, culturally sensitive, and timely information.
The commissioner encouraged officers to collaborate with NGOs, CSOs, and the media to bridge the information gap and access credible data for public enlightenment.
In an opening remarks, the permanent secretary of the ministry of information Adamu Bala Muhammad commended information officers for their service to humanity, adding that maintaining close relationship between the media and information officers brings development to the general society.