Alhaji Tunde Daniah
Protem chairman Edo/Delta Journalists Association
In his welcome address to media audience at a one day training workshop in Benin Republic, described the association as a bridge that connects country’s boarders in trade and other socio-cultiral, political boundaries.
After some protocol sessions, Daniah highlighted
The essentials of the association.
He said, “It is with immense joy, pride, and a deep sense of responsibility that I welcome you all to this historic occasion the Maiden One-Day Training Workshop of the Edo-Delta Journalists Forum, holding here in the vibrant border community of Igolo, Benin Republic, just a few steps away from our home border at Idiroko.
As a socio-political, cultural and economic collective, the Edo-Delta Journalists Forum was founded on the conviction that journalism must go beyond mere news reporting to actively shaping societal development, regional integration, national security and cross-border diplomacy”.
Our gathering in this strategic gateway between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin reflects our commitment to addressing issues where geography, culture, trade and national security intersect.
Our theme for this maiden seminar “Journalism Beyond Borders: Reporting Cross-Border Relations, Trade, Security, Culture and Emerging Technologies in the Nigeria-Benin Republic Corridor” is deliberate.
It underscores the need for media professionals to adapt to contemporary complexities in border dynamics, transnational security and digital innovation.
According to him, “As we gather under the banner of the Edo-Delta Journalists Forum (EDJF), we stand on the shoulders of a shared legacy. Though administrative boundaries have separated us into Edo and Delta States, our hearts, heritage and collective identity remain indivisible. We are bound by the timeless spirit of chivalry, excellence, resilience and camaraderie that defines the true Bendelite.”
He noted that Bendelite was not just a name; it was a testament to brotherhood, nobility and pioneering achievement.
It is that very spirit that inspires this Forum as we cross geographical lines to build bridges of unity, economic prosperity and journalistic excellence.
Today’s gathering would not be complete without recognizing the leaders and patriots whose support continues to inspire our vision:
First, to the Governments of Edo and Delta States: We express profound gratitude to the Executive Governors and the State Executive Councils for their leadership and commitment to peace, human capital development and economic growth.
To our distinguished Senators, Honourable Members of the House of Representatives and all political leaders from Edo and Delta States who continue to champion policies that enhance regional security, infrastructure and national cohesion we say thank you.
To our Sons and Daughters in the Federal Civil Service: We celebrate you. Your excellence and dedication across various Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies remain a source of immense pride to our homeland.
To our Customs and Security Leaders: We accord special recognition to Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu (Rtd.) for his dedicated public service, and to others whose contributions we deeply appreciate.
Let me give special thanks to the Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command, Idiroko, Deputy Comptroller Abdul-Hamid Ibrahim. Sir, your efforts in facilitating legitimate trade, managing border security and fostering community engagement in this corridor remain vital to national stability.
This maiden edition marks the beginning of a sustained journey. The Edo-Delta Journalists Forum desires to work hand-in-hand with the leadership and governments of both Edo and Delta States. Through regular interactions, policy dialogues and media engagements, we are committed to:
1. Fostering Unity and Peaceful Co-existence;
2. Promoting Mutual Socio-Economic Growth by highlighting investment opportunities, cross-border trade and youth empowerment;
3. Enhancing Security and Boundary Diplomacy through intelligence-led engagement and constructive cross-border relations.
In the course of today’s training, our facilitators will guide us through essential modules designed to elevate our reporting capacity:
– Understanding the Border Ecosystem;
– Diplomacy and Trade: Navigating ECOWAS Protocols;
– Cross-Border Security Journalism;
– Drones, AI and Border Surveillance;
– Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and IT Integration;
– Information Technology and Financial Empowerment for Journalists.
Distinguished colleagues, the world is evolving rapidly, and journalism must evolve with it. Borders should not be barriers that divide us, but bridges that connect our security, trade, culture and technological aspirations.
I therefore charge every participant here today to engage deeply, ask pertinent questions, network and take full advantage of the wealth of knowledge our resource persons will share.